《Duke, Please Repent!》


 CH 1

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 1

    0. Prologue

    ''Oh, I don''t want to go to work.''

    I sighed and looked up at the huge iron gate in front of me.

    What''s going on?

    Was it because I was restless for a long time in front of the mansion to decide whether to go in or not?

    The soldier guarding the front door was alert and spoke to me.

    From today, I will serve as the Duke''s assistant.

    It''s called Zion Rivelon.

    A questionable expression that almost sounds like you''re going to shout, ''You''re suspicious!''

    I took out the access card and appointment letter that arrived in the mail a few days ago from my pocket, handed it to him, and responded quickly.

    Come to think of it .

    The soldier who muttered to himself confirmed whether he had heard of my arrival in advance, and checked the certificate and the letter of appointment.

    After checking the contents, he returned them with a smile with a relaxed expression on his face.

    Haha, I was very nervous because it was my first day at work.

    Let''s go. But don''t worry, Prince Prasidus is a very kind and gentle man!

    "Ah haha. That''s right. Yes "

    You don''t have to be so nervous!

    Despite my shaky answer, the soldier didn''t care, and said as if he was pushing his back with a friendly face.

    In the end, I trudged forward, feeling like a cow being dragged to the slaughterhouse.

    The Duchess of Phra Sidus, whom I have to serve from today, was one of the only two Duchess of the Holy Lumen Empire.

    Among them, the people of the duke of Prasidus were particularly hardened by strong divine powers.

    ''Thank you for producing so many cardinals or something?''

    The person I will serve was born with a strong divine power that is hard to find even in such a family.

    Serpens A. Prasidus.

    This is the name of the person I will be serving in the future.

    I put it in my mouth to strengthen my resolve, but on the contrary, I lost more energy.

    Serpens was strict with himself, but thought he would be kind to others.

    He is known as a devout believer who always follows the will of the Goddess because his faith is deep as well as his enormous divine power.

    He was very considerate of his subordinates, and he never got angry or wielded his power.

    Even his own work ability is very good, and he is famous for not overloading himself because he handles most of the work himself.

    For this reason, when I asked the people of the empire who they wanted to have as their boss, anyone would give him his name.

    I have been appointed as an assistant to such a person.

    some,

    "He pays a lot of money, works little, and is a good boss!"

    , and you will think that it is not a job in this world.

    Truly a dream job.

    Even if you get accepted into such a place, it''s like you''re struggling from the first day saying you don''t want to go to work. If anyone sees it, they will point their finger at them saying they are full.

    ''To be honest, even like me, they cursed!

    But I also have a reason. Actually, I am a foreigner and possessor.

    It''s something that never happens in real life, but it''s very common in media like novels and cartoons.

    If this is a novel and someone is reading it, even after hearing the introduction,

    "Ah, you bastard! Have modern people been possessed by the character while reading a fantasy novel? And since you''re acting as an aide, you''re obviously not the main character. ]

    will say. That''s right, it was very accurate.

    ''It''s the reason I''m reluctant to go back to work... .''

    According to the novel I possessed, [Master of the Holy Sword], it can be roughly expressed in this way.

    There is a setting that Serpence hates evil more than anyone else after losing her parents due to an attack by a group that worships the devil as a child.

    He ascended to the title of duke at the young age of fifteen, but solidified that position with his natural resourcefulness.

    Now, 9 years have passed since then, Serpens is the best ear in the world, receiving the respect of all the people of the empire.

    is a tribe

    It wasn''t just that.

    Serpence is known for giving her own things to help the powerless, with a very honest and innocent personality.

    In addition, the genius swordsmanship skills that he has constantly honed since childhood!

    He is known as the next ''master of the holy sword, my sperm, with no flaws to be found.

    Looking at the above expression,

    [ Ah~, was that child the main character? ]

    It would be nice to think that , but sadly you are wrong.

    A nominee is a story about what people thought.

    He was not the one chosen by the Holy Sword.

    After all, isn''t he a ''with that setup'' person? If a Shinto was sane, he wouldn''t have chosen such a person as the master of the Holy Sword.

    You might be wondering what kind of bullshit that is, but if you think about it carefully, it is not.

    ''Did you not even notice the strange contexts so far?''

    So, he is not a character in such a setting, but a character in a setting with such a setting.

    To help you understand, it was Serpens who killed his parents.

    ''And for me this is the most important thing... .''

    According to the novel, Serpens had two assistants in the past.

    One is the setting that someone died at the hands of someone while investigating something according to Serpense''s orders.

    And the other was in a wagon accident.

    set to be dead.

    Serpens, who is said to have been grieved by the death of his aides, said he has not hired a new aide since then.

    ''And there were two caveats in the descriptions related to serpents.''

    First, the word ''he died with ~'' can be read by replacing it with ''He killed him''.

    Second, the word ''known as ~'' means that it is actually a gupeng.

    ''I''m not exaggerating, really!''

    For nothing, I said ''there is a setting''

    Ji, I didn''t mean to say, It''s split.

    This is the author''s official official!

    Hey~. But the second assistant is me, right?

    Oh! Whenever Serpence suddenly appeared, I remember the readers joking around with the name, ''Suspense has appeared!''

    It''s really suspenseful, please help me.

 CH 2

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 2

    1. Duke, please repent! (One)

    It was the first day of work, so when I got to the front of the mansion, the butler was there to meet me.

    He is an old butler who looks very typical with his gray hair turned all white and a mustache.

    The Duke is waiting too. I will guide you to the office.

    He smiled kindly, said so, and took the lead.

    ''By the way, this guy also saw my interview, didn''t he?''

    At that time, I heard the name ''Hans Robert''.

    In fact, it is not uncommon for a butler to attend an interview with an assistant.

    However, what can I say about the duke''s saying that he has no choice but to do so because his work is so exhausting.

    There was still a lot of work, but the reason was that the workload increased due to the absence of an assistant.

    Also, are you investigating who killed him?

    ''I really don''t know what you mean! Did the peacock kill you? I''ve seen it all, in print.''

    Presumably, he was busy with evidence manipulation.

    Due to such circumstances, Hans, who had been serving the family even before Serpens was born, was appointed as the interviewer instead.

    Prior to the interview, I was told that I would summarize all the conversations we had and pass it on to Serpens.

    For reference, it wasn''t ''me'' who interviewed me, but the owner of the body, Shion Rivellon.

    If I had seen it, even if there were any obstacles in the way of finding a job in the future, I would have been very reckless and dropped out.

    Even though Sion is from a family that is at the level of a Korean-American level that does not even make it to the center, he is the second son of the countess.

    ''Even if I can''t get a job, I''ll have enough to live on, I''ll provide it for you.''

    Anyway, that didn''t mean that Shion attacked with his terrifying speech or outstanding abilities.

    After possessing Shion''s body, according to the memories that flowed in, he didn''t seem to have done well in the interview. To be honest, my abilities were just so-so.

    Nevertheless, the reason why he was able to outperform his biggest competitors is simple.

    ''Because it''s normal.''

    In other words, it lags far behind other strong competitors. Then the question remains as to why the incompetent was chosen.

    It has to do with a deceased former aide.

    He seems too capable and over-loyal.

    For the esteemed Duke who takes the lead and handles many tasks,

    It seems that he was trying to deal with the work he was not told to do while devoting his whole body to it.

    ''Isn''t it possible that in the process, even the dirty work that Serpence was doing secretly got his hands on it?''

    There are already points to point out about that task.

    ''It''s probably because of the dark side.''

    [Master of the Holy Sword] is about half a year and two from now]. It begins with the protagonist being chosen by the Holy Sword.

    According to the content of the novel, Serpens had been hiding his identity from before that and reigned as the king of the dark house.

    all.

    Judging from the timing, Serpence must have been in the dark by now. Or are you already taking over and trying to manage it?

    Naturally, the existence of the dark house is a secret that should not be known to the imperial family.

    ''If the former aide had known that... .''

    It''s not surprising that Serpens said, ''You''ve learned too much,'' and slit his neck, ''Suck-!''

    That poor old butler, who does not know such circumstances, would probably never have imagined that I was accepted because I was incompetent.

    No, beyond that

    "This foolish old man is blind, and he has lost sight of the possibilities the wise Duke has seen!"

    Did you not let out a sigh like that?

    In that way, he would have overlooked that there was something deep in Serpens.

    Actually, it wasn''t very wrong.

    ''Very deeply hidden, insidious

    In terms of count.''

    While I was thinking about this and that, all of a sudden, Hans spoke to me.

    Once you meet the Duke today, you will be temporarily given the title of baron.

    "Is it temporary?"

    Yes. He''s an aide to the Duchess of Prasidus in the name of his name. Without a title, it shouldn''t happen. It should be at least a voluntary title, but as you know, it takes some time.

    It was as Hans said.

    Titles that can be passed on to the emperor

    had to get approval.

    And the work had to go round and round through various ministries, as in any country anywhere.

    For that reason, it will take about a month or so.

    Originally, while waiting for approval, I would have learned work under my full-time supervisor and had a similar time as an intern .

    ''The predecessor is dead.''

    For this reason, it was put into practice immediately without taking over.

    The title of semi-baron, which can be appointed at the discretion of the Duke at the discretion of the Duke.

    is said to bring down

    When I think of the story of the death of a former aide again, my steps get heavier.

    ''I get the title of semi-baron right now, so if I pay my resignation today, will you fix it right away?''

    The old butler, who didn''t know anything, looked at me confused and smiled with a happy smile.

    It seems that he was nervous about meeting the duke he respected, so he guessed it arbitrarily. shit!

    The Duchess''s office is here. You''ll be coming every day from now on, so take a good night''s sleep.

    Save it.

    Eventually we reached our destination.

    Like a duke''s townhouse, the words ''already?'' came out of nowhere despite the fact that the main building was also ignorantly spacious.

    It must have been quite a distance, but I think I did not want to go, so I think I arrived quickly.

    - Smart.

    As Hans lightly knocked on the door, a soft voice with a low-mid tone came out from inside.

    Come in.

    Someone said in a voice like that, ''Your sins

    If you say, "I forgive you," it seems that all sins are really washed away.

    ''Did the word Heavenly Voice come into being to express this voice?''

    In the main text of [Master of the Holy Sword], there was a content that there was a person who heard Serpens''s voice and trembled, saying that he had received a revelation from an angel.

    ''I thought it was written just to exaggerate .''

    This is the moment when the author''s innocence is proved.

    Permission was granted, so Hans opened the door. Beyond that, the face of the one I was so afraid of was revealed.

    Serpens was sitting in front of a desk full of papers, with his back to the window in the innermost part of the room.

    ,closely , should I go?

    I knew I had to go, but I really didn''t want to go.

    As I hesitated and stood still, I could feel a hand stroking my back from behind.

    Reluctantly taking a step, Serpence also put the fountain pen down and got up.

    His figure is tomb in [Master of the Holy Sword]

    as it was bought A beautiful handsome man as if an angel had descended.

    The slightly drooping corners of her eyes curled softly, creating a benevolent smile.

    Her clear bluish-silver hair, with a length that brushed under her shoulder blades, was gathered at the back of her neck and tied neatly.

    In addition, thin silver-rimmed round glasses that were hung over the well-stretched bridge of the nose. As a result, it made me feel more intelligent, but made my face that looked good on the inside even more gentle.

    There was no element to be afraid of anywhere in the appearance.

    If you are careless, you will be deceived

    it seems

    Nice to meet you, I''m Serpens A.

    It''s Prasi thes.

    Ah, hello! I''m Zion Rivelon. That''s why you need to wake up... ''

    It wasn''t a polite thing to say. I really hope he doesn''t wake up.

    If possible, for the rest of my life, I wanted to meet only at a desk or anything else.

    "I have something to give you today, so that''s all."

    Serpens smiled kindly and held up a piece of paper with gilded edges.

    He already knew that the inside was dark.

    Nevertheless, the moment I saw his smile, I unknowingly thought, ''You are a kind person.''

    that is.

    I was startled by the sudden sound of an unfamiliar voice. I soon recognized that it was my voice.

    Thanks to this, I was able to get rid of the tension I had almost missed.

    "Is this an appointment letter?"

    Serpence answered my question with a smile instead of a word.

    Over the round glasses, I could see the long eyelashes glancing over the emerald eyes.

    At that moment, the sunlight pouring in from the window where he had his back fell like a halo.

    ''Hey, it''s so shiny!''

    I thought that my vigilance would gradually loosen, so I deliberately pretended to be nothing and tried to sarcastic inwardly.

    I''ve only done it once, but surprisingly

    it was helpful.

    Something that felt sacred

    ''It''s shining! So what?''

    changed to the same sentiment.

    It''s far better than making a promise over and over again in your heart not to fall for him.

    Let''s go ahead, Lord Rivelon.

    Serpens handed him the appointment letter, and he accidentally added the title of "Sir."

    In normal case,

    ''From now on, I am also a noble with titles.

    This is it... !''

    , he must have been filled with emotion. Even more so, the first person who spoke to me was Duke Prasidus, who was respected by all.

    But for me it was counterproductive.

    ''Somehow, it seems that the collar is full.''

    Thinking about his intentions, it became even more cramped.

    If I feel like it, I want to throw the appointment letter in my hand right away.

    I''m really looking forward to it.

    But since he couldn''t, he reached out his hands and politely accepted the letter of appointment and bowed his head.

    ''After one. I really want to throw it all away and run away. I probably can''t... Ji?''

    I doubt myself whether I will be able to do well.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], this is how the Holy Sword was expressed.

    The holy sword is the light that will save the world, and at the same time it is a foreshadowing that the world will be engulfed in darkness.

    For that reason, when the Holy Sword descends on the continent, people bless the birth of a new hero and at the same time be wary of the darkness to come.

    The reason is that when the birth of great evil is felt in connection with the devil, the one god, ''Luxmea'', removes his soul and sends it down to the continent to save the continent.

    To help those living on the continent to protect themselves, the God-given

    soul piece.

    That''s the ''Sacred Sword''.

    At the same time, the god Luxmea sheds light on the world so that those who can accept the power of the Holy Sword can be born.

    The birth of a hero literally means that one of the holy power holders who was born in the year the holy sword came down is chosen as the master of the holy sword.

    ''I know who gets to be chosen anyway, so let''s leave that aside... .''

    What I need to pay attention to here is the ''big wealth'' part.

    A holy sword does not appear with one or two silly demons. At least, it will only appear when there is an intervention that will upset the continent.

    This was the reason why Serpens pointed out a demon-worshipper as the killer of his parents.

    In fact, they existed, and they eventually summoned the Demon King!

    Although it was dark enough when you look at the actions Serpence has been doing. Beyond that, it''s really dark.

    But that didn''t mean he was trying to summon the Demon King.

    ''Now, he firmly believes that he is the one to be chosen by the Holy Sword, so he is still in a hostile position to them, isn''t he?''

    As I know all the things he''s going to do, it''s astounding for me.

    ''Is this the harm of infusion education?''

 CH 3

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 3

    1. Duke, please repent! (2)

    Serpens had all the qualifications to become the master of the Holy Sword.

    Not only that, he was different from his innate divine power.

    As a result, even before his self-esteem was established, he must have been promoted as the ''master of the holy sword''.

    "Leave someone else a solution to the vague fear that might come in the future.

    Turning over looks the same everywhere you go... .

    According to [Master of the Holy Sword], Serpence has been suffering since the time he barely opened his mouth to relieve the anxiety of adults.

    He learned all kinds of knowledge and repeated the arduous swordsmanship training.

    Sleeping only four hours a day was the only time he could rest.

    ''If it wasn''t for the overflowing divine power, would I not have died of overwork before I was less than 10 years old?''

    It was because of the enormous divine power that this happened, and it was very paradoxical to think that he lived thanks to it.

    Ever since I was little, I was driven by the words, ''You must become the master of the holy sword and save the world.''

    When other children didn''t even know that the word sacrifice existed, Serpens carved its meaning into their bones.

    They were forced to take responsibility, and they were pushed to the brink.

    In the future he was the perpetrator, but in the past he was the victim.

    And, unfortunately, it is common for victims to turn into perpetrators.

    ''If only he had one, if he had someone he could depend on. Could it have been prevented?''

    But he had no one.

    It''s painful, it''s hard, it''s painful.

    No matter how much I begged for help, it was just an unanswered echo.

    ''And, by the way, if it''s the day your parents find out about it... .''

    He shook his head, dispelling his thoughts.

    In any case, no one disagreed with what the former Duke of Prasidus was doing.

    Whatever the Serpence suffered, it was turned into the right thing as a cause for the future.

    And when Serpens was just ten years old, it reached its peak.

    You''re a child who lacks will, and you need to cultivate patience.

    I may be tortured. Maybe the day will come when I have to.

    In a calm voice, his father led him .

    You look like a crazy human!

    Fanaticism is so terrifying.

    In any case, the damn writer left this story as a spearhead when Serpence was dying.

    When that recollection was over, his life had already ended... .

    After all, he is in and out of the novel.

    In both worlds, it means that we could not make that one understander until the end.

    ''Who knew... .''

    I used to think I was a complete villain.

    I found out that I was nothing more than a child abandoned and wounded by the world.

    that he was nothing more than a struggle to protect himself from the world

    Do you want to remember what happened to him after seeing him face to face with something that existed only in print?

    Do you think that such a terrible thing was real?

    To be honest, my nausea rises.

    Even though Serpens was so driven, the Holy Sword did not choose him.

    The one who is chosen by the Holy Sword is ''Humanus B. Deva Lumen'', the Crown Prince of the Holy Lumen Empire.

    He is the protagonist of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    The divine power of Humanos fell far behind that of Serpens.

    ''No, compared to Serpens, that

    Did any of the candidates present look like that?''

    No one expected that Humanus would be chosen as the master of the holy sword.

    The precedent that the person who suffered the strongest divine power was chosen as the master of the Holy Sword broke down.

    When Serpens was not chosen by the Holy Sword, the attitude of those who worshiped him so much changed.

    "Maybe there was a reason for disqualification?"

    Yeah, it''s rather perfect like that.

    It''s kind of weird that Ram exists, but there must be something there.

    They were heartbroken that what they thought was a strong shield to protect them did not do their job.

    And he put the responsibility for it on Serpence.

    It looked at only one life as the master of the holy sword, and lived to protect them.

    It must have been a huge shock to Serpens, who had no choice but to kill himself for that purpose.

    As a child, Serpens never received any affection from his parents.

    Instead, he was forced to have altruism and morality that was difficult to understand as a young man.

    One day, as usual, it happened while I was studying.

    Surprised when he saw the worm suddenly crawling out, he hit it with a book and accidentally killed it.

    The hero who saves the world doesn''t value life...

    Because they had to feel their pain, young Serpens were exposed to violence to the point of breaking their bones.

    But one day, in Serpens'' eyes, it looks more like a living thing than a worm.

    He was wounded and imprisoned, and was forced to kill a defenseless monster.

    "In order to save the continent, we will have to kill many monsters in the future. It would be good to know our weaknesses in advance."

    "But I''m so defenseless, I''m so afraid "

    little serpens didn''t understand

    all.

    Facing those eyes full of desire to live, he suffered.

    It is a being that eats the continent. To sympathize with such a thing, what the hell...

    His parents questioned and rebuked his morals.

    Over and over again, he caught a defenseless monster and forced him to kill it.

    It was sometimes in the form of an animal, and at other times it took on a human-like form.

    Where to stab to kill easily, where to cut to incapacitate

    learned that

    Seeing Serpens still reluctant to kill, his father, the then Duke of Prasidus, described it as a ''necessary evil.

    And it continued until Serpens felt no emotion over the act.

    Serpens learned the ''necessary evil''.

    Since then, Serpense''s parents have always made him suffer.

    Because of that, Serpens felt like he was going to die.

    So serpens kill them

    did with

    The savior who must save the world must not die before disaster strikes.

    This was a ''necessary evil''.

    When Serpens was not chosen by the Holy Sword, those around him began to doubt his personality.

    He remembered the faces of his parents who rebuked his morals.

    After killing them, my barely open breathing became choked again.

    ''Now that they are no longer their saviors, why... ?''

    Anyway, he couldn''t become the master of the holy sword.

    So, we don''t need any further effort to save them, do we?

    So, isn''t it okay to be selfish like everyone else?

    Serpens remembered the things he had prepared in advance for when the demon cults were going to start moving in earnest.

    I turned the tip of the sword called ''Necessary Evil'', which I prepared with the thought that it could be used as a bait to lure them out.

    I decided to use it to save myself, not the world.

    It''s the little selfishness he''s ever had for the first time in his life.

    Serpence is very little. I felt my breath tighten a little.

    Since then, he has usurped the power of the Holy Lumen Empire.

    On the outside, he still looked like an adult gentleman, but behind the scenes, he had no hesitation in wielding the power of the dark house.

    At last, the Holy Lumen Empire was placed in the hands of Serpens, both in the sun and in the shadows.

    In the meantime, the owner of the holy sword, without knowing anything, pilgrimaged the continent.

    He overcame the ordeal given by God and nurtured his strength.

    Growing up, sometimes saving people.

    However, the demon worshipers were scattered all over the world, so it was difficult to find their base.

    ''Nevertheless, the protagonist did not receive any support from the New Holy Lumen Empire.''

    It is to save the continent, not anything else.

    However, the Holy Empire, which should be the focal point in matters involving demons, has not played any role.

    For this reason, Humanus gathered his colleagues to equip himself with power and intelligence.

    With the intelligence of the forces they have, Humanus is the dark side of the Holy Empire.

    first discovered its existence.

    ''At the same time, the story of demon worshipers hiding there... .''

    And in the process of fighting the summoned demon and cleaning up the Dark House, I found a document that the Dark House and Serpens were intertwined.

    ''Actually, it was a different book.''

    Serpence was so thorough that he left no evidence.

    The demon worshipers, who considered his existence as a threat, used it as a check, and it was nothing more than a sneak peek at him if he didn''t believe him.

    Surprisingly, however, most of the fabricated evidence came true.

    About this part, one-third of the readers cursed the probability of being forced to eat it.

    One-third snorted at Serpens''s ability, leaving no evidence behind.

    And the other 1/3

    [Mix, the devil''s camp, you''re lucky =1 A A]

    had the same reaction.

    I , was the laughing side.

    "Khom !"

    In any case, should we say that Humanus has passed over to alienation, or that he has implemented justice?

    I could win against him.

    However, Humanus regarded Serpens as a friend.

    Serpens had a different idea, but Humanus couldn''t afford to kill him.

    In the end, he''s about to kill Serpens.

    locked up in a new prison

    And, knowing the dark side of Serpence, the demon worshipers sneaked in.

    Thanks to this, Serpens, who was able to escape, join their forces after that.

    borrow this place,

    [Unexpected gukkkuk scout tuk kug]

    I reflect on myself for a moment, who once again laughed.

    The three who were so attached to the devil''s camp

    Due to Lepence''s maneuver, the Holy Lumen Empire collapsed.

    Still, because of the work of the dark family, the nobles were excluded because they were tied up like sausages, so the vacancy was left open.

    It was good to catch the demons that started appearing all over the continent, and Humanus, who was running all over the place, burned to ashes before he could even use his hands.

    The Holy Land was devastated, and the Pope died.

    A power struggle broke out within the denomination, and sects were divided.

    All sorts of spurious new pseudo-religions took over, and the devil-worship forces invaded between them.

    Hugh Manus, the Crown Prince of the Holy Lumen Empire, became the Nakdong River duck egg in an instant.

    The other countries, who saw their empire collapse in an instant, moved back and forth to alleviate immediate damage instead of joining forces.

    In the end, all preparations for the demon lord to be summoned were finished.

    So the demon king descended on the continent

    I was reverse summoned at the speed of light.

    Serpence, who had been pretending to help the summons, hit the back of the head.

    He ate up the power of the summoned demon king.

    That amazing situational word 1,

    [There used to be a Demon King 1, there is no more.]

    say,

    [Demon King, it''s easy in 10 seconds. It''s easy, isn''t it?]

    There were a lot of comments.

    However, Serpens faced a predetermined defeat due to the truth that there was no business in Dagul, despite the power of the Demon King he had gained at the most.

    "Does this look like a happy ending?"

    But absolutely not.

    Warlocks who had leveled up as heretics from a demon worship group attacked all over the continent using demons to collect sacrifices.

    Wars were also waged through infidelity.

    Sometimes demons were also summoned.

    The continent, which had been scattered and had become nothing but chaos, was no longer their opponent.

    No matter how much Humanus ran around to help, the continent was too wide.

    Because of that, the entire continent had already been ridiculed to the fullest.

    All the key forces that summoned the Demon King died.

    But what remains is the ravaged land and a mountain of corpses.

    Even the remnants of demon worshipers remained.

    Not 5 minutes before the opening, but the opening itself.

    Somehow, such a situation had to be prevented.

    He wanted to accuse them of the location of their headquarters, but it was impossible.

    He succeeded in summoning the Demon King for about 10 seconds without any interruption.

    Humanus did not get there, and as a result, the location of the main camp of the demon cult is not mentioned in the novel.

    As such, they will not even be able to find a clue until they begin their full-fledged activities.

    So, the Holy Lumen Empire had to be a strong backbone of the protagonist without being destroyed.

    The Luxmea Church had to unite people with the power of faith.

    All countries had to unite and send troops to all continents.

    You must somehow gather a manpower to hunt down the warlocks and find their base.

    And there is only one person who can solve all of these.

    Not only did he prevent the empire from collapsing, but he was also politically talented enough to unite the continents based on it.

    ''what? However, the divine power is strong enough to be wary of the demon worshipers, and the force is also of a perfect level, so can we fight together if we have enough?''

    Yes. It was Serpens.

    Even if he hadn''t gone astray in the first place, the damage to the continent would have been reduced to less than half.

    That is the reason why I quietly accepted my resignation, even though I said my resignation to myself.

    At the very least, if I hadn''t been Serpence''s aide, I would have jumped out of the country without thinking about it.

    I would have lived there for as long as possible.

    ''But the situation is too complicated... .''

    As if I was aiming, I got possessed the day before the first day of work.

    Like,

    "''Did you understand the situation? Then you know what to do from now on, right?"

    Timing like saying.

    Originally, people were not meant to be rewritten, but since there is no other way and there is no substitute, let''s rewrite the final boss.

    ''So, Duke, please repent!''

 CH 4

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 4

    2. The Duke''s Assistant (1)

    Since today is the first day, it was decided to follow the butler, learn the structure of the mansion, and be introduced to people that he will see often.

    "Isn''t it better to see it in reality?"

    Yes, I think so.

    Hans huh heh heh heh heh heh heh-'' he laughed out loud. It was a smile that showed pride and pride.

    Now that I''ve only said hello, I don''t know how to judge whether I''m good or not.

    ''Well, the face was very nice, but... .''

    As I got farther away from the office where Serpence was, the tension slowly began to dissipate.

    Concerned about meeting the final boss of [Master of the Holy Sword], I could see the surroundings that I had not noticed.

    A corridor adorned with elegant antiques without being extravagant extends far away.

    ''If the mansion in the capital is this wide, how big is the lord''s castle?''

    Looking outside, it was not the only building here.

    According to Hans'' description, it was a dormitory for the users, a barracks, an annex for guests, and so on.

    And the current main building consists of 5 floors, and the office is on the 4th floor.

    ''No matter how confused you are, you didn''t feel anything difficult while climbing the stairs to the 4th floor .''

    The influence of the human mind on the body is amazing.

    Looking at Shion''s body, it didn''t seem like she was exercising as much as the original me. Wouldn''t all the jeans be exhausted just by going up the stairs in the morning and arriving at the office?

    Thinking like that, I think I will hate going to work because of the stairs, not the serpens.

    Except for the 5th floor, which is the Duke''s personal space, he toured the entire main building.

    After being guided along the way, I met people who were called servants, administrators, and knights.

    The last time we arrived at the restaurant, luckily, it was dinner time.

    ''What is this? Did you count?''

    If that''s the case, all I can say is that it''s really amazing.

    You seem to be the market, but I think it would be better to have dinner first. After that, you can say hello to the Duke and then go home.

    When I heard that, I was extremely hungry.

    This morning, I was worried about the serpens and went to work on an empty stomach .

    Wait. I went to work in the morning, but why is it dinner? My lunch?!

    I stared at Hans with a grudge against the lunch that had left, without even leaving a greeting on my stomach.

    But he didn''t care about my eyes and ignored me with the smile of a kind grandfather.

    After eating, it would be better to go to the office by yourself.

    At the same time, he said that he wanted to get used to the job quickly1, and left saying that he had to go to his job now.

    all.

    ''Isn''t this the dream job everyone wants? Have you been skipping lunch since the first day of work? Serpense wasn''t the only one who shouldn''t be fooled by his friendly face, was he?

    Come to think of it, that yangban had been loyal to the Duke of Prasidus even before Serpens was born.

    There''s no good person who helps a child be abused, right?

    ''what ? Are all the people in this family like this?''

    I suddenly lost my appetite for dinner

    He ate and got up from his seat. I''m sure you''ll be hungry when you get home.

    ''Hey, when I get home, I have to boil cup noodles for a late night snack... , wait for a sec! They don''t even have bag noodles, let alone cup noodles, right? I can''t even order chicken to eat!''

    It feels like all joy in life is gone.

    When I woke up from sleep, I was struck by a greater sense of urgency than when I suddenly realized that I was possessed by Zion''s body.

    ''Even forcibly, my mouth stings

    I''ll put... .''

    I already regret the dinner I just had to say goodbye to, but what can I do, that you have already left.

    Contrary to the fact that I was worried that I would get lost on the way to Serpence''s office, I remembered that it was in the very back of the 4th floor, so I was able to find it right away.

    However, it was not lost, because it was located far away from the restaurant, so when we arrived, we were already exhausted.

    After looking around this spacious mansion, I finally went up to the 4th floor again.

    The next morning, it was clear that I was going to have a lot of muscle pain. could it happen?

    ''Besides, do I have to go home again?!''

    I''m already out of my mind

    Hey !

    Suddenly, the office door opened, and at the same time, a woman''s scream and a ''whisper-'' were heard.

    I was in awe with my mouth wide open in front of the door, so when the maid who opened the door found me, she was startled and dropped the tray she was holding.

    it will drop

    Perhaps he brought Serpense after-dinner tea, or the teapot fell to the floor and shattered with a loud noise.

    Ahh! Go N, are you okay?!

    "Yes, yes! It''s okay ."

    Me and the maid looked at each other with shaky eyes for a moment.

    Their gazes got entangled like that for a moment, and then she said, ''Oh!'' He squatted down with an expression like that, picked up the shards of the kettle and put it on the crumpled tray.

    I''ll help too!

    It happened because of me as a surprise, but I couldn''t let her do the dangerous thing alone.

    As I crouched down next to the maid and tried to reach for the shards of the kettle, Serpens approached me and grabbed my hand.

    When I glanced at it, it was not only my hand, but the handmaid''s hand as well.

    It''s dangerous with bare hands. You''d better bring a cleaning tool.

    He spoke in a very worried tone, and gently lifted me and the maid.

    turned on

    I''m sorry, I was careless! God, how can I do this? What should I do?

    No, because I was bruised in front of the door...! It''s my fault! I''m sorry, please help me!

    The maid broke an expensive teapot and ate it, crying because even the carpet was stained with tea.

    I felt sorry for her as I was, and above all else, I was afraid of the final boss, so I went right and left.

    It''s okay, you two, calm down.

    Serpens calmed us both with a friendly voice.

    As a warm energy flowed from the hand that touched him, his heart became very calm.

    ''Is this divine power? ?''

    You can feel your body relaxing.

    It was just an accident. Are there any other injuries than that?

    When she and I stopped gibbling, Serpens smiled, as if reassured.

    His eyes narrowed, and the corners of his eyes curled softly. Long eyelashes glisten like angel wings.

    ''Oh, it really feels like all my sins are forgiven... .''

    The maid also had the same thoughts as me, so her eyes were a little out of focus.

    Seeing her relaxed expression, my mind became clearer on the contrary.

    ''Ugh, I almost got hooked!''

    Serpens looked at me and the handmaiden''s hands.

    My hand didn''t even touch the fragments, and the maid was also unharmed.

    The kettle fell from the maid''s feet, but thanks to the maid''s robe being a long skirt that reached her ankles, it didn''t seem like she was hurt by the splintering debris.

    ''Even if I got hurt, would it be after I was healed by the divine power that Serpens gave me?''

    Even though he knew it clearly, he immediately checked it thoroughly, probably something like a performance to show that ''I care so much about you.''

    After confirming that there were no wounds, Serpense''s hand fell off, and the maid, who came to her senses later, went out to get cleaning tools.

    But it''s a little disappointing.

    Yes?!

    what? What did I do wrong, so I went against the intention of the final boss who slapped the back of the demon king?

    ''Is the teapot you just broke a Serpent''s treasure? Or is it carpet? What did I do wrong? Am I going to get hit by a wagon on my way to work tomorrow? ah one! Have you entered the world of fiction?

    The second day, it was a short life... .''

    Seeing my stunned look, Serpens put on a vague expression as if it were a pity.

    Then, with my index and middle fingers, I ''tock-.'' He pointed out, and again breathed divine power.

    It feels like coming home from work, soaking in a warm tub, sipping a cold beer, and sipping it.

    ''Of course, I haven''t been to a job since I''m still a college student.''

    it just sounds so cute

    all.

    When it comes into direct contact with the head, it seems to have a better mental stabilization effect than before.

    ''Did I overreact? ?''

    Yeah, no matter how the final boss, he kills people because of that little kettle and carpet.

    It wouldn''t have gone down that far yet.

    ''''Am I scared?

    I wanted to ask, ''How did you know, are you a ghost?''

    Aside from his pitiful childhood, he knows what he''s been up to when he joined the demonic forces.

    As a result, many people died and suffered.

    Far from feeling guilty about knowing this, the figure of him who was engulfed in madness with bliss... .

    Unless I change something, Serpence will be doomed again and the continent will be covered with malignant fire.

    ''Do you want me to die before Serpens before that?''

    It doesn''t kill.

    I breathe without knowing-! and took a breath. Did I just spit my thoughts out of my mouth?

    I was very surprised, but somehow I didn''t feel scared.

    ''Ah, divine power... . It was still blowing.''

    Doesn''t the divine power have the ability to read thoughts?

    I''ve never heard of such a thing. If there was such a convenient function, it would not have been mentioned in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Didn''t you just ask me to live?

    As I rolled my eyes and avoided my gaze, Serpens said with a bitter smile.

    It is a face that makes the viewer feel sad.

    If anyone else saw it, they would definitely condemn the person who made Serpence look like that as trash.

    The maid went out to pick up cleaning tools, so I was afraid she wasn''t here, and from the first day I went to work, I almost made a name for myself with garbage.

    ''By the way, that''s what I said

    go?

    It was the same thing I did while gibbling earlier, and it was the same thing I didn''t. No, more clearly than just .

    "Are you really not going to kill me?"

    "Why am I killing my aide?"

    The words, ''You already killed him.'' came up to my throat, but I pressed it in.

    "Do I do I look like that?"

    I''m speechless! I''m wrong, I''m garbage. It''s garbage that can''t be recycled! The best garbage in this area is the bar.

    Fold it with!

    When Serpens with an angelic face lowered his head with a sad expression, I felt like I had become a really bad guy, so I declared trash without realizing it.

    At my declaration, Serpens looked at this and widened his eyes as if a little startled, and then smiled with a ''foot-''.

    Looking at it, it''s a smile that makes your heart happy.

    No, Sir Rivelon. It''s the first time I''ve seen you today, but I feel like you''re a very pure and nice person. It''s trash.

    Don''t say sad things like that.

    You], I''m not trash. He''s a good person.

    It''s not just about making soybeans with red beans, but even if they make red beans with soybeans, I felt like I had to answer yes, so I said whatever I wanted.

    At my words, Serpens took his hand off my forehead, sat down and smirked.

    It looked like the bright smile of an innocent boy.

    ''Was he originally a character like this?''

    Come to think of it, the only appearance of him mentioned in [Master of the Holy Sword] was his recollection of his abused childhood and after he was not chosen by the Holy Sword and fell.

    ''Isn''t it more scary than you think?''

    There is no possibility that this is also calculated smoke.

    I made up my mind to count.

    ''It''s too scary to act like that!''

    I shouldn''t be too open-minded, but I was in a position to get to know him somehow.

    There is neither porridge nor rice if you are afraid to fall.

 CH 5

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 5

    2. The Duke''s Assistant (2)

    Serpense, who had been laughing like that for a while, got up again as if he had calmed down.

    Seeing him gently wiping his wet eyes with his fingers, he must have laughed so hard that tears came out.

    ''Is that so funny?''

    Meanwhile, the old brown-haired maid brought cleaning tools. I approached to help too, but she saw

    He insisted it was a human thing.

    "By the way, today is the first day, how was it?"

    I don''t know yet. I haven''t even started working properly.

    "But have you met the people you want to work with?"

    In fact, there are so many that I have no idea who is who.

    ''He''s a memorable person... . About Hans, the enemy of lunch, and the maid over there cleaning?''

    I should have brought a notebook and wrote down my name, but I didn''t even have time to think about it.

    there was no

    If you need anything related to work, you can tell me at any time.

    Then there...

    As soon as I flew my luck, I waited patiently with an expression that I could tell you that Serpens was okay.

    "Can''t we eat and sleep here instead of commuting to work?"

    I wake up early every morning and walk to the mansion, and I am not confident that I will cross this large estate and climb up to the 4th floor of the main building.

    It''s hard to go back right now!

    On the other hand, what about living in a mansion?

    You can sleep better too, come out every three o''clock, you won''t get hit by a wagon while commuting alone!

    ''If it''s a Korean workplace, you''d be told to work overtime if it''s close to home and leave without notice on holidays... .''

    Serpence is truly the fairy of Kalteu.

    I often have to go out for a night drink without anyone knowing, and there''s no way I''d like to have someone I have to stick around like an aide all the time.

    In the first place, the guy who considers his aide cumbersome is probably only wearing it because of his dignity as a duke.

    So all you have to do is work until dinner, eat dinner at a restaurant, crawl into a nearby lodging and rest!

    What a perfect plan!

    There is nothing that can''t be done.

    Serpens readily answered.

    From what I heard, it seems that the former aide also lived in this mansion, and unless he had a family, he commuted to and from work more rarely.

    But it doesn''t seem like I''m ready today, so I''ll tell the butler first.

    Thank you. Then can I just leave work...?

    Yeah, then go in.

    As soon as Serpense''s permission was granted, he bowed his head, bowed, and went out of the office.

    ''Should I buy some food from the open shop on the way... ?''

    With that thought in mind, I looked away from the closed door and turned around.

    A few steps ahead, I saw the maid from before walking around while curling up and holding a carpet that was taller than her height.

    While talking to me, Serpens seemed to be glaring at me slightly behind me, and I think she was accepting me to say hello as she left.

    ''Did you just finish cleaning?''

    It seemed dangerous to walk, so I quickly approached him and supported the carpet.

    Upon closer inspection, he was holding a carpet in his arms, and in each hand a dustpan and a broom filled with kettle shards.

    I] will listen.

    It''s okay if you don''t!

    Half my responsibility, I''ll take one.

    The maid screamed, but took the carpet almost as if it were stolen.

    ''I think today is a day for manual labor.''

    I walked behind her, carrying the carpet.

    The fortunate thing is that the body is full of vitality, perhaps thanks to Serpens'' instilling divine power earlier?

    Thanks to this, I don''t think I will suffer from muscle pain tomorrow.

    Come to think of it, except for a few priests with a strong spirit of service and those who possess divine power, they usually say that they don''t want to use the power of the gods like pride and they say they are expensive.

    No, even a person with a spirit of service who possesses divine power will not overdo it, even in small things like this.

    On the other hand, Serpence helps without considering the gravity of the work, saying that even if it seems insignificant to others, it can be a great pain for the person involved.

    '' It is known.''

    With such a kind face, he gives kindness with his overflowing divine power, and the common people have no choice but to be respected like a messenger of the gods.

    In fact, what would they think if they knew that he was a person who didn''t care about other people''s pain?

    "Then why did you move alone without asking anyone to help?"

    "If you make a mistake, you get scolded."

    It''s probably not the story of Serpens I saw in person, but I''m talking about the housemaid or the butler.

    However, the number of teapots doesn''t match anyway, and the carpet will take some time to dry after washing.

    Besides, carrying this huge carpet around, you thought you wouldn''t be noticed.

    If anyone asks, say I did it because I bumped into it.

    Is that okay?

    It''s common to make mistakes in front of your boss because you''re nervous on your first day of work.

    If that''s what the aide said..., thank you.

    If I didn''t do that, I was saying this because I thought my conscience would be stabbed for not being sorry.

    The way the maid seems to be apologetic but responds with her eyes glaring at her is a very tempting suggestion.

    In conversation while going to the laundry room, I heard that her name was ''Mary Gaudium, and she came from the house of Viscount Gaudium.

    Entered the duke family through the introduction of a white mother

    it''s been a year?

    I was excited to be able to drive the car to the Duke with some recognition now, but even the story that I made a mistake.

    sorry.

    He handed the apple again and promised to buy me some delicious snacks later.

    I didn''t know because there was a serpent in the office], but seeing separately like this, Mary was also a pretty face in her own way.

    ''By the way, until before, I only looked like ''Brown-haired maid A''... .''

    Once again, Serpens'' beauty touched me.

    How am I supposed to look like I have to stick around next to such a serpent?

    ''Please only see me as a human, not a marine creature!''

    I prayed earnestly to myself.

    The next day, I went to work and faced the stairs, trying to make up my mind.

    Hans informed me that today is the day Serpens is going to work at the Imperial Palace.

    The Duke is coming down, so there''s no need to go up to the office?

    Could you tell me something like that in advance...

    "I told you yesterday, don''t you remember?"

    I brought my notebook today, so I will write it all down as soon as I can.

    As I was taking notes of what I just said, Hans looked at me with a slightly pathetic gaze.

    In addition, he added information that he would go to the Imperial Palace every other day on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and that he could rest on Sunday as a holiday.

    Even though I lack common sense here, I don''t know if it''s even closed on Sunday... !

    ''Only on Sundays? In this world, was the six-day workweek the basic?!''

    At the very least, I almost missed work on a Saturday. was not a clan

    After waiting for a while, Serpens came down.

    every step he takes

    People bowed their heads to pay their respects, and I bowed my head like a Korean to greet them.

    I was going to tell you when he passed away yesterday, but you don''t have to be so polite.

    Unknowingly, reflexively... ha ha.

    It has been 25 years since I was born and raised in Korea. Actions that are accustomed to the body and appear reflexively are unavoidable.

    isn''t it? It''s not ripe for the body, but it''s ripe for the mind.

    Lord Rivelon was very uncomfortable with me.

    Let''s go.

    Serpens had a sullen expression on his face.

    ''Oh, please. Don''t make that face in front of others. Everyone looks at me like trash!''

    That''s definitely on purpose! That said, no, it''s perfectly comfortable, isn''t it?

    If I do that, before Serpens kills me, the knight standing over there will cut my head off for being disrespectful.

    I look into other people''s eyes

    As he stood still, Serpens smiled bitterly,

    "I was joking because I wanted to get to know you, but I think it was a mistake."

    He added. The gaze around you becomes more irritating.

    ''Are you telling me to fuck you?!''

    This seems to be a Serpence-style declaration.

    right? Aren''t you only doing this to me?

    No! I still don''t realize that I have become the duke''s assistant, whom I respect Stop it! Be careful from now on!

    I will.

    "From now on, most of the work with me will be Tender 1, and my body can''t stand it if I keep getting nervous."

    Serpence said it was okay to do it, patted me on the shoulder and headed for the carriage in front of me.

    If I had been the original Zion that I did not possess, would I have been so moved that I would have dedicated my allegiance to him and squeezed it?

    What I don''t know is medicine, and that''s just it.

    I don''t know what kind of good Serpence he''s up to.

    I guess I''ll be suspicious

    He sighed inwardly, and followed Serpence into the carriage.

    ''At least I knew how to go out and ride], rolling a wagon inside the mansion... .''

    It was impossible for me to commute the distance I had to travel by wagon every day.

    After all, I''ll arrange my room in the duke''s house!] It was a good thing I asked for.

    As the wagon departed, it seemed to shake a little at first, and then

    It glided stably as if it had been burnt.

    It''s probably because it''s the high-class carriage the Duke rides in, so unlike what we usually see in fantasy novels, I don''t think it''s necessary to ask about the welfare of the buttocks.

    ''By the way, does this mean that I have already gone to work and am going to work again?''

    I woke up from this nightmare, and it sounded like a nightmare. That''s terrible.

    Yeah, I told Sun Hans about what you said yesterday.

    "Are you talking about lodging?"

    Yes. I said I''d clean up the room in the morning, so if you ask me when I get home from work today, I''ll guide you.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Tomorrow, I will come a little early, put the things I need right away in the room, and move it in earnest over the weekend.

    As I was pondering which items to bring first, I felt Serpens staring intently at me.

    Why are you staring at me like that...?

    It''s nothing. You seem to be having a hard time with me, but it''s strange that you''re making such a request so easily...

    It was nothing and I said everything I had to say.

    Is it a question of why do you want to live in the same house if you say it''s scary, or is it literal? Can I just answer both of them?

    ''''I went to work yesterday and it was so hard.

    Um, the mansion is definitely a bit spacious.

    It''s scary and I don''t sleep and die right away], my priority is to be comfortable with my body.

    As if my words had been answered, Serpens smiled and nodded.

    And the conversation was cut off.

    ''Is it really awkward because the conversation is suddenly cut off?''

    Even more so as Serpens sitting across from me is smiling brightly and staring at me.

    ''What was the atmosphere like when Serpence was alone with someone in [Master of the Holy Sword]?''

    First of all, in the two battle scenes where we fight the main character".

    The first was a one-on-one situation, and Hugh Manus persuaded Serpens over and over again.

    But his words never reached Serpens'' heart.

    In the final battle, he fought his comrades, but after Serpens fell, when he stabbed the holy sword into his heart, it was after he bit his surroundings.

    ''Even then, there was no proper conversation.

    Rather than that, the feeling that the main character was talking alone was strong.

    ''What was the situation in which Serpens led the conversation?''

    Threaten, torture, corrupt or corrupt.

    It seems to have been mentioned only the situation where he looked down at the other person in pain with an angelic face while laughing and looking down on them.

    I used to be rebellious while hurting the other person''s mentality, but female readers said they were sexy and laid down on their backs.

    ''Sexy is a bitch, they''re all frozen to death!!''

    Rather than helping the current situation, it only increases anxiety, and the nickname among readers called suspense comes to mind again.

 CH 6

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 6

    2. The Duke''s Assistant (3)

    I tried to ignore the gaze of Serpence who was staring at me as if analyzing me, and pretended to look out the window.

    Scenes that seemed to come out of a movie set in a medieval or modern Western setting were spread out on the street.

    ''I thought it was going to be something very strange, didn''t it?''

    Maybe it''s because Shion''s memories were merged, and the city just passed by while riding the bus.

    It was just thrilling to see.

    Come to think of it, I didn''t even think about it when I commuted to work yesterday and today.

    After smoking for such a long time, Serpens seems to have given up as well.

    He looked away from me and opened a book that looked difficult. It''s an envious Bango Liguan.

    Even in silence, the carriage drove hard and arrived at the Imperial Palace. It is truly a sight to behold.

    ''The name is the Holy Empire, is it okay to have such luxury?''

    The Prasidus mansion is old-fashioned

    Since it was mostly luck decorations, I thought that the Luxmea Church valued frugality and temperance].

    but. Even the peacock mansion didn''t shine, but it all looked expensive.

    As I got off the carriage and looked up at the Imperial Palace, I felt even more overwhelmed by the sight that filled my eyes.

    Sir Rivelon?

    Oops, you were so stupid.

    I woke up to Serpense''s call and followed behind him.

    ''It wasn''t like this in the Prasidus mansion... .''

    Since I don''t know the artistic value, I think I''m more interested in the flashy and splendid things like the imperial palace than the old-fashioned and elegant ones.

    It''s something you can tell right away that it''s expensive even if you don''t know anything.

    A bit snobbish... ?''

    However, jewels that sparkle among the gold are very coveted.

    I think I will lose my mind and become a lost child in the Imperial Palace if I keep looking around like this.

    As I turned my gaze, Serpens'' bluish-silver hair, walking ahead, caught my eye.

    all. Her hair, neatly tied into one, swayed gracefully as she walked and sparkled.

    After all, wherever you look, everything sparkles.''

    Come to think of it, what is Serpens doing in the palace?

    After thinking about it, I decided to ask him. As long as there are a lot of people passing by, I''m not afraid of a shivering serpent!

    "By the way, what does the Duke do in the palace?"

    Serpens paused slightly and looked back.

    look back With a gentle smile, he looked at my face for a moment without saying a word.

    At first glance, it was a friendly gaze, but in my eyes, he seemed to say that he had a lot to say, but that he would not.

    I''m guessing it''s because he''s thinking, ''What did you do in the wagon, and now you''re just asking?'', ''What does this bastard know?''

    I do not have a specific position, and I am attending the advisory council as a standing member.

    It''s kind of an odd answer.

    I thought he was definitely occupying a high position somewhere.

    As if he had noticed my thoughts, Serpens resumed the steps he had stopped and continued.

    The lack of a body, or the greatest chance of becoming the master of the holy sword... If that happens, I will have to travel all over the continent, of course.

    It was a friendly expository tone, but to my ears it was a sarcastic ''Why don''t you know this is obvious?''

    But when I heard it, it sounded right, so I exclaimed ''Aha~!,'' to convey the meaning of understanding.

    "In addition, the advisory

    The head is the Duke of Argento.

    If you''re the Duke of Argento... well, that''s right.

    Actually, it doesn''t come to mind right away, but I can''t say that I don''t know that he''s also a duke, so I nodded my head and pretended to know.

    Wouldn''t you be treated like a fool or a spy if you said you didn''t know?

    uh... . Argento, Argento... .''

    Since the name was not mentioned in [Master of the Holy Sword], I barely remembered the memory of Shion, the original owner of the body.

    His full name is Flamentum C. Argento. He is in his early 70s and is said to be the head of the advisory council and the prime minister at the same time.

    ''It''s a body that was studying as an assistant, so you have this kind of common sense... .''

    For reference, the Dukes of Argento are slightly inferior to the Dukes of Prasidus, but they are one of the only two Dukes of the Holy Lumen Empire.

    Although he seems like an incredibly important character, the reason he didn''t appear in the original is because the Holy Lumen Empire collapsed prematurely.

    It wasn''t ruined from the beginning, but before that, the amount of information about the empire itself was very small because the protagonist was traveling around the continent.

    There is one subtle inconvenience from before... .

    ''Why does it seem to be mentioned in the order A, B, C? The next one is D?!''

    As I said before, I never meant it. it''s just quirky

    I say this while I remember, but that spelling in between the names is the first letter of the baptismal name.

    Only those with divine power can receive

    It is said that the name given by God directly through the baptism ceremony when one turns ten years old.

    For that reason, family members, lovers, trusted colleagues, etc. Is it a name you only know about someone you have a very close relationship with you can trust?''

    The baptismal name of the main character, Humanus, is Bright.

    Before leaving the palace after receiving the holy sword, there was a scene where they exchanged their christening names while exchanging their last greetings with their fiancee.

    At the time, it seemed quite affectionate.

    But... .''

    However, with the collapse of the Holy Lumen Empire, she also died, and Humanus sprinkled his christening names on new party members and heroines.

    ''The general store is like that... .''

    By the way, since your baptismal name is about light, isn''t it just like an openly foretelling that you would give the Holy Sword?

    In contrast, Serpens'' baptismal name did not appear until the end. Even in the last flashback scene.

    ''What is the final boss treatment like!''

    Continue to think nonsense

    After seeing it all, I had arrived at the conference hall.

    After all, when I walk blankly, I have a different thought.

    Serpens greeted the nobles who came first and sat down, and I.

    Serpence had only slept four hours a day since he was a child, and his fist was bigger than Shion, who was in his mid to late 170''s.

    But now it overlooks Serpens''s crown.

    ''That''s right~, the aide doesn''t have a seat.

    That''s it. You have to stand, damn it!''

    When the meeting started, there were unfamiliar things to say, and there was no choice but to be like, ''Who am I, where am I?''

    Other thoughts should have been saved for now, not for the time to walk.

    I tried to take notes if there were important things, but I don''t know what''s important at all.

    Even a middle-aged aristocrat, who has grown a mustache for a long time, is arguing alone, cutting off everything others have to say.

    ''Is this the filibuster? Obstructing legal proceedings?''

    Er, what do you know? The capable Serpent will take care of everything.

    The other aides wanted to do something, so they rolled their eyes, being careful not to turn their heads around.

    And I was sure that I could play without guilt.

    There were aides who frantically jotted down the contents of the meeting, but there were very few.

    Most of the aides are dumbfounded, scribbling pretending to take notes, or pretending to be a notebook.

    Some read with a pen that did not appear in the handbook, pretending to write diligently.

    ''What is that, I envy you! Are you a genius?''

    Serpence always asked me to tell me if I needed anything while working. Would you like to get something like that? Are the fixtures handled?

    By the way, is it a job that an assistant eats raw like this, or only when meeting... .

    - Kwaang!

    ''Mom, I''m surprised! What, all of a sudden?''

    I was startled by the sudden roar and flinched and looked in the direction of the sound to see a fat old man standing on the table.

    It''s exactly the same scene you see on TV, right? Even the body shape.''

    Standing proudly holding a document in one hand, his momentum is no less than that of a rider at the forefront of the battlefield.

    The only difference is that, unlike the jockey who never misses the flag, he threw his papers at the face of the mustache nobleman before?

    I don''t think it was very legal.

    There was aristocratic face, but I wondered if I could do that, so when I looked around, no one was surprised.

    Rather, the assistant, who was taking notes like crazy, closed his notebook and was in a perfect spectator stance.

    ''That''s right, this is the big fun of the advisory meeting . No, is it normal?''

    Yes, even in the original world, except for a few countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, everyone fights... .

    Is there anything different here.

    With this in mind, the first thing I have to do is to get on the table and cheer for the lawmaker who implemented justice.

    It''s my first time watching a real martial arts match, so I''m very excited!

    Thus, the meeting proceeded to the pool without a break. I can''t say no, it''s really great stamina.

    The legislator I was cheering for seemed to have taken the lead in the fight by occupying the high ground.

    However, saying that the square stone was just right, he was eventually dragged down by the other nobles and died fiercely.

    ''That doesn''t mean he''s really dead... .''

    He rested in a safe zone, led by the hand of an aide who was familiar with him from being buried in the crowd.

    Although he was defeated, he had no regrets about the battle that was burnt to white.

    Even in the midst of this chaos, no one put up a fight with Serpens.

    Rather, moderate-minded lawmakers who did not want to be swept up in a fight, and aides who had lost their superiors in the crowd, crept in.

    Lee, who had been slaughtered in battle, was also led by his aide.

    ''Is it some sort of sanctuary?''

    It was. This is the safe zone I was talking about earlier.

    Angry nobles shone white, and even in the midst of this, the White Rope Fence did not pollute the body that had been washed in the blue river.

    But are you the only one who is white on the outside and black on the inside?

    I suddenly remembered the sijo that I memorized when I was in school, so I tried Jjamppong as I wanted. Didn''t it fit the situation well?

    The one-hour meeting and the two-hour battle ended with the Duke of Argento''s declaration that the meeting was over.

    There were no winners. However, those who remained on the battlefield until the end were all satisfied as if they had completed a marathon.

    They brushed off the dust on each other''s bodies and exchanged good wishes.

    Some nobles who appear to have divine powers have healed the noses of nobles who have had double nosebleeds after being hit by the fist they just flew.

    As if only a boy with a subject matter of sports

    It looks like they are holding the final in a match, shaking hands, and making friendships regardless of victory or defeat.

    I don''t know if I should be moved or surprised in this situation.

    Then let''s go back.

    Yes?!

    is this the end? The final boss came to the Imperial Palace and watched only martial arts before returning?

    At my reaction that I can''t believe it, Serpence looks at me with a gaze to see if there''s something wrong.

    Oh, no. I wonder if you''re not going to heal them.

    There were also standing members in priest''s uniforms, but neither they nor Serpens seemed to have any intention of treating them.

    Even second to the priests, didn''t Serpens help the injured person, no matter how big or small the pain was?

    Even if it''s me, it''s a bit

    Serpens said with a sly smile.

    Well, it''s kind of like that... .''

    It''s not unusual for nobles to have such a dog fight in the Imperial Palace, but it seems strange to see them flying wide-area heels with them all.

    What would a sane person do? Psychopath.

    I heard from the carriage on the way back, it''s not always like today.

    When there is an important agenda, do you sometimes have a proper meeting with an extension?

    "But why are you doing that?"

    "Before I attended, I was in that state "

    it sounds like you don''t know

    ''Hey, it was a remake with history and tradition!''

    In any case, it is unlikely that an important agenda item will be common, and you can think of it as coming to the Imperial Palace to watch martial arts once every two days.

 CH 7

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 7

    2. The Duke''s Assistant (4)

    After returning from the palace, I went to the restaurant I went to yesterday, and Serpens headed to the dining room set aside for the Prasidus family.

    Currently, Serpens is the only one who uses the Prasidus surname in the duke''s residence, so he will eat alone.

    There must be service workers, so you''re not exactly alone, but are you eating alone while others are watching?''

    Just thinking about it makes me feel nauseous. Saying this, I''m also on my own.

    Ugh .

    "What are you sighing at?"

    Suddenly, someone puts down the plate across from me and asks: When I looked up, it was Mary.

    "Is Miss Gaudium crowded too?"

    You can just call me Mary comfortably.

    Mary shuddered, looking at the group of maids standing at a distance, beckoning them to come closer.

    ''Okay. I was alone.''

    Still, thanks to you, I''m glad I got away with it. I am the type of person who thinks that eating is delicious when eaten with a group of people, so I was very grateful to her.

    Ah, the aide who said this is a new arrival...?

    One of the maids poked Mary in the side with a cautious look, and whispered a little.

    Yes, I can hear everything.

    Yes, my name is Zion Rivelon, who has been appointed as an assistant to Duke Prasidus since yesterday.

    I wondered if I was being too vigilant, so I said with a bright smile.

    and as a signal,

    Did you go to the Imperial Palace today? How was it?

    Are you going to go with the Duke from now on? I hope it is!

    The former aide seemed to be very strict about something!

    Questions such as were poured out.

    The cautious attitude he had just seen before is gone. They laugh at each other and ask me this and that

    it started.

    ''What is the purpose of the last words... ?''

    It''s not that I''ve gotten a little more comfortable, it seems that I''ve become more satisfied.

    but what It''s better than being stiff and uncomfortable.

    The Imperial Palace was really amazing.

    At my end, I asked them how great they were.

    You can''t just say, ''Don''t give a shit, it was just awesome''. Instead, I decided to add some flesh.

    "After passing through the ornately decorated door, a long corridor stretches out endlessly. The corridor sparkles like gold waves and is lined with majestic decorations and majestic statues.

    Seeing that there were people listening with their eyes shining, without realizing it, I talked a lot from week to week. That''s why people seem to be bluffing.

    "Yes, you know? Have you even entered the conference room?"

    "Aren''t you bored?"

    "Are all the people there high-ranking people?"

    "How was it?"

    In response to the question about the advisory council, my mouth, which had been pouring out the description of the imperial palace with all the expressive power I could gather, stopped.

    Awesome...it was impressive. I can''t even tell you about the conversations that came and went.

    Not knowing what to say, I slowly opened my mouth to organize my thoughts.

    It was not aimed at, but not only the surrounding maids, but also

    Others who were eating were also quietly listening.

    Accepting the opponent''s opinion, blocking it. Even in the midst of counterattacking.

    Opinion here means ''I''m going to hit you, will you?''

    It has not lost its elegance like a flying bird.

    As I jumped across the table, the papers fluttered and fell gracefully.

    "Fierce filled the meeting room, but after the meeting was over, they gave each other compliments and made sure that everything was neatly done.

    accepted it. I can''t say no, it''s really touching.

    There was no lie in this statement.

    When I told my story, the young maids squealed and shouted that I was cool, and the maids showed longing eyes.

    Others of old age or who looked like administrators nodded their heads quietly as if saying, ''It''s no different from what I imagined''.

    "But what kind of person is the Duke?"

    As long as you answer it like this, take it at your best

    I couldn''t even touch the whole food and it seemed like lunch time would be over.

    So, I turned the topic around and asked.

    ''Of course I was curious. If you know your enemy and know yourself, you will be burned out, right?''

    As soon as my question was finished, the maids started praising Serpens as if they were waiting.

    ''I was asking about something personal, not something known... .

    Still, I have to eat and live, so I''ll focus on food for now and meet each other one by one and ask them a little bit.

    I''m so out of my mind when I say it all over the place

    None!

    While emptying the bowl, ''Oh!'', ''Really!'' And put a chuimsae or sometimes nodded. With that alone, everyone is excited and talking about it.

    Even the servants at the next table tried to show me how great the serpents were.

    At the back table, the magistrates started arguing about Serpence''s achievements.

    By the way, knights and soldiers are not here because they use the restaurant inside the barracks building.

    ''Isn''t the Serpense the idol of the dukes?''

    At this moment, everyone in the restaurant was united as a serpent. Everyone is laughing happily.

    But I couldn''t sympathize with them.

    I felt something cold.

    How many of these people know about Serpence''s childhood?

    If you know, why the hell no one helped him?

    Does Serpens know that they like him even more?

    And when Serpens turned their backs on humanity, what did they think?

    Did he turn away from reality, resent the world, or curse him?

    Countless questions were twisted and tangled in my head.

    But I decided to smile brightly, pretending not to know anything.

    * * *

    When I finished eating and went up to the office, Serpens had arrived first.

    "Am I a little late?"

    No, you can have a leisurely meal.

    So, does that mean you have to hurry?

    I don''t know why it sounds like everything Serpence says is sarcastic. I guess this is the sunglasses effect.

    Oh, yes... Thank you.

    Today, you just have to deal with the papers on the desk over there.

    Serpens smiled and pointed to the desk far away from his seat.

    No matter how spacious the room is, there is no need to place it so far apart... Of course there will be.

    I have a reasonable doubt that there are a lot of documents that I have to hide and process.

    Whoops .

    It sounded like jade beads rolling on a silver tray, and it sounded like a laughter with a sweet tone. of

    Without removing the ruler, he shifted his gaze to Serpens.

    The sight of him smiling in the sunlight pouring through the window is enough to say that it is not beautiful or sacred.

    Without realizing it, I was like, ''Ummm... '' and swallowed a saliva.

    ''The desk layout is crazy!''

    Still, the shiny guy even shines with a halo, so it''s not really a joke].

    It must have been that Serpense had deliberately placed it on purpose. If not, take this perfect angle

    can''t get a wife

    If I had been a member of the Luxmea Church, I would have seen the scene now and prayed that God had come.

    Why are you smiling...?

    Oh, I just heard an interesting story.

    Oh, are you? I saw a fun fighting game before.

    I heard that you have already become friends with everyone. You are very friendly.

    You just came up right after eating, but when did that kind of thing even reach Serpens'' ears?

    This mansion is in the palm of Serpence! scary, scared

    "This is the story I heard from the butler. There is no need to be vigilant or not."

    It''s not that I''m vigilant, I just thought that the delivery was quick!

    He quickly waved his hand, but Serpens smiled as if he knew everything.

    sharp child.

    That''s right, I tried to tell you that it''s okay, but since you''re a very loyal person.

    i See .

    Serpence said with a smile as if in trouble.

    That, that! Do you see the slap on Hans? You paid a very high level.

    If you are offended, I will tell you not to do that.

    No, you don''t have to.

    He said that he would do it all in words, at least in words, and in the end, it was obvious that the whole story would end up in Serpence''s ears.

    If that''s the case, what''s the story

    It''d be better if you could figure out where it went

    As if it was nothing on purpose, he smiled and sat down.

    After rummaging through the documents, I got a rough idea of what to do.

    I was worried that there would be a catastrophe in which I had to ask Serpens in my heart.

    Fortunately, it was only the contents that could be handled sufficiently with the knowledge that Zion had.

    ''Did you consider it the first day, or did you leave out all the sensitive content?

    Did you give it to me?''

    Serpense''s pile of papers piled up incomparably with the papers on my desk, wouldn''t it be like this?

    In the meantime, his hands were moving fast.

    ''Yes, work hard and take all my documents!''

    After fluttering through the papers for a while, I heard a knock outside the door.

    As soon as Serpense''s permission was granted, a maid with a teapot and a tray with two teacups on it came in.

    Even though it must be heavy, hold it with one hand

    He opened the door and went in, then closed the door again and held it with both hands.

    After the maid pours tea for Serpens and me, she bows her head slightly and puts her mouth on the teacup, looking at the back of her quietly leaving.

    Seeing that the color is red, I think it''s a fun tea, but I don''t know for sure.

    ''I heard somewhere that a properly driven car can''t even compare to a normal person''s... . What''s the difference?

    Is it because I don''t know cars well? who

    I don''t know any difference from the taste I''ve had when I secretly drank the black tea bag I was drinking.

    I don''t know what kind of tea you like, but I prepared the same thing as what I drink. How about it?

    Are you saying that if you ask for another car, you will prepare it separately? Or are you saying that it will suit my taste?

    In the past, if you need anything during work, ask me to speak directly to you... .

    ''Do you usually do this?''

    I''ll just tell the butler and let them do it, don''t they tell you to do it yourself?

    I don''t know the noble etiquette of this world, but looking at the information left on Sion''s body, it seems quite unusual.

    Can''t we just drink tea as it is given to us?''

    Maybe it''s because I''m not interested in cars. Anyway, the kindness was too much.

    " Why do you see it that way?"

    Oh, no.

    Serpens tilted her head and asked as if wondering.

    Drink well, eat well, eat well, and eat well Oops!''''

    Whoops... If you need anything other than tea, please let me know.

    He smiles kindly and answers my mistakes as if it was funny. That laughter echoes softly and clearly.

    A person like that later laughed and said,

    Is it a lot of pain? Seeing him suffer, I''m all happy.

    I hope we lose. J

    Are you saying the same thing?

    I was tormented by that sense of separation.

    "Then why are you being so kind to me?"

    It''s normal. I''m not particularly concerned about Lord Rivelon...

    "So. Why is that common?"

    Unlike me, who had completely taken my hands off the paperwork, his hand, which continued to play with the pen while talking, stopped.

    Serpense''s poem looking down at the documents

    The line was towards me.

    can''t seem to understand. As if trying to understand the intent of my words, carefully.

    "So, the question is, is it not usually the case that you take care of your subordinates like this?"

    At my words, Serpens'' expression became serious.

    It is the most serious face of yesterday and today. Serpense''s lips parted slightly, then met again.

    He looked like he was choosing a horse for a while. Finally, he opened his mouth with an expression that he had made a decision.

    I will try my best to respect Sir Rivelon''s taste, uhm....

    Yes? What do you mean?

 CH 8

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 8

    2. The Duke''s Assistant (5)

    ''What the hell is this man talking about!?''

    Surely you don''t think I''m the type of person who enjoys being treated harshly and despised?

    It was so absurd that it took me a while to interpret his words.

    That''s why I couldn''t react right away.

    But serpens I deny

    He seemed to have decided not to.

    It''s okay. I heard that everyone has a taste they want to hide. So, umm... It must have been difficult to say, but thank you for telling me.

    Saying that, Serpens had a sarcastic smile on his face. But that smile made me even more annoyed.

    ''Don''t look at me with those warm eyes! Rather, a contemptuous gaze... to ��

    Oh .

    Had it come out of my mouth, it would have been absolutely irreversible.

    It''s not like that! You''re mistaken!

    That misunderstanding was only finally cleared up when it was time to leave work.

    I told him no several times until the moment I got home from work just in case.

    In the end, I was able to leave work with peace of mind only after hearing an apology from him that I was sorry for the misunderstanding.

    ''But wouldn''t it have been possible to bring out the true nature of Serpence if he had just admitted it as a lie and asked him to deal with it?

    Then it would be easier to get to know each other

    I think I will.''

    no. Are you a serpent who just treats me like that?

    Did you say something like that knowing what would happen to you?

    Scary things are scary, but let''s cherish our own dignity more than that.

    ''By the way, did Hans say he''d give me the location of my room?''

    I remembered the story Serpens told me in the wagon this morning. Let''s meet up for a while, get to know the location of the room, and then go back.

    Aide!

    Less than ten steps after I left the office, someone called me. It''s one of the things I''ve seen in the restaurant before.

    Was his name Jack Ferdante? He praised Serpense most enthusiastically before, so he remembers it even in the midst of a frenzy.

    "Yes, what are you doing?"

    The butler told the assistant to show you the room.

    It seemed that the servant was sent up in time for my work hours. It would have been better if it had been an older servant, but it turned out well.

    I''ll have to ask about the serpents on the way.

    By the way, Jack knew the Duke very well. You must have been working there for a long time?

    If you count the number of years, it''s the 6th year since I came in when I was young.

    Now 21, his father is now retired, but it appears that he worked for the Duke of Prasidus.

    So, did you hear a lot from your father? nice!

    "I will have to serve the Duke in the future, is there anything I should be particularly careful about?"

    Yes, no.

    As soon as the words are finished, the answer comes right back.

    The reason is that the duke was very merciful, and he said that he would forgive him without any problem unless it was a big rudeness.

    ''If you make a big mistake, even if the Duke forgives you, the butler won''t forgive you?''

    It''s a misunderstanding, but since I apologize for not being able to respond to strange tastes, it''s natural if it''s natural.

    Is there anything you like or dislike? Books, food, hobbies, anything?

    You don''t have any.

    is that human?

    I stared at him, wondering if he was serious, and he smiled haha, wondering if there was something strange about what he was saying.

    But you''re a duke. I''ve heard that you haven''t been attached to anything since you were young.

    if so?

    "I can say that He loves all things equally."

    Is that really human?

    ''Oh, I can''t . It is clear that the deification of Serpens has already been completed in this person''s head!''

    Look at the expression on his face that he doesn''t know what to do with the holy will.

    That''s enough when Serpence is on the side of the devil,

    Because the humans of today have rotted, He has forsaken mankind! We must humbly accept the destruction of the continent as it is!!

    They must have founded a new religion, shouting .

    Then you don''t have any friends.

    yo. This...

    that''s .

    Are you there?!

    No, is there anyone close to Serpens? How the hell did you end up eating?

    You are close with the Crown Prince.

    ,,...Oh.,,

    That one-sided relationship? I know, I''ve seen it all in the book.

    Serpens hated Humanus, thinking that he was just a nuisance.

    But Humanus went to Serpens

    regarded as a close friend.

    The reason is that the two are of the same age and that the title is not worthy of bowing down to the Crown Prince himself.

    In addition, there was a great sense of unity from the weight it carried, but there is another main reason.

    ''The fact that Serpens treats everyone the same.''

    Everyone treated himself differently from others because of the fact that he was the Crown Prince, but Serpensmann treated everyone the same.

    So he wanted to be closer to Serpence than anyone else.

    But the more I did it, the more I felt a sense of distance that never diminished.

    Even the day that he aimed at Serpens'' heart and pierced through it.

    "Sefi!! Why, why are you ?"

    Humanus clenched his teeth.

    His sword was once his friend. No, he aimed at the heart of the one he believed was his friend.

    "Now what do you think?"

    Bloody enough that I can''t move anymore

    Serpent, who had grown up and fell to the floor, laughed at him.

    The clear blue-silver hair, which once shone more brilliantly than anyone else, was reduced to a dull and dirty gray color due to the loss of the power of the Demon King.

    What used to be embroidered in the air, rustling in the wind, now clumps in dark red blood and was scattered randomly on the floor.

    Obviously, it was that day that fell.

    Why is it that you are so miserable and desperate?

    "Perhaps yes, I fear that the continent may be ravaged by the demon king.

    did you stop it? Is that so?"

    Serpense''s darkened eyes looked up at Humanus coldly.

    With a dry face that seemed to have no emotions. With an expressionless face to the point of terrifying.

    Come on, tell me that! Why, why? You... Sepi, you loved the Continent! The Duke of Prasidus! The Empire! You loved all of them!

    "Are we friends ? No, my friend.

    That thought Sun?''

    No answer.

    just keep watching just wait patiently

    I''d rather beg you to live! If not...! If you can''t make up your mind, shout out to kill him! If you let him go like this, he threatens to completely destroy the continent!!

    Choose.

    His close friend is his true feelings until the very end. Think. Nothing.

    Not even a single piece was revealed.

    Humanus doubted whether ''Iza'' was really the person he knew.

    Maybe it was someone I didn''t know from the beginning.

    No, ''interest'' is someone you don''t know.]

    "Seppy No, Serpens. Who are you?"

    He slowly applied force to the hand holding the sword.

    Ride the tip of the sword, go through his skin

    The feeling is vivid.

    Until this moment came, there were countless monsters. demons. humans.

    When I cut them, I almost missed the sword due to the eerie sensation I had not felt before.

    As the tip of the sword trembled, a bloody cough erupted from between the man''s tightly closed lips.

    Before long, the holy sword touched the man''s heart stained with magic.

    But Humanus realized that nothing of himself had reached his heart.

    The holy sword completely pierced his body.

    Now it feels like everything is over.

    Humanus regarded him as a friend to the very end, but realized that he knew nothing about him.

    eventually let him go.

    ''During the course of the novel, Serpens was a veiled character until the end.''

    Why did he, who was revered as a saint, touch the dark house?

    Why he turned to the enemy of mankind. Even the Yu who took the power of the Demon King and devoured it.

    I couldn''t figure out the principle of his behavior.

    Only after he died.

    Through Serpence''s first and last recollections, I was only guessing, ''Isn''t it this or that for this reason?''

    ''I guess that''s why.''

    that last moment.

    Instead of asking Serpens for goodwill and affection, Humanus did everything.

    If you were talking about something else.

    In the end, the continent may have met the same ending, but maybe Humanus could have met a different ending?

    ''Instead of killing someone unknown, say goodbye to an old friend... ,

    Could it have ended like that?

    " Aide?"

    Oh, I''m sorry. I was thinking a little differently...

    I woke up to Jack''s call.

    Haha, that''s fine. The aide can use this room.

    ''''I see, thank you.

    Where are you? I came to my senses and I have no idea how I got there.

    Looking at the height outside the window in the hallway, I know it''s on the second floor. I guess I''ll have to go back and review it until I find a way I know.

    When I opened the door, I was greeted with a clean interior.

    If it''s this wide, isn''t it bigger than Zion''s room now? it''s a huge plus

    If you look to the right, there is also a private bathroom, so you can use it at any time.

    The best thing I did when I came to this world was to ask Serpens for a room. no doubt

    It''s the former aide''s room... I said I''d clean it, but I don''t know if it''ll be okay.

    No, why such an ugly room! When I asked if there was only one empty room here, it was not.

    It''s just a room that the Prasidus family''s aides have used from generation to generation...

    So what do you do? just write it

    According to Jack, there is also Hans''s room on the first floor. It''s right under my room.

    If you think about the story that the butler won''t forgive you even if the duke passes away, would you be a bit of a strict yangban?

    I''ll have to pay attention to the noise between floors.

    "Then I will go back."

    W] Then, please enter carefully."

    I checked the room, now go back

    I thought I had to, and said hello to Jack. Jack also greeted me.

    Still, the two of us stood blankly, looking at each other.

    Aren''t you going?

    No, I''m going... I''m going to go.

    Jack''s expression rotted when he said that he didn''t know the way back after a bit of agitation.

    I remember Hans looking at me this morning as I was taking notes.

    He also looked at me with those eyes, hehehe-!

    ...I''ll take the lead, so memorize it this time.

    The appearance of him talking happily about Serpence is nowhere to be seen. Jack took the lead, speaking with a hard expression and tone of voice.

    ''Isa is a stranger. Jack, who are you?''

    is a joke.

    I followed him and looked around. By the time the way to know came out, Jack''s attitude had returned to normal.

    Saying goodbye to Jack once more, he left the dukes behind.

    ''What I finally found out today is that the advisory council was actually a martial arts group. It is said that the Duchess of Prasi Dus is actually a fan club of Serpens. Is it only this much?''

    Other than that, Serpens has never been attached to anything or showed any special interest since childhood .

    '' Such a person cannot exist.''

 CH 9

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 9

    3. Train travel with the Duke (1)

    It''s finally the first weekend.

    In the meantime, the advisory council visited once more.

    ''Why do you miss the fortune teller for the first hour while you''re going to fight anyway?''

    Perhaps it is customary for one person to start the engine with a filibuster and the others to start punishing that person.

    Serpens kindly added

    According to the explanation given by Jun, do we have to compete only with pure physical ability, excluding all divine powers and magical powers?

    The tools that can be used are limited to single sheets of unfiled documents, and the use of any weapons is prohibited... .

    ''Are you doing martial arts X sessions? No, why do the meetings have combat rules? Are you a fighting nation?''

    This could no longer be called a meeting.

    Seeing my absurd expression on my face, Serpens says it''s okay because there are a lot of holy power holders in the field, so safety is guaranteed

    gave

    ''Is that important? Safety is not an issue! This country is crazy!''

    As I continued to stare at him with a puzzled face, Serpens spoke these words with a shy expression.

    "Actually, Count Pgnuto recommended me before."

    ''Is there anything else you would recommend?''

    "I had no choice but to participate only once "

    Are you participating in it again?!''

    In the end, I''m left alone...

    ''The massacre of civilians!!''

    Ummm... it''s a bit embarrassing.

    Somehow, no one ever touched Serpence, so there must have been a background like this.

    I guess it was just a champion preference.

    ''If the last person comes out again, will I be competing with Serpens?''

    I''ve heard shocking stories, but that''s not the kind of information I need to get.

    That''s why I pack the bare minimum

    After work, I wandered around asking the remaining peasants about this and that.

    At the same time, he also handed over the snack that he had promised to Mary.

    He bought me a fresh cream cake from a well-known store, and he was very happy.

    ''I wish Serpens had been as simple as half her.''

    Even if it''s my own paraphrase, I''m proud to say that I understand the meaning of Serpens'' words more closely than anyone else in the world.

    Even so, it''s really embarrassing that he sometimes behaves out of control.

    In particular, I couldn''t even imagine the advisory meeting.

    ''Ignore that kind of advice!''

    I already know enough that I''m pretending to be good.

    However, even considering that ?'' There were so many things I wanted to do.

    As if you have to be considerate of others and continue to spread something to someone

    '' Is it something like the Good Child Complex?''

    Anyway, I thought it would be suspicious if I asked too openly, so I decided to get close with them and go out with a sneaky luck operation.

    '' A, about the good deeds of Serpens

    I''ve only heard stories and praises.''

    If I listened directly to it, I felt like I would be brainwashed into being a Serpence zealot.

    I had no choice but to cut them off as they flowed through one ear moderately.

    Just listening to it, it has more conciliatory power than most thieves.

    I approached the maids first.

    I, and most of the maids who worked at that time, seem to have already retired.

    ''No, why isn''t there even that common nanny?''

    There were a few kitchen maids who had worked for more than 10 years.

    But since he lived almost exclusively in the kitchen, no one knew what happened at that time.

    ''Something that happened openly in a place where users see it, like the bug incident, is likely to go into the hall... .''

    When you see that no one knows

    or did good control.

    Or maybe it just happened when Serpence was younger than I expected.

    ''Well, actually, it doesn''t really matter what Serpence has been through in the past.''

    It''s not that it doesn''t matter what happened to him.

    You already know, so you don''t have to dig for information.

    Nevertheless, I am asking this question out of personal curiosity, wanting to know why they neglected the situation.

    ''Actually, the main thing I asked them was about the current Serpence.''

    If you want to know his past in the first place, you can ask Hans or the older administrators.

    The reason I don''t ask even though I know is because I don''t think they will give me an honest answer.

    ''Above all, because their loyalty is directed not to the Serpens, but to the Prasidus family itself.''

    It''s rather fortunate if it''s to the extent of being alert and telling Serpense.

    think i know something

    Trying to deal with women secretly, or torturing them to find out how... .

    ''Ugh, just thinking about it makes me cringe!''

    Therefore, I am a person who is loyal to the Duke of Prasidus ; 1.

    Only the maids and servants who have a favor for the current Duke Serpens are carrying around Jangcheon day and night.

    Later, he asked Jack, ''Should I ask you to let me see your father, saying, ''How old was the duke was?

    ''But why does Serpens keep them around?''

    Trying to know a past that others don''t know, instead raises another question.

    Putting all doubts aside, what I need now is an opportunity to get closer to Serpence.

    ''I''m an aide, so I''ll stick around with you, so we''ll get to know each other over time, right?''

    If you think like that, you can''t escape like a humanus.

    If only the time we spent together can be close, Humanus once succeeded in becoming Serpence''s best friend.

    should go

    The more favorable condition for me is that I know both the past and the future of Serpence?

    He''s the only one who knows he''s fake.

    ''Ugh . Can''t we just bump into each other?''

    I sighed inwardly and loaded my things into the wagon. What the author''s coat of arms of Prasidus was drawn!

    He said he was going to go home on the weekend to finish moving his luggage, so Serpens gave it to me.

    gave it

    How can a person be kind? It''s really like an angel... .

    one pair

    He slapped my cheek with his right hand. It was dangerous.

    ''Is this what a thought infection is?''

    Could it be that these days, while sympathizing with Serpence''s past, he heard stories about his good deeds?

    I wonder if there are symptoms of Stockholm Syndrome.

    Yet I am aware of myself

    So, is it difficult to see?

    ''Serpens are the bad guys! It''s double! It''s a set-up!! Such suspense!''

    I cursed Serpense inwardly and remembered his appearances described in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    It was creepy, but Serpens no longer felt like an angel.

    I was trying to curse the owner for the subject of renting a carriage, and I felt a little bit of remorse, but what can I do?

    You have to keep your mind straight in order to survive. Let''s not forget the purpose.

    When I arrived at the duke''s residence and loaded all my belongings, it was already past lunch time.

    I should have gotten up early and moved, but it was because I overslept thinking it was the first weekend.

    ''Lunch time is already over... .''

    Originally, I slept late on the weekends and masturbated because I only skipped one meal.

    However, I have to wait until dinner to go out, so I''ll go and ask Popina if there''s anything to eat.

    She said that she was Mary''s roommate, a 10-year kitchen maid, who is now 32.

    Because of that, we couldn''t meet at the restaurant during lunch time on the second day, but we got to know each other through Mary''s introduction after walking around collecting information for the past three days.

    ''If you get to know someone who is good at cooking, food rolls in even when you''re sleeping!''

    When I arrived at the kitchen, it looked as if I had just finished washing the dishes for lunch.

    Unlike the regular maids who wore hoods, the maids working in the kitchen were using sanitary hair to tuck all their hair.

    For this reason, distinguish only the back

    It was difficult to call him out, so he went into the kitchen and greeted everyone and found Popina.

    What are you doing up to here, aide?

    I missed dinner... so I came to see if there was something to eat.

    Saying that with a modest smile, Po Pina handed me an egg with a sad expression on her face.

    Wait a minute, I''ll bring you something to eat.

    thank you.

    a kind person

    I sat in the chair that Popina had recommended, and smashed the egg she had handed me to my forehead.

    - Crisp one.

    Why is it a raw egg, this?

    Feeling the stickiness of raw eggs flowing from her forehead, she looked at Popina with the eyes that she had been betrayed.

    Her pupils facing each other shook.

    You said you had a bruise on your cheek. I told you to rub it there, but why...?

    Did you hit me too hard?

    When I said that I was looking at him sadly, I guess he thought that he couldn''t even eat because he was getting hit somewhere.

    I was about to wipe the eggs off my face and clothes with the wet cloth that Popina gave me, and she immediately brought me an apple pie.

    "Who did you hit?"

    No, I''m just... just trying to calm myself down?

    Popina still doesn''t believe me when I say, ''Okay, if it''s hard to say, I won''t ask you right away.'' and look at me with pitying eyes

    it was

    Serpense as well as Popina. Why doesn''t everyone believe me?

    Does what I''m saying sound so unreliable?

    "But, do you think your aide likes this?"

    "Apple pie?"

    Popina shook her head at my question and said, ''Just sweets or desserts?''

    It''s like that. It''s also very tasty.

    For a meal, the light side of the bread went better and did not bite.

    However, as I continued to eat only those kinds of bread, I thought of the breads I enjoyed eating in the world.

    He pretends to be from Paris, but in fact, even if he enters a franchise bakery that is produced in Korea, it is sweet and salty. It is one color of stimulating bread/confectionery.

    After all, if you are Korean, map, sweet, salty. You have to be able to enjoy all these stimulating flavors.

    That''s great! I''ll serve you some cookies or pies when you leave the car.

    would you? Sometimes we bake for ourselves to eat, but since there isn''t much to make, I think my skills are going to die.

    Yes?

    was that okay?

    Serpense only drinks tea, but the aide asked if it would be okay.

    Actually, the duke doesn''t eat snacks at all. Even the meals he eats are hardly seasoned... From a cook''s point of view, doesn''t it taste good?

    she replied.

    But I heard that there is no such thing as food you don''t like.

    Then I guess you don''t like spicy food!

    Having learned something new, Popina clapped her hands and liked it.

    ''No, what the hell... . Serpence This guy doesn''t have any hobbies, doesn''t he like anything? Besides, I sleep less and I''m bored with the food I eat. What kind of taste do you live your life with?''

    Maybe the fun of living life itself. Could it be that he had never felt it before?

    The thought of ''Ah, no way.'' crossed my mind.

    ''Yeah, that''s quite possible.''

    He was raised by parents who tortured him for developing patience.

    Such as to cultivate self-control and self-control, or not to indulge in stimuli.

    I thought I might have driven Serpens by talking like that.

    ''But that doesn''t mean they''re dead and I''m still protecting them... .''

    If that''s the case, Serpens. You are a boring bastard like no other in the world!

    By the way, who prepares the Duke''s diet?

    It''s not really who decides the menu. Previously, the Duchess was the Bachelor, the former Duchess and the current Duchess. Anyway, I was told that his meals should always be prepared that way.

    There was nothing more to hear.

    If you feed them moderately while adjusting the concentration of the three, spicy, sweet, and salty, something will catch on you.

    ''In the first place, humans live to eat, don''t they?''

 CH 10

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 10

    3. Train travel with the Duke (2)

    After lunch, as I was organizing my paperwork, I heard a knock.

    ''It''s 3 pm right now. This is the most appropriate time for a human to eat a snack.''

    It''s not just about talking.

    Really the best mode of snacking

    I remember seeing an expert opinion on TV that an hour is 3 pm.

    I looked at the plate the maid had left on my desk and found two types of cookies: sweet chocolate cookies and salty salt cookies.

    Just as I asked Popina yesterday.

    ''How am I supposed to deliver this to Serpens?

    As I think about it, a sense of uneasiness comes to me. Why am I a big boy

    Should I bring snacks?

    into,

    ''Serpens is a poor child neglected by his parents, a wounded stray sheep. I am his grandparents and my cat mom

    '' he repeated as if brainwashing himself.

    Yes, original human or normal animal. There is nothing like eating to tame.

    Wow, this is really delicious! Would you like to try one too, Duke?

    No, that''s fine. I''m full when I see Lord Ribel Ron eating.

    Serpens replied with a smile.

    Why do you sound like a mother? My immersion was broken because of you, so take responsibility!

    ah, though. Oh! I''ll bring it!

    " ", he stood up and deliberately dropped the pen on the floor.

    And slowly bend over with the pen

    Pick it up again, stand up, and place it on the desk.

    ''Isn''t this enough time for Serpens to hide the documents that he shouldn''t have seen from me?''

    Of course, there''s a good chance I''ll take care of it after I get home from work, but you never know, right? it''s nonsensical

    He took a plate of cookies and approached Serpens.

    Come on, come on-! Come on and try it.

    It''s really fine...

    "I brought it myself like this, can''t it be just because of your sincerity?"

    He said, deliberately pouring out a sad tea.

    If it''s a serpent I''ve been watching over the past week, I''d accept this.

    ''Look, I was a little worried, but in the end, I picked up a cookie!''

    What he picked up was a salt cookie. Do you like salty things?

    How is it? Is it delicious?

    Yes, it''s delicious.

    Serpens smiled a little different than usual. Something is very different from what I expected.

    I didn''t even expect to shed tears or dance like in a cooking cartoon.

    But I''m surprised, my eyes widen a little, or something like that, right?

    There are two kinds of cookies, but if you eat only one, chocolate cookies are disappointing!

    Saying that, I stared at him with an expression that I would never back down.

    Raboni, Serpence picked up another cookie with a troubled expression.

    Right, right! Our baby is eating well!

    Last one!

    As if Serpens had given up, he sighed with a slight smile. He gently stretched out his hand toward the bowl.

    His hand, which seemed to wander a bit on the plate, picked up the chocolate chip cookie.

    ''Is it sweet?''

    His expression is still the same as usual.

    yes, I admit I found a loophole in this operation.

    My kid is always acting, so I can''t tell if it''s good or bad!''

    Erra, life is a one-way street. Let''s move on to something sweet. It was delicious, so I ate two, right?

    And let''s go out on the weekend and buy something spicy and feed it!

    So in less than 2 weeks

    Over the period, Serpens was constantly fed snacks.

    The first week showed signs of discomfort.

    From the 2nd week onwards, Serpense came out first. I''ve never done that before, but there was a first-of-a-kind form sandwiched between the documents.

    When I asked how to do it, he came to my seat and explained it kindly, so I suggested another one just in case.

    Serpence made a troubled expression

    While building it, I eventually grabbed another one and went back to my seat.

    Since then, unknown technical terms appeared, or documents from other departments were misplaced.

    Even cleverly placed in a position to be found around 3:30... .

    ''Have you already finished figuring out how fast my business is going?''

    Each time, Serpens picks up a piece of various cookies or brownies.

    oh gone

    By the way, on weekends, I bought yakitori that wasn''t too spicy and brought it to me, but there was Banung at this time.

    ''The image of him holding a piece in his mouth, opening his eyes wide in surprise, and hastily covering his mouth with his hand... !''

    The reaction I was expecting wasn''t like this.

    Serpense''s expression, looking at the yakitori with tears in his eyes, resembled the eyes of a monk who was prepared for asceticism.

    You bastard can''t eat spicy food!''

    I was really pissed off about tearing it apart.

    Come to think of it, spicy food must have been too stimulating for him, who had only eaten boring food every day for 24 years.

    After giving up quickly on the spicy road, I walked a single life on the sweet road.

    I increased the sugar content slowly, but this time I increased the sweetness and boldly challenged the chocolate macaron.

    ''The results were very successful.''

    Usually, the first time I brought it, and the one time Serpence came in for playing with papers.

    But today, aren''t you pretending to be looking for something and wandering around the bookshelf behind my seat?

    fed one more.

    It is so smooth that it has been tamed to the point that it is unsettling.

    Oh, Sir Rivelon. Have you packed your things?.

    Serpens called me as I was about to leave work happily.

    Yes?! I, I, I get fired... are you?

    Why! Why did you eat macaroons well until a while ago?

    Looking at Serpens with distraught eyes, he laughed, saying, ''Put-up-''.

    He explained that he would descend to the Duchy of Prasidus, as there was no meeting schedule for the last week of each month.

    After listening to it, I think I heard that from Hans on the first day.

    I should have brought the notebook that day!!''

    Most of the documents are delivered to the capital for work, but there are documents that cannot be taken out of the territory, so it seems that they have to go down every month.

    There are other places that you must visit in person, and there are many things to do, such as auditing to find out possible corruption by comparing copies of documents delivered as documents with the original!

    "When are you leaving?"

    After Friday''s advisory meeting, after lunch, we will leave immediately.

    Note that this is Thursday evening.

    I''m going to wear my Friday clothes, so can I just pack three or four pieces and leave it there for laundry?

    ''Wait, what about snacks for serpents?''

    * * *

    After a quick lunch, I hurriedly went up to my room, packed my belongings, and left.

    Fortunately, Serpens seemed to be still there.

    ''Hey, I guess I''m not late.''

    When I looked inside the carriage, there was already a large briefcase and a small suitcase lying there. It seemed that the servants put it first.

    Is it because Serpence has all the necessary things out there anyway? The luggage itself was simpler than expected.

    I think the briefcase is too big for that. I hope you don''t have to work on the way... ?''

    Load the wagon and wait inside

    As soon as I stood there, Serpens, dressed in a lighter outfit than usual, got on board.

    He used to wear brightly colored clothes in the form of colorful uniforms that supported him, but today he is wearing a simple and brief suit.

    There was only one carriage, so are we the only two going?

    Serpens nodded to my question and answered yes.

    ''I''m a duke, but is it okay for an attendant to be so modest?''

    When you raise your feet on the way

    Bell It''s not necessary because Serpens, who is an adult on their own, will find it cumbersome.

    escort force... Silver has a stronger serpent, so it doesn''t matter any more.

    ''The escort is a bitch to a person who calmed the advisory council alone.''

    Come to think of it, about halfway through [Master of the Holy Sword], I remember what the author mentioned.

    Those who can face the devil face-to-face 1:1 with a human body are the Serpents and Humanu who was chosen by the Holy Sword.

    Was it only

    ''There was a limited condition of up to intermediate level, but where is that?''

    According to the words, the most practical liver at the moment is Serpens.

    Wouldn''t it be in the top 1% even if we included long-lived heterogeneous races?

    ''Isn''t this a completely unbalanced Munchkin?''

    It was mentioned in the middle of the novel to the last, and after that, Humanus grew up and killed even the higher level demons alone.

    appeared

    Still, great is great.

    If the Holy Sword chose Serpens. So, what if it was equipped with various equipment, including holy swords?

    ''Isn''t even the Demon Lord able to deal with it alone?''

    Since the Demon King took the continent and turned it in 10 seconds, he did not know the level, so it was not certain, but there was a possibility.

    Let''s stare blankly out the window, thinking about this and that, let''s get down for 3 hours

    The closed wagon stopped.

    Of course, we didn''t arrive in the Duchy, we had to change trains.

    ''I heard you use mana as fuel... .''

    It''s even rechargeable.

    Half of the mana required is absorbed by mana in the air, and half of the mana is charged by hiring wizards.

    It is said that in the old days, a magic gate that could teleport was used like a fantasy world.

    It wasn''t that the magic suddenly deteriorated and turned into a train.

    ''In which country, the capital gate was seized by traitors, and the enemy suddenly appeared in the capital and destroyed it without preparation?''

    It is said that the transfer gate disappeared after such an incident occurred.

    ''And if the flow of the original work is followed, will this train stop operating in the future?''

    Volta Mountains. using the divine barrier

    It is a place where demons are kept.

    After that, the sacred barrier there is broken and the demons are released, because they spread all over the continent, making it difficult to manage the operation of the railway.

    Come to think of it, I have to stop that barrier from breaking.''

    Lots of work to do. At least before the day of choice comes, what should I do with Serpence?

    uh huh.

    Without realizing it, I let out a big sigh

    Hey, as soon as I got on the train, Serpens who was opening my briefcase looked at me curiously.

    "Are you worried about anything?"

    It would be great if I could just answer, ''Yes, you are my biggest concern.''

    No, I''m already frustrated at the thought of having to live on the train for two days.

    "Still, isn''t this comfortable enough?"

    It''s definitely what he said.

    The other compartment in the back is just like a regular train, but the one we were in was composed of a single large room.

    Four single beds with partitions, a sofa and a table. Of course, there was even a shower room on one side for easy washing.

    Lord Rivelon seems to travel around the duke''s a lot after work, but staying in one place is the answer.

    You seem to have answered.

    I''m such an extrovert, haha.

    Actually, it has a purpose. I just laughed out loud.

    "More than that, the Duke is on a train trip, but are you already working?"

    If you ride every month, that romance disappears.

    Serpens said with a bitter smile.

    That''s acknowledged. and in the future I

    it will be like that

    "How about taking a little break because it''s been a long time coming?"

    It''s a fact I learned while living in the duke''s residence, but Serpens never rests.

    I heard that I woke up early in the morning and practiced swordsmanship alone in the gymnasium, and even took care of the rest of my work even after I got home from work or looked after the knights in swordsmanship.

    Then Sir Rivelon, can you help me?

    Serpens smiled playfully and waved the papers he was holding.

    No, that''s a bit .''

    is not it? should i help

    Somehow, it was the nuance of saying, ''I know for sure that you will refuse.''

    You], if I can help, I''ll help.

    " it was just a joke."

    He looked at me as if in surprise.

    As if analyzing me. I''ve definitely had this feeling before.

    "I thought that if it was Lord Rivelon, he would definitely refuse."

    Yeah? But I''m an assistant, and of course I''m helping the Duke''s business!

    But Lord Rivelon.

    Serpens looked at me with a piercing gaze, took a break and spoke again.

    What the hell are you trying to say

    Guernsey. It made me nervous too.

    You don''t like to work, do you?

    Yeah? Isn''t that like everyone?

    Suddenly, the steam leaked out. I thought he was saying something great again.

    But you''re always slowing down your work on purpose, aren''t you?

    Wow, that''s a great thing to say.

    I was discovered by my supervisor at the work place.

 CH 11

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 11

    3. Train travel with the Duke (3)

    Sin, I''m sorry.

    I also have my own excuses.

    Serpence is a person who can do his job well enough without an assistant. And considering the precedent of the former aide, I tend to not touch my work as much as possible .

    Yes, these are all just excuses.''

    If you''re in a position to work for money, don''t be like this.

    it''s gonna be

    It''s because you know that if you leave work after killing enough time, the Kaltoe Fairy will take care of it for you.

    It''s so comfortable and I''m used to it, so stop... .

    It''s fine, just be careful in the future.

    Serpens had a characteristic benevolent smile.

    Heck, I was really touched this time.

    "Gee, can I do it now?"

    It''s fine now.

    was immediately rejected. The sound of pens creaking and paper flipping echoed through the room.

    I''ve just been pointed out as a joke.

    In this situation, my boss is working hard right in front of my eyes, but trying to stay still alone seems to be weighing down on me with a sense of guilt.

    As I was rummaging through my suitcase because I felt like I had to do something, I saw a paper envelope.

    Oops, cookies! I brought you some, would you like some?

    I asked Popina last night, and I got it from Mary at lunch today.

    I''ve been wondering about that too. Why do you keep trying to feed me something?

    Yeah? Oh, no. It''s just eating alone. Why?

    I''ve been wondering since a while ago, my dear, why are you setting the day like this?

    I''m really fine, so you can eat alone from now on.

    Why, why! Why? Maybe it''s because I''ve been so naughty?

    how hard i tried!

    Yesterday alone, you ate three macarons, huh? We had a good mood, right?

    ''I''ve prepared cookies, but why can''t I eat them!''

    Somehow I was lucky... . Somehow I thought it was too smooth... .

    I don''t understand why you''re angry.

    I''m not angry. It''s not .

    not?

    Oh, I got so excited. Let''s calm down and think. Now what?

    Even in the midst of thinking like this, Serpens is looking at me, fixing the spilled glasses.

    It''s just that, watching the duke, he doesn''t have any hobbies...

    Aren''t you?

    I''ve heard that you don''t have any interests...

    Come in?

    Do you know how to follow the ending?

    This means listening to the other person and

    To let you know that you are responding.

    And I''m happy to see you talking because you''re so cute and lovable~'' To give off a nuance like that, I repeat the last word of the other person''s words.

    ''It is also known as a technique to seduce the opposite sex, but... .''

    However, the biggest problem with this method of speaking is that if used incorrectly, the other person feels very pressured.

    Depending on the situation, it is also used for purposes such as sarcasm or ridicule.

    In fact, when I go to a pressure interview, I intentionally use this kind of speech.

    Duke?

    Yes, tell me.

    Serpence still had the usual gentle smile.

    Even on the first day of work, I was the one who was so wary and afraid].

    But is it because I''ve been seeing Serpence flurry lately for one more snack?

    Unknowingly, I was distracted. interest

    Chick was also a dark-hearted guy.

    '' Are you really scared today?''

    I was nervous, so my neck was burning tight.

    But in this situation, you can''t even call the staff and ask them to bring you water. I only swallowed dry saliva.

    It''s been a while since I''ve seen that expression. You looked at me like that on the first day you went to work...

    Well, that''s...

    Serpens leaned forward, put her elbows on the table and clasped her hands,

    He took a pose with his chin resting on it.

    Then he opens his mouth with a troubled expression.

    "Are you still afraid of me?"

    Yeah, it''s only natural that subordinates are afraid of their superiors... isn''t it normal?

    I forgot.

    Originally, the main specialty of Serpence was to dazzle the opponent with an angelic face, to distract them, and then to take advantage of the gap.

    The ''normal'' that Lord Rivelon is talking about doesn''t seem like it''s really normal.

    Yes?

    You didn''t tell me that before, Lord Ribelon.

    I . I don''t know what you''re talking about.

    What did I say to Serpens? It''s faint as if I remember it.

    It''s like it''s not normal for each other. Let''s talk comfortably now.

    reminded me

    On the second day at work, I said to Serpens, ''I usually don''t do this.''

    is a story of the kind.

    I misunderstood that Serpens had a strange taste for me... .

    ''Oh .''

    I just realized

    Serpense understood the point of my words then, but pretended to have misunderstood and passed the situation.

    I, it looks like you have a lot of paperwork to go through...

    "No, as Lord Ribelon said, shouldn''t I also have to rest sometimes?"

    Serpens smiled brightly.

    It''s a long-awaited train trip, so let''s have a relaxed conversation.

    I said two days, but to be exact, I had to spend 50 hours on this train.

    49 hours left.

    I know that Sir Rivellon asks about me. He seems to be very interested in me. That''s why, I''m also curious about Sir Rivellon.

    Oh, no! I''m not the Duke''s direct interest!

    Serpens let out a small laugh. He wiggled his eyelashes and smiled.

    No, Sir Ribelon. You are very interesting. So please don''t say such sad things.

    Crazy deja vu!!

    Why today? No, it''s not like I''m suddenly doing this today. Could it be that you were aiming for today from the beginning?

    "Aren''t you doing that today?'' Yes,

    I thought it was the right time to say, ''I''m an interesting person.''"

    Mom, I''m so scared. Please help me, the suspense is so scary!

    It was suspense when seen from a distance, but when viewed up close, it''s just a thriller!!

    What and how Sir Ribelon knows. What does he want to know from me? What does he want from me? Could you please let me know as well?

    That being said,

    ''All I know is your past and your future, all I want to know is

    God''s taste All I want from you is to repent and contribute to world peace!''

    , I can''t put it straight and I''m going crazy.

    "Oh, that''s Sa, can you help me?"

    Why would I kill my aide, I won''t.

    Serpence''s long, rich eyelashes slightly sink, casting a dark shadow around his eyes.

    Depending on the answer.

    I really thought I had done well.

    Serpence wasn''t as scary as I thought it would be, and he showed an absurd side.

    Because of that, I saw the possibility, and I looked at the possibility and got distracted.

    ''Without being completely unaware that it was his goal... .''

    Unlike Humanus, who knew nothing, I knew the past of Serpens. So I was proud that I could open his heart.

    But all the numbers I put in came back as self-accumulating numbers.

    I, maybe...

    Say it.

    Serpens with a relaxed expression waits patiently with a gentle smile. There''s plenty of time anyway... is this

    "If I said I couldn''t speak, what would you ?"

    Sir Rivelon, what do you think I will do?

    The contents of [Master of the Holy Sword] flashed through my mind. Mostly Serpens killing or torturing others.

    Serpens never killed them easily.

    more painfully. even more miserable. more brutally. To make them feel even more fearful.''

    The day of his choice had not yet come, but Serpens was already well aware of the methods.

    Because he had personally experienced it, you knew it all too well.

    Actually, I didn''t mean to push it this far.

    The green eyes behind the round spectacles looked sharply as if they knew my thoughts.

    Lord Ribelon continues to fear me.

    Sigism].

    At the time, it was believed that the present Serpens had not yet fully fallen.

    But where is the guarantee that it will?

    Knowing the circumstances in which Serpens grew up and the pain he suffered. knowing that he was acting.

    I thought I was looking beyond what others could not see.

    You seem to be having some pretty fun ideas.

    Seeing me getting tired of white, Serpens smiled brightly.

    It is still bright outside the window. The warm sunlight came out and embraced Serpence.

    But I felt the coolness of a snake crawling on my back, and I couldn''t cringe.

    "So much so that I wonder what kind of imaginations you had."

    it was on purpose

    He was holding his breath slowly, deliberately trying to impress fear.

    Oh, come to think of it, earlier. You said that you have no interest in me.

    Somehow, I seem to know the next line.

    It looks like it will happen now. No, it''s already there.

    After saying those words, Serpens looked at my face without saying a word.

    It''s like saying ''that''s you''.

    It felt as if a snake had wrapped around her body, a chill and a chill.

    "The future looks like it will be fun, isn''t it?"

    "Why no answer?"

    I''m going to be a little sad.

    "Answer, won''t you?"

    Answer. You''d better do it...

    If I lose interest, I don''t know how I''m going to act.

    Serpence slowly, one sentence, one sentence. Give it time and gradually press down.

    The moment you get caught up in it, it''s over.

    tell me what you know? Tell me, would you believe it?

    ''Actually, this is fiction. The holy sword will belong to someone else, you will eventually fall and become the final boss

    all. And in the end, he will be killed by Prince Hwang, the master of the holy sword.''

    That sounds very believable.

    If you tell the truth anyway, you will die, so you have no choice but to make up yourselves.

    ''Let''s calm down, let''s calm down. You can''t get involved like this.''

    Talking about the coming future is not helpful in the present situation.

    The fact that the Holy Sword will choose Humanus is a story too far in the future.

    All I know of what happened before the day of choice came, was that Shion was hit by a wagon and died.

    This is of course dismissed.''

    As I recall, nothing was of any use right now.

    So what happened in the past. Let''s talk about it based on the last recollection he had as he died.

    ''Even if he has no good reason to understand''.''

    If only I could corrode his thoughts little by little and paralyze them.

    So we just have to make it so that he doesn''t even have the time to dig into the loopholes in his logic.

    ''Serpence is not afraid of being wounded a lot as a child. He hasn''t fallen yet. it''s ok i can

    I thought to myself as if brainwashing myself. The fear seems to be fading little by little.

 CH 12

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 12

    3. Train travel with the Duke (4)

    It''s because I''m usually good at seeing people...

    This is a lie.

    It''s rarer that first impressions match real personality.

    The moment I met the Duke for the first time. I don''t know why, but the first thought that struck me was that it was different from the rumors that were being heard.

    " it sounds like an excuse, but I''ll listen.

    Please continue.

    Serpens said leisurely with a look like, ''If you''re going to try it, try it.''

    At first, I didn''t know what it was. It''s true that I was terrified because of that unknown distance.

    It still looks the same today.

    As he said. I tried to calm myself down as much as I could, but my pounding heart wouldn''t stop.

    I''ve been living my life as a lie

    Unlike Serpens, his acting skills are also poor.

    "Isn''t everyone like that when you encounter wild animals that are originally wounded and set up thorns around them?"

    So, the lack of acting skills has no choice but to cry.

    What if you can''t hide your feelings? If you add another meaning to that feeling, that''s enough.

    " A wound? Is that what you need now?"

    With an expression of not knowing what Serpence is talking about at my words,

    answer

    Are you pretending you don''t know, or is it that you don''t even know that you''ve been hurt?

    ''Does it matter either way?''

    Either way, he deserves sympathy.

    I sympathize with him, and I want to help him somehow because I feel sorry for him.

    Let''s think so.

    It''s natural to be threatening and frightening to be vigilant with a sharp edge. But at the same time, it''s sad and sad.

    It''s natural to hear a sound, isn''t it?

    What does that have to do with the current situation... Don''t obfuscate the point with useless talk.

    Serpens looks at me with a flawless smile.

    It''s like he''s never been hurt by anyone. It seems that he grew up entirely in love.

    Even in this situation right now, he makes up an innocent expression.

    Don''t turn away. If you let it go, it will rot someday. You didn''t notice it at first, but now you know.

    The dry voice trembled and cracked again.

    If there is only weakness in a perfect serpent, it must be ''feeling towards himself''.

    You just couldn''t feel it yourself. The duke''s attitude and eyes are telling. The fact that you were hurt. No matter how much you try to hide it and decorate it with lies, the pain you can''t hide.

    I don''t have any of that.

    Serpence answered firmly, as if there was nothing more to hear.

    Duke, what the hell happened to you?

    was there? Why are you killing yourself and suppressing yourself?"

    Sir Rivelon.

    Serpence, who was leaning against the table, stood up and straightened his posture.

    The corners of his lips, which had risen in a gentle curve, drooped down, and his relaxed eyes sank heavily.

    His expression hardens.

    Let''s stop talking nonsense.

    No, I''m not bullshit and I''m going to keep talking.

    Serpense''s face couldn''t harden, and the expression slowly disappeared.

    Even the word expressionless was not enough to express it. No emotion remained.

    Because it was too beautiful, it even felt artificial. I don''t feel like a living person.

    Like a well-carved statue, I couldn''t feel even a hint of warmth.

    What is driving the Duke like that? Why are you making such sacrifices? Why are you covering yourself up without crying while in pain?

    peel?

    One by one, he poured out the questions he had built up over and over again.

    As I was talking, I felt really sorry for him and so pitiful. Without realizing it, my emotions intensify, and tears flow.

    I have a vague idea of what you''ve been through. From a very young age that I can''t remember, you''ve been weighed down with responsibilities, you''ve been forced to restrain yourself. You''ve been limited by all your desires, haven''t you?

    Look straight into the eyes of Serpens, who is making a numb expression like a doll.

    Shit.

    If not. If my guess is wrong, tell me where I''m wrong.

    No matter how good your eyes are, you can''t tell.

    Especially if the other person is used to hiding my thoughts and feelings like Serpense.

    It was even very specific and accurate.

    With a little thought, you will realize that it is not something that can be determined by simple guesswork.

    '' But Serpens pointed out that

    I can''t.''

    The moment I pointed it out, it would be like admitting everything I said.

    Even if you think about it yourself, it''s cowardly.

    Why don''t you tell me you''re sick?

    "What is so scary?"

    Why didn''t you ask for help? No, no. That''s right. Did he even ignore him?

    Serpense''s expression was still calm.

    Is it that he doesn''t even have the time to make up his face, or that it''s not even worth it?

    ''Did you not feel anything about my words? Then why is he neither in denial nor in anger?''

    \With a dry face that doesn''t seem to have any emotions. With a terrifyingly expressionless face. No answer. I just watch it silently. just waiting quietly J

    There was no expression or word. I just remembered the description I had read in a book when I saw him sitting quietly.

    He seemed to understand the meaning now.

    ''Maybe Serpens wanted to be angry back then... .''

    Unlike Humanus, who always smiled sincerely and could do whatever he wanted.

    It must have been unbearable compared to the situation where he had to laugh with a pretense and ignore everything he wanted.

    ''You must have looked so miserable yourself.''

    Humanus was putting me on the subject of self-proclaiming his friend and his own standards.

    arbitrarily talking about yourself

    He wouldn''t like to see him.

    But still, I don''t know how to express my feelings.

    at last. Humanus had given up on understanding him, and Serpens had given up on understanding him.

    "Ha , the Duke doesn''t even know how to get angry now."

    It''s so absurd, all the laughs come out.

    Sir Rivelon.

    After a long silence, Serpens finally spoke. His voice, which had subsided lower than usual, cried in the room.

    it went

    You understand me now. Are you saying that?

    No, I''m just saying I want to understand.

    "What do you know about me?"

    I don''t know. So I want to know.

    What the hell do you want from me?

    "I just I want to help you."

    In the still air], the questions and answers between him and I continue to pile up.

    "You want to help, from your shoulder ?"

    He still seemed to doubt my heart, but at the same time, he looked confused.

    A small expression appeared on his face.

    "There is a wounded child in front of you, so it''s only natural to rescue him."

    * *

    As a result, Serpens fled.

    From my point of view, it was a secret room from which I could not escape, but not by his standards.

    Even a rat bites a cat and runs away when it''s cornered.

    I was surprised to learn that you were jumping.

    Serpens abruptly got up and leaned out the window.

    Then, at a speed I couldn''t even react, I stepped on the window sill and leapt onto the roof of the train.

    I once compared him to a stray cat. Judging from the previous action, it seems that it was very appropriate.

    Its appearance is close to that of a dog family, but if you look at its behavior, it is clear that it is a cat family.

    What are you doing... ?''

    I don''t think I''ll ever be able to say that I know about him again.

    The expression he showed before he ran away was as if being chased by something, his usual calmness.

    Couldn''t find any at all.

    It seemed that he was somehow perplexed, and at the same time, he seemed to be frightened.

    ''I feel guilty for nothing... .''

    He took a deep breath and shook his head.

    Maybe he''s still on the ceiling, or maybe he''s moved to another room.

    It was evening time, and I opened the window and called for him to the ceiling, but there was no response.

    ''Still, come down when it''s time to eat.

    Would it not be?''

    I thought it was , so I ordered 2 servings. I am not a Serpence, and there was no way I could come back for just that reason.

    In the end, half of the meal was left chilled.

    I asked him to remove all the empty dishes except for the meal that was his share, and put the rest on the table.

    I also put a paper bag with cookies next to it just in case.

    ''I was too hasty.''

    I don''t know when and for what reason Zion will die.

    So, somehow, I quickly got to know him, and he may have wanted to ensure my safety.

    ''That, rather than earning his trust, bought him suspicion .''

    It was only then that, because of my clumsiness, I was able to drive him away.

    It was a problem I had to run into someday, but it was too fast. I should have gone a little slower.

    But I had no other choice.

    There may have been a better way, but I didn''t have the talent to come up with such a thing.

    Anyway, the dice were thrown. Now we just have to wait for the results.

    I just hope that Serpense doesn''t make any more sudden moves.

    ''Even if you''ve done this, in the end, it''s just a temporary expedient.''

    He will still doubt me. Today, it is nothing more than to postpone the situation by poking a loophole.

    ''It would be better if at least I didn''t push it away... .''

    As No Ruth couldn''t sit idle and wait, she pulled out a book from the bookshelf in the room.

    I sat on the sofa and read a book, waiting for him to return.

    At first, I was worried about the top of the ceiling, so the books I couldn''t concentrate on went over one by one as time passed. slowly getting bored

    At some point, he fell asleep.

    When I opened my eyes again, the sky beyond the window was dyed with a deep lavender color.

    Is it still morning... ?''

    No matter how convenient a place is, the characteristic vibration of the train is unavoidable.

    Still, I like the bed. There didn''t seem to be any exhaust or anything.

    Booth got up and checked all the beds over the partition, but Serpens didn''t seem to return.

    Looking at the sofa with the table, the bowl with food on the table and the bag containing the cookies are the same.

    The papers Serpens took out yesterday were still there.

    The book that fell on the leg of the sofa was probably the one I dropped while reading it.

    " Why am I sleeping in bed?"

    My mind is still dreaming.

    When he came back, I tried to open the shower room thinking that maybe I didn''t see him.

    I know this isn''t really the case, but just in case I was wondering, I crawled on the floor and looked under the bed.

    Serpens were nowhere to be found.

    "What the hell is this going to do?"

    No wonder

    But once you see me transferred to bed, they don''t hostile me... Is it safe to look at it?

    If I''m going to come and go, I''ll take some cookies with me. It''s ok more salty

    - Druck.

    I wanted to be a Serpent at the sound of the window opening, so I turned my head in the direction of the sound.

    Someone who is all black is seen flying into the room with agile movements.

    ''intruder? assassin? If it were an assassin, I wouldn''t be the target, is the target Serpence? But he''s not here.''

    Should I hide? Or run to another square?

    He hesitated to himself like that, but he made no threat.

    He removed the black hood he was wearing.

    He took off the mask he wore inside, which barely pierced his eyes.

    At the same time, the bluish-silver hair that was hidden inside the black mask flowed down, revealing the white face of Serpens.

    ''What is this situation?''

    How the hell am I supposed to react?

 CH 13

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 13

    3. Train travel with the Duke (5)

    Serpens put his finger through the hair that was pressed under his mask and brushed it off.

    "Where have you been?"

    Instead of answering, I see him striding.

    Serpens, who had narrowed the distance to only three or four steps, came out and made eye contact.

    We will look forward to it.

    "Yes? What do you mean ?"

    What are you going to watch? Are you saying I''ll see how well I help myself1?

    No, wait a minute. What the hell is that outfit again...

    If you want to know, watch yourself.

    Serpence just said those words and didn''t open her mouth any more.

    He chewed on all my questions that followed, and put it in his luggage.

    She took out a few clothes and slipped into the shower room.

    "What are you going to do with this?"

    There was no one to answer my questions, left alone in the room.

    As I looked around, I saw food that looked too cold to eat and was difficult to eat.

    "Do you want to eat rice first?"

    Serpence pondered for a while whether food or sleep should come first, but decided to make a new meal.

    It''s early in the morning, so it''s a little bit for the staff

    I felt sorry. But they must have ate well and slept well.

    I''m more worried about people who are starving outside in the cold wind.

    ''Yes, even if you sleep, you should eat and sleep! You can''t even sleep well when you''re hungry, right?''

    Such thoughts were disregarded1, and Serpens, who had washed up, headed to the sofa instead of the bed.

    I saw him squeezing his wet hair roughly wrapped in a towel, as if it were some kind of mop.

    Then he laid it loosely over one shoulder and picked up the papers on the table.

    "Aren''t you sleeping?"

    You have to do as much as you didn''t do yesterday, don''t you?

    He doesn''t look tired at all, but isn''t it too much?

    No matter how energetic the body is by virtue of divine power, the mind will be weary.

    On the first day of work, I know because I once received Serpence''s divine power restored. for a moment

    Although it has a mental stabilizing effect, it did not wash away even mental fatigue.

    "Did you say you were going to rest yesterday?"

    "I just did it."

    It really leaves people speechless.

    I let Serpens listen on purpose, and let out a big sigh.

    ''Is this what it comes out like?''

    If you are not going to take care of yourself, you have no choice but to take care of yourself.

    go behind him and become one with the towel

    As I ripped the bebe''s kinky hair, he tilts his head back and looks up at me.

    "What are you doing now?"

    "Take care of children?"

    Serpense frowned as if it was ridiculous. It''s a look I''ve never seen before. fresh?

    Oh, did you know how to write impressions? I didn''t know this shit.

    Stop it.

    Like a serpent expelling a fly, he waved his hand and pushed me away.

    Your boss is working, but his subordinates can''t be idle. But you''re saying there''s nothing to help with paperwork. You have to do something like this, isn''t it?

    Just go and rest.

    I also ordered a new meal, so eat it when you come, right?

    The wrinkles engraved on his forehead got deeper, but compared to the expressionless face he saw yesterday, it''s not scary at all.

    Rather, it is a gentle impression with the corners of the eyes drooping, so it looks like nothing but a shriveled look.

    Somehow, I have to say that my tone is light.

    I feel very disrespectful.

    "You think that if I speak comfortably, the Duke will be able to speak comfortably, too? Since all of our natures have been found out anyway, let''s go comfortably without blood and smoke."

    ...Ummm...

    And where is the person who uses the highest honorific title for his or her aide? It''s not like that. The Duke is probably the only one who uses the most honorable title for everyone in the world. "

    That''s how we know each other or not. If each of us is busy building walls and hiding ourselves, what''s the use of watching?

    Serpens closed his mouth, lowered his head, and shifted his gaze to the papers.

    I mean watch. If you look at you and need help, it sounds like it''s okay to judge yourself and help you. Is that right?

    He didn''t answer anything.

    It may be an enlarged interpretation, but somehow his silence sounded positive.

    Because I''ve had so many rejections, I''m afraid to even ask for help. Couldn''t he have told me to watch over him instead?

    The Duke is neither a good person nor a bad person. He is just an ordinary person. It''s okay to express your thoughts and feelings honestly.

    He placed a towel on Serpens''s head and gently wiped the water off with his fingers to avoid splashing.

    "I said I have eyes for people.

    right? Trust me once.

    . As an ordinary person.

    He waited for the next words to come out of his voice, but he kept his mouth shut.

    Do you want to understand that ''an ordinary person is not enough''.

    That''s enough.

    Humanus, too, was not a perfect human being without flaws.

    Sometimes we make mistakes, regret, and leave regrets. In any case, did you not overcome all the trials of God and move forward one step at a time?

    One perfect superman doesn''t have to sacrifice everything. We all have to work together. It''s the world they live in, and they leave everything to one person. Isn''t that too irresponsible?

    All I can see is the back of his head, so I don''t know what kind of expression he is making.

    So you don''t have to be perfect. No one in this world can be perfect, and you don''t have to be perfect. The only thing you need is to help each other. There will be people who turn away from time to time, but there will be many who want to help. Now Even from now on, I will help the Duke...

    "Stop it''s over."

    He quietly laid down his head and listened, spoke in a crawling voice, and pushed my hand away.

    It''s not because I don''t want to hear it, I guess it''s because of the confusion that comes from the unfamiliar.

    ''I grew up in such an environment, who would pat him on the head and tell him it was okay?''

    It is understandable that he is embarrassed.

    As I was about to stand haphazardly with a damp towel, the meal I ordered earlier

    have just arrived

    It is still early in the morning, so it must have taken time to prepare.

    Thanks to the meal that arrived at an amazing time, we shook off the awkwardness and focused on the food as if nothing had happened.

    Also, rice is the best when you eat standing up. Bob is always right!

    ...why did the tomato risotto come out?

    He was silent as he ate so quietly that he wouldn''t realize he was eating something if he hadn''t been looking at him.

    broke it and said

    To be precise, it''s ''Meatball'' Tomato Risotto. I ate it yesterday and it was delicious. It''s my recommendation!

    I deliberately replied cheerfully, and Serpens looked at me with a ''what the hell is this bastard?'' expression.

    I''ve heard everything. Bread and soup and some seasonal fruits. It''s not like you''re living in a monastery, isn''t it too much?

    While ordering dinner yesterday, I was thinking, ''What should I feed Serppens to get a good reputation?''

    It was.

    The staff said that the Duke always had a menu, so he nodded his head without thinking much. what is this

    That''s how I came up with the menu I just talked about.

    ''Which nobleman in the world lives like this?''

    For some reason, whenever I go up to the office after lunch, he always comes first, so I wonder if he usually eats like that.

    I wanted to order it as a course meal, but I couldn''t prepare the ingredients because the menu I usually ordered was so-so.

    It''s impossible.

    In fact, the meatball tomato risotto I made this time was also prepared for the general audience.

    Food is probably good.

    Serpens took a spoon, scooped out a sip of risotto, and put it in his mouth. Not only in words, but in facial expressions, there is no emotion.

    ''No, is this delicious? Did you hear meat?''

    Mixed with the sour sauce, the grains of rice that melt in your mouth are impressive.

    Memories of mixing rice with ketchup come to mind. If you take a big bite of meatballs as a side dish, this is paradise on earth.

    After all, people must eat rice and meat together to live.

    "Is there really no food you like?"

    "Do you need something like that?"

    Of course! The Duke needs to know his needs now and understand them.

    What I found out yesterday was that he was a block of defense mechanisms.

    Forced by my parents as a child. He attributed his inability to understand the crooked moral conception tailored to their taste as a violation of his own nature.

    While acting as an adult gentleman, I had to suppress my personal desires and emotions.

    I had to consciously create false feelings.

    ''That''s why I face my true feelings. Also, I must have lost the way to express myself.''

    Now, I have been slowly starting to get a sense of the human being called Serpens.

    Once upon a time, Lord Rivelon''s greatest desire

    All I know is that there is an appetite.

    "Why are you analyzing me ?"

    You said you''d watch it, didn''t you?

    There is a long way to go. far too far away

    Listen now, Duke. Showing desire is never a bad thing. It is proof that you are alive. If you keep suppressing it, you never know when or how it will explode.

    it actually exploded also very angry

    It was said that it burst tightly and ate the continent.

    So, let''s start with the very small things. It is one of the three human needs, and it is common to the three basic elements of human life. That is, food!

    " small or large, just do one thing."

    I muttered as much as I could, and the words didn''t seem like words.

    Serpens looked at me with eyes that said I wasn''t the same.

    Anyway, I ask for your cooperation.

    Then I''ll make this tomato... ''Meatball'' tomato risotto.

    What? Your favorite foods?

    Did he really like it after eating it, or was he just talking about what he could see?

    I''ve been thinking about it for a while, but no matter how much I think about it, this is just the latter. In the meantime, what should I emphasize on those meatballs? Are you sarcastic?

    At least sincerity/

    Lord Rivelon.

    Serpens cut my horse''s waist

    He called out to me in a more resolute voice than ever before.

    I certainly gave you permission to watch me, but that doesn''t mean I gave you control over my actions.

    I was trying to control the Duke..., no. I''m sorry.

    He must have been too proud that he showed a little bit of himself.

    Anyway, if he felt that way, it was my fault.

    '' Rather, he recalled the past

    If... .''

    It was a great concession just to have passed this far.

 CH 14

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 14

    4. In the Duke''s estate (1)

    I will be careful in the future. This is clearly my mistake.

    He didn''t answer.

    Before I knew it, I pushed the empty tableware to one side and picked up the documents again.

    ''Still, I emptied everything clean.''

    got a little happy

    I hope the Duke is happy in this world

    I want you to know that there is a lot of luck. So I would like to recommend many things to you in the future.

    If you don''t like it, you don''t have to force it. However, can you give me some recommendations?

    A long silence passed.

    When the thought of ''Are you worrying?'' changed to ''Are you ignoring?'', I finally got an answer from him.

    " Meatball Tomato Risotto Not Bad

    I don''t think it was.

    What the hell is this?

    As the saying goes, hate sin but don''t hate people, you were bad, but the meatball tomato risotto wasn''t bad.

    What are you talking about?

    I rolled my eyes and tilted my head in response to the sudden classmate answer.

    With an expression that he saw something that Serpens couldn''t see, he took up the paperwork and obscured his view.

    I''m talking about permission.

    How the hell do you say that

    Can it be expressed in this way? Where would it go if I just said it in an easy-to-understand way?

    I don''t know why he''s twisting and twisting his words so it''s hard to understand.

    Then I''ll prepare tea, so would you like some cookies you brought?

    Serpens lowered the papers he had lifted so that he could only see a little bit, and met my eyes.

    In that state, his eyelashes slowly descend and then rise again. Then he quickly lifts the papers back up and covers my face.

    " can I say something in words? Or would you nod your head?

    He didn''t say anything, and I interpreted it to mean do whatever I want.

    I rang the bell, cleared the empty plate and asked him to prepare tea.

    Half of the cookies brought went into Serpens'' mouth.

    *

    Even though I was torn apart, Serpence stayed up all night until the second night. The work was finished a little after lunchtime.

    The past meals were randomly chosen by me, but this time, I recommended Serpens to try them out.

    He glanced at the menu indifferently and chose the meatball spaghetti.

    ''Up until this point, he looked just fine as usual.''

    Looking at each other while eating and observing quietly, different things stand out one by one.

    It''s like she keeps changing her glasses, or frowns slightly. It must have been sharper than usual.

    Still, admiring the appearance of maintaining perfection without making a single sound of tableware comes out of nowhere.

    If it were me, I would have fallen off the hook as soon as I finished my work. He said it was time to get off soon, and he washed up again and went out.

    ''If that''s the case, don''t run away on the first day... . Or maybe come back soon.''

    It seemed like it was because of me.

    He came out of the shower to dry his hair out of an upset heart, and grumbled for a while against the top of his head.

    Was it something you didn''t want to hear? Serpens voluntarily promised that he would sleep peacefully in the carriage going to the lord''s castle.

    The train stopped at the platform.

    Before I got off, I asked the staff to match the assortment to a certain extent, since it is not necessary to have a course meal next time.

    ''You shouldn''t pay a high ticket price and eat it raw every now and then. cancer!''

    When I got off the train, it was already six in the evening.

    Considering that it takes about 4 hours to reach Yeongju Castle from here, it would be best to have dinner nearby.

    He''s in bad shape... .''

    He tried not to express himself, but the focus of his eyes through the spectacles was blurred.

    To the extent that I wondered if he had been up all night before getting on the train."

    ''It''s all because of me?!''

    In the future, I will do my best to work as much as I can during my working hours. I sincerely repent.

    What Serpens needed now was sleep rather than food.

    I gave up my meal and got on the duke''s wagon, which was waiting in advance.

    ''Isn''t it because it''s spring when the season turns into summer?''

    The sun was still in the sky. Even if you lock the windows, a little light leaks in.

    Even the inside of the carriage was turned off, so it was a good environment to sleep.

    The sound of squeaking horses'' hoofs and the noise of people talking on the street.

    Using them as white noise, the sleeping Serpense''s bare face was revealed through the faint rays of light.

    The glasses are stored in the glasses shop, and while they are being held, they place both hands slightly on their knees.

    ''You''re so holy even when you''re sleeping.''

    It''s so sublime that people who don''t know see it and think it''s even praying.

    see.

    Even now as an adult, what was it like when you were a child?

    ''It must have been a cute and lovable figure, like a baby angel ?''

    He abused such a child emotionally and physically tortured him.

    I can''t believe it at all. Where would that be in human clothing?

    As I watched Serpens sleeping in the dark, I continued to think. So, I guess I fell asleep without realizing it.

    In a dream.

    Two demons appeared to torment the young Serpens. Adult Serpens defeated them.

    He sprinkled a splendid brilliance in silver, and swung his holy sword to slay demons.

    Wings sprouted from the young Serpens'' back, and they flew freely high into the sky, leaving a thank-you note.

    Serpens, who remained on the ground and looked up at him, shed tears and smiled sadly as if he was about to break.

    Sir Rivelon. Rise up,

    As I was getting closer to my destination, Serpens who got up first woke me up by turning on the interior light.

    He must have been sitting down and sleeping. When I came to my senses, the luggage I had placed next to me was lying on the bed.

    I even drooled, so it was a little damp.

    Uh-huh--Have you already arrived?

    When I got up from my seat and stretched out loudly, I heard a crackling sound from my lower back, probably because I slept in an uncomfortable position.

    Pay attention to the Serpens on the other side

    Man, you looked so unbelievably clean that you just woke up.

    How can there be no frills of hair?

    In comparison, I... .''

    It was obvious that I didn''t look in the mirror.

    He wiped the saliva around his mouth with his sleeve and combed his hair roughly with his hands.

    After all, it''s not going to be visible because of Serpence''s beauty anyway, so what do you do with care?

    I just had to take the human form.

    Because my body is a little chubby,

    De, could you please heal me?"

    With a look of skepticism about Serpens, he shook his head.

    The appearance of creating a sphere of divine power and flying it to me feels like saying, ''Eat this and run away.

    [According to the setting of the master of the holy sword, it was said that the most efficient way to recover is to directly contact the injured area and inject divine power.

    ''Nevertheless, the appearance of throwing roughly as if it were an enemy ship is so... .''

    If a devout believer saw it, it would be blasphemy, and they might faint and faint.

    ''is not it? Since it''s a serpent, do you want it to look divine?''

    As if he had completely arrived at Yeongju Castle, the carriage stopped. When I opened the door and got out of the carriage, the sky was already dark.

    When I arrived, I expected that all the castle personnel would come out and stand in the second row on the left and right to greet Serpens.

    Except for soldiers and knights standing on the guard

    In other words, there was only Dooet, the servant, and one man in a butler''s suit.

    I sneakily asked Serpence, did he tell him not to do it because it was late at night?

    I won''t give you the room the aide will use.

    One of the attendants took the suitcase I was carrying and said quietly.

    Then please.

    I followed the servant leading the way into the fortress.

    It was dark, so I could barely see the exterior, but the interior was lit all over the hallway.

    was faintly recognizable by the dim candlelight and the light of the lantern held by the attendant.

    ''It feels like a mansion in the capital.''

    Haha, since the owner is the same, there will be no difference.

    It was night, so the surroundings were quiet, and only the gentle cries and footsteps of nocturnal birds were heard from time to time.

    In the meantime, it is a little eerie to see the orange light flickering on the antique decorations and classically designed wallpaper.

    The servant''s steps stopped.

    At breakfast time tomorrow, he said that he would come and guide him to the restaurant.

    ''By the way, why did you lead me to a room in the castle?''

    I thought you would be guided to a place like an annex rather than the original castle like in a mansion.

    I was a little skeptical, but it wouldn''t be a big deal. With that in mind, he went into the room and flew himself onto the bed.

    Um һ. This unwavering comfort!

    Let''s put off washing until tomorrow. Once I surrendered my whole body to that comfort, I fell asleep again.

    the next morning.

    As predicted, the servant whom I saw yesterday came and knocked on the door.

    Somehow, I was able to go out right away because I had slept quite a bit in the wagon following Serpence, and got up earlier than usual to get ready.

    "Ah, I should have asked yesterday . Now that I think about it, what''s your name?"

    Unlike the servants of the capital mansion, who introduced himself first, this man had to ask questions directly because he only talked about what was necessary.

    This is Norman Arcinus. Just call me Noman.

    This man, who looked to be in his 30s or 40s, spoke up and shut his mouth again.

    I thought it was just the night yesterday, but he seemed to be a calm person with few words.

    I see. My name is Zion Rivelon!

    Yes.

    " How are you?"

    I will leave it up to you.

    There was no further conversation going on. I struggled with awkwardness.

    Just like it was in the capital''s mansion. I tried my best to praise him, thinking that if I painted the serpent, I would be speechless.

    As a result,

    ''Is that so?'', ''Awesome.'', ''I understand.''

    etc. I would have received only a short answer

    Only, it didn''t work at all.

    I didn''t give up and added a few more words because I thought I might be hiding my face, but now they even look at me like a sasaeng fan of Serpens.

    ''I''m going crazy because it''s embarrassing and awkward!''

    The castle is wide, and Serpens is only a week out of the month. To be precise, is it 4 days excluding travel time?

    Is it because he seldom meets in person due to his short stay, or is it because there are rumors about the many good deeds that Serpens is doing in the capital?

    Was it something I couldn''t even reach?

    ''I don''t see the enthusiastic response I saw in the peacock.''

    I listened to the stories around me at the restaurant.

    They seemed to be talking about Serpence to some extent, and eventually they moved on to their small conversation.

    Of course, that doesn''t mean he''s indifferent to Serpens.

    There was respect, but... .

    ''Yeah, just plainly respected Young Lord. That''s it!''

    If the people in the capital mansion are close to fanatics who join fan cafes, post diligently, and stock up on goods.

    People here put new songs into their playlists every time they come out and listen intently, but they don''t seem to bother buying CDs. It just feels that way.

    ''After all, that mansion is strange... .''

    Since I''ve only seen it like that over and over, I thought everyone involved with the Pra Sidus family was like that.

    But come to think of it, if you stay in that mansion for a week, everyone will change like that.

    I wonder if

    ''Isn''t it true that virtue burns even more when we''re together?''

    Perhaps, if I hadn''t known about Serpence in advance, I might have been following the business with a placard.

    * O O life ''

    --, 1 ��

    Nevertheless, even though I had just arrived, I wanted to go back there quickly.

    It''s better to be noisy somehow, I just hate the awkward and gloomy atmosphere.

 CH 15

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 15

    4. In the Duke''s estate (2)

    After finishing the meal, the lord''s office, which arrived under Norman''s guidance, was not far from my room.

    ''What''s wrong with wasting traffic?''

    Having to go to a restaurant far away and then come back again seriously reduced efficiency.

    ''Should I ask you to move your room?''

    , I opened the door to the office. At that moment, seeing the sight that caught my eye, I realized.

    Why doesn''t my room sound like this]. Was it also assigned near the home office?

    Not to mention Serpence''s desk. On the desk presumed to be my seat, a mountain of documents was piled up.

    ''This was a location selection on the premise of overtime work!''

    There were no more jokes there. Instead of moving the room closer to the dining room, it''s a plate to eat in the room.

    Serpens need to be dealt with urgently

    I looked at the documents first.

    I was in charge of collating the manuscript documents that were processed at the mansion with the original documents prepared here.

    Especially in accounting, I have to check the numbers one by one, so it hurts my eyes and makes my head spin.

    In the meantime, people who appeared to be administrators continued to post reports.

    Even Serpense''s paperwork, which is on the fast side, shows no sign of diminishing.

    ''In the original story, after Shion died,

    Did you do all this alone?!''

    It reminded me of staying up all night on the train, dealing with station work. Maybe he did something like that.

    If I had a time machine, I would like to come back and beat myself up from the past, where I spent a lot of time and went to work.

    Lord, I think I''m going to die...

    If Serpens hadn''t given him divine power from time to time, he would have gone out in a groggy state long ago.

    Divide it over a period of at least four days.

    I thought it was an easy job, but it wasn''t. Tomorrow I have to go to volunteer work and street inspection, and I have to deal with general paperwork?

    So, in reality, the time given for this work was only two days, today and the day after tomorrow.

    ''Checking a month''s worth of documents in two days... !''

    It''s not a good job to take a quick look at.

    Very rarely, it is a typo or corruption. I don''t know for sure, but documents that are different from the original were found.

    nah After the report, it was also necessary to determine the cause.

    Since I am busy with work, I have to fill my meals with poor sandwiches .

    This is the first overtime job since becoming Serpence''s assistant.

    What else is volunteering in this busy time? This is service!''

    Serpense and I are working hard for the Prasider Sensei.

    If there''s one thing, I have to check the whole duchy just because it''s an inspection.

    did not mean

    Do you just go around in disguise and check the water level, lifestyle, and security?

    ''That would be fun.

    You give me time to catch my breath... .

    Early the next morning, with a dream and a dream, he got on the carriage, half dragged by Norman.

    Has Norman become my charge?

    Breakfast will be eaten at the orphanage belonging to the church.

    As soon as the door closed, Serpens, who got on the carriage first, spoke in a low voice.

    Is that what you''re talking about as soon as you see it? In Serpence, I seem to have become a person who only knows how to eat.

    Of course, I was going to ask.

    "Are you going to the orphanage?"

    At my words, Serpens throws an eye at me asking if there is any problem.

    Come to think of it, Serpens in front of me

    Since I stopped pretending to be nice, I have been able to talk less.

    ''I don''t know if it''s this kind of personality, or if I''m awkward with myself for not acting... .''

    If not, is it because of my lie that I have a good eye for people?

    I think I will understand everything without having to say it, and tell me with your eyes.''

    ''If it''s the last reason, it''s going to be really upsetting... ?''

    If a thief gets numb, that''s why bluffing doesn''t mean bluffing.

    It''s just. I thought the wagon that followed was a gift for the children?

    The truth is that he felt ironic that he went to an orphanage because he had not been treated as a child should have been.

    Instead of answering my question, Serpens nodded and quietly looked out the window.

    ''Aren''t you reading a book today?''

    When the peacock''s carriage arrived, a bunch of children ran out. Whether the horse is strange, trying to get close is dangerous

    I hear the voices of the driver and the priest curling up.

    How are you all?"

    Serpens got off the carriage and got down on one knee to meet the children. Then, one by one, he hugged each child and called out their names.

    Once again, he seemed to understand why the people at the Duchess were so passionate about Serpens.

    The effect from appearance is so great that I thought it was just that, but sincerity that it is difficult to dismiss it as just acting.

    felt

    They must have been the closest people to see that kind of thing, so I thought it was worth it, even if it was a lot of exaggeration.

    Are you the new assistant?

    Serpence, with a child in each arm, standing still watching him get up.

    Could it have been around 50? A woman in a priest''s uniform approached me and spoke to me.

    Ah, hello! My name is Zion Rivelon.

    This is Amelia C. Serenity. It''s not enough, but the nursery of the Prasidus Territory Branch.

    I am serving as the head of the department.

    She smiled warmly, and when the meal was ready, she led me inside, suggesting that we come together.

    There was a brief prayer before eating.

    The children solemnly put their fern-like hands together and closed their eyes, but as soon as the prayer was finished, they began to make loud noises.

    Serpence also sat between them, with a baby about a year old on his lap, and slowly ate baby food.

    With a kind smile and warm eyes

    The way he looked down at the baby looked very sublime and noble.

    It is so sacred that it is impossible to approach without knowing where it is.

    However, the innocent children seem to be worried that the serpents are taking care of the baby and not eating well.

    He brought the bread soaked in the soup to his mouth, and he took it and ate it with a face that looked a little embarrassed but happy.

    '' Whether that''s acting or sincerity. Either way, it''s too sad, isn''t it?''

    For some reason, my heart feels so full, and even if I drink water, food does not seem to get stuck in my throat.

    When I first met Serpence, I would have sneered to myself, saying it was disgusting, but now I can''t.

    He is neither the final boss in the novel nor the scapegoat for the continent. It was one person.

    He was just a child who could not grow mentally.

    As long as I choose to understand him, I simply live for it

    I don''t want this world to be at peace... .

    ''I want him to be happy too.''

    Not acting, seriously.

    After the meal, Serpens went into the principal''s room to talk with the principal, and I was left behind among the children.

    "Hey guys, how are you?"

    Seeing so many children looking at me alone with curious eyes made me nervous.

    First of all, I greeted them with a smile as brightly and kindly as possible.

    It''s strange to see you smiling!

    The guy I came with before was scared, but this guy is stupid!

    I almost got hurt a little. However, the children said it was fun and laughed, holding my hand and suggested that we play together, so I thought it wouldn''t matter.

    What if it''s weird, the kids like it because it''s fun!

    ''But why do you seem a little sad? , T_T.''

    Building towers with blocks, hugging them and playing with them

    Bonnie Serpens also joined me from the director''s office.

    Serpens sat the child on his lap and read a storybook to him. Meanwhile, I became a horse, crawling on all fours with the child on its back.

    When the children braided Serpens'' long hair with clumsy hands, my hair was ripped apart with rough hands.

    When the girls grew up, I told Serpense to make me a bride, and the boys said they would make me a subordinate when they grow up.

    ''what? What the hell is this temperature difference?!''

    Isn''t the treatment too different?

    Without realizing it, I was about to burst into tears. Did you notice my sad heart like that?

    The girl who had been watching me since I pretended to speak came up to me and said,

    It''s okay, it''s okay. Don''t cry.

    He comforted me by stroking my hair softly. It feels like all sorrow is washed away.

    "Will you be my dog when I grow up?"

    I think my ears were broken for a while.

    Did I say I''m cute like a puppy? Yes, that''s definitely what I heard. Ai keeps stroking my hair.

    Since we had a later schedule, Serpense and I were only with the children until lunchtime. Leaving them behind, they got on the wagon.

    When we were about to leave, the director said that the children really liked it and that it would be a pleasure if you would come with us in the future.

    It felt like my heart was going to swell, and I was filled with warmth.

    By the way, there were more people than I thought.

    If it were a serpent, I thought that it would be better to do things like welfare and pursue a setting that would prevent it in advance.

    When you get to the dukedom, there are many people and the land is wide, so what. Is there nothing you can do about it?

    Serpens shook his head at my question.

    Of course, there are children from the Duchy.

    Because I belong to a denomination... .

    According to him, the most common cases of overcrowding from daycare centers in other branches were that they moved here.

    And one more thing. This is the most problematic case.

    ''When people living in other areas deliberately come to drop their children.''

    At first, he said he had caught them and listened to their stories.

    they are unanimously,

    "Even though the circumstances were unfavorable, I just wanted my children to live in a good place."

    said to have answered

    Perhaps it is because they think about the external image, and the facilities and education are better than other childcare centers in other areas by donating or supporting them a lot.

    But their words were only excuses to lessen the guilt.

    As proof of that .''

    First give them a grant

    and returned with the children.

    However, they were often sent to an orphanage in the original estate, or, in severe cases, thrown away on the way home.

    Because of that, I had no choice but to accept it as if I didn''t know, Serpens said in a low and lowly voice.

    Seeing the children abandoned by their parents, what did he think of having to kill the parents with his own hands?

    "Why are you looking at me with those eyes ?"

    Did you feel my gaze, Serpens?

    go .

    , ..uh?,

    After getting off the train, I heard that the number of words has decreased significantly. Did you keep the words I spoke and think about the timing to put them down?

    If you ask me if I''m letting go now, I''m afraid I''ll just ignore it and dismiss it as something that didn''t happen.

    Don''t worry about it, let''s move on naturally.

    No, just? It''s because you''re not reading today.

    Ser who seemed to stare at me for a moment

    Pence turns his head again and looks out the window. It seemed complicated.

 CH 16

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 16

    4. In the Duke''s estate (3)

    After riding the carriage for a while, we got off at a secluded alley.

    The carriage that dropped us off went back to Yeongjuseong as if nothing had happened.

    What is it?"

    Serpens hid inside the alley and held a flask filled with muddy liquid in his hand.

    Instead of answering my question, he

    He opened the lid of the thing and poured it over his head.

    Her clear bluish-silver hair gradually became cloudy from the top of her head, and soon turned into a dull brown.

    I put a little bit left over the mouth of the bottle on my finger and then I touched my eyebrows and eyelashes, and they were also dyed in the same color.

    "Is it dye?"

    It''s a magic reagent to be exact, and it lasts about 10 hours.

    It seemed like he was using the lower troupe for a while, but he returned to John as if he wasn''t used to it yet.

    When children are called by nursery school

    He was the one who used a respectful tone, calling out titles like ''Do-yang'' and ''-gun''.

    ''...Someday you''ll get used to it.

    By the way, only the hair color has changed, but the mood has changed considerably.

    It was downgraded from an angel that exudes divinity to a human with an angelic beauty who looks very good-looking and good.

    However, since she still has a striking face, it does not seem to be a problem that can be solved by simply changing the hair color.

    No matter how much seawater is pumped out, the sea does not turn into a lake.

    Whether he knew it himself, he pressed the hood on the robe he had already worn on the carriage deeply and covered his eyes.

    Perhaps that alone was not enough, he took off his glasses, one of the great features of Serpence, and took off his long hair that was tied up and pulled it out of the hood.

    Even with a slightly exposed face, he was exuding a handsome aura without regret, but unless the hood is pulled back, it does not seem to attract attention.

    In particular, I don''t think it can be recalled as the Duke of Prasidus.

    "You don''t have any?"

    " Is it necessary?"

    Serpens looked at me from head to toe, and vice versa, from toe to the top of the head.

    Somehow it was very awkward.

    I''m still the Duke''s assistant, what if I find out?

    It''s okay. That''s never going to happen.

    As soon as my words fell, Serpens spoke as if he was not even strong enough.

    Yeah, anyway, I don''t stand out

    That''s the impression I''ve committed!''

    But when you''re with Serpence, isn''t it the same for everyone?

    While grunting inwardly and fiddling with his slightly greenish-brown curly hair, Serpens without a word leads the way out of the alley.

    Let''s go together!

    I hurriedly ran to the side of Serpence and stuck with it. As I stood side by side, who was usually walking diagonally to the right, Serpens looked at me puzzledly.

    It''s more than just a party, going back and forth

    Do you?"

    ..Hakroom.

    He nodded his head slightly.

    Then what should I do with the title? The Duke is too flamboyant... Of course not even Prasidus-sama, Serpens-sama?

    "The name is a little "

    Shall we just do Sephiroth then?"

    Sepirani, where the hell is that...

    Serpense''s expression... How should I express this?

    A normal person would say, ''It''s a good expression to say it''s rotten, but I dare you to Serpen.

    It felt very disrespectful to try to express Su''s face in such a way.

    A beauty is beautiful even if it frowns, isn''t it? The world feels very absurd.

    Then what do you mean by name? Could you tell me your baptismal name?

    "Are you crazy?"

    At my nonsense, Serpens put on a puzzled expression. Surely this was too over?

    " Call me ''Zion.''"

    Serpence, who seemed to be a little worried, couldn''t think of an appropriate title.

    You didn''t make up a decent pseudonym, did you?!

    "Is Zion me?"

    You are Rivelon.

    When I point my index finger and say, Serpens folds my index finger and corrects it.

    What are you doing?

    Suddenly, the name of one man named Zion and Ribelon was divided into two names, Zion and Ribelon.

    Usually, in this case, don''t you just create a new one, or at least take the name of someone who isn''t here?

    "Like the meatball tomato risotto before, is it a habit to just stick to what you see?"

    If you saw it that way, it must be.

    "Gong No, I think Shion is a little weird sometimes.

    Serpens ignores my question and pretends to look at the items on the stalls lined up in the market.

    More than that, this is something .

    ''Don''t you think I''m pretending to be cute?''

    To myself, ''I, Sion, are very special! It''s crazy and it''s 4D!''

    I''m not the real Zion, but the wretch, that''s not what I was almost ashamed of calling my name in the third person.

    Maybe that''s what made him call Zion? What a terrifying ploy this is!

    Why are you losing your mind again?"

    I am accusing myself of being stupid for having fallen for his tricks, so Serpens waved his hand in front of me,

    awakened the gods

    Get your mind straight so you don''t get lost.

    I''m no kid...

    If you get lost, do not leak and go to the guard immediately.''''

    ...Thank you so much for worrying about me.

    I imagined myself missing the serpent and looking for the location of the guard.

    Serpens, who arrived first, said he did not know that an adult would get lost.

    I''ll pretend to blame myself for not paying attention.

    The guards who saw him think of me as a pathetic person who harms the duke, and they will stare at him.

    ''. .Let''s get our minds right.

    After that, he calmed down and followed Serpens.

    He was wearing a gray robe, but he couldn''t miss it because of his tall height and graceful gestures that couldn''t be hidden.

    Does this have any meaning?''

    After examining the meaning of the secret behavior in the appearance of Serpens with a lot of nobility, he decided to focus on not being found out that he was the lord of this territory.

    The difference between the noble master of the neighboring town, who hides his identity and goes out to play, and the lord who secretly comes to inspect, is staggering.

    "Shion, doesn''t that look delicious? How about that one?"

    Trying to follow me quietly, my mouth slowly became bored. Now that this has happened, feed him this and that to make the meatball squeaky sound.

    hey hey

    In my mind, I wanted to buy it myself, but I had no choice because it was payday yet.

    After all, it''s an extension of work, Beopka... . No, I decided to lean on Serpence''s wallet.

    He was already looking at the stalls to check the price, asking for prices, or buying small items little by little.

    Isn''t it a waste to buy and carry stuff you won''t use? It''s cumbersome to walk around.

    I think buying it and eating it would be better... .

    Serpens agreed as if he felt there was some truth to those words.

    I want to eat without hesitation... No, he recommended snacks to eat.

    I visited bookstores, returned to my childhood and walked down the street eating cotton candy.

    It was kind of funny to see two grown men walking around with cotton candy, but it''s not like we''ll see them again anyway.

    After looking around and eating delicious things, I feel like I am resting for the first time since being possessed by the [Master of the Holy Sword? Crab.

    I remember going out to play with my friends in Korea... .

    Why is there no PC room in this world?

    When playing with friends, there is nothing like blood as the final destination.

    "How did you get around before?"

    I bought a western-style hot dog and sat at the fountain in the square to eat it, and I suddenly thought of it.

    asked for thoughts

    At first, Serpens took the lead, but after that, I almost always dragged it around.

    It''s nothing special, �[��. Look around the stalls or check the expressions of people passing by.

    Serpence said in a no-nonsense tone, then took another bite of the hot dog. Not a single drop of the sauce flowed or got it on the lips.

    It would be possible to eat a hot dog neatly like that! No one can do that. Serpence''s Hidden Ashes

    It''s the moment you find your way.

    Would you be offended if I told him, ''Your talent is to eat hot dogs clean!''?

    seven seventh.

    I guess I looked dirty while eating the sauce, Serpens handed me a handkerchief.

    I was going to say, ''This is the way you eat it while spilling it!'', but Serpens ate it so cleanly that I couldn''t even argue with it. He quietly took a handkerchief and wiped his hands and mouth.

    Still, today is more fun than before

    didn''t you? I had fun.

    I''m not looking for fun.

    That''s true, but it''s a bit sad. I guess I was the only one having fun... The moment I was about to think

    "Obviously, there was nothing different from before, but something . I don''t know for sure, but it seems different.

    Yes?

    Ummm... it''s fun...

    Serpens raises his eyebrows and thinks seriously. A mark that anyone would think that even the chaos of the century would have met him

    it is right

    "The moment you think with your head, you lose, you have to feel it with your heart!"

    Then am I already a loser?

    He grinned bitterly.

    I didn''t mean it like that, but I can''t make Serpens understand the drip of our world, ''If you do, you lose.'' .

    If you lose once, you don''t lose forever, you just have to try again and win.

    With a slightly troubled look at those words, Serpens touched my forehead with his fingertips.

    press gently

    this is the second time

    If you don''t look closely, you won''t notice. A faint divine power is formed, and a warm energy flows into me, just like it did on the first day I went to work.

    ''What the hell is this? Is it a ritual like E.T.''s finger-matching?''

    When he looked at Serpens'' serious face with a puzzled expression, he released his hand and opened his mouth in a voice so low that those around him could not hear him.

    I actually suspected you might be a spy of a demon cult.

    Yes?!

    Astonished, I jumped up from my seat and Serpens told me to be quiet and sat me back down.

    Why did such doubts arise?

    I thought that he was trying to win favor, find a weakness, grab it and shake it, or just corrupt it as it is.

    Absolutely not!

    There was nothing to be stabbed in the part of holding a weakness and shaking it. But what happened after that has nothing to do with it.

    Rather, it is my goal to prevent him from falling into the demon-worship camp and corrupting himself.

    I didn''t feel the aura of black magic from the first day I checked, but I can''t rule out the possibility that he was a thoroughly prepared person after contact.

    I thought it was just to infuse divine power. The act must have actually been a full body scan.

    This guy is very wary of anyone who approaches him.

    I cut off contact with the outside and drove it in moderately, digging out the back,

    I was thinking of using it.

    The train was chosen as the stage not for my escape, but to keep me from being interrogated from the outside.

    He spoke slowly, examining my expression with his insightful eyes.

    ''If it''s half-gan, are you talking about a double agent?''

    If we were to predict based on the behavior of Serpens in [Master of the Holy Sword]... .

    By mixing truth and falsehood in moderation to convey information, there is confusion.

    Hall of truth information without major damage

    Ryeo, or build my position within the demon worship force so that I can access the main base.

    Well, I guess I was thinking of using it that way.

    But for that, you''re too flimsy... rather than wishing for my corruption:

    In a very suspicious and suspicious voice, Serpence spoke intermittently. It''s a very confused look.

    "It''s a bit, no, actually, I''m very embarrassed.

    In the end, are you saying that you will trust me?"

    To be honest, I don''t believe it. I will continue to doubt it.

    " Aren''t you talking too boldly?"

    Serpens smiles at my dissatisfied expression.

    Not a perfect smile as usual, but a slightly awkward smile. It was obviously an awkward expression, but it felt more natural than any smile he had ever worn.

    Well, I can''t help it. Watch for yourself.

    huh?"

    " Yes, I will watch."

 CH 17

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 17

    4. In the Duke''s estate (4)

    ''Is it right to follow... Ji?''

    Now I was walking alone on a dark street.

    It is not a gloomy and secluded place, but an alley filled with pubs and the like.

    There are also bards playing all over the place, so the noisy atmosphere reminded me of the night streets of Hongdae.

    One, the purpose of traveling alone

    is a bait station for security check to the last.

    I cringe, wondering if a giant with a weapon passing by will quarrel with me.

    Why do I look so easy-going...

    Serpens, who was having dinner together at a seemingly ordinary restaurant, suddenly spoke.

    Do you think it will be possible to check public safety more properly today than usual? And what followed is the present situation.

    He''ll hide from afar and watch, I''m just telling you to act as usual

    As pocket money, he gave me a 1 million ass bill.

    The ass is the monetary unit of the Holy Lumen Empire, and 1 ass = 1 won.

    There is nothing you can''t use if you put your mind to it. But for an ordinary person like me, it was an excessive amount for one night''s allowance.

    ''By the way, this isn''t change, is it?''

    It''s a one-page bill.

    Giving it to me, Serpens said he would collect all the remaining money after the night was over. So it would be better to write diligently or something.

    Clearly, it was something I did while I had change so that I could become an even better Hogu.

    ''Whatever happened, why don''t you go into any bar and ring the golden bell once?''

    I thought about for a while, but the amount was insufficient for that. Well, it was given very vaguely.

    I don''t need anything right now. Would you like to buy some souvenirs to win the favor of the Duke''s family?

    I went to a trinkets stand and picked up about 20 items and put them in 100.

    However, he held out an assortment.

    "50,000 Asip . Customer? Do you have any change?"

    No, the person in the business can''t even sell 950,000 Ashes? Huh, true! How can a person not have 950,000 Ashes?

    At my clever words, the merchant smiles with a contorted smile.

    I wonder if there is any truth to this, but since he seems to have a lot of money, his expression is that he is patient.

    "Then give it back as much as possible, and take the hat as a commodity.

    yo. This?

    At the next words, the merchant smiled brightly as if he had been in a bad mood. Sweep up all the items on the market and place them in my hand along with 800,000 Ars.

    The first 20 ornaments I picked up were 50,000 pieces, so I''m talking about 2-3 thousand pieces per decoration.

    There weren''t even that many leftovers, right?

    ''This isn''t a hogu, it''s a hogaeng?!''

    It was a great rip-off, but the money will disappear after tonight anyway. Just thinking that I did a good job

    I went to the store that sold it.

    This time, there was change, so there was no need to sweep everything. Instead, the merchant charged an excessive amount even if he pretended to be.

    ''Are you watching, Serpens? The spirit of extortion shown by the merchants of your estate.''

    Occasionally, I also choked. Previously, mainly the spicy things that I had to pass through because of the serpence.

    As I thought of Serpence, I wondered if there was something to buy him.

    Why don''t you deal with cheap stuff like this?''

    After getting paid later, I''ll have to order a whipped cream cake from a famous store. How much do you want to do at such a place?

    Occasionally, I could see people appearing to be guards and arresting someone, but nothing happened to me.

    There were no quarrels or pickpockets.

    ''I think it would have been okay if I didn''t use the bait strategy, right?''

    The security of this city was firmly guarded by the guards, so it is safe to say.

    Even now, people in guard uniforms can be seen gathering again. Shall I go take a look?

    Hey !

    Is it because of the sudden change of direction?

    A woman''s scream resounded as she felt a dull feeling in her temporarily purchased backpack due to a lot of luggage.

    When I turned around quickly, a woman who looked to be in her early twenties fell down with her butt wheel smashed.

    Are you okay?

    He approached and held out his hand, but the woman didn''t even pretend to look.

    He just rummaged through his bag, pulled out a piece of a broken bottle, and cried.

    My reagent! Oh my god, how much does this cost!

    Maybe this is finally here! It was only then that I was able to fulfill my role faithfully.

    Nice to meet you, swindler!

    Are you having any problems?

    Wow, what''s the matter? Do you know how expensive this is now? How good is it, the scrolls are all wet!

    Peeking inside the bag, I saw wads of paper covered in powder and liquid spilled from the broken glass bottle.

    ''Is that all scrolling?''

    Who in the world would carry so many expensive scrolls like that? No matter how cheap it was, it would be more than 500,000 Ars.

    And with the magic reagents in glass bottles? There is a degree of carelessness.

    The people around me are also indifferent to the first commotion.

    I wondered what was going on, and then shook my head at the luck of the scroll.

    "Is this your first time today? I know you want to have a big bang, but ."

    It''s not a scam! It''s not a scam...!

    The woman said sadly, shedding tears like chicken poop.

    The blue eyes, wet with tears, looked very sad.

    It''s not as good as Serpence''s, but it''s a great performance that anyone would be mistaken for.

    But .

    You have chosen the wrong opponent.

    Serpense would have contained a much richer emotion, not just a single sadness.

    A little more gloomy, pathetic, with a heartbreaking heart. With a sad expression on her face, she was weeping bitterly, and she must have ripped off her opponent''s heart.

    You 1, my score is eliminated. It''s not even worth a price tag.''

    Looking down at her with cold eyes, Serpens appeared. I was really watching.

    No, don''t touch it!

    When Serpens took out an ordinary scroll pretending to be a magic scroll from inside the bag, the woman shouted sharply.

    Even though all the fakes have been found, do you still think it is not?

    She grabbed the bag and blocked the entrance, but one of the scrolls was already in Serpens'' hands.

    Come on, Sion! Come on, let''s find out about that woman''s fraud!

    Serpens, who opened the scroll and looked at it, looked at me and said.

    This is really salty.

    Yes?

    What did you just hear? Really? All those rolls of paper are scrolling?

    It''s also quite well made. It must have been ruined by the seeping of a reagent mixed with magical power...

    Oh, can you recognize?! I made it!

    Because I''m not a magician. Once I entered the magic circle, I looked at the vocabulary of the sentences used.

    Producer. I didn''t expect it that way... ?

    What about the spells given to the serpents and the scroll makers who thought they were scammers, and what about the ingredients?

    We were talking about something, but nothing came into my ears.

    There are only thoughts floating around in my head.

    ''How much does it cost to pay for all that?''

    only thinking that

    How much is Zion''s salary? As an aide to the duke family, he gives a lot ok?

    Why do you have so many things?

    Would it be okay if I asked if you were around?"

    "I was on my way to the castle of the lord to apply for an investment, but , but everything was ruined ."

    The woman wept bitterly. That was really crying.

    Somehow, it seemed to contain a lot of sincerity.

    ''By the way, I went to apply for an investment to the lord... .''

    If you''re the lord of this land, you''re a Serpence, right?

    "How about calming down and moving around and talking?"

    Serpens lifted her up and carefully poured divine power into her. She looks slightly surprised.

    "Oh my, not a wizard ? Weren''t you really an expert?"

    Serpens answered her question with a smile without a word.

    The inn where she was staying shared a pub, and it was nearby, so we decided to continue the story on the first floor of that place.

    "First, let me introduce myself, Solerti.

    It''s called Reseratus.

    It seems that she, who had just become independent from her master, went to Yeongjuseong to receive an investment to open her own shop.

    I was curious to see if I could check the scrolls I had made in advance and how they were made, so I grabbed a variety of reagents and went to them with curiosity.

    But what came back was the story of following the established procedures.

    I mean, I didn''t hear that there was a procedure! If Master is my level of skill, he''ll be welcomed just by looking for it.

    I said... .

    That''s rarely the case.

    " After all, I didn''t believe the words of a yangban who ate a shop and crawled into the tower!"

    At Serpens''s denial, Soler Tia burst into anger.

    Even after submitting the investment application, there was a process to confirm her identity and other things.

    Because of that, it took several days for the documents to reach Serpens, but his stay in the Prasidus Territory is not that long.

    If I missed this opportunity, I had to wait a full month or go to the capital to go through the procedure again and wait.

    However, blinded by the desire to open her own shop as soon as possible, Solertia made a third choice.

    According to the rumors, I heard that Duke Prasidus was kind enough to be arrogant...

    I''m confident in my skills, hogu... . No, he was the Duke of Prasidus, famous for his generosity.

    I''m dying in front of the castle gate, thinking that if I ejaculate, I won''t meet you.

    said to have seen

    It was all a lie...! I''ve heard all of you staying in the castle this week! I also saw the duke''s wagons coming in! Being away is a ridiculous excuse, isn''t it?

    Solertia slammed the table with her fists, bursting with anger.

    I glanced at the ''luxurious'' Duke of Prasidus. The lips that were not covered by the hood kept a gentle smile without the slightest shaking.

    Even if it''s Shion-san, go find it with me.

    If you go and tell me how great these scrolls are... . Ah, you wouldn''t believe it though! No one sees a broken scroll and accepts an investment application! Wouldn''t it be great if Duke Frasidus could read scrolls like Shion-san!

    She banged her head on the table.

    Judging by what Solertia said like that, I guess. It seems that it is not common for a person who is not a wizard to interpret only the magic circles drawn on the scrolls.

    ''Hell Serpens, why did he even learn such a thing?''

    After becoming the master of the Holy Sword, did you plan to eat it all by yourself without a companion? .

    Ummm... if it''s okay with you, can I see other things?

    Yeah, that''s fine. We''ll have to throw it away anyway... Oh, don''t tear it up! It might explode.

    I''ll be careful.

    In a world where magic comes out of paper, it''s kind of like exploding paper.

    But how did the scroll come about?

    I was wondering if it was. I went back to Serpens who was holding the scroll, and glanced over his shoulder to peek at the contents.

    Even if I searched through Shion''s memory, the magic characters that could not be interpreted were written in tiny sizes, and circles and lines that could not be recognized were drawn.

    Did you mean to draw something like this on the spot!? It''s going to take a while?

    There are some simple ones. Or you can stay for a few days and make them...

    Solertia answered my question in a confused voice.

    Then, for some reason, she, who had been lying on the table with her cheek, suddenly raised her head and stared at me.

    Maybe it''s because I banged my head on the table earlier? There was a slight scratch on his forehead, and the area around it was also dyed red.

    How hard did you hit it?

    What are you going to do now? Take responsibility!

    What should I do now? Take responsibility!

    Solertia demanded responsibility from me, and I passed it on to Serpens.

    went

    He turned his head and stared at me for a moment with a look that said, ''What''s with all these guys?''

    "Whoa I can''t help it, so I''ll take responsibility."

    Yes?! Are you Shion?

    At Serpens''s words, Solertia looked at him with eyes full of questions, ''How?'' and ''Why are you?''.

    "However, I want you to prove that Les Serratus was the one who made these scrolls.

    Let me introduce you. Of course, even if that is impossible, we will compensate you for monetary damages, so it doesn''t matter if you refuse.

    I, really...?

    Serpens lightly placed his fingertips on Solertia''s forehead, who was making a blank expression as if in disbelief.

    He healed a scratch on his forehead and had a benevolent smile.

    Yes, it really is.

 CH 18

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 18

    4. In the Duke''s estate (5)

    There are some ingredients left in the room, but the quantity is not so great that I can''t make anything great.

    Solertia looked at Serpens with anxious eyes and said.

    After that, he looked at the scrolls piled up in his bag and smiled as if he was reassured.

    "It is simply for identification purposes.

    If you have a sample of this size, you can see a certain amount of habits and habits, and that is enough."

    "Really that''s amazing. Aren''t you a professional broker? A duo is deliberately coveting my outstanding skills and intercepting them ?"

    She turns to look at Serpens with a suspicious look.

    Isn''t that the case? It''s just that your skills are outstanding, and we also made mistakes on our side. I hope you accept it as an apology.

    I know, I was joking too.

    Serpense''s sorry voice filled her with a cheerful smile, saying she was joking.

    The person standing in the back is a cold-blooded person who doesn''t blink even when people cry, but Mr. Sion is very kind.

    I''m not really thinking you''re a scammer... I''m sorry, Joe].

    I''ll apologize for you, will you forgive me?

    It is unfair. It''s really unfortunate, I can''t make any excuses because it''s my fault.

    Who in the world has a warm heart like me!

    I feel like I''m the only one left with trash.

    "Then what shall we make now?"

    I went up to the room held by Solertia on the second floor of the inn. When she arrived at the room, she put her hands on her waist and asked confidently.

    Is it possible to get rid of the magic effect of this?

    Serpens took off his hood and said, lifting his brown hair with his index finger slightly.

    "Uh um. You must have been handsome, I guessed a little "

    Looking at the exposed Serpens face, Solertia opened her mouth with a ''heh''.

    If he regains his original hair color, he''ll show off his crazy beauty, but he''s only reacting like this.

    Whoa!

    For nothing, I feel proud of myself and my shoulders are straightened.

    Because of this feeling, the people of the duke''s house wanted to let me know the greatness of Serpens.

    The boss I serve! Our kid is so handsome!

    I don''t know why Rivelon-san is so flirtatious...?

    Solertia, who shed me once with a look of seeing all sorts of strange people, let out a small sigh."

    Oh, not even my hair... How long before this effect goes away?

    About two or three hours left.

    Uhh~ It''s been a while? If that''s enough, the ingredients right now are enough. Could you wait for 30 minutes?

    Solertia fiddles with Serpens''s hair and says, this time

    Serpence makes a slightly surprised expression.

    If the remaining time is short for a certain type of year, not all types of magic, the conditional expression will be greatly reduced. It requires less materials and is much simpler.

    You''re a lot better than I thought you were.

    Originally, I''m really great!

    I don''t even know what you''re talking about Do I have to say goodbye until I come to this world?

    I just stood there and watched their conversation, Solertia said, ''Did you see it?

    I''m such a great person!'' He looked at me with a sullen expression.

    ''I was caught saying that I was a scammer... .''

    Yes, I can only hear as much as I know, and I don''t know what''s so great about it.

    Reluctantly, they just applauded with a soulless reaction, ''That''s amazing~!''

    With that alone, Solertia had a satisfied expression on her face.

    Then let''s get started!

    Before starting work, mauve

    Solertia, who had her long wavy hair tied together, said curiously.

    She laid the paper on the floor and scribbled characters that I couldn''t recognize.

    Occasionally, I would write down numbers in a practice field or something like that. Mix or sprinkle unknown powders or liquids.

    Serpence calmly checked the broken scrolls or the contents of the scrolls she was making, and occasionally nodded silently.

    And I sit in the corner one, oh

    I always laid out the things I bought and thought about who should I give this to, etc.

    It''s all done!

    After 30 minutes had passed, she jumped up and held out the scroll majesticly.

    The Serpence who received it compares it with the other scrolls, and meticulously checks the contents.

    Then let''s try it.

    Anyway!

    As he tore the scroll, a burst of blue light hit him.

    The light gradually fades away, and instead of the dull brown, the clear blue-silver hair shines. His figure revealed through the blue light was sacred and noble today.

    Serpens raised his finger and pulled it forward as if combing his hair to check the color.

    The effect is certain, and it seems that he was also right. As promised, I will invest in Mr. Reseratu.

    That hair color...? Besides, it''s not an introduction, it''s an investment...?

    Also, Serpens'' hair color is eye-catching.

    I mean, it''s obvious

    When an unusual hair color is paired with an unusually crazy beauty, it all boils down to one thing.

    I didn''t mean to deceive you, but I''m sorry that it seems like you unintentionally hid your identity. I''ll introduce you again. It''s called Serpens A. Prasidus. And over there...

    This is Zion Rivelon, the assistant to Duke Prasidus, who is famous for his hogu!

    Uh, uh, ah. Huh? That, that! I, wasn''t that the real intention?!

    Just, over there, great, yes! That''s right, you''re a great person!

    She was first astonished by Serpence''s introduction, and secondly embarrassed by my introduction.

    It''s okay, calm down. Please refrain from joking around with Lord Ribel Ron. Le Seratus-san is very upset.

    "So, Mr. Zion is not Mr. Zion, he is Duke Prasidus, and Mr. Rivelon over there is not Mr. Rivelon but Mr. Rivelon is Mr. Rivelon, but at the same time Mr. Rivelon is Mr. Rivelon, but at the same time, Mr.

    You are the Duke, Ribelon is Zion.

    Seed .

    This isn''t some sort of Ziontalt collapse... .

    So I just said, ''What should I do with Sephi, why do you use my name to confuse people?

    In the end, Serpence put a finger on her forehead once more with a troubled expression on her face and breathed in divine power.

    The fingertips stayed on her forehead for a little longer than the previous treatment.

    ''Now that you''ve finished scouting, you''re scanning meticulously.''

    Whatever the purpose, Solertia was able to come to her senses and finished the contract on the spot.

    Solertia had the basic funds to open a shop in the capital, and research funds]. We wanted to provide a connection to the top for stable material supply.

    In return, Serpens asked for a sample of the newly developed scroll and a portion of the net profit from selling the scroll.

    Also, more than other quests, Prasidus Ball

    The request from the writer will be given priority. Instead, alimony due to contract termination or arrears will be borne by Serpens.

    And although it was not written in the contract, for the time being, Solertia stayed as the duke''s eater.

    All of the scrolls prepared to open the store were broken, so it was because there were no items to hang in the store right away.

    What brought her into the duke''s residence was to provide a place where you could focus on making scrolls without worrying about anything else.

    In the meantime, Serpens decided to search for a suitable store location.

    I once thought what to do, thank you so much!

    Well, it''s all thanks to my bumps!

    As I said with a shiver, Soler Tia stared at this side with a blank expression that it wasn''t.

    Once the cost of the broken scrolls and materials, I will pay you in a lump sum.

    Now everything is fixed! Haha!

    There was a time when I thought

    On the way back to Yeongjuseong, Serpens informed me that he would immediately collect 2/3 of his salary until he paid off all the money.

    In front of Solertia, he said that he would pay all compensation, and he hit the back of the head like this!

    ''I thought this would happen before I even got my first paycheck .''

    As a consolation dimension, Serpence, who added that you can keep the money that is left over after spending today, couldn''t be more disrespectful.

    If I had known it would be like this, I would have saved it

    place!

    * * *

    After finishing all our schedules in the duchy, we went back to the capital and went out on a carriage from early morning.

    Since the destination was the same anyway, Soler Tia decided to go together.

    When she approaches the inn where she is staying, she sees her already out on the street with her luggage.

    Wow, the Duke rides a good carriage too! But why does Shion-san have a face?

    Please?

    Solertia got on the carriage and said in a lively way.

    This time, ''Zion'' refers to me, not Serpense. Before we broke up last time, we decided to just call each other names comfortably.

    Of course, Serpens politely declined.

    ''By the way, didn''t you see him calling someone by name?''

    The children at the orphanage were called by their first names, but they didn''t have a surname, so it was inevitable. even that name

    But I didn''t call it alone.

    Don''t tell me, I couldn''t sleep last night.

    The last two days have been hell.

    In fact, the documents that could not be taken out of the Duchy were finished as of yesterday afternoon.

    However, I just ran to the end because I was told that I had to take the rest of the general paperwork and process it on the train.

    ''It''s much better to end it quickly and rest in peace than to suffer by leaving it vague!''

    My eyes widened, and in the mountains of papers

    How exhausted I looked when I was struggling.

    Serpence said when did he start working so hard, and suggested that he go to his room and rest because he wouldn''t do extra work.

    However, he declined because it was too conscientious to rely on the power of Kaltouyo and Justice, and Serpens spent the night together after a bit of a conflict.

    Thanks to that, when he got on the carriage this morning, he had a trembling expression on his face, saying that he was able to relax on the train that Serpens was going back to.

    ''Is it possible to build a friendship like this... !One

    Anyway, in that regard, our condition is not right now.

    "Does the Duke look fine?"

    It''s because you don''t make tea very well, but if you look closely, you can see it''s not like that.

    At my words, Solertia looked intently at Serpens'' face. Whether that line of sight was burdensome, Serpens made up an awkward smile.

    I don''t know. It doesn''t seem like it, but I think Shion was the right aide.

    "Where do you think I am?"

    "Are you implying responsibility for your own mistakes?"

    That''s nothing even with ten mouths.

    At that time there was nothing I could do.

    It''s not an amount that can be paid right away, and even if you ask for money, the broken scrolls don''t come back and you can''t get the investment right away.

    Serpence was also very good at magical knowledge, so it''s a pity, it almost ruined a person''s life.

    After that, Serpens, what can''t he do?''

    After conversing with her, I arrived at the train station. We got off the carriage and changed to the train.

    "Then why is Solertia-san riding in this car?"

    Because it''s wider, more comfortable, and better?

    Apparently Serpens had handed her a first-class seat on the train, but she naturally followed us into the private room.

    I''ve never been in first class myself

    La, I don''t know exactly what kind of structure it is... .''

    I heard that there was also a private room that was divided like a partition.

    Of course, it''s not comparable to this place, but wouldn''t it be inconvenient for a woman alone in a room with two men? There are people''s gazes.

    When I said that, she laughed and said that she said all sorts of funny things.

    It''s not just the two of us, so what''s up! Maybe nobody cares?

    Well, do you have all these open minds?

    He turned to Serpence, but he also responded that he didn''t care.

    I wondered if I was going to notice her, so I dragged her to the corner of the room and asked again, but the response was the same.

    Rather, he looked at me with a slightly unclean look.

    ''What, am I the only one weird? Yeah, I''m trash again!''

    But when it comes to serpence, I don''t think you should be concerned about scandals or anything like that.

    Maybe it''s a very pure and innocent image, so you don''t have to worry about it, right?

    Anyway, Serpens said he should sleep a bit, changed clothes in the shower and crawled into bed.

    Seeing that he voluntarily went to bed, he must have been tired.

    ''Hey, I don''t know!''

    And I threw myself on the bed.

    Perhaps to be considerate of us, Solertia drew the curtains on all the windows and started writing the scrolls, relying on the light of candles.

 CH 19

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 19

    5. Return with the Duke

    It was around lunchtime when we woke up.

    As I had requested last time, it was a full-bodied dinner.

    Oh my God-! It''s my first time to eat such delicious meat! It completely melts!

    You know it''s all thanks to me!

    When I said shrugged, Solertia, who was eating the steak, said, ''Duke.

    It must be thanks to you!''

    If you know that I''ve tried to feed the Duke the right food, I can''t say that.

    Her gaze shifted to Serpens, who was sticking a fork in the meatballs. Serpens coughed a little, and blinked his eyes as if not to say anything useless to me.

    Yes, Sir Ribelon is right. Since I am not very interested in what I eat... Sir Ribelon took great care of me instead of me.

    You can''t do that! You need to eat well to be strong and healthy to live long!

    Thank you for caring me.

    Serpens smiled softly at her cheerful words.

    By the way, at first, I thought the two of them were a very strange combination, but surprisingly, they seem to fit well.

    Well, aren''t you a competent assistant under a capable superior?

    Solertia kept her mouth shut.

    Serpens didn''t hear anything.

    Chuck, scoop a spoonful of tomato risotto and bring it to your mouth.

    "Uh , I don''t know about that. I can understand why the Duke cares."

    "Yes? Who cares for me?"

    The Duke is Rivelon-san.

    I turned to Serpense. He also looked at me.

    He looked as if he had something to say.

    However, in terms of seating arrangement, Solertia and I were seated side by side, and Serpens was sitting opposite them.

    Neither facial expression nor whisper could convey that meaning to me.

    Sir Rivelon... yes, he''s a good assistant.

    Isn''t that right? I mean, you must have paid the price for that expensive thing!

    I wanted to shout out, ''If that''s the case, you''re missing out on your paycheck!'', but I couldn''t because Serpens smiled and looked at me.

    He put a piece of meat in his mouth, which he opened to reveal the truth, and chewed it.

    It was definitely soft and delicious.

    After eating, Serpens sat on the sofa and opened a book leisurely. It is a very pleasing sight.

    ''Serpens is resting!''

    Turning her head, Solertia was lying on the floor and making a scroll. Really .

    Why do you kill one workaholic, so a new workaholic emerges?!

    At my cry, Solertia looked at Serpens and said, ''You have been killed... '' he muttered.

    Hearing this, Serpens laughed.

    and shrugged.

    Still, if you want to open a store quickly, you have to work hard from now on!

    You probably don''t have many materials right now, so please rest in peace. We''ve put a message on the top, so by the time we arrive, it will be ready at the duke''s mansion.

    Is that so...? Still, I didn''t like it because the ingredients weren''t good enough.

    With a bashful smile, she quickly gathered the materials and papers that were always on the floor and organized them.

    Anyone who wants to open a store soon

    There are many, but I think I wanted to leave an impression on investors that I am working hard from the standpoint of receiving the investment.

    Sir Rivelon is a person who takes rest and eating very seriously, so you will not be able to get blood.

    So you were killed!

    Fufu-, that''s it.

    Very impressing

    You can see Serpens eating while talking to others, then sitting back and laughing and joking around!

    For some reason, the tip of my nose is wrinkled and my index finger

    Rubbed under the nose.

    If you have a runny nose, use a tissue instead of wiping it with dirty hands.''''

    Solertia pulled out a tissue and handed it to me, and Serpens turned her head while covering her mouth with her hand.

    You must be smiling, right?

    '' I don''t think you''re really laughing.''

    We stretched leisurely on the train. This time it feels like a proper train trip.

    They enjoyed playing card games in the room together, each reading a book, and lounging while taking a nap.

    Instead of taking a nap, Serpens took a pose, not knowing whether it was prayer or meditation.

    "Oh, did you apply cream to the scones first?"

    When Serpence spread creamy cream on the scones served as a teatime snack, Solertia looked at him in disbelief.

    Can''t you?

    Of course! As a matter of fact, you have to apply the jam first and then the cream on the scones. That way, the jam will seep into the scones, making them moist and moist.

    It mixes and the flavors create a fantastic harmony!

    Serpens looked at his own scones, which were neatly divided into layers, and Solertia''s, which was mixed with cream and jam and marinated and poured down from the top of the scones.

    Each person can take a different approach, but forcing it is a bit...

    Oh no~, I''m not forcing you, I''m just letting you know that this is the right way! So that you can enjoy it more deliciously!

    Respect Mr. Reseratus'' taste.

    I will However, it doesn''t seem right for me.

    Oh my gosh~! If you try this just once, you''ll know right away...

    It must have looked dirty.

    Looking at the pattern of Serpence, it''s acceptable to pretend that you can''t win, but isn''t it just as unacceptable as a yangban who eats hot dogs without spilling a drop of sauce?

    How about Mr. Shion? Which method looks more delicious?

    Yes? Me, me?

    Why did the arrow fly this way?

    Solertia suddenly asked a question towards me.

    He pretends not to, but Serpense also looks at this side with a curious expression throughout the year.

    ''Do you like Mom or Dad? Which came first, the chicken or the egg?''

    ''Do you like bubbly or squid? Jam or cream first?''

    I felt an indescribable pressure.

    ''Why on earth are you giving me such trials!''

    If there was a new Luxmea right in front of me, I wanted to grab it by the collar and even make a joke.

    Eyes resembling Serpence''s greenery and Solertia''s clear sky were looking at this side and urging for an answer.

    Neither of them had a choice, but I had to make a decision.

    ''If I can''t choose either, I''m on the third path!''

    I picked up a knife and spread the cream on the underside of the scones and put the jam on the top.

    He looked at Serpens and Solertia with a look of how they were. There was a deep hatred that could not be hidden in their eyes.

    Why, why! Why are you looking at me like that? Yes?!

    it''s nothing.

    Eww Wow .

    Serpens closed his eyes and turned his head. Solertia shook her head in shock.

    * * *

    Me and Serpens. There, the carriage carrying three people, including Solertia, stopped in front of the mansion.

    There were two people when we left, but there were three when we returned.

    ''Isn''t it a bit strange to say this?''

    Anyway, back.

    Unlike when we went down to the duchy, we were able to arrive around dinner thanks to our early departure.

    Lord Ribelon, you did a great job. You may rest for today.

    Thank you, Duke, you''ve got a good day too.

    Rest.

    It seems like you''ve had enough rest on the train, but it''s also different from resting at home.

    However, seeing Serpence''s gentle smile at my words to rest, he seemed unwilling to rest.

    Don''t be too late, go to bed early.

    How can I... yes, thank you for your concern.

    Serpens, who looked at me with complicated eyes for a moment, turned his gaze away.

    And Mr. Leseratus. Lord Rivelon.

    When you''re done with your meal, the maid will guide you to the room you''ll be staying in for a while.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    In appreciation of Solertia, he gave a light glance and headed towards the main building alone.

    Do you think the Duke is eating separately?

    Yeah, alone...

    You must be a little lonely.

    " Is that so?"

    For the past two days, the three of us ate a lot together, and as soon as we came back, we sat all alone and it was dreary.

    are you eating

    No matter how much Serpence is a professional hornbapler. Maybe that''s why it''s even more lonely?

    Duke, hold on a second!

    As he was about to pass the front door, he stopped and looked around.

    He couldn''t beckon his superior to come and go, so he ran up the stairs at the entrance of the mansion and faced Serpence waiting with a puzzled expression on his face.

    "Have you forgotten something?"

    The Duke also eats at the restaurant.

    How are you?"

    Yes?

    He opened his eyes wide as if surprised.

    Big, big-! Adviser. The Duke has authority, and that''s nonsense.

    When I turned my head to the sudden voice, I saw Hans coughing loudly and staring at him fiercely.

    No, since when did that gentleman exist?

    "But don''t you know the word "noblesse oblige"?

    You can also look at the bow, and eating alone is a bit wasteful of manpower .

    "Did you call it a waste of manpower to serve the Duke now?"

    Oh, I made a mistake.

    I grabbed it impulsively, so I didn''t think anyone would intervene in the middle. It lacked logic.

    You''re mistaken �[��! I''m just worried about the Duke eating alone...

    It seems that you don''t know the aide since it''s been a while since your new arrival, but the duke is a person who has done his best by himself. You don''t have to worry about that.

    It will.

    What if it''s a gogo and what if it''s a peacock? It''s not like being tough isn''t something to eat.

    ''Besides, I don''t know what I don''t know?!''

    I mean, how much knowledge do you really know about Serpence?

    When I look, I see that it is wrinkled in front of the pupa.

    Lord Rivelon.

    I was so angry that I opened my mouth to pour out, but Serpens raised his hand over here.

    was restrained

    As usual, he doesn''t show his true feelings. With a fake smile, he meets my eyes and slowly closes his eyes and opens them.

    As I looked at that face, my mind and body calmed down, even though he didn''t even have divine power.

    Do you think your face is hard on you over this?

    I am grateful for Lord Ribelon''s offer, but I am afraid that others in the position will feel burdened.

    Serpens spoke carefully.

    At that, Hans looked at me with a funny expression. I''ve been thinking about it since day one, but I really don''t like it.

    "However, the words of the sutras are also valid, so in the future, please prepare my meals in the same way as them."

    Hans''s expression contorted upon receiving his instructions.

    Even though we failed to eat together, from now on, at least, instead of the dull, dry food, there will be food suitable for human consumption.

    It was a pleasure talking to you.

    ''By the way, Hans, I mean, I don''t really get along with that yangban .''

    Looks like I''m going to hit it big someday.

 CH 20

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 20

    6. The Duke and the Imperial Palace Banquet (1)

    the next morning. When I got on the carriage going to the Imperial Palace, I realized once again that I had returned to my daily life.

    Did you eat well?

    Serpens nodded his head without saying a word with a very strange expression.

    Analyzing the meaning of that expression and staring intently at it, all of a sudden

    Serpens took out what looked like a diary from his pocket and handed it to him. three volumes too.

    ''what? Do you mean to keep a diary of Serpence observation?''

    After accepting it and staring blankly, Serpens chinked it as if to open it.

    As I was told, I looked at the contents... .

    Huh?! Isn''t this a novel?

    It''s kind of like the day when you first participated in the advisory meeting, a genius aide pretended to take notes and read it.

    "Hey, how do you know I want this!"

    A wave of emotion rushes in at the unexpected gift.

    No matter how exciting the advisory meeting is, the first hour can be boring. Just holding back the yawn was enough to make me feel embarrassed.

    But now that''s a thing of the past!

    Your Majesty is directly participating in today''s advisory meeting.

    Yes?

    Does the emperor''s attendance at the advisory council have anything to do with this gift?

    Come to think of it, I knew nothing about the emperor except that he loved his son very much.

    [Master of the Holy Sword] At the beginning of the play, he is an extra character who only appeared before Humanus left after being chosen by the Holy Sword and when he briefly returned to work with the dark house and Serpens.

    ''After that, he died with the fall of the empire.''

    Belatedly, Humanus arrived at the Imperial Palace.

    By that time, everything was already over.

    So he loved his family and lovers, his country and his people. Lost it all.

    ''At that time, did Humanus shed tears for the first and last time in the play.''

    Leading the party with a bright and cheerful appearance was the same as before, but at night, they struggled with longing for the past, regret and helplessness.

    Humanus is how immature he is.

    realized that it existed.

    He did not realize that his close friend was walking the wrong way.

    Had I known that, this tragedy would not have happened.

    Pushing him to recognize him, he did not try to find out who he really was.

    On a subject like that...

    He walked firmly and felt sad alone at his closed heart.

    The selfish self of the past was stupid and could not bear it.

    Humanus recalled his indecisiveness and fell into remorse.

    If only he had killed Serpens, so he hadn''t added power to the demon worshipers.

    He couldn''t shake the thought that the Empire might have survived until his return.

    He couldn''t break the resentment towards his close friend, and he lamented his own weakness that he couldn''t even cut off his life.

    So Humanus lost everything and cried.

    However, no matter how much I regretted the past, the past could not be turned back.

    All he could do was wield his sword.

    So, Humanus swung his sword, swung it, and swung it again.

    Go Almost cuts down the remnants. To save at least one more person.

    Cut off the welcome of a close friend. To make you even stronger.

    Cleave your own ghost. so that I can go further.

    Perhaps Humanus wanted to hear Serpence''s true intentions until the last moment.

    If you find out why he acted like that, wouldn''t he have been trying to make up for the regrets of the past?

    ''Or maybe he wanted to deny the tragedy caused by his mistake:''

    I wonder if there must have been some meaning in all of this

    It may not have been that he had a better option, but that he wanted to believe that this was the best option.

    if not either.

    Because the only fragment left to Humanus, whose past relationships and memories had completely disappeared, was Serpens.

    Maybe he just wanted to hold on to him somehow.

    '' Then, he''s also really bad at making friends.''

    Anyway, for that reason, I don''t know much about the emperor, but according to Sion''s memory, he seems to be quite a holy gun.

    Since the Holy Lumen Empire is a segregated society, it is a conflict between successive emperors and popes.

    Although there was a bit of tomb, it is said that the period is moderately well-balanced.

    ''Well, God himself predicted disaster until he sent down the holy sword. It is blasphemy to fight and fight each other in the Holy Empire, not anywhere else.''

    To prepare for the catastrophe caused by the demons, they joined forces to raise an army and prepare a temple.

    ''Because of the serpens attached to the devil''s camp, I was defeated individually before I even tried to use it properly.''

    Come to think of it, what are the demon worshipers doing?

    The question is likely to arise as to whether or not he was holding his hand.

    ''You just want to look like a bunch of nerds?''

    It''s not just one or two years, it''s been 25 years before the Holy Sword chooses its owner.

    If so, what are they doing to give them time to prepare for disaster without quickly summoning the Demon King or anything?

    ''But according to the worldview written by the author of [Master of the Holy Sword]... .''

    This land is a single continent called Canaan.

    is said to consist of Of course, there are several large and small islands, but that is out of the question.

    The place where Canaan exists is called the ''central world'' because the demon realm, the heavenly realm, and the spirit realm revolve around this place.

    Spirit hulls that rotate at a certain distance in the innermost part]. Outside that, the demon realm and the heavenly realm revolve in elliptical orbits.

    The problem is that they form a scissor shape across each other''s orbits, not in the same direction.

    It is natural that the closer the dimension, the greater the interference.

    The demon worshipers were waiting for it. It was perfect to be subjugated if you ran wild when your strength was vague like now.

    ''Can''t even summon the devil yet?''

    One year after the selection of the Holy Sword, the devil appeared, starting with the dark district.

    anyway. This is a wonderful time for demon worshipers.

    The demon realm and the heavenly realm are placed in a straight line, and the heavenly realm is completely obscured by the demon realm.

    to lose There could be no better time to summon the Demon King.

    ''That''s why I''m waiting especially cautiously.''

    Coming back to the main topic, today, we are going to discuss this month''s schedule and new legislation, along with a monthly report on each territory.

    So, don''t get caught in the middle of drowsiness, and read a book quietly.

    It was not prepared for me, but it must have been prepared for my own image.

    But it''s an important issue or something to take note of...

    I''ll take care of all of that, Lord Rivelon, it''s enough just to stay awake.

    Serpens shook his head and emphasized it again and again.

    How the hell are you doing this because the advisory council is boring? Or are you ignoring me?

    I personally focused on the latter, but the moment the advisory council started and the emperor opened his mouth.

    I put my tongue out at Serpence''s cleverness, pulled out a novel and opened it.

    ''That''s enough for just a lullaby!''

    Not long after the Emperor started speaking], the commissioners and aides already looked exhausted.

    Still, seeing how they try to write down these things is so... .

    ''If you have a bad head, your body is suffering, but Serpens''s brain is good, so my body is comfortable!''

    I started to read, flicking the fountain pen that had not even opened the lid. It''s a fantasy world, isn''t it?

    General literature is also exciting like a fantasy novel.

    The book read more quickly than I expected. at last

    After reading all three books, the meeting was over only when I read half of the first book again.

    As soon as Serpens got on the carriage, he started to organize what was mentioned in today''s meeting and write it down in his notebook.

    It writes well without any blockage.

    "Did you memorize the entire meeting?"

    Ummm... Sadly, I''m not that great of a person.

    "Then what are you writing now?"

    "Remember the keywords you wrote down during the meeting.

    I''m going to copy it in half and organize it.

    By the way, I would like to add, that during meetings there is a lot of discussion and there is a tendency to be somewhat haphazard, so this is neat?

    Even if it''s not a perfect memory ability, that''s already too much of an overflowing genius.

    To do such a ghastly thing without any hesitation and to say that you are not good enough.

    He ascended to heaven, but he is nowhere to be found.

    Eww , the back bone.

    Suddenly, a feeling of warmth all over his body turned and when he looked at Serpence, he was also awakening divine power.

    " What are you doing?"

    Since Lord Rivelon looks very tired.

    "Not because of you, but because of the Duke?"

    As I grumbled with my mouth open, he responded by tilting his head.

    And tomorrow evening there will be a banquet at the Imperial Palace.

    A banquet?

    Yeah, you can think of this as a monthly event too. You think you''ll like it?

    You just saw it, I love it!

    "I thought so," Serpens nodded.

    I don''t like the simple me, who clearly knows that I''m going to turn a horse, but I feel better again quickly.

    ''Of course, a banquet is like a buffet with a full course of delicious food, isn''t it?''

    From appetizers to desserts. Completely full course!

    It''s like an all-you-can-eat restaurant. I used to go there a lot with my friends, but for a buffet like a family restaurant, my sister sometimes took her with me.

    It''s not that I haven''t had a girlfriend in my entire life, but it''s all about dating briefly when I was in high school.

    When I was a student, it was too burdensome to spend tens of thousands of won per person on one meal.

    ''At least, I want to go eat all of my sister''s idleness at home,

    They took me with me because I was too lazy to wash and dress up. .''

    Because I was 5 years old, I was bullied a lot, but I also loved him a lot.

    Since my parents are dual-income, my older sister took care of me most of the time.

    So, it seems that I was greatly influenced by my personality and way of thinking.

    '' I miss you all.''

    I was excited about the banquet for only a moment, but thinking of my family and friends makes me depressed again.

    And then I suddenly feel better... .

    " Duke?"

    Suddenly you look depressed again.

    It is a subject that cannot even face one''s own emotions, and is well aware of the ups and downs of other people''s emotions and possesses divine power.

    No, no!''

    It feels like I''ve become a manic-depressive patient when I''m feeling bad and then getting better. What the hell is this doing?

    This time, it''s not the Duke''s fault, it''s because I have something to think about for a while.

    "Can I do more?"

    No, that''s it!

    It''s a little creepy to see that emotions are forcibly changed by intention.

    That''s not the kind of moody or exhilarating kind of thing.

    It only calms the unstable psychological state, but it is somehow reluctant.

    ''Should I say it''s like a drug without side effects? Or an immediate-acting tranquilizer?''

    There are no withdrawal symptoms, and unless you are hurt or depressed, there is no effect in normal times.

    There is no excess though. No matter how good a drug is, it is poisonous if taken in excess.

    If this repeats itself, just like a depressed patient depends on a tranquilizer.

    It will become difficult to endure even insignificant things, and you will end up relying on it.

    '' what? The more I think about it, the more dangerous it seems to me?''

    Can you say that this has no side effects?

    Rather, there are no withdrawal symptoms, so the thought that I can quit at any time makes me fall in love even more.

    "Duke, if you just have divine power, can you do it all?"

    "It looks simple, but it''s a delicate job . It''s a technical issue rather than the amount of divine power, so there will be only about 10 people on the continent who can do it."

    Aren''t you overusing such advanced technology too much?

    Because it was so comfortable to use as if it were breathing, I thought it was just a characteristic of the divine power. So I thought I could just blow it in, but how often did I use it... if?

    '' Wait, is that so?''

    I tried to shake off any thoughts that ran through my mind for a moment. I feel like I know something I shouldn''t know.

    "Would you like more?"

    No, that''s it! Unless you''re hurt enough to need treatment, or if I didn''t ask for it. You''ll be limping in the future]! Don''t infuse me with divine power.

    In the future, the use of serpentine tranquilizers and anti-fatigue drugs will be completely banned.

    Why is that?

    It''s hard to explain right now... Anyway, if you want to check if it''s true black magic, at least I won''t be depressed].

    I want you to ask and do it.

    Serpens made a face that he couldn''t understand the meaning.

 CH 21

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 21

    6. The Duke and the Imperial Palace Banquet (2)

    Even if there was a banquet in the evening, I had to work during the day.

    That''s why I had to head to Serpence''s office in the morning and after lunch.

    As usual, let''s knock on the office door, and Serpense''s

    "Come, come! Come in!"

    Isn''t it your voice?

    Unlike Serpense, who is not very calm, it has a lively and refreshing voice.

    came to

    It''s the first time I''ve heard of a voice, so when I open the door in hopes of someone else, I see a strong colored headband.

    Reddish gold... I should say. Is it just the color of the goldfish you raised as a child?

    Are you Sefi''s new assistant?

    Ah, maybe His Majesty the Crown Prince ?

    As far as I know, in [Master of the Holy Sword], only Humanus called Serpens Sephi.

    ''In the original work, what color was it referring to as red-yellow or orange-gold?

    When I went... .''

    With the blue-silver haircut Serpens, the difference between the two is very stark.

    It''s not just the hair color.

    Serpence is a neutral beauty with a soft feeling that fits the expression "beautiful", while Humanus is a handsome man with a thick line that suits the expression of good-looking.

    "Oh? I know you well. Have you ever seen me anywhere?"

    I heard that the Duke and His Majesty are close, so I took a picture.

    Yeah, I''m very close with Sepi! Hey, what do you know?

    Serpence, seen behind Humanus, is absolutely not.

    Of course, as soon as Humanus looked back, it turned into a smile as if it had ever been.

    It was kind of strange to see the two of them, who were always aiming their swords at each other in the original work, doing that.

    "Actually, that guy, even if he looks like that, he doesn''t have any friends other than me. Am I playing around with him?"

    As if telling a secret, with your hands

    Covering his mouth, he giggles at an audible level and speaks playfully.

    If it were a normal friend for such an act, they would have quarreled and joked about it, refusing or even swearing.

    Serpens just smiled mischievously.

    Did you see it? It''s not funny. That''s why I''m the only friend.

    As you know, our Duke is very shy, isn''t it? There''s nothing we can do about it.

    I shrug my shoulders and speak eloquently, and Humanus giggles and pats me on the shoulder.

    Hahaha! A pretty funny guy came in, right? Do you like it?

    Yeah, I think I''ll get along well with Your Majesty!

    It''s actually more fun to play with a group of people than to play alone.

    It was pretty fun when you and Solertia played together on the train, right?

    Humanus is a good mood maker. Moreover, he is also a kind person to Serpens.

    Except for the fact that he is the main character of the original, the person who should be made an ally

    Water is number one.

    Okay, okay. This is the present I prepared for you!

    As if secretly handing over a village, Humanus poked the copper next to me with a roll of paper.

    When I accepted it and unfolded it, it was a letter of appointment.

    ''You''re giving me something like this?''

    It''s absurd, but there''s nothing I can''t understand when I think of Hugh Manus''s personality, who likes a sense of authority and pretentiousness.

    Overwhelm the crowd when necessary

    Although he shows some charisma, he is basically a lively and free spirit.

    ''Should I say that I get a lot of affection... ?''

    If Serpens were respected by people for their incomparable sanctity, Humanus attracted people''s hearts with their friendly and pleasant image.

    Viscount Shion, I''m not a good friend, but I''ll take good care of you in the future.

    He patted me on the shoulder, pretending to be solemn.

    Are you doing this in front of a friend? Description of the beginning of the novel, when the atmosphere was still bright

    It was much more playful than that.

    Don''t worry about that, and I hope you will visit often and play with our duke.

    If I have the time, I would like to do that too...

    The expression on Humanus''s expression as he said that was filled with regret. Contrary to his actions like Hyolyang, he seems to be quite busy due to his position as Crown Prince.

    Unlike Serpens, who misses all social gatherings with various excuses, Humanus will be attending every day to gather his people in case he becomes emperor.

    In addition to that, he must be helping the emperor and watching some of the state affairs.

    By the way, Sepi, you picked an aide to your liking! The former aide was... No, I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to say it in front of you. I made a mistake.

    ''''No, that''s fine.

    Perhaps he thought it was not polite to tell Serpens about the dead aide, so Humanus stopped talking in the middle with a sorry expression and immediately apologized.

    ''What the hell was the former aide like, how is everyone talking about the former aide?''

    I don''t know, but Hans must have been strict, citing principles and principles like that yangban.

    "More than that, did your Majesty come here because of my appointment?"

    About a quarter or so? I was curious about what kind of person he was at the same time.

    it would be

    The number of people equal to each of the Crown Princes is only the Viscount. He had never even heard of a story that he would come directly to someone else''s aide.

    "I thought I would only see you at the dinner party later."

    At my words, Humanus kicked his tongue saying that Serpens had a hard time getting along with old nobles when he went to a banquet and only talked about difficult things.

    "It would be much more fun to be with a younger generation like me."

    Young girls are the only people you hang out with, aren''t they?

    "Hahaha, I''m so popular! I''m sorry, is it hard for Sepi to intervene?"

    I know that he has a fiancee, but I wondered if it would be okay, but he is a person who wears a harem while traveling to save the world.

    It''s a polygamous society, so I guess I can''t give my dog a habit.

    Serpens are harder to break in than that, what are you talking about?

    "Did the Duke have trouble with women?"

    At least when I was with Solertia, I didn''t feel that way at all. When I asked Humanus with such a question, his expression became subtle.

    Sir Zion, do you not know?

    Lord Ribelon is somewhat unconstrained by common sense, and tends to be free.

    Behind the figure of Humanus looking at me with a surprised expression, Serpens with a disgusted expression can be seen.

    Still, it was even more disgusting to pretend to somehow pretend to be ignorant without forgetting my own settings.

    Sir Zion, listen carefully.

    Yes Yes?!

    Humanus looked into my eyes with a serious expression and gave me luck.

    "Your qualifications as the master of the holy sword. Do you know?"

    A god born in the year the holy sword appeared

    power holder... right?"

    Other than that?

    Other than that, there is the condition of Iran with the strongest divine power, but this will be broken.

    It''s not known yet, but I''m not saying this at this time.

    ''''Do you know that priests of the Luxmea Church cannot marry?

    It knows.

    Even at the end of the original story, through the journey of Humanus, she got the nickname ''Saint''.

    So was Liena G. Preclarus.

    She chose Humanus over the chance to become the youngest cardinal.

    This applies regardless of position or gender within the denomination. Was there an incident where the Pope suddenly excommunicated himself for falling in love?

    For that reason, it is said that it was not usually a fuss to select a new pope in a hurry.

    ''At that time, I thought it was a device to maximize Liena''s love for Humanus and passed it on... .''

    I think that divine power is a genetic factor.

    Does this work a lot?

    Occasionally, they appear out of the blue, such as atavism or mutations, but they are very rare.

    Either way, whether you marry or not, the divine power that you have is not disappearing, nor does entering a temple without marriage create a new divine power.

    I don''t know why God Luxmea made such a rule.

    ''If you want to be the closest to yourself, you mean you have to cut ties with the world, what is it?''

    If that''s the case, I shouldn''t have made the genetic trait stand out.

    Anyway, for that reason, the great nobles of the Empire continued the dynasty of divine power from generation to generation, and at least one child must be returned to the Church.

    Except, of course, when there is no other person to inherit the family, like Serpens.

    Is that so...?

    In the novel [Master of the Holy Sword], Humanus carried as many as four lovers, and never crossed the line.

    seeing it,

    [*Caution* This novel strictly complies with all user review regulations.]

    [Are you saying you don''t know? No need to check, it''s just that the main character wants to go big]

    [Everyone, don''t be too much like that. TTTLT The writer is Mosol, so only the main character does a good job, so he''s doing that because his stomach hurts. Let the poor person have your sympathy.]

    There was a comment like that... . By the way, I agree with the last comment.

    Anyway, is it going to be connected like this?

    That''s why I can''t even marry Rainier...

    Here, Rainier is engaged to Humanus.

    It refers to the woman, Rainier T. Opulence.

    By the way, when you see it being said like that, it means that anyone who has a case should protect it... Am I right?

    Did Humanus speak like a stranger before?

    "Is the engagement okay?"

    Ah, it''s clear who will be chosen anyway. It is said that marriage ban is just an unwritten rule, but other than that... who will protect that?

    He looked at Serpens with pitiful eyes and said.

    Even Serpence was the one who would become the master of the Holy Sword, but he did not receive any special position.

    On the other hand, Humanus was crowned Crown Prince. If you had the Holy Sword in mind, you should have postponed that too.

    Everyone has no doubt that Serpens will become the master of the Holy Sword anyway, so they must be completely paying attention to the Holy Sword.

    ''Maybe even the Day of Choice isn''t regarded as a day when you have to be bothered to attend the temple, don''t you?

    By the way, even though Humanus is the Crown Prince, why does he make him age that old?

    When I asked if he was not married, it must have been something like this.

    ''But even a humanus who speaks like that".''

    Serpens had a reason for that, but Humanus also has a fianc��e whom he loves who has been confirmed to be married. .

    ''By the way, Rainier''s celebrity name is tenacia. stubborn, stubborn)?''

    She is also a holy sword holder born on the day of the holy sword, and is a candidate for the master of the holy sword.

    Since she was an upright, inflexible woman, it''s safe to assume that she is observing all the rules.

    However, Humanus has a Casanova temperament, and it seems that he is popular with many young girls at banquets just by hearing the conversation we talked about earlier... .

    ''Are you going to be caught by Rainie?''

    A reader once asked the author of [Master of the Holy Sword], ''So, which of the four female protagonists is the woman that Humanus loves the most?''

    and the author,

    [All four of us love equally. But if I had to choose among the five, would it be Rainie, my dead fiancee?]

    was the answer.

    Besides, Humanus was very weak to the woman he loved. Maybe it''s just that she''s accommodating her stubbornness?

    After all, it''s just a home.

    ''But put it face to face'' Sir, are you a virgin? What if?'' can''t you ask?''

    If Humanus, who pretends to be experienced after poking for nothing, thinks and strikes impulsively, and does not receive the choice of the Holy Sword, the continent will perish.

    If you ask me, after the day of choice

    launch.

    ''If it''s really still, you''ll have to laugh out loud!''

    Of course I am still... .

    In any case, it seems that Serpens and Solertia were not so calm on the train because of those conditions.

    The ''alone'' that Solertia was talking about was referring directly to me and her.

    Serpence looked at me with filthy eyes, probably misunderstood that I had strange thoughts about her.

    Why isn''t this in the original?

    Thank you so much, you are turning people into garbage!''

    Or, if even Zion''s memory had completely become mine, this would not have happened.

    It feels like a dictionary made out of a paper book, so unless you think about looking it up yourself, it doesn''t come to mind right away.

    There is an advantage that I did not lose my identity thanks to that, but the thread is very painful.

    ''By the way, in the first place, it has to do with the Holy Sword. Are you sure?''

    The one with the strongest holy power is the holy sword

    Is it wrong to assume that you are chosen by

    ''You have to be able to believe it... .''

    In any case, Humanus left, saying that my fiancee''s escort was there, so I had to go first.

    "By the way, don''t you have an ideal type for the Duke?"

    I''m not really interested.

    The two of Humanus left], suddenly curious, asked Serpens.

    The quick-response, which is very skillful, definitely feels like a prepared statement.

    The vending machine will be slower than that!

    Isn''t it real? It''s like Young-ae, whom I secretly have in my heart, or it''s just a look that I want to be my taste.

    Never.

    Still, I can see the opposite sex, isn''t it the first thing you see?

    A warm heart and

    Don''t be such a pretentious answer!

    Face?

    really?

    Even if it wasn''t about the holy sword, the thought that Serpense might have been a single mother passed through his mind.

    But if you think otherwise, your face

    Because it''s so good, the average level won''t even go unnoticed.

    ''Is it the right situation to consider first?''

    If you look at his face all day and suddenly look in the mirror in the bathroom, you are surprised at how ugly he looks.

    I understand enough.

    " Among all the women you''ve seen, have you ever said that you''re a bit prettier or that you look a little better than others?"

    "Everyone is alike."

    Haha, just looking in the mirror, there are three beautiful beauties in the heavenly world.

    ''Ҷ... he probably won''t.

    From my point of view, the human route seems hopeless unless you quickly stop and take the elf route, or intercept one of the upcoming female protagonists.

 CH 22

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 22

    6. The Duke and the Imperial Palace Banquet (3)

    More than that, let''s all enjoy the banquet. Heh heh heh.

    When the boring emperor''s opening speech was over, thunderous applause and cheers poured in.

    As the applause gradually faded, the orchestra started playing to fill the sound.

    The emperor sat side by side with the empress on a splendid chair on the podium.

    The Emperor''s unbridled voice

    Thinking... . Is Humanus'' powerful voice hereditary? I''ve never heard of it.''

    On behalf of the emperor and his wife, the banquet began in earnest when Crown Prince Humanus danced for the first time with his fiancee, Rainie.

    Duke Prasidus! How are you!

    A slender muscular man who looked like his tailcoat was about to explode at any moment, pretending to know Serpens.

    Count Kertu Pg Nuto, a standing member of the Advisory Council.

    Even without a baptismal name

    As you can see, Count Pgnuto was a family that did not possess divine power, which was rare for a great aristocrat.

    Count Pgnuto was a case in which he was awarded the title for his achievements through war long ago.

    Since he was not born with divine power, he realized Auror through pure training and achieved martial arts by building it up through practice.

    Auror is a more subversive force than divine power.

    Even if it condenses divine power, Aurors have the upper hand in pure destructive power.

    Therefore, in the case of a war between humans, the right side was more advantageous than the divine power if the auxiliary aspect was excluded.

    ''I guess the main villain is the devil and their worshipers... .''

    Also, divine power is the best in this world.

    If it''s the only downside, is it that the innate limitations are clear?

    The divine power gradually increases as the years pass without much effort. Then, when it reaches a certain point, growth stops.

    The amount of automatic growth and the point at which growth stops varies from person to person.

    However, depending on the amount of divine power that was possessed from birth, it is possible to estimate.

    ''That is, the greater the amount of innate divine power, the more advantageous it is.''

    If you are born with the size of an ant, you will end up with ants for the rest of your life.

    Of course, like other abilities, it can be developed through enlightenment, but enlightenment does not come regularly once a month.

    ''Isn''t this neighborhood god too much of a favoritism?''

    On the other hand, although natural talent cannot be ruled out, Aurors have the advantage of being able to grow as much as they want with effort.

    For this reason, it is said that if the divine power is too vaguely innate, it is often thrown away and trained in Auror.

    Long time no see, Count Pgnuto. I heard that your son was getting married last week. It''s late, but congratulations.

    Haha! Thank you! It''s crazy!

    What was it? I wonder if it''s time for me to step back... .

    No, the Count has yet to make this correction. What do you mean? I wanted to attend too, but unfortunately I''m busy with work...

    As Serpens said, the Pgnuto bag was extremely correct.

    A little gray hair stood out on his head, but the muscles wriggling clearly beyond the tailcoat were unusual.

    A visual that makes you look like you''re tearing up your shirt right away and shouting ''Let''s get a match!''

    all.

    I understand! Well, if you still want to apologize, can I ask you to play a match?

    Wasn''t it just the visuals?

    Now that I see it, it seems that it has been approached for that purpose from the beginning.

    When I heard that the surname ''Pgnuto'' was familiar, I applied for a battle with Serpens... Rather, it was interest that suggested active participation in the advisory council.

    Yes, please visit the duke''s house sometime.

    Serpens gladly accepted.

    Then, even tomorrow!

    "This month, because of the subjugation, I have a lot of schedules ."

    "Oh, ah-ah! Sure. I forgot for a moment."

    If it''s a subjugation, is it the Volta Mountains?

    Most of the monsters are trapped in the Volta Mountains where the Holy Barrier is placed. The reason is that the magic cores stagnating under the Volta Mountains continue to create monsters.

    Occasionally, it was created artificially by the actions of black magicians, or

    It is sometimes summoned from the ground, but that is outside of the paddy field.

    There was no magic core from the beginning.

    Originally, weak magic was spreading across the continent.

    It is said that a certain mad warlock absorbed them all and condensed them together to become a new demon king.

    ''For that reason, was it the setting that monsters that were naturally occurring throughout the continent could only be created in the Volta Mountains?''

    Instead, it is said that they are stronger than before, have higher intelligence, and have a sense of unity.

    you

    As a result, I don''t know if it worked or not.

    Anyway, the warlock was executed by the previous master of the holy sword.

    It is said that the owner of the previous holy sword spread a barrier across the mountain range with the power of the holy sword, and the church is currently managing it.

    However, if the monsters keep multiplying, the barrier will be impacted, so it is said that you have to enter the barrier at regular intervals and thin out the number of individuals appropriately... .

    See if the schedule is within this month.

    all.

    "Then, will you be okay during the next month?"

    You''ll know once it''s done, but I think it''ll be fine.

    Serpence replied today with a great pretentious smile.

    I thought I had accepted it with pleasure earlier, but I thought for a moment that maybe it wasn''t.

    However, Count Pgnuto didn''t even think about it, so he moved to enjoy the banquet with a very satisfied expression.

    Then I''ll see you at the next advisory meeting!

    When the huge Count Pgnuto, who was over 2m tall, disappeared, the nobles of the scholarly style flocked to surround Serpens.

    The momentum was so strong that when I woke up, I found myself falling apart from Serpens without realizing it.

    At a glance, it seemed to be discussing the commentary published this time, ''Interpretation of Theology from a Magical Perspective''.

    '' What do you mean? I''m just a buffet

    You should enjoy it.''

    Now that this has happened, I transferred various foods to the plate with the desire to fill my stomach.

    Looking around, I could see the color of Humanus'' goldfish hair in the distance. He was dancing with a young girl with her light brown hair up high.

    ''By the way, Lenny is a blonde, isn''t he?''

    It was clear that it was a different young girl.

    The performance has changed and Humanus, who has returned to his fiancee, is greeted by her with a nonchalant expression.

    However, as soon as the hem of Rainier''s long dress lightly covered Humanus'' feet, he sees him flinch.

    I think I stepped on the instep with the heel of my shoe.

    Nevertheless, Humanus looked down at her with eyes that seemed to be cute and lovable in that jealousy.

    Maybe a jealousy-inducing operation, or something like that?

    ''Then I''m hooked in one room... . 1

    Still, there are four candidates in the future.

    There will be more though. The guy who has it does it better.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], Liena was the first wife... .

    Will Rennie be able to keep her place? Her suffering is expected.

    Sir Zion Ribelon?

    As I was cheering for Rainier while sipping whiskey, I suddenly heard someone calling.

    Looking back in wonder, it was the assistant to the Duke of Argento, whom I often saw at the advisory council.

    Yes, what''s going on? Sir Nerus Falbhum.

    Actually, I''m not the one to memorize the name of the aide.

    However, Serpens had informed me in advance that it would be better to memorize his name even if the other aides didn''t know about it earlier in the carriage.

    When I reacted as if I remembered his name, Sir Falsum looked very satisfied.

    How about joining us, Lord Rivelon?

    Lord Armsom is behind him

    pointed to the crowd. These are the faces I saw at the advisory meeting.

    ''It''s like an aides meeting... ?''

    By the way, I called her by her full name before, but this time she only called her last name. It must have been for the purpose of checking if he remembered his full name after seeing my reaction.

    If it had been awkward, it would have been territorial. Serpence, nice assist!

    Nice to meet you, my name is Zion Rivelon, Duke Prasidus'' assistant.

    As soon as they join their horde,

    In case there is another guy like Breath, I introduced myself first.

    I started by introducing myself first, so they continued to introduce who they were and who they were.

    For now, I''ll just memorize the last name roughly, and then I''ll have to ask Serpens if there''s such a thing as an aide''s directory.

    By the way, I never imagined that I would meet Lord Ribelon at the Imperial Palace. Even the Duke Prasidus''s aide...,,

    It''s a very rude speech. What else is this bastard?

    I wondered if I was acquainted with Shion, so I tried to search through my memories, but nothing came to mind.

    As I stare with my eyes wide open as if I don''t understand the English language, the dirty-looking aide who just opened his mouth frowns.

    Ha! Don''t you remember? I saw you in an interview with Count Discolus''s aide group.

    Where Zion must have dropped one or two places, how many times can he remember the faces of the people he interviewed with each time?

    I previously referred to myself as the Count of Discholus.

    Considering what I introduced as an aide, I was told that I fell and I was attached.

    ''Now that I appear as the duke''s assistant, can it be considered that my stomach is twisted and I am arguing?''

    It''s really childish.

    According to Shion''s memory, although the Discolus family was a central noble, they did not have any significant strengths or characteristics. It seems that he was just such a count.

    Of course, the Rivelon family, who could not even advance to the center, cannot be beaten, but if I borrow the power of Serpens, my breath is stronger.

    ''Still, arguing in front of others... .''

    I don''t know how Shi-on did the interview, so I don''t know if that guy also failed the interview.

    I''m sorry. It was my first time doing a group interview, so I was very nervous. I''ll definitely remember it next time. So...

    This is Mentalitas Tustor.

    Oh, I''m sorry. It''s hard to remember everyone because there are so many people, Baron Tustor Jun.

    I didn''t even care about you,

    At the nuance of saying that even this moment is being pushed back from the priority list, Sir Tustor... .

    No, even the title of ''-Kyung'' is not worth it. Tustor trembled and forced a smile.

    I understand. If you have a bad memory, that might be the case, Baron Rivelon Jun.

    Hey, the Crown Prince personally came and took the throne in person during the daytime. It seems that you haven''t heard the news yet?

    Tustor''s face flushed red.

    envious? yes it would be embarrassing I

    It seems like this place you are in is just yours.

    Not surprisingly, he''s the guy who remembers every guy who failed in a group interview. He must be the kind of person who feels superior while looking down on others.

    ''Then why are you arguing in the first place and making me childish?''

    The guy you thought was worse than you turned out to be great and is acting horribly, so you''ll be very upset.

    Congratulations on your congratulations, Sir Rivelon. No, what do I call you Viscount now?

    "Ah~ Why are you like this, Viscount Palsum? With all the same aides . It was just ''Sir''."

    Laughing with me and eight breath wonder haha ha ha. As I pretended to be humble, the other aides also congratulated me on the conferment of my title.

    Tustor said, ''On the topic of the luck of the first baron... !'' he murmured, but was soon overshadowed by the voices of the three other aides.

 CH 23

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 23

    6. The Duke and the Imperial Palace Banquet (4)

    After that, we gilded the boss we served, or gave or received it, giving or receiving it in response.

    Meanwhile, Tustor was completely excluded from the conversation.

    Not long ago, our bag; ..

    By the way, I heard that an iron mine was discovered in the Countess of Ferrarius a while ago.

    "Has the news already spread like that?

    Hahaha, thanks to you, your work has increased so much."

    It was very bright for the face of a person who said that his work had increased.

    Rather, Tustor''s speechless face looked similar to that of my mourner, who was struggling with being buried in the mountains of papers in Prasidus.

    I heard that Prince Prasidus recently entered the scroll production business...

    It''s just an investment, an investment! It''s still open.

    "But it seems that most of them are income or depend on the horse tower.

    it''s a part In particular, a proper magic scroll is difficult to find even if you have money, isn''t it?"

    In the case of Magic Tower, magic reagents and scrolls are produced in order to generate stable profits, but only a limited quantity is always sold.

    It cannot be said that there is no purpose of price control, but this is a matter of the characteristics of most wizards.

    Dig into magic itself academically, realize its rationale, and develop your own abilities.

    New magic items that were never before

    I was very interested in creating and developing new fields.

    On the other hand, in the case of scrolls and magic reagent production, the research process is accompanied at the beginning, but .

    ''Basically, it''s just simple labor.''

    If only the reagents were purified, the formulation could be passed on to the disciples, but the scroll is not good.

    For that reason, the only cases where I fall for the scroll crafting industry are when I''m a geek, my mana sensitivity is low, or I need a rush.

    ''The latter two have no pride, so they are often made with a blow, so sometimes misfires happen?''

    Solertia fell under the previous two. If you''re a geek and have low mana sensitivity.

    The innate sensitivity to mana was not very good, but fortunately, he preferred to analyze the existing magic academically and apply it to enchant the scroll.

    It''s a talent. Serpens also recognized it, so it goes without saying.

    I don''t know because I don''t have enough knowledge, but according to the Duke''s words, I think I''m quite capable.

    Oh, if only Prince Prasidus said that...

    "I should also tell my marquis in advance. When will we start taking orders?"

    Once you secure a spare amount to keep in the store, you have to search for a store location...

    It was like, unintentionally, before they even got to the site of Solertia''s shop, they made a sale.

    At this rate, word of mouth is spreading throughout the capital even before the store even opens.

    ''Aren''t popular items sold out in one day?''

    If you don''t know, I''ll tell you in advance.

    Although the dormitory is in the same building, it is probably not polite to visit late at night.

    ''Would it be better to visit tomorrow after dinner after work?''

    After talking for a while, eating simple things like finger food, one or two people were called by their superiors and left.

    I also got a call from Serpens and said goodbye to them.

    In particular, he did not forget to smile at Tustor once.

    "Did the Duke have anything to eat?"

    I''ll be resting on the terrace over there.

    I am the master of Serpens in this district.

    ''You probably haven''t eaten that horse yet, so you''re telling me to bring it yourself?''

    I looked around and saw the assistant who was called out first.

    They were also diligently packing and moving food to suit their superiors'' tastes.

    Everyone was talking, so they sat at the prepared table at the edge of the banquet hall and started eating in earnest.

    ''I don''t know what Serpence likes yet, so let''s take a look... .''

    In both hands, Serpens had a plate of food worth eating and a plate of snacks for me to eat when I was getting full.

    The door to the terrace he pointed to earlier

    As I stood in front of him and called him, I heard a rattling sound through the opaque glass.

    It must have been that he had locked himself up, waiting for someone to follow him.

    The door soon opened, and Serpens took the plate. Then, in a small voice, he whispered, ''It''s a drink, and immediately closed it.

    ''. .Does this make you feel nauseous?

    While I was proud of the growth of Serpence, who now takes care of even drinks, I felt strangely uneasy as I remembered my older sister who made errands for me to eat.

    ''Still, you''re doing serpenes with a paycheck, aren''t you?''

    I comforted myself in that way.

    After standing in front of the door again, holding a glass of wine and whiskey in each hand, I was finally able to enter the cow terrace.

    No, what kind of terrace is this?''

    Both sides are blocked by walls, and the roof is also covered.

    Only the front has a balustrade, so it''s just a small room with a terrace in its name.

    Except for being attached to the ground, Terra

    It did not have any elements of a living room, so this place was neither a terrace nor a balcony nor a veranda or anything.

    ''Hey, it''s perfect for telling secrets or taking bribes!''

    If you keep your voice on the outside and lower your voice, you won''t know what you''re talking about even if you die.

    Now Serpense was not outside, but was sitting facing the banquet hall.

    There seems to be some dispute, what''s going on?

    The plate he served as his share

    As if I had emptied everything, Serpens picked up the cookies on my plate and threw them indifferently.

    Can I bring you some, Duke?

    No, you don''t need it.

    Anyway, I was just bored with my mouth, so I just ate it.

    I just pushed the plate towards the serpent so that I could eat comfortably, so the person who said I didn''t need it must have already gone home.

    All that remains in front of me is a man who picks up a fork, cuts a piece of cake and puts it in his mouth.

    Yes, eat a lot of sweets and secrete a lot of serotonin.

    There was a person I had previously interviewed for a certain count''s aide. Well, it wasn''t a big deal. Just jealousy?

    If you look at Lord Rivelon, there are many close friends, but they seem to make good enemies as well.

    "Is the Duke also involved in that close person?"

    ...even if you don''t force yourself to be friendly with someone you don''t like, it''s good to be careful about being too hostile.

    My question was lightly chewed, but

    Does not answering mean positive?

    Instead of answering, it feels like he cares about me and gives advice... .

    I''m telling you in case you misunderstood, I''m not worried, I''m saying don''t make me worry about useless things.

    Isn''t that what you''re worried about or concerned about?

    It''s different. There''s a lot of attention around here, so you can''t keep your hands on your feet, right?

    Serpence just cut it off and denied it.

    I''m sure the aide caused an accident

    Otherwise, his position as a superior would be in trouble.

    Still, you''re saying that if something happens, they''ll take care of you too, right? When Serpence is in the background, there is nothing scary in the world!

    I''m not saying I''m going to cover anything up, so be careful.

    " Do you even read your thoughts?"

    Serpens looks at me with pathetic eyes.

    It seems like you see that expression at least once a day these days, but why?

    Sir Rivelon''s expression is so good.

    run out. It would be good to fix that in the future."

    It''s not always me, right? It''s in front of the Duke, so it''s easy.

    "Where did the courtesy to your superiors go?"

    You left that on the train going down to the Duchy. Did you already forget that?

    One word is like running water:

    "Isn''t the Duke also starting to feel comfortable with me?"

    At those words, Serpens seems to have stopped.

    Then he sighed heavily.

    To tell you the truth, I''m not at all comfortable.

    Yes? Why?

    It''s very unfamiliar to me to be honest about my thoughts or to try not to be conscious of making facial expressions.

    It''s a little sad to see him stroking his lips with his hand as if trying to check his own expression.

    You have to make an effort not to make up your face. How the hell has he been living for so long and with so many lies?

    thank you?

    It''s not that I was influenced by your past words, or that I''m working for it.

    I thank you for your hard work, so when I say thank you, Serpens looks at me with an expression that wonders what kind of nonsense it is.

    ''But why is everyone making such an effortless expression?''

    Is this my fault? I just heard the story, so I can''t say anything.

    If you find out that it''s a fun thing in the world you mentioned last time... Responsibility

    From the thought that he might really want to save this continent, not just a persimmon. Then a little... .

    Serpence put a finger between the cravat and the shirt with a cramped expression and pulled it, creating a small gap.

    Then take a deep breath in, and breathe out slowly again.

    It''s just cooperation for that.

    The more I talk to him and get to know him, the more I don''t know what kind of person he is.

    Such thoughts may also be based on ideas that have been instilled since childhood. Even so, is it possible to maintain such a sharp superego?

    ''Even if you have suffered enough to resent the world?''

    It seems that he wants to love such a world, so his appearance is very sublime.

    I can''t believe this person killed someone else.

    He was driven so much that he killed his parents. And kill the former aide

    Why is it? Is it correct for what I expected?

    than

    ''Why did you kill the original Shion?''

    I don''t know if there are other truths I''m not aware of, or if this is also his ruse to distract me.

    It''s like being trapped in a labyrinth.

    I understand roughly what the Duke wants to say. There are many things that I want to say, but I''ll put it aside for now.

    If you have nothing more to say, just go back.

    Serpens put the empty plates on top of each other and stood up. I also got up and waited patiently in the back of him standing in front of the door leading to the banquet hall.

    "Aren''t you going out?"

    Lord Ribelon will go down to the manor this month], I hope you will find half of the courtesy you left behind.

    Yeah? What''s that all of a sudden...?

    Serpens, who was looking down at me with a skeptical gaze, chin on the lock on the door.

    Oh !

    I have to open it.

    When they came in, Serpens opened and closed them, so I forgot for a while. With a smile on his face, he unlocked the lock and opened the door wide.

    The faint sound of music rang out again.

 CH 24

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 24

    6. The Duke and the Imperial Palace Banquet (5)

    We exited the banquet hall and headed towards the carriage that had been waiting.

    When we arrived, the passengers had already been there.

    Saturday ! What was it?

    It''s Tustor!

    Wrong from the first letter.

    But why did that person pop out of here? Maybe because I ignored him earlier, I had a bad intention

    I don''t think I''m going to do anything.

    a. However, given that the pronunciation is correct, it seems that he is not in a state of intoxication.

    The idea of is my personal wish, and it seems to be true.

    Are you Sir Rivelon''s friend? I''ll go first, so let''s talk slowly...

    "No, where the hell did you see him?"

    Knowing clearly what had happened earlier, he shouted as he interrupted Serpens who was about to get on the carriage pretending not to know.

    Even if you ignore Tustor, yes

    How am I supposed to go back if I go alone in the wagon?

    "How can a person who doesn''t know politeness be able to act as an aide, blocking the Duke''s path?"

    At Tustor''s words, Serpens looked down at me.

    It''s been a while since I told you not to bother with useless things, so it was a bit poignant, but it was the seeds I sowed before I heard the story.

    So I''m proud!

    It seems it''s already too late over there, I''ll be careful next time.

    At my shameless words, Serpens''s forehead narrowed slightly, as if it were going to sting.

    But the water has already been poured. As if he had no choice, he immediately turned to Tustor with a pretentious smile.

    If my aide is rude to you...?

    I think you''ve been more rude to the Duke than I did. Isn''t that what happened just now? It was rude to not even know my subject in the first place and to apply as the Duke''s assistant!

    Hey, Bonnie Tustor.

    You are great! Anyway, earlier, I thought I might have been too harsh on Sir Tustor, so I was going to apologize. I''m glad you didn''t think it was rude!

    "What, what kind of child ?"

    It was an attempt to lighten his mood, but Tustor''s face turned red as if he was sarcastic.

    Calm down, Sir Tustor. Sir Ribel Ron may have had no malice...

    Hey, why do you have such a child as an assistant!

    Serpens didn''t answer, and kept her mouth shut.

    He glanced at me and looked away with an embarrassed expression... . what?

    Oh, Duke? Something to refute that, or something like my strengths...

    Sir Rivelon... Oh, it may get better in the future. Maybe.

    Serpence''s pupils, who looked at me as if in genuine embarrassment, shook without mercy.

    It wasn''t just the look.

    It seems to be telling the parents of the student who got 0 points on the test to not give up, saying that there is no place to fall, and there is only one thing left to do is to go up.

    The tone of an academy teacher trying to wrap things up somehow.

    At the very least, maybe I can''t take it out?

    ''Am I not so qualified as an assistant? ?''

    As he turned his gaze, Tustor''s eyes met.

    How the hell do you do a job like that to Serpens who isn''t anyone else?

    It''s a look that seems to ask if you can get it.

    ''What is this situation?''

    Isn''t it a formal clich�� to say that when Tustor does a banter, me and Serpens get mad and push him, and he who can''t beat his anger go out on his own?

    Why am I being pushed?

    You can''t hire an aide for charity, I could have done better right now! No, if not me, anyone else would have been better than that!

    Am I not that far? It''s definitely better than the first time, and if you try, you can do it!

    I felt a sense of crisis that I might get fired. If it is cut like this, the first thing to do is to die in debt before the world turns into a dog!

    "Obviously, even when I was selected, my personality , um . What I see on paper and in reality:"

    Serpence was also confused, muttering in a low voice.

    ''I chose it by considering the personality aspect as well.

    Was it?''

    After all, if you pick a corrupt guy and get caught on a bribery charge, Serpense''s image will also be damaged.

    If it was the original Zion, he was a pure country young man himself.

    ''But what can I do, I am Nago and Zion is Zion.''

    For 25 years, he has been exposed to all kinds of media and exchanged greetings with his parents on the game.

    I and I have been pickled in modern culture

    Compared to Shion, who was born and raised in a small village in a world without internet, the only thing they have in common is age and gender.

    "Anyway, how is it so different ?"

    Serpence suddenly pierced the core.

    He had never met the original Sion.

    For that reason, it seems that even in my travels, I just dismissed him as a strange guy and passed it on], there is a big difference between the past and the present I saw on paper.

    You seem to have found a discrepancy.

    ''If I do this wrong, will I get suspicious again?''

    Once doubts germinate, they become out of control. Before that, it had to be uprooted.

    "Isn''t that what a cover letter or interview is basically like? Everyone is selling themselves, so there may be some exaggeration and falsehood.

    "Oh, no. Showing your honest self "

    I looked at Tustor with an expression asking for consent, but somehow I

    As someone who wants to be cut off, he has been in denial at once.

    Have you ever seen such a shameful, narrow-minded yangban?

    ''Why are you doing this like someone who''s never written a novel?''

    He must have unleashed his respect for Count Discolus as if he was writing a novel, which he did not even have on his resume.

    The answer is fixed, and the lord just has to answer. Can''t we do this with the same aide?

    The intention to stop reconciliation

    He joked lightly with strings and even buzzwords, and smiled.

    Despite my efforts, Tutor looks at me with a serious face.

    You''re really too much... Let''s put aside the past and look into the future. That there''s nothing good about this kind of thing... I don''t know why people who know you keep doing this.

    I glanced at Serpense, glanced at him, and spoke to Tustor in a soft voice.

    I, he is still silent.

    Why don''t you have an answer? You don''t know? I didn''t know you were someone who couldn''t even discern that much... Am I the wrong person?

    Why are you so quiet?

    Without realizing it, I became impatient and pushed Tustor with a tone that seemed to urge. You have to clap your hands to make a sound, and if you keep your mouth shut and just stare, the story doesn''t progress at all.

    Serpense also looks at me strangely!

    Everything, you. In the previous interview with Count Discholus''s aide, he had that kind of personality.

    Wasn''t it... ?

    I guess that''s right, Count Discholus is a bit strict, right? So, I thought it would be better if he listened to him and looked gentle.

    He shrugged his shoulders and spoke softly.

    Hearing this excuse that I did my best, Tustor took a step back with a white face instead of understanding.

    "Lee, Lord Rivelon everything, you''re the bastard?!"

    Yeah? Why are you suddenly looking so frightened?

    Why is he doing this all of a sudden?

    He, who had been screaming for me to cut me off until before, was still immobile as if he had died of a mouse in the bone of a cat.

    ''I''m not a sociopath, why would I do that?''

    Looking at Serpence with an expression of ignorance of the question, he also has a very difficult-looking face.

    Why are you here again?

    What''s wrong with what I just said?

    Uh, anyway, I said everything I had to say, I did it !

    Huh? It looks like you haven''t finished it yet...?

    Contrary to what the two Storrs had expected, who knew he was going to make a huge difference, he just left without saying a few words.

    If that''s the case, I don''t know why I was waiting. He must be a very strange guy... .

    Why the hell are you doing that?

    " Did you say the same to me?"

    Looking at it with the gaze of what it means again, Serpens opened his mouth to say something and then closed it again.

    Instead, he blinked towards the carriage''s carriage.

    There was a coachman with an awkward posture, holding the reins and looking at us.

    Ah, I made you wait! I''m sorry, Duke, get on board too!

    As soon as he got into the carriage, Serpens turned on the interior lights and bolted the windows.

    locked

    Then he looked at me intently, and opened his mouth only after the carriage began to move.

    "So, to me too especially all the things you said on the train were acting ?"

    Serpence spoke cautiously with a face that looked very shocked.

    Something like ''Brutus, even you... The line ''.'' seems to suit him very well, as if he had been hit in the back of the head.

    Hearing that, I can only feel that the words I said were that way.

    was considered

    No, I have always acted sincerely in front of the Duke.

    uh... .

    If you were going to deceive me in the first place, you didn''t even bring up the same thing in front of the Duke.

    It''s hard to believe meekly... But if you think of it as being common to each other, there''s nothing wrong with that...

    What do you see in your eyes?

    As Serpens saw me, I suddenly became a different person in front and behind.

    He''s good at penetrating people''s inner thoughts. Based on that, he takes on a figure that suits his boss, is this...?

    Yes?

    What is that?

    It''s a talent that''s frighteningly suitable as an assistant. Are you a very capable person?

    I mean, do you think I need that kind of honesty?

    "Do you want to say that it''s okay to show off your ugly side proudly?"

    It''s more of a nightmare than a dream.

    Unbeknownst to me, it was like a teaching assistant for the right life, trying to teach a lesson by putting it into practice instead of talking.

    "Are you saying that now that I am ugly?"

    Sir Rivelon is bizarre and unusual rather than ugly... It seems to be very different from the criminals.

    Of course, that''s normal.

    Our home is a very ordinary family, so we did not receive home education in a fantasy or medieval European style.

    Even if it looks odd, it doesn''t matter.

    That being said, ''ugly'' must have been something he said to himself.

    Kicking his tongue inward, he opened his mouth with a hoarse voice.

    Can''t you just say something with a distinct personality?

    Fufu...! If you''re unique twice, I''ll catch someone.

    Serpens laughed in a low voice. Not overly eloquent or sarcastic, just like a normal person.

    Of course, the face wasn''t normal at all, but that''s just the feeling.

    To be honest, I don''t even know what happened, but a good thing would be a good thing. After all, let''s just push it with that concept!

    "But it doesn''t look harmful, does it?"

    Instead, it seems very bizarre.

    Duke, are you afraid that you are playing with words now?

    are you?"

    Serpens continued to remain silent today.

    This child, this... ? If there is any disadvantage, shut your mouth and run away. It''s just a habit.

 CH 25

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 25

    7. The Duke''s Butler (1)

    At lunchtime, I was able to meet Jack at the restaurant after a long time.

    From the day I came to the capital, I worked diligently after work to distribute the gifts I had bought in the duchy.

    Still, for some reason, I hardly ever met him, so I wondered if something had happened.

    Jack! It''s been a while, how are you?

    Did you pay?"

    I''m doing well. How''s your aide?

    It''s kind of like that.

    Everything went well, except that I was in debt overnight.

    That said, Jack''s reaction was not at all cool either.

    He had already almost finished eating, but he had something to say, so he sat down at the table where he was sitting.

    "I heard you went back to your hometown, did anything happen?"

    "No, nothing happened to my hometown. I had a very good trip."

    While I and Serpens were going down to the estate, I heard that quite a number, if not all, of the employees went on vacation.

    Jack is one of them.

    You don''t look very good for that kind of thing... isn''t there something wrong with you?

    That''s the area in charge has changed.

    Shut up the ground, said Jack, sighing.

    He was mainly in charge of cleaning hard-to-reach ceilings in the main building, or doing hard work.

    "Somehow, I went to the place where I was usually and said that I couldn''t see him . What kind of work did you have in mind?"

    I became the library manager.

    It is said that when he went on vacation, a new person in charge had changed without knowing it.

    That''s why you''re helping librarians carry books or clean bookshelves these days? No matter how much I searched, I couldn''t find it... .

    "There is no one to talk to, and there is no one to talk to.

    If I can''t, I''m going to die.

    Jack sighed again.

    To throw such a talkative person into a library is too cruel.

    "Have you talked to the chieftain?"

    Of course I did. But the butler said he had no choice but to do what he had to do. Could it be that I did something wrong to the butler?

    No matter how much Hans is the butler who manages the affairs of the mansion. Is it true that the chieftain has the authority to issue such an order?

    And that''s why he pinched Jack to change his area... .

    That''s what Assistant Cha asked me a while ago.

    Just as he was about to fall into thought, doubting Hans'' behavior, Jack spoke again.

    The reason I had to go looking for Jack wasn''t just to say hello.

    Because I had something I asked for.

    Before I left the capital, I heard that Jack was going home on a vacation, so I asked him a favor.

    ''Will I ever be able to meet your father once?''

    to hear the answer.

    If it''s okay with his father, it''s not that far away, so I''m going to visit him on the weekend for a while.

    How hard it was to put the ground rice in order to do that request, and to contend with Jack''s serpent praise... .

    I am very neurotic.

    Father refused.

    Isn''t that too bad?

    Actually, I didn''t expect much.

    The net wasn''t that big either. just a little sad Rather, Jack is more sullen than me.

    I was curious about the Duke''s childhood, so I asked about it, but I didn''t hear anything other than that it was nothing different from what it is now.

    I can''t help it... I was really curious about it, but it''s a pity.

    I must have even asked you a question instead, as I am a Serpence fan.

    By the way, it''s such a blatant reaction that I''m so skeptical, I think we should meet.

    how do i twist it?

    Can''t the assistant tell the deacon about my treatment?

    Yes? That''s a bit

    I''m a little uncomfortable with that yangban right now, so it was hard to answer that I would be willing to do so.

    You look at me with the eyes that I don''t like. It''s been like that for a long time, so it didn''t matter, but now it''s more than that.

    Since the incident a few days ago, it''s reached its peak and I''m anxious to eat it now.

    When I was wandering around the mansion, I would sneak up out of nowhere, staring at me, or sometimes kicking my tongue.

    ''I haven''t done anything other than feeding Serpens a good meal, so why are you rioting?!''

    How was the day of the Imperial Palace banquet again?

    How could you participate in a banquet wearing clothes made of such low-quality fabrics?

    ''I''m not even going to give you money to buy clothes!''

    Worst guy in the world, this, nothing

    He is a yangban who tells you to let go and let go without adding anything.

    Anyway, I chose the best clothes that Shion had and wore them.

    Even Serpense, who was with me, didn''t say anything, and it''s even more irritating.

    That''s completely out of my area...

    I''ll talk to my father again. Yes? Please, please!

    It seems like he doesn''t have any more points to deduct anyway]. Do you mind if I try?

    I just wanted to ask for this, so I guess I mentioned what I asked for first.

    ''Is it because of me that he changed his area?''

    Serpens knew what I was asking about him. Of course Hans would know.

    Anyway, it was a car that felt the need to talk to Hans at least once.

    I''ll tell you first, but I can''t guarantee the outcome.

    It''s okay! I keep my promise no matter the outcome!

    * *

    As soon as today''s work was over, I headed to Solertia''s room.

    Hans is still at work. Besides, I don''t know where I am in this time period because I''m so new.

    I''d rather go to his room after he gets home from work.

    ''If it doesn''t work, if you make a noise between the floors in the morning, they will come to you.''

    All three of them stay in the same building anyway

    That being said, there wasn''t much to worry about.

    She stayed on the second floor with me, and it was a room in the farthest part of the hallway.

    On the day I returned from the Duchy, I saw them being escorted to my room, so I know, but I never actually went in.

    ''Last time I was making scrolls, the floor wasn''t a joke... .''

    Since I started working in earnest, it must be more than that.

    Bottles of magic reagents were floating around, and could be used as reference materials.

    Papers that were used as books or practice books are probably scattered all over the place.

    Do you want a chance to step?''

    Moreover, she says she doesn''t want to leave the room several times a day, skipping breakfast and eating at the restaurant for lunch. At that time, I know that they get something to eat for dinner in advance and eat it in the room.

    No matter what you imagine, it must be more messy than that... ?

    - smart.

    Solertia-san, this is Zion.

    silent answer Was it because I was so engrossed in making the scroll that I didn''t hear it?

    He knocked on the door a few more times, raising the voice calling for her a little more.

    "Solertia-san! Aren''t you there?"

    "...Mr. Sion?"

    With the sound of the door opening, Solertia came out into the hallway.

    If there was one problem, it wasn''t the door I was knocking on, but the door behind me was opened.

    I thought you were using this room, but you are not.

    I''m embarrassed that I knocked hard in an empty room for nothing, so I said it humbly, and Soler Tia gave me a happy smile.

    I''ve rented another room! That''s a bedroom, and you can think of the place I came out of as a studio.

    To be sure, there was no better way to secure personal space.

    If you sleep, eat, and work while you work, your whole life becomes exhausted.

    Okay! Oh, did I interrupt you?

    It''s okay, it''s okay~. A little bit anyway

    I was thinking of taking a break.

    Solertia smiled cheerfully as she untied her hair that had been tied high with a ponytail while working.

    Then, as she shakes her head lightly, her pale purple hair flows through it.

    "I think you have something to say anyway, would you like to have a cup of tea in my room while you are here?"

    If yes, thank you.

    Solertia smiled and locked the door she had come from. And passing by me, on the doorknob of the bedroom

    I took out another key and put it in.

    Come on in

    Then excuse me.

    entered her room.

    Perhaps because he spends most of his life in the studio, the room was very clean and smelled good.

    Then I''ll bring the car, can you wait a minute?

    thank you.

    I sat on the chair attached to the round table in one side of the room and looked at the back of Solertia preparing the tea.

    all.

    Perhaps it is the season that is not suitable for lighting a fireplace, so you can see water being boiled with a flame created by generating magical powers.

    ''Scroll production is the main thing, but he also uses magic.''

    Is it too obvious?

    I once appeared in [Master of the Holy Sword],

    Sacred power pursues symbiosis, and magical power seeks convenience.

    The expression came to mind.

    In addition to that, the divine power was called the most suitable power to heal or protect someone.

    On the other hand, I remember that magic was expressed as a power that infinitely changes according to human interests and aspirations.

    ''It''s really amazing... .''

    It was the first time I had come to this world and used magic.

    The blue light from her fingertips unraveled like a thread, embroidered in the air. Then, soon after, the character itself changed and

    It''s very strange to take shape.

    ''It fits the expression of infinitely changing power.

    ''When Serpence uses divine power, it might look divine, but I didn''t think it was a miracle.

    Like him, the divine power just felt like ''breathing light''.

    After all, it was a self-luminous Serpence even if left alone. As long as he actually emits light, there is nothing surprising about it.

    By the way, what did you come here for?

    Go?

    Solertia asked, pouring the brewed tea into the teacup in front of me.

    I''m just curious how you''re doing. We haven''t seen each other since we had dinner together on the first day, haven''t we?

    It''s because I don''t go out except for lunch. Even then, lunchtime is almost over...

    I heard that he would come during lunch time, but he said he had never seen it.

    I always rush to the restaurant right after lunch time, so I can''t meet you

    have no choice but to

    You take it easy. Isn''t it too hard if you just work?

    It''s okay, isn''t it fun? Besides, I want to open a store soon. It''s all voluntary for me to like it.

    It was a genuinely happy expression.

    If that''s the case, then I''m glad. I thought Solertia would do well with other people because she was very good at attaching herself...

    I... I wanted to at first.

    It was just a topic I brought up lightly,

    Aon''s reaction was unusual. The smile on her face, which had always been smiling brightly, disappeared a little.

    People here, we''re only talking about the Duke.

    It seems that she understands why she is confined to her room.

    It''s not. At first I thought it was just that, but after a while, we talk about other things.

    You didn''t.

    It''s sales to first-timers, no. It''s just because I want to brag.

    I want more people to like and know what God likes... . That''s it... .

    Why am I defending this? Let''s stop this topic here.

 CH 26

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 26

    7. The Duke''s Butler (2)

    Ah, yes! I promoted Solertia''s scrolls at a banquet yesterday!

    you]? Haven''t you decided on the location of the store yet?

    "That''s , how did it happen?"

    Even I thought it was a little weird. As I was embarrassed for nothing, I smiled shyly, and Solertia laughed softly.

    "Huh, you think you should pay more attention to the quantity of this?"

    That''s right! That''s exactly what I was trying to say! It might be a hit as soon as the store opens.

    Oh, thank you~! If, as Sion-san said, the number of customers increases... I have nothing to offer, and I''ll give you a small discount as a chance for a friend to purchase a scroll!

    To my exaggerated remarks, Solertia responded with a sly smile.

    A smiling expression with white teeth exposed while squinting eyes is lively and lively.

    It goes very well with her bubbly bouncing.

    ''But should I ever have to buy that expensive scroll?''

    No matter how much you think about it, it seems unlikely that it will happen, but first of all, he expressed his gratitude for the kindness.

    You never know what will happen to people. It was a permanent discount, not a term, and there was no reason to refuse.

    It''s been about three or four days since you came to the Duke''s, are there any inconveniences?

    "Not yet. As you said.

    It''s been less than a week.

    Haha, that''s right.

    If you ask me in at least a month or so... Oh, are you going to find a store and go out by then?

    To the last, she is only temporarily staying at the duke''s residence before the location of the store is decided.

    There was also a reason to make a scroll to be kept ready before opening, but to the end, this is just a general lodging.

    There is no safety device for full-scale research1, so it can be manufactured

    There will be a limit to even one scroll.

    ''Especially, you wouldn''t even try to develop a new scroll.

    After we take over the building in which the store will be opened, we will also have a proper laboratory there.

    There is no need to serve as a duke''s eater like now.

    That''s a bit disappointing.

    Are you Shion? Why?

    If you come in like that, there''s nothing else to say?

    I rolled my eyes and said, ''Uh... ,

    Well .'' and only drooling, Solertia burst out laughing.

    It''s a joke, it''s a joke~. We''ve been together on the train, but of course you should regret it!

    Okay, that''s right!

    "When I first saw you, I thought you wouldn''t even blink a single eye so hard."

    Oh, no, then I misunderstood a bit... ''

    As I hesitated, Solertia burst into a lively laugh again. People say they lifted their hearts and put them down

    it looks like

    That''s what I was saying back then~, now I know how affectionate and sensitive Shion-san is.''''

    Solertia, who had a grim expression on her face, drank the tea that had cooled somewhat.

    Although she didn''t have the aristocratic elegance like Serpens in her appearance, it matched her free-spirited woman and made her smile.

    Anyway, if you have any inconveniences while living, please tell me at any time!

    Then, will Sion solve all the problems yourself?

    Of course, the duke will take care of it!

    At my kind words, Solertia remembered the first time we met, and burst out with a cheerful smile.

    Is it okay to leave everything like that?

    Anyway, the duke would have the butler or other people do it, huh?

    Well, that''s right!

    Solertia nodded and

    made up

    But if you look closely, Shi-on-san seems to be quite friendly with the Duke-sama.

    It has to be. Probably no one is as close to him as I do!

    Hearing this, Humanus would argue that he was closer, but he wasn''t here anyway.

    And Serpens... .

    ''Are you a little vague?''

    Right now, it felt more like seeing something bizarre rather than friendly.

    But even if we are not close right now, we plan to become best friends in the future.

    ''It doesn''t matter if we talk like this in advance, right?''

    My goal is to get to know him and provide counseling for his concerns and prevent him from falling.

    After that, they flirt here and there, give them holy swords, and go play around the peaceful continent!

    ''But when I say this, does Humanus become a dog?

    In any case, I leave the work to the people below me except me, and in the territory

    I think it would be perfect if I went around looking around like I used to go undercover.

    ''It''s unfair to suddenly possess a fantasy novel, but I don''t know if I can go back... .''

    it happened like this

    You should see what a festival or tourist attraction in the fantasy world looks like, and it seems less unfair.

    ''If you don''t know anything else, if you go with Serpence, you can play without worrying about money as well as safety, right?''

    Whether it''s the feeling of going overseas with a rich friend, or the company''s welfare,

    I want it to feel like an overseas trip that I want.

    Whatever it is, it is desirable

    ''It''s good that I can play comfortably, and Serpence is good that I can experience new things!''

    After that, I exchanged stories with Solertia for about an hour.

    Oh my, it''s already time! I''m sorry, but I have to go back to work.

    "It''s okay! I promise I have something similar.

    That''s what I was trying to do.

    We got up from our seats.

    * * *

    What''s wrong with your assistant?

    "I''m going to tell the butler for a moment wait a minute. My legs are a little ."

    Leaning against the wall next to Hans'' doorway, he squatted and waited, his legs numb. I was just thinking about whether I would just collapse on the floor, and I''m glad he came.

    Stumbled and stood up against the wall, Hans frowned, kicking his tongue.

    Serpence as well, why does this master and servant keep looking at me with those eyes?

    "Are you going to be straight-forward, or do you want to turn around?"

    "I''ll tell you right away. Why are you investigating the Duke?"

    lost a player. The luck was on me, so why does that yangban take over?

    Hans must have known the strategy to win first!

    ''By the way, after hearing that, I''m pretty sure.''

    It must have been my fault that Jack was sent to the library.

    Of course, just because he was thrown into the library didn''t mean we couldn''t meet at all. It''s okay after work, and it''s just enough to call you briefly during business hours... .

    But wasn''t that some kind of warning to stop asking questions?

    A background check? I don''t know what you''re talking about. Isn''t it natural to want to know what kind of person you are serving?

    The aide is like an assistant. You just need to take good care of him.

    "If you know who you are, isn''t it possible to serve you better?"

    About the Duke is already well known. What more information do you need?

    I wondered if I could get over it if I took it off, but there was no jaw either.

    Whatever the Duke is, you just have to follow it faithfully. Why can''t you do it...

    "Though that''s what you say, the deacon doesn''t seem to be following him, does he?"

    Now that it''s only been over a month, do you think you deserve such a story? Our Roberto family has been loyal to the Pracidus family from generation to generation, and I have also worked in this mansion for over 40 years.

    Hans looked at me with his chin raised crookedly and looked down on me, full of pride.

    Look at that. It doesn''t matter who the Duke is?

    Have you been loyal?"

    that''s not even funny

    You have to look at people and decide whether to follow them or not, you have been loyal to your family from generation to generation.

    ''What kind of loyalty is that?''

    I just inherited the family business. Indeed, it is an old and rotten idea.

    However, in this world, this is normal, and if you ask about it prematurely, you will be caught as a crime of treason.

    You are serving Prasidus

    Isn''t a peacock just a shell? Not the Duke of Phra Sidus, but ''what does the name Serpens mean to you?"

    It''s not a name you can call sensibly! And, the Duchess is the Prasidus family itself. Is there any reason to separate it?

    "Oh, is that right? I thought you were only neuter to the previous dukes, not the current ones, did you?"

    "Why is the previous Duke here! Did you hear something from the current Duke?"

    Hans'' voice subsided in an instant.

    No, he didn''t say anything.

    Otherwise, why did you want to meet Jack''s father?

    Because I haven''t heard anything. So, you have to look the other way, don''t you?

    Did you even know that... ?

    As far as what happened in this mansion, it seems that there is nothing he doesn''t know. Such a scary human being.

    "What do you know, and what do you want to know?"

    I think I''ve heard a similar question from Serpence as well.

    Usually, when I look at possessive objects in novels, everyone goes on smoothly, but I don''t know why it doesn''t work.

    Do I look so suspicious?

    "You don''t know, so you''re just asking, aren''t you?"

    "Then why do you want to go to a retired person and ask about something you can ask me?"

    "The butler is there something wrong with you?"

    It''s not that, isn''t there a reason to break something?

    Yes, I understand seeing it that way.

    Even if I was like me, I would have doubted if a guy who was trapped in a rock that rolled in from somewhere suddenly questioned his superiors and went around investigating the past.

    ''Besides, that gentleman seems to have been watching Serpens ever since he was born... .''

    From Hans''s point of view, an unknown stranger suddenly comes to me and meddles with childcare.

    will feel

    And secretly behind the scenes, they''ll see you as someone trying to teach a child this bad thing.

    If the Duke didn''t tell you, there''s a good reason. Don''t delve into it.

    So the butler is telling me this, do you get permission from the duke?

    I''m just looking for suspects that could harm the Duke.

    "Did the Duke allow it?"

    This is my duty as it should be.

    Isn''t that just the way they think? I''m doing it with permission.

    Hans paused at my words.

    " what do you mean?"

    "Look for yourself and make your own judgement."

    A lot of things were omitted in the middle, and that doesn''t mean you can do your own research, but it''s not wrong.

    In the first place, it is not the purpose of a background investigation. And it''s a serpent now

    you would have noticed

    About his past, although it is speculative, it is said that he knows everything.

    Did you actually get it all right?''

    And by running away, didn''t you prove yourself to be right?

    i just

    I just want to let him know that it''s not the serpens that''s wrong, it''s his parents and the people who overlooked it.

    It was unreasonable abuse, and you

    No more being bound by the fetters they left behind.

    Right now, I want to tell you that even if you feel resentful and angry because of the injustice, you must face it and move on, rather than turn away from it.

    "Are you saying that you will judge the Duke and choose whether to serve him or not?"

    will that be the case?

    Er, I don''t know. A guy who doesn''t know the subject is much better than a spy.

    "Is there any reason why not?"

    " dare?

    "Isn''t it better to be energetic and independent than to be old-fashioned and passive?"

    At my clever words, Hans narrows his eyes and glares at me.

    I also had nothing to kneel with, so I stood face to face with him and spread my shoulders proudly.

    "Isn''t there anything I shouldn''t know soon?

    There is no such thing.

    If not!''''

    Shrugging his shoulders with a squeaky tone, he sees Hans clenching his fists.

    It''s okay to have blood on the back of your hand, and an older yangban like that.

    "Don''t take your anger on others for nothing, and send Jack back to his original position, right?"

    Such a statement is a violation of rights.

    "What you did was an abuse of power."

    A grinding sound was heard.

 CH 27

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 27

    7. The Duke''s Butler (3)

    After arguing with Hans, I went up to the second floor again.

    In the hallway, I see Solertia moving back and forth with a restless expression.

    "Why are you doing this? Is there anything you need?"

    Ah, ah-no! It''s not that, I heard something like a fight...

    Oh

    I must have heard it It''s hard to know what to say about this.

    "That''s have you heard the whole story?"

    Jo Geum? That Mr. Sion is investigating the duke, or that the butler is still following the orders of the great duke, or that both of them are at odds with each other...

    It sounds like you''ve been very specific.

    Even if there is some soundproofing here... , no. It''s wrong to speak up like that in the hallway.

    ''The person staying in the building came with me, Solertia and Hans. It''s crazy that there are only three like this... .''

    Yet she listened so closely.

    If anyone had been walking around this building, even if they didn''t know the details, they would know the fact that Hans and I were arguing.

    ''Tomorrow, the mansion will be lively with that story.''

    After going down to the duchy, my relationship with him has changed.

    It seems that you have noticed.

    Jack, you''re stuck in the library all the time, so you may not have known... .

    Did you not know that you asked for it?

    The Duke already knows and has given permission, so this is not a background investigation.

    That''s right! If that''s the case, then what...

    I think that was the part I was most worried about.

    Solertia sighed in relief and said, ''I''m glad '' he muttered softly.

    "I talked about that the Duke and Sion were close a while ago, but suddenly

    I was surprised by the investigation or what?"

    "I just want to help him. I really, really, really mean it."

    With a bitter smile, I muttered a promise to myself.

    The past and the future to come. Serpense''s mind was too unstable and weak to endure all that.

    ''If I could just loosen the shackles of the past and throw them away, I would be able to escape... .''

    The imprisoned spirit could not get out of the pit. Below is despair

    Even knowing that, it sinks without help.

    " you''re making that kind of expression too?"

    Yes?

    At my question, Solertia smiled and pretended that it was nothing.

    "I don''t know, but Shion-san and the Duke must have something in mind."

    "Well, that''s right it is."

    Even with me, the question is what Serpence is thinking.

    '' Perhaps he himself doesn''t know what I think.

    Would it not be?''

    All I can do is keep him from running away again. All you have to do is keep a safe distance and watch.

    I''d rather he teach me how to tame him like the little prince''s fox.

    If you do, I will feel really responsible and raise you well It''s not!

    ''Calm down, I''m not a butler candidate who wants a stray cat to go! The final boss, Serpens, is an aide... !One

    All this to be Hans the real butler

    It happened because I couldn''t eat. Hans was wrong]!

    It seems that something is wrong, so I''ll pretend I don''t know. But I''m cheering for you, so if you need help, please let me know.

    "Thank you for your words."

    "What is it~! The Duke is my investor, and Sion-san is a friend, right?"

    She smiled brightly with her twinkling eyes.

    Is this the first friend you made when you came to this world?

    * * *

    As expected, the eyes of the peacocks looking at me were stinging.

    Fortunately, it seems that the contents of the conversation were not heard, and there was no mention of the contents, just rumors of ''the two fought.

    ''It was until Jack, whom I met at lunchtime, said he had returned to his original ignorance and thanked me... .''

    Suddenly, the cause of the fight between me and Hans was due to accepting Jack''s request.

    However, Norut cannot talk about the original reason. Both me and Hans were consistent in silence, and everyone accepted it as fact.

    The reaction of the people in the mansion to this.

    Either accuse me of trying to contain Hans by coveting authority within the duke''s residence. The aide defended it, saying that it was just obeying the servant''s request.

    These two opinions were divided.

    On the other hand, Serpens,

    Please make sure I don''t have to worry about it, didn''t I tell you in advance?

    peel?

    ... he said and touched his forehead.

    "The day before yesterday, I asked him to at least avoid blatant hostility. On the same day, he got into an argument with another aide."

    Well, that''s because the seeds sown before the duke said that...

    "So, the next day, yesterday, you had an argument with the butler? Didn''t that make you angry?"

    Ah, no-! That''s ah, no...

    Serpens looks at me with contemptuous eyes.

    First of all, he''s not expressionless, so maybe he''s not that angry... .

    ''Okay. It''s not like that.''

    His expression gradually disappears.

    "Why?"

    That''s what... Jack, Jack!

    In his silence, it was as if he had somehow heard him say, ''Stop talking bullshit and tell the truth.

    Of course, that would be an auditory hallucination, but it''s no different from Serpence''s heart.

    "I had to bump into the butler one day.

    NS. He didn''t like me either... .

    If it''s a reason, I''ve already heard it from him. The content as well.

    No, when did you hear that again? before i go to work

    As soon as I wake up in the morning, I go to Serpense and think of Hans who should have reported it, and I will die of disgust.

    But we have to listen to both sides...

    It''s all predictable anyway, so there''s no need.

    "But what you hear and hear

    is that

    Even if you hear it anyway, I won''t understand it. Even if you appeal to your feelings that it was for me, it''s okay now because it only hurts my head.

    Cut it out in a rude tone of voice.

    Then why did you ask...?

    Why did you have to fight in the hallway? Also, it meant why it was yesterday.

    " Chu, impulsively?"

    Serpens sighed heavily and closed his eyes.

    It felt so pathetic, but fortunately, his expression seemed more relaxed.

    It''s been a week. No, except today, there are three days left.

    you]? What a countdown all of a sudden... ?

    Are you saying that I should somehow settle with Hans within three days?

    I''m starting to have a very bad feeling. For some reason, my spine felt cold.

    Wait, it''s not... Ain''t it? Isn''t that what I think? Please ah

    Say it''s you!

    But as if betraying my beliefs, Serpence snorted.

    Next Monday, there is a campaign to subdue the Volta Mountains.

    "I me?"

    "Of course I will."

    Help me.

    I wouldn''t be there, by what means?

    Damn, I only trusted the serfence, and the fence is supposed to be removable!

    The fence must be in its position to be strong

    One thing, if you move it to the wrong place, the meaning disappears.

    Besides, his lips are slightly curled up, which makes him look strangely happy.

    ''How am I watching you!''

    I feel like I''ve been scratched by my cat.

    Is it fun that I''m in trouble?

    "More than that I see you''re doing what you said to me with a sense of threat to my life, now that you''re doing it in a different direction Ummm , that''s right. I think it''s funny."

    What else is that feeling?

    When I glared at Serpence with an expression of no-no, he smirked.

    ''Can''t you find the first fun in your life in other people''s troubles... ?''

    With what kind of heart I raised myself like that... If I knew you were watching, I wouldn''t have been able to do that.

    If Hans and I had a fight, wasn''t he in trouble too?

    There is no one who is very disrespectful across the river.

    "If you are uneasy, how about taking this opportunity to go on vacation?"

    "Uh yes?"

    What kind of dream job is it to give you a long vacation after just one month of joining the world?

    But even if you take a vacation... .

    "I don''t know when I will have time again, wouldn''t it be better to go down to my hometown and see?"

    No! It''s fine! In times like this, you have to keep your seat, where are you going?

    Shion about 2 years ago.

    After going to Tokyo alone to become an aristocrat in the capital, he has never returned to his hometown.

    At first, I dreamed of a golden return, but after time passed, I didn''t have a face.

    He only exchanged letters with his family and never returned.

    ''And now... .''

    I was not Zion.

    None of the emotions he felt remain, he just remembers them as information. that

    Even if I meet the family of the people, to me, they are just strangers.

    It''s just awkward and uncomfortable. It will only be exposed that I am not Zion.

    ''It''s better to stay here, even if you''re noticing.''

    Still, it seems that Sion lived on the money sent from the Rivelon family, so I''ll just have to send as much money as I get my salary while I''m thinking about it.

    ''I wonder if this will be a reward for anything like this''.''

    I couldn''t help it.

    Tomorrow is payday, what''s left

    I don''t know if there is

    Hmm... if that''s what Lord Ribelon means.

    It''s self-sufficient, so you have to figure it out yourself. Besides, there''s nothing that can be solved by running away...

    As I was talking, I said so, but in the end, it was the choice to run away from facing Shion''s family.

    was very stabbed

    And I wasn''t the only one who felt disgusted with those words. Serpens, who has a runaway record, looks at me.

    Unintentionally, indiscriminately put a wide-area deal

    It was.

    Uh, anyway! Do you really want Hans to kill me?

    It won''t happen.

    If Serpence said that, then you wouldn''t have to worry about that.

    ''By the way, what now?

    There are people who defend it, but the managers are all on Hans''s side.

    It would be safe to assume that there is no one who can help me.

    In the first place, they will help

    Not a problem.

    ''As long as Serpens remain neutral, they will not directly harm them .''

    If you are determined and try to isolate me, there is nothing you can''t do.

    "So, what are you going to do now?"

    "Once reconciliation?

    In what way?

    nothing comes to mind

    I need to somehow make it seem like my relationship with Hans has improved, at least on the surface.

    But I don''t think he''ll cooperate.

    Before the Duchess goes..., no. You have to take care of your own business.

    Serpense''s expression almost turned cold.

    After work, I went to a restaurant to have dinner. The table I sat at was extremely cold.

    Each time they made eye contact, some of the users I was close with, including Maryina Jack, passed by with an apologetic expression and light silence.

    ''It has to be... .''

    It''s sad, but I understand.

    No matter how much I was Serpence''s assistant, I wasn''t the one holding their food.

    It was Hans who was in charge of the mansion, including them.

    ''There is no answer to this other than talking to Hans again... ?''

    But this time, I''ll have to go into the room and have a quiet conversation.

 CH 28

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 28

    7. The Duke''s Butler (4)

    What else?

    As I waited in front of Hans''s visit again, he frowned at me when he returned from work.

    "Can we go in and talk?"

    There was a lesson from yesterday. He was very reluctant, but he let me in with a look of helplessness.

    The room was full of Hans''s strict personality.

    Beyond the neatly angled and tidy level, the furniture placed evenly on either side of the bed with the head touching the center of the wall viewed from the front, even the symmetrical bottles were felt.

    When you''ve finished watching, please sit down.

    Hans pointed to a square table placed in a straight line with the bed.

    As soon as I sat down, he took his seat right away.

    It''s like saying, ''Even giving you a glass of cold water is a waste.''

    "The reason we are fighting like this is the mansion.

    I don''t think the atmosphere is good.

    Your assistant is cloudy water.

    It must have been cloudy because there was a lot of dirty humus underneath. If the water is really clean, it won''t get cloudy even if the eel, not the loach, swims.

    Are you here to catch a fight now?

    Ah, my mistake!

    reflexively accepted.

    Hmm, hmm-! Anyway, we''re not going to fight any faction, isn''t it a little bit like bringing in other people as well?

    I didn''t say anything. I just let them decide.

    Still, you made a tea that you hate me, so that''s not the case. Even before yesterday''s quarrel...

    Isn''t that just because you''re too outspoken about incompetent subjects? Compared to my former assistant''s throughput, you can''t even keep up with 1/5 of his.

    Ah, no. There was no takeover, and it was an adjustment period...

    I haven''t been joking in the past month.

    should have

    I am really deeply sorry. At least you should have worked hard during your working hours... .

    I don''t understand why the Duke chose you, or why he left you. At least when I hired you, I thought I might have seen something I hadn''t seen before.

    Hans paused for a moment and let out a sigh.

    "But the butler did the interview, didn''t you ?"

    I mean. So do I.

    It is clear that Duke Go was also deceived by you. Obviously, even during the interview, I didn''t feel like this... .

    I was very nervous back then! Ha ha ha I

    Hans''s face twisted at my smile.

    The atmosphere was so different that I wondered if it might have been brainwashed by black magic, or maybe a demon copying human form.

    A demon who copies human form. Is it like a flaganger too?

    It didn''t appear in the original, but I think there are demons with that concept.

    But if it''s black magic, the duke would have figured it out, and it''s still too early for the devil to be summoned.

    So it''s more of a problem. Compared to the past, the personality of the present is...

    Aren''t you being too proud to say that you did a background check?

    He''s the one who needs to be right next to the duke, so that''s of course...

    Do you feel anger build up while talking?

    Sharply grinds and looks at me. If there was a badass evil, it would be a face like that.

    Uh, umm... But since you''ve already been appointed as an assistant, the duke doesn''t even want to cut himself. I have some money to pay back to the duke... Oh. Do you want to know? Solertia''s scroll table That mouth

    Hans chin- on the back of his neck with a red face! He grabbed it and tilted his head back.

    Oh, is the old yangban still okay?

    A sense of guilt suddenly creeps in.

    "Can I get you some cold water?"

    Okay... it''s all right, bastard.

    Blood pressure is blood pressure, but teeth are also worrisome.

    "What on earth did you say you roasted the peacock? Why, why would someone like you "!"

    ''''That''s just... You want to help?"

    Help...! Ha ha ha-one. Ha-ha-hi-II

    That laugh, which started as a ridicule with a sense of absurdity, soon resembled that of a crazy person.

    for a while,

    ''Isn''t it going to look like a reconciliation if you open the window slightly now to let Hans'' laughter out and then close the road?''

    A thought came to mind, but I stopped.

    The smile was slowly moving towards Heodal, and I felt a sense of remorse.

    So, you''re saying you''re taking advantage of the duke''s compassion and consideration. A merciful and good heart?

    "Yes? Not at all?"

    "The scroll was also with the creator from the beginning.

    Using the pretext to pay off debt."

    No, no! As you''ve done my research, you know, Solertia and I have no contact.

    Hans, who looked exhausted, covered his face with the palms of his hands and took a deep breath.

    "Then how the hell did you end up eating !"

    Hans, who looks ten years older than usual, said in a squeaky voice. I don''t know what to do with the way I look so miserable.

    "Sin, I''m sorry. That''s what I ,

    uh .

    What should I do in this case?

    I never dreamed that the day would come when my whole life would make the old man cry.

    All of a sudden, I feel like I''m so trash, I''m really sorry]. I have no idea what to do.

    I wonder if it''s a term used in times like this to say that your head is going white and mentally upset.

    - Smart one,

    My feet are pounding and I don''t know what to do.

    Just then, a knock was heard.

    ''Who is it? should i open it? But now the situation is .''

    In a brief moment, countless thoughts ran through my mind.

    How to deal with this situation now? what am i doing now why am i here

    I really want to cry too!

    That''s me.

    The owner of this pure voice that comes from the door and doesn''t match the current situation at all... .

    Go, Duke!!

    When I opened the door with gladness, Serpens stood there with his head bowed and his forehead pressed.

    Serpens'' gaze through the fingers on his forehead is as sharp as a veil.

    Please move away for now.

    He walked past me, entered the room, closed the door, and stood in front of Hans.

    At that moment, Hans came to his senses, and while trying to get up, he staggered and nearly fell, and Serpens supported him and put him back on his seat.

    Lord, Master...!

    With a look on his face that Hans was moved by his actions... .

    ''Ah, Hans calls Serpent the master when he calls himself. No, what is it? That''s right... .''

    Looking up at Serpens with moist eyes and seeing him calling him that way, it didn''t look very good.

    Ummm... Sir Ribelon, didn''t you say you were going to reconcile?

    Serpens placed his hand on Hans'' forehead, infused with divine power, and made an absurd expression towards him.

    all.

    That''s why I''m like this... well...

    Let''s talk about that later.

    As if his head hurts, Serpens waved his hand.

    Behind him, Hans, who had come to his senses, was seen laughing at him.

    I wondered if I had seen it wrong, so I rubbed my eyes and laughed when I looked again.

    ''No, well, there''s all those guys, give me back my guilt!''

    Whether I''m looking for the lost millstone handle or not, Hans opened his mouth as he looked at Serpens with a look that seemed to shout ''Please call me!'' at any moment.

    It doesn''t make sense to have such a person as an assistant! A person like that, who is mean and unkind to an ignorant man, is no help to the Duke!

    Then, who should I have to help me?

    Serpens raised his hand and asked Hans, who was looking up at him.

    I tried to open my mouth to him, but Serpens didn''t even look at me and told me to keep quiet with just a gesture.

    Of course, like the former aide, we need to have someone as capable and loyal as that! It''s useless for someone who is incompetent and can''t even follow basic manners.

    Then. What do you think of the butler himself?

    Of course, it''s helping a lot. Since the days when the master was a master, he has been watching and helping out from the sidelines.

    Ugh, Eup!

    When I saw Hans smiling softly as if reminiscing about beautiful memories, I was nauseous from the rising disgust.

    I quickly shut my mouth, but it seems it''s already too late. Hans'' scornful eyes pierced his face.

    Guess I''ll ever feel sorry for that yangban again... !

    butler.

    Yes, Master.

    An expression that gently raised the corners of the lips

    With that, Serpens opened his mouth softly.

    To the voice calling him, Hans answered, looking up at him with a impressed expression.

    At first glance, it appears to be a master-slave relationship bound by strong loyalty.

    Isn''t Sir Rivelon still young?

    Yes?

    It''s the first time I''ve become an assistant, and I didn''t have a full-time job. I think it could be.

    " Yes?

    Even while I''m away, please take care of me.

    "Hey, what is that ?"

    Please watch over me.

    Serpence smiled and gently patted Hans on the shoulder. As the touch was added, Hans''s expression gradually rotted and faded.

    ''Now, are you clearly on my side?''

    Act like you''re not going to help. I thought it would be a good thing if I kept my neutrality well!

    Ha, but...!

    If you''re really uncomfortable, you can report it to me as you have so far.

    Oh, you get the report... . Still, it was thrilling.

    Gam-deok Ji-han Gil-nyang was the only one who took care of the feed every day and made me watch it from a distance.

    It felt as if that arrogant Gilnyangni came first and gave me all the dead bugs as a gift.

    A mixture of excitement and uneasiness creeps in.

    The butler looks tired, so let''s get out of here.''''

    " Yes!

    Hans, who had a sad expression on his face, left behind.

    Serpens took the lead and left the room, and I followed suit.

    I, peacock...

    One Shh.

    He raised his index finger and brought it to his lips, gesturing to Hans''s door, which had just come out.

    Obviously, it wouldn''t be a good idea to talk here.

    Serpens naturally climbed the stairs and opened my door .

    '' uh? Is this something strange?''

    Yes, he can open my door.

    After all, this mansion belongs to Serpens. You might have a master key or something.

    But why .

    '' Isn''t the lock on?''

    Feeling very uncomfortable, I entered the room.

    Someone on the table just drank

    There was a teacup that looked like it had been drinking.

    "Somehow the timing of your arrival was a bit odd."

    I was eavesdropping right upstairs here.

    If it was Serpence''s hearing, which was strengthened with divine power, without having to lie down on the floor. I would have been able to sit down at the table, sip tea in a leisurely manner, and listen carefully to all the conversations.

    Looking at your actions so far, I thought you would come to me right away.

    Serpens casually placed the teacup

    He sat down and ripped a piece of paper and said.

    A blue light burst out of the torn paper and settled like a thin film on the inner wall of the room. It wasn''t just paper, it was a magic scroll.

    Is this... soundproofing magic? Is that right? The soundproofing here isn''t that good?

    There''s nothing wrong with being careful.

    Be careful, at least 500,000 Ars flew away at a time.

    It''s probably a lot more expensive than that, but we don''t know the exact price, so let''s move on.

    Ah, thank you earlier than that!

    Be careful in the future.

    Yep!

    He smiled and looked at Serpens, and he smiled and shook his head.

 CH 29

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 29

    7. The Duke''s Butler (5)

    Just to say thank you, you probably didn''t use that expensive scroll... Do you have anything to say?

    At my words, Serpens blinked with a slightly dazed expression.

    What, is that really all?

    "Ah you did well earlier."

    Yes? What?

    On the subject of reconciliation, he came only provocatively.

    I was nervous that I might get scolded, but I was very startled when I suddenly received a compliment.

    ''It''s like you listened to me... .''

    Have you ever felt refreshed by seeing Hans cry?

    Considering what Serpence had been through, it was understandable enough.

    ...nausea?

    Yes?

    I never imagined that the day would come when I would be praised for being a bit nauseous.

    I don''t know how to react,

    I''m not so embarrassed by the unexpected answer.

    Looking at his face to see if he was joking now, there was no reason to be serious.

    "It''s not no, no. Yes, nothing."

    Yes?

    Why do you say the word ''no'' three times? What were you trying to talk about?

    Is it necessary? That''s not it... If not, if not.

    ''If it were E-Ni... ?''

    What was the word behind it?

    I then remembered Serpense''s past. And it must have been the same for Serpens.

    If I hadn''t done anything then, would he have run away again?

    It''s nothing. Then I...

    Again?

    Serpens, who was about to get up, stopped.

    He seems to have understood the meaning of those two short words that I uttered.

    I''ll bring you a new cup of tea, so why don''t you go drink it? The scroll effect is a waste.

    As if in a conflict, Serpens, who was sitting awkwardly on the edge of the chair, changed his posture and sat down to see if he had made up his mind.

    "Oh, but how about water "

    Before the words ''Did you boil it?'', he took out a small carton the size of a palm from his pocket and threw it at me.

    Unexpectedly, when I received it and opened it, there were several red stones the size of a new fingernail inside.

    "A fever stone? Right?"

    Serpens nodded at my question.

    To be precise, a heat-emitting stone is a mass-produced artificial manastone that contains the magic of fire, and unlike naturally generated manastones, it is a disposable item that cannot be recharged.

    ''There is also Shin Sung-seok as a sister product... .''

    Water was poured into a kettle from a drinking fountain placed on one side of the room, and a heating stone was placed in it and shaken, and the kettle quickly became warm.

    Gently open the lid, put the right amount of tea leaves in the steaming water, wait for the tea to come out, and place the kettle on the table.

    placed on top

    ''But why are you carrying something like this?''

    According to my memory, there was a description of Liena using divine power to create a sacred fire.

    It''s blasphemy to use a sacred fire just to heat tea, but the serpent inside me is an image that doesn''t even care... ?

    "Can''t you do this with your divine power?"

    The only thing the torch can burn is

    It''s just unclean.

    A pure white flame rose from Serpens'' palm.

    Even if you bring your hand closer, you can only feel the warm energy as he said. There was no feeling of heat.

    Even if you have the courage to put your hand in the white flame and stir it, not a single collar will be scorched.

    "Would it be really useful in winter?"

    As he gently shakes his hand, the flame flows and disappears without burning anything.

    What did you mean earlier? If not, then.

    What are you talking about...

    As I continue to stare without a word, Serpens''s gaze, who at first looked at me as if he knew nothing, slowly shifted to the side of the gold.

    Eventually he reached the edge of the carpet on the floor, and then he spoke again.

    I don''t know either."

    Yes?''''

    Somewhere in my head, the floor

    I''m shaking and dizzy... .

    Are you okay now!?

    Yeah, I think so. He said he would help... well, in this way...

    With a confused and dizzy look on his face, he murmured a little. He doesn''t seem to understand the change in his emotions.

    "You often look at me with that look, is that compassion?"

    Oh, I''m sorry! If you feel bad...

    ,,Yes?

    Yes?

    Usually, after a question like, ''Is that expression sympathizing with you?'', isn''t it natural to say, ''If you''re going to sympathize, give me money!''

    No. Serpens have a lot of money, so if you''re going to give them money, you''d better pay them with sympathy... .

    Isn''t this too?

    I''m just asking. I''ve never seen the end of those gazes on me.

    The sound that would normally only be heard as a brag of a handsome man came out of Serpens''s mouth, and the meaning changed.

    "Everyone must have been busy protecting themselves."

    "From what?"

    "Isn''t it a feeling of guilt about being neglectful?"

    Serpence tilted her head slightly, with a look of still ignorance.

    "By a kind of self-deception by rationalizing that it was for the sake of the continent that it was silent about the immoral things that happened in the Prasidus family at that time. You deceive and deceive your own conscience."

    Only self-deception...

    Like a student memorizing a new English word, Serpens repeated the word over and over again.

    I''m not an expert in this field, so I''m not sure, so don''t think too deeply about it! It''s just that there was such a thing, so everyone turned away, and I just want you to know that the situation was absolutely not normal.

    " what is your major?"

    Oh, well? What is it?

    He smiled awkwardly and avoided his gaze.

    Serpence, as always, thought it might be one of my strange behaviors.

    Or is it that they just pretend they don''t know?

    I brought up another question.

    "To be sure, did you want to meet the servant who was working at the time?"

    Well, that''s it.

    Serpens, who seemed to sit quietly and listen to me, seemed uneasy, and couldn''t keep his eyes on one place.

    '' Since when?''

    I was worried that he might be trying to run away again.

    Why are you doing that? Because I am the one who will become the master of the Holy Sword...?

    No, it''s not like that...!

    Not?

    It was a little similar, but let''s put the details aside.

    He tries to face his weaknesses without running away, but is it okay for me to hide it like this?

    Sometimes, I just wanted to tell everything out of my frustration.

    But it''s so absurd

    Because of this, I fear that even the little bit of faith that connects little by little will disappear.

    He is too weak to accept the things he might do in the future.

    If a person who doesn''t value himself becomes aware of the future.

    ''Worst case...

    It was so harsh that I couldn''t even put it down.

    Of course, there were some reasons for that in the beginning. But these days, it''s often forgotten.

    " you can''t say things that you can hide.

    Poetry is.

    It''s because I don''t want to treat the Duke with lies. No excuses, really. For now, I just want you to smile and be happy just like everyone else.

    "I am a human being who can receive such goodwill "

    When I said that I looked anxious for some reason, I left my seat with a blank expression somewhere and stood up.

    Yes?! Ji, calm down! The Duke

    This child is really a repeat offender.

    Instead of running away for some reason, he sat quietly and continued the conversation.

    ''What was the problem this time?''

    I sat down by myself and calmly reviewed the conversation.

    Why was he nervous again?

    It''s the same from the time I asked if I would go to the servant who worked at the time, and if I think about it a little more, the look in my eyes when reciting ''self-deception'' is a little... .

    Oh, damn it!

    Because of that.

    ,guilty. self-deception. immoral conduct

    rationalization for.''

    Serpens killed his parents in the past. As I learned from them, I hailed it as a necessary evil.

    And he faced what he had been neglecting all along.

    ''To me, they were just cruel criminals who abused children, but .''

    So, rather than their death, the situation of Serpens who had to kill them was more pitiful.

    But he didn''t seem to take it that way.

    Those things are called parents...!

    I feel so guilty and in pain. If you felt pity for yourself, even a speck of pity, you shouldn''t have done that.

    At first....

    The saying that the savior who must save the world must not die before disaster strikes is bullshit.

    That''s... if you weren''t the savior, what''s the difference from saying that it doesn''t matter if you die!!

    Serpence himself was among those who failed to give him a pitying glance. For him, ''self-pity

    there was no such thing as

    ''Self-pity.''

    It''s usually a negative word, but I don''t think that''s necessarily the case.

    If you don''t take pity on yourself, so you don''t want to take care of yourself.

    Eventually, it will rot and rot.

    Serpens had no narcissism.

    If you cherish and love, everyone will feel pity for your partner. Worrying about even a small wound and trying to empathize

    not looking sensibly

    Even if I got hurt, I didn''t know it was a wound, so I didn''t think to heal it.

    Even in the midst of suffering, you can''t think of yourself as pitiful, so instead of blaming others, did you blame yourself, which naturally led to self-hatred...?

    The cool night air rushes into the empty room.

    He closed the window where Serpens had escaped, and looked back at the seat he was sitting on.

    After brewing tea on the table

    And, without even being able to pour out a single cup, the forgotten kettle caught my eye.

    The tea I was going to drink together, I ended up drinking it alone.

    The ''it'' that had been neglected for a long time was very bittersweet.

    For some reason, I felt like I had to do that, so I drank all the tea that was astringent enough to serve.

    It was an impulsive act, and as a result

    I got so nauseous that I had no choice but to skip breakfast.

    Lord Rivelon. Take good care of the Duke today too, and please visit... heh heh heh...

    As I stood in front of the carriage waiting to go to the advisory meeting today, Hans greeted me.

    Just by looking at your eyes, you are about to take out a dagger from your arms and stab me to death, but the mouth is smiling and it gives me goosebumps.

    ''Is it because of what Serpence said yesterday?''

    Thanks to this, the quarrel between me and Hans could be turned into a brief clash.

    There were still people who looked at me with distasteful eyes, but most returned to the same attitude as before.

    And in the wagon.

    Serpens didn''t say anything. He held the book open as usual, but the pages did not turn over.

    Should I speak up first?

    If he brings up the topic again, he''ll run away again.

    ''But, if you change the topic... .''

    The bitter tea I drank alone last night kept hovering on the tip of my tongue. I couldn''t just cover it up.

    He seemed to keep thinking about something.

    I hope his thoughts are cleared up. I confided in the problem and waited for help. So we looked into each other''s eyes.

    In the midst of all this, the time was Holler, and the day became the day when Serpens went out without much conversation.

    Go carefully, I''ll be waiting for you.

    Yeah, then I''ll go.

    Serpence still greeted me with an external smile.

    ''I''m in that state, can I send it to a place full of monsters?''

    It''s not that I can''t go just because I don''t send it.

    I''m worried that I might get hurt by Amon''s attack after being distracted for nothing.

    Or ''kill.''

    If you feel a sense of embarrassment and stop, even if you get reversed by a monster... .

    " Worried?"

    You''re going to a dangerous place, isn''t it obvious?

    I am strong.

    What do you do when you have strong military power, your mental endurance is like Kukudas.

    So, looking at it with the eyes of what to do, the smile that pretended to be relaxed gave me a sense of sorrow at first glance.

    Hmmm... .

    An uncomfortable cough from somewhere

    A sound was heard.

    The expressions of the knights standing behind Serpens had become harsh. He seems to think that I doubt his skills.

    I believe in Duke''s skills! But I''m a little worried... I don''t know what people do. Don''t get hurt and come back.

    The knights'' expressions loosened.

 CH 30

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 30

    8. The Duke''s House without the Duke (1)

    After he left, I asked Hans the date Serpens would return.

    You''ll be back next Thursday. As soon as you arrive, we will go down to the Duchy as soon as we receive the delayed report, so be prepared.

    I live very busy. It must be hard, but I''ll take it easy.

    I''ve been away for a long time, so I''m on the train

    You must be busy processing the paperwork.

    ''Serpens alone is so busy, how is the Duke of Argento, who served as the head of the advisory council and vice president, going to be separated?''

    I''ll have to ask him the next time I meet his assistant, Sir Falsum.

    anyway. Since Serpens had been away for a while, there had to be someone to take over.

    ''Of course not me... .''

    Deputo Guberno, the current chief administrator within the Duke''s residence, took charge of it.

    Not only this time, but every month when Serpens descended to the Duchy, he is said to have acted as deputy.

    Thanks to that, I was also ordered to go to the magistrate''s office until Serpens returned.

    Sir Rivelon? Aide''s job... No, I just heard that this was my first job. Is that correct?

    Yes, yes! Is there any problem?

    Huh...!

    Former Administrator Berno, who is a round-headed grandfather, said he was very sorry.

    He let out a sigh on his face.

    I''ll write the title of the book, so read it by this weekend and put it together.

    Yes?

    Before the Duke returns, let''s aim for one serving.

    This is absolutely not my fault�[��. Because I''m not majoring in business or administration!

    As a result, most of the work had to be done with the knowledge that Original Zion had.

    However, Zion did not have very in-depth knowledge, and it was difficult to apply even the basic skills that I had because I did not learn them myself.

    ''It''s out of sync!,

    At this point, you should be grateful that you don''t have any problems with your language skills.

    I had no choice but to cry and nod my head at the words of Administrator Guberno, who was eating mustard.

    ''I hated studying the most in the world!''

    But isn''t there anything else?

    I''m in the novel [Master of the Holy Sword]

    It''s been over a month since I''ve been here. Meanwhile, I was completely neglected.

    It was difficult to expect such a friendly after-sales service to take you home.

    In a situation like that, I can''t just live with, I''ll send it back someday, hey Diya!

    Even if you try to go back voluntarily... .

    ''I don''t even know how I got here in the first place, but how do I know how to get back!''

    I''m sure I can go back

    If you don''t know, this will be your job for the rest of your life.

    Let''s learn when we say teach.

    Thank you, I''ll do my best!

    Heh, he''s still young, so he''s full of energy!

    He nodded his head with a happy smile in response to my answer.

    ''I thought I would be completely bullied for not being able to work... .''

    This is a more favorable response than expected.

    The question could be resolved by having a private conversation with him at lunchtime.

    "Then, did you volunteer for your grandchildren?"

    "Not because of it, but because I want to do it."

    It is said that the original governor Guberno worked in the lord''s castle, not the duke''s residence.

    Then about 8 years ago. It is said that one of the administrators of the duke''s residence has retired and a seat has been opened.

    It is said that the grandson of Administrator Guberno was approaching the age to enter the academy, so he volunteered to move to the Duke''s residence in the capital.

    ''Even though there was an academy in the Prasidus Territory, would the capital be better than the future network?''

    Anyway, it''s a simple greeting, so it''s been a long time since a seat was vacant here or there.

    But that was when Serpens had just become Duke.

    There are more than ten administrators in the lord''s castle, but in the case of a duke''s residence, there are only three positions, so it is said that he gladly accepted his resources as a career employee.

    "That child will soon graduate and be brought out into society like Lord Rivelon, right?

    I''m worried.

    If you''re the governor''s grandson, I''m sure you''ll do well.

    Instead of covering it up like Hans, the reason he encouraged me was probably because I thought of my grandson, who will soon be a freshman in society.

    After all, in society, there are more genuine adults like Governor Guberno than old folks like Hans.

    I want to show this wonderful example to people who talk about ''like a child'' or ''like a grandchild'' in words only.

    ''Can you see it? this is a real home

    It''s all about caring for your precious children!

    Feeling very warm in one part of my heart, I asked the Governor Guberno.

    "Does your grandchildren also want to be administrators?"

    Yeah, until then, there should be at least one administrative post in the Duke of Prasidus...

    Dirty academic ties, delays, blood ties all-roundism!

    Wherever you go, the world where people live is said to be there.

    When I realized the truth I didn''t want to know so much, my heart that had been warm for a while quickly cooled down.

    After finishing the meal with a cold heart, I went back up to the administrative office.

    Huh..., this is true. At this rate, it would be better for my grandson to come and take over as aide...

    Where the hell did Sir Rivelon learn the basic theory of public administration...?

    Is it because you think you''ve become close to a certain extent while eating together?

    In the morning, Administrator Guberno, who was talking a little cautiously, started in the afternoon.

    There was no hesitation.

    ". Did you not say anything to the Duke?"

    I must have been more miserable than I thought. But that didn''t mean it was unconditionally whipped.

    But the calculations are quick and there are very few mistakes... Sir Rivelon seems to fit well with the accounting field.

    That''s probably because when I was young, I solved basic X math like crazy!

    The academy told me to speed up my calculations, and told me to solve it as homework every day.

    Painful memories come back

    ''Nevertheless, I couldn''t get over the wall of science, so I went to the liberal arts department... .''

    It''s a very sad story.

    By the way, after listening to that story, it seems that most of the work I received from Serpence was also in the accounting field.

    Even after going down to the Duchy, my main job was to compare, check, and guess numbers while collating documents.

    Conversely, when I tried to catch a serpent as a snack.

    The administrative documents he put in in order to pretend to be natural and come to my place unnaturally were administrative documents.

    A sharp guy .

    Somehow, after finishing today''s work and having dinner, I borrowed two books about public administration the size of three fingers from the library.

    We expected that the actual number of pages would be less than expected due to the backwards technology of the paper industry, but it ended with expectations.

    It was a thin, high-quality paper that could only be used in the Bibles of our world.

    "When are you going to read all of this?"

    I think I''ll have to hold it in front of my desk for the rest of the day after work.

    * * *

    From the next day onwards, I received a bunch of administrative documents, and the youngest administrator was assigned to me like a gunner.

    The youngest horse looked more than 50 lines long.

    At first he looked at me with a look on his face, wondering why I should teach him this.

    I saw it, but from a certain moment, I was really excited to see if there had been a change of heart, such as, ''Even at this age, I am treated as the youngest.

    Ugh, I''m tired...

    I think I used my head more than usual because I had to learn and remember new things.

    But come back and study again!

    I pray that I want to live in a world without studies in my next life, and I sit at my desk again and read the book I read yesterday .

    uh?

    There was something like a message card that I had never seen before on the book.

    Upon closer inspection, it was just a sheet of slightly thick paper folded in half.

    It was clear that this was the purpose of the letter, judging from the fact that it was written on the outer surface of the letter, "Dear Zion Ribelon," in straight letters.

    Where did you see something like this... .''

    As I stared at the note placed on the book, there was something overlapping.

    in the original world. Memories of going to the reading room with a friend during the exam period

    this reminds me

    A friend of mine went to the bathroom for a while, and a schoolgirl placed a piece of paper folded in half like that on top of the book he was reading.

    Yeah, that''s just how it feels!

    As an aside, he turned 03 and got a C in his grades, and I got an A by focusing like crazy on my studies.

    Then this is a love letter?!

    After all, it was an era when there were no cell phones or the Internet, and the analog sensibility was excellent.

    ''But you sneak into the room like this

    Standing and leaving... .''

    Even so, it would not be polite to throw it away without reading it, since he has sincerity and his heart.

    Perhaps this is the universal confession method in this world.

    ''Because it''s a fantasy world, the confession method can be a bit astral!''

    Still, as a normal modern person, I was a little horrified.

    From now on, I''ll have to give it to you directly or push it through the gap in the door.

    "Okay then, shall we read it?"

    Beyond the beating, my heart pounding wildly urged me to open that letter.

    Trying to calm his heart, he carefully unfolded the paper with trembling hands, and opened the contents with his eyes.

    [How much do you know about the Duke of Prasidus?

    If you want to know about him, go out until midnight today in the abandoned building at 6 Mita Street.]

    "What kind of bullshit is this?"

    When it comes to Semita Street, I often hear about it from the advisory council.

    After relocating the people who once lived there for redevelopment, they quarreled over budget issues, and in the end, it was still neglected.

    Even if it''s steamy, it should be moderately steamy...

    The heartbeat, which had been running like crazy with excitement, to the point where the eardrum went blank for a moment, now vibrated slightly with anxiety.

    I don''t know who the opponent is, but the one who asks me to come out late at night in an empty back alley

    Where is the bastard who has lost his cowardly head and goes out after receiving it?

    I don''t know if Shion possessed even 1/10 the strength of a Serpence.

    ''Why am I out there with this wretched body that I''ve never heard of before?''

    A little while ago, the tender heart she had been expecting with a feeling of love suffered a huge wound.

    Unable to control the rising irritation, he threw it to the floor and trampled it with his feet.

    Let''s study.

    I sat back on the chair and opened the book.

    Right now, my hair is colder than ever. In the current state, I would be able to read this book in one fell swoop!

    '' There was a time when I thought

    After an hour, I lost my concentration.

    He yawned loudly, resting his chin on his left hand and flapping the bookshelf with his right hand. My posture is also getting messy, my back is bent, and the chair is pushed back... .

    - Jiik һ.

    I wondered what kind of noise this was, and I looked down and saw a piece of paper I had trampled on under one leg of the chair.

    When you study, curiosity about everything other than studying arises, and how to look interesting.

    Losing the shape of the past that had been folded straight, he picked up a piece of paper that had been soiled with shoe marks, wrinkled, and even torn slightly by being dragged by a chair.

    Spread it out well and carefully

    I looked again, but again, the sender was not written anywhere.

 CH 31

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 31

    8. Duke''s Mansion without Duke (2)

    The thought that my innocence had been mistreated had previously been thrown away relentlessly.

    But when I think about it again, it wasn''t something to ignore.

    ''Who the hell sent me this message with what purpose?''

    What does the person who sent this know about Serpence and why is he trying to tell me about it?

    '' Serpens look at me and live like this

    Did you want to make an angle?''

    Contrary to what I tried to approach him, this note does not appear to have been sent with good intentions.

    Rather, a clear malice towards Serpense is felt.

    What is the story that is so disturbing that it has to be secretly summoned in this way?

    And why do you have to tell me, his aide?

    The time the letter arrived was also after Serpence had left.

    I don''t know if the fact that it''s not the same day or the next day means that the duke is an intruder, not a person, or is he just aiming for a slightly safer situation.

    However, what is clear is that, in terms of the tone of writing and the timing, this really shows the will to reveal his wealth.

    ''Is there anything that could be the fault of a Serpence?''

    his childhood?

    It''s a pity, it''s something to sympathize with, and it''s not his fault.

    However, the mental flaws of Serpens that resulted from it were enough to be a weakness.

    ''But there''s no way anyone could have noticed that, right?''

    If it had been at a level that could be noticed by anyone else, the story itself wouldn''t even be possible with [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Aside from the mental side, what else can you get a pod for?

    He killed his parents, or he killed a former aide, or he''s reaching out into the dark... .

    ''What? Are they all fatal?''

    However, there was no mention anywhere in [Master of the Holy Sword] that such a fact was discovered.

    As for the dark district, it must have been fate that the demon worshipers manipulated it to frame Serpens.

    The murder of the parents and aide was not revealed until the end.

    But what if the sender really knows something?

    And if Serpens noticed that, and killed him before the original started... .

    shit.

    Somehow, I felt strongly that this was probably the cause of the original Shion''s death.

    Should I not go out?

    no.

    If it goes on like this and explodes at the wrong time later, there is no turning back.

    ''For example, immediately after the Day of Choice... .''

    If you really know any information that could be a weakness of Serpence, you can meet him and reveal his identity.

    Maybe I should find out and let him know?

    ''It would be nice if I could somehow hold the time until Serpence returns... .''

    Is there any way to only confirm the identity of the other person and what he knows without meeting in person?

    Wait. If you can send a message, you can also receive it, right?

    It was a sudden thought, but it was quite plausible.

    If it is something you must convey to me, please come back tomorrow and send me a note.

    Shall I leave it and hide it?

    It was very confusing to see strangers coming and going in my room, but what can I do?

    ''It must be because most of the power of the Duchess, including Serpens, has been lost .''

    You could tell someone to increase the guard, but let''s put that on hold for now.

    I tore up a sheet of notebook with a complicated mind, and wrote on it.

    [Who are you?

    In such a secluded place with strangers

    can''t meet you.

    Why do we have to talk about the Duke in such a place?

    No matter how much I think about it, all I can think of is that this is a trap.

    If it''s really important, identify yourself and show credible evidence.]

    After folding the paper in half, I wrote ''Reply in large'' on the outside for easy identification and placed it on the desk.

    Okay, then...

    I got up and headed to Solertia''s studio.

    People who do not have the power of their own body should buy safety with money.

    Yes, it is 1.5 million Asu.

    When I said that I wanted to buy a scroll that could be used for self-defense, Solertia held out a scroll and said:

    I heard that the cheapest scroll is 500,000, so I thought that the more useful one would cost more.

    this is so... .

    I don''t want anything great, but that

    It''s just enough to protect my body.

    Yes. A low-level defensive scroll, 1.6 million ahs. Did you cut this too?

    At this point, I''m rather curious about what kind of magic the 500,000 arcs scroll contains.

    Did you have any use for it?

    "You didn''t get your salary, Mr. Sion? If you were Gong''s assistant, you would get quite a lot, right?"

    I got it...

    As she said, I received quite a lot of new subjects with no experience, no academic background, and no skills.

    I got 4.5 million as a monthly salary, 1 million asuna as a maintenance fee, and 5.5 million asuna in total.

    For reference, I was told that the dignity maintenance fee mentioned here is for the semi-baron title, and it is expected that the title will be applied from next month and an additional 2 million ass will increase.

    And, as Serpens had previously notified, debt repayment was ''recovered only from wages.

    In other words, since the maintenance cost was the same, the remaining amount was 2.5 million ars. Even so, this is a fairly generous amount.

    ''But the problem is that after sending half of the remaining amount to the Rivelon family?''

    Most of the employees send part of their salary back to their hometown, so I asked him to help Hans collect them and send them.

    ''At that time, Hans looked at me with a ''to the topic?'' expression... .''

    Anyway, I was getting all the room and board for free at the duke''s house, so 1.25 million

    Asus was not enough, I thought it was overflowing.

    Until I heard the scroll price now.

    ''If I had known this would be the case, I would have sent it from next month... !''

    Regret is always too late I regret doing it because it is already too late.

    Or is it just introspection?

    "Well, that''s I sent all of them to their home, except for 1.25 million Ars "

    "Ah, maybe your family is very difficult No, no! Mr. Sion is filial."

    Solertia looked at me with encouraging eyes. I''m glad I didn''t say that I was going to pay off the debt.

    Neither Hans nor the magistrates know that it''s taking it out of my paycheck, but she mistakenly thought Serpens had paid it all.

    Suddenly, he got a huge debt and almost looked like a father who sacrificed himself to build a declining family.

    ''By the way, if the low-level defense is 1.6 million ah, how much is my debt?''

    I don''t think Serpens will play with money, so I just asked him to take care of it... .

    Not knowing this is a drug, so I guess I did a good job not asking.

    When are you going to negotiate your salary?

    Uh-huh... Joe, I like it! This time, I''ll only get the material cost as a bonus for the first purchase! Please give me 1.2 million ass.

    With her arms folded and her head tilted, Solertia, who had been contemplating deeply with a smirk on her face, spoke as if she had made a decision.

    thank you!

    "It''s only today! And you know where you can''t go and spread the word about this, right?"

    Solertia handed the scroll and said with a determined expression on her face.

    ''How can Lee Idaji be so kind!''

    Anyway, the opening of the store was delayed because of me, but even the scrolls I made were passed on at the original price!

    ''After seeing Serpence, I think I''m having a hard time too, right?''

    By the way, if the cost is 1.2 million Ars, does that mean that her labor will be 400,000 Ars? Even with low-level scrolling?

    "By the way, Solertia, how long does it take to make a scroll like this?"

    Ma, researching wizards costs a lot of money! And I''m also very talented!

    As if he had noticed the intent of my question at once, Solertia suddenly started making excuses.

    It took me a while to make, this... .

    "Didn''t you decide to receive research funding?"

    Me, I''m not getting full support!

    Come to think of it, the material of the clothes she is wearing looks quite luxurious.

    In the first place, magic scrolls are things that are produced and sold in order to generate profits at the Magic Tower, which blows huge amounts of money every day as research funds.

    She couldn''t be bothered to take it as her main job.

    I remembered something I had overlooked. go

    It is true that the opening day of the crab has been delayed a bit.

    But, in the end, all the prices were paid, so it''s like selling all the scrolls you''ve made, right?

    ''I said cost sales, but if you think of it as an added bonus when disposing of a large amount of inventory . In terms of network management and long-term customer attraction... .''

    I have to cancel the hogu sound. Suwan is a great woman.

    Really! This was sold to the aide of the Duke of Prasidus, so it''s a contract.

    Do I have to tell the Duke that it''s not a violation?''''

    all right.

    Among the contents of the contract, there was a profit distribution matter.

    A person-to-person transaction that did not go through the store could be a breach of contract.

    Something I hadn''t even thought of. As expected from the scrolls she made, he was a meticulous person.

    More than that, being an aide to a powerful family. Is it too dangerous...? I don''t know what''s going on, but be careful.

    Solertia looked at me with a worried expression.

    '' what? As she said, the cost of this scroll . Could it be done as an expense?''

    The best thing about coming to this world was meeting her.

    It was the next day that a reply came from an unknown person.

    [If you want to know the truth, come out to 6 Semita Street at midnight today. I will meet you in person and let you know.]

    Oh, why again!

    It was a welcome reply, but the content was empty.

    You''ll be satisfied with the first drink, if you keep trying, you''ll be fine.

    If you want to spend as much time as you can and don''t like it, then think about whether or not to leave.

    [You didn''t learn from your parents that you shouldn''t follow people you don''t know?]

    [I''ll let you know once it''s out. Today at midnight, I hope you come out to 6 Semita Street.]

    This time the reply came the very next day. No, but why do you keep talking nonsense?

    [What do you know about the Duke? Do you know better than me as an aide?]

    [It cannot be conveyed in words. count

    Come out to Mita Street No. 6.]

    What kind of first love did you start with the teenage boy Girl?

    I couldn''t express my feelings in words, so I called out to the backyard of the school and confessed.

    [who are you?]

    Sunday was a day off, so it was difficult to break in when I was away, so this reply is from work on Monday.

    could receive it later.

    And the answers were the same.

    [I''ll let you know when I get to the appointment.]

    Aren''t you really doing too much?!

    I couldn''t concentrate on my studies because of the unidentified notes, so I was devastated by Administrator Guberno last weekend!

    Even today, because we had a meal with him and exchanged questions and answers,

    I feel like I''m going to choke because I ate it.

    ''By the way, is this how it comes out? Let''s see who wins!''

    [This letter is from a kingdom that fell 300 years ago... (syncopation)

    If you don''t handwrite something like this letter and send it to seven people within a week, bad things will start to happen.

    At first, it starts as a small hand cut on paper, but as time goes on, it gradually (omitted)...

    All of this article is true.

    300 years ago in a certain kingdom, the gates of the capital were seized and destroyed overnight because they ignored this letter.

    I also picked up a pen like this after I got a huge amount of debt, thinking about it.

    Keep that in mind.

    Before an irreversible misfortune strikes, you must send it by hand to the ''seven people''. must.]

    [Today is the last day. If you want to know why your predecessor died, Semita

    Come out to street number 6.]

    His 6th Semita Street... . It looks like it had been smeared with honey.

    Yes, I lost.

    It seemed unreasonable to take any more time.

    Still, since you got the keyword "talking about the former aide", is that a good thing?

    Reluctantly, I put on my coat and left the mansion with the Solertia ticket scroll hidden in my arms.

 CH 32

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 32

    8. The Duke''s House without the Duke (3)

    Based on Shion''s memories of going to various places for interviews over the past two years, I asked passers-by about the vague parts.

    Thanks to that, I was able to get to Semita Town without much trouble.

    People looked at me suspiciously when they asked where Semita Street was, but what about it?

    I was proud I want to meet you secretly

    It''s over there, not me.

    ''The story we''ll talk about today is also going to be paid voluntarily as soon as Serpence returns... .''

    After all, Hans couldn''t help but report that he went out late at night.

    If you look around awkwardly for nothing, you will only have doubts.

    ''Besides, there wasn''t anywhere on the note telling you to sneak out without being detected, right?''

    It seemed like he didn''t write it because it was too common sense, but it was his fault that he didn''t write it.

    The streets of Semita were full of horses, and small buildings like shantytowns were clustered together along a narrow street like an alley.

    Most of them were unauthorized buildings, and the ones with proper street numbers were sparsely located between them.

    It is said that only the owners of permitted buildings were recognized as citizens and moved to the outskirts of the capital, while the rest were forced to relocate in preference to territories that lacked manpower.

    Looking at the number of houses that have sprung up and come in person, in fact, redevelopment is an excuse and the main purpose is to increase the number of the nobility''s territories.

    seems to be

    Relying on the dim light of the lantern, he proceeded cautiously.

    Perhaps it was because of the close-up of the buildings, every time I walked, the sound of my feet rang like an echo.

    It was eerie, as if a ghost was about to pop out at any moment.

    Originally, I didn''t believe in ghosts, but considering that this place is a fantasy world, I can''t believe it.

    In fact, there are scenes in [Master of the Holy Sword] where the warlocks cast their spirits, or the demonized ghosts make a riot.

    Wasn''t it crazy

    " are you here?"

    Although the alley was quite complicated, the difference between the permitted and non-permitted buildings was apparent from the outside, so it was not difficult to find the 6th building.

    I took out Zion''s old pocket watch and checked the time, it was 11:53.

    ''We arrived at just the right time.''

    When I looked at the handle of the building, I saw traces as if someone had opened and closed it with cloth.

    It doesn''t look like it was intentionally wiped off, but it''s relatively cheap compared to other places.

    It was clean.

    ''Isn''t that the result of someone''s hard work over the past week?''

    Still, it looked dirty to hold with bare hands, and I''m not the type to bring a handkerchief.

    I had no choice but to open it with my feet. It is fortunate that it is not a circular doorknob that opens by turning it, but a straight type that can be pressed.

    Balance with one leg, and pull the leg as if it were folded while pressing the handle with the heel.

    Is it because it has been neglected for a long time?

    As soon as you take your foot off, the handle says ''Tak-!'' It bounced up with a sound, and fell off the door due to the recoil and flew away.

    '' I''m going to waste anyway, so I don''t have to ask?''

    Still, it did open, so I pushed my foot into the slightly open door and opened it wide.

    "What did you just say?"

    "The sound of smashing a dirty doorknob with your foot?"

    As I turned my gaze in the direction the voice came from, I saw a man with a mask and a black hood overturned, appealing to be suspicious with his whole body.

    He could clearly see the suspicious outfit thanks to the lantern placed next to him, on something black covered with a square.

    ''A person who doesn''t know would have thought that suspiciousness was the latest fashion trend!''

    On the train last month, Serpens wore a mask under the hood, this time under the hood.

    It seemed that he was determined to somehow hide his identity.

    "Anyway, I''m here, so can you tell me now as promised?"

    Once you close the door... come inside.

    The door was broken by me, so the other person changed their words in the middle.

    Judging by his voice and body, he looks like a man, but since he''s wrapped up like that, there''s no guarantee that it''s a real voice.

    As you know, I''m very careful, but can''t I do it here?

    The opponent clicked his tongue.

    But seeing that they no longer told me to come closer, it was worthwhile to exchange letters over the past week.

    "What do you think of the Duke of Prasidus?"

    Ummm...

    If I answered that I was thinking like a stray cat, would I be treated like a madman?

    "To be honest Someone like Yuri?"

    That''s mental durability.

    In my mind, I wanted to compare it to a softer cookie, but I didn''t think I could understand it, so I just replied that it was like glass.

    Since the nature is the same anyway, the general meaning will work.

    Ha... you are being deceived. He is not as transparent and clean as you know.

    it didn''t work at all

    What else does that mean?

    Your predecessor... I know who killed him.

    Don''t you want to?

    "Do you know?"

    No, Serpens. How did this guy get his job done?

    And why does that person know that?

    ''Is it the family of the former aide or the detective they hired?''

    Then, why did I call myself out instead of spreading that fact?

    Seeing that I was called like this, I asked

    I don''t think either of them are thinking... .

    The Duke of Prasidus killed him.

    "Do you have any evidence?"

    Reaction is too calm?

    Oops!

    I already knew this, so I guess I was being too cold without realizing it, thinking about what to do after that.

    That''s it, from what you sent, it''s clear who you''re trying to pinpoint as the culprit. I was saying it''s the duke''s secret, it''s the truth, but then suddenly, what did my former aide do? Isn''t that so? More evidence?

    There is no clear evidence that he killed him.

    Without realizing it, a sigh of relief came out.

    ''Yeah, Serpence isn''t the kind of person who easily spills evidence.''

    Sometimes he tends to run away impulsively when talking to me, but other than that, he''s always calculating.

    Instead, there is circumstantial evidence.

    Under the circumstances...!

    good! I can catch you somehow

    all.

    If you use the public perception that Serpens''s usual image or that he is no different than the actual appointee of the master of the holy sword.

    Block enough, but rather counterattack for defamation... .

    '' He''s such a bad guy, right?''

    Serpens will do the execution, but my conscience aches for nothing.

    Anyway, if that happens, I don''t know who that person is, but I think I''d be socially buried.

    That person knows it too, so instead of going out with the evidence directly, the credibility

    In order to raise the castle, it seems that he was summoned separately to attract me as Serpence''s aide.

    Yeah, I''m very curious.

    Perhaps he understood my exasperation to the other side, he pulled out a document from his pocket and held it forward.

    It''s like you''re going to come closer and pick it up.

    "Can I throw it all the way here? I have an incurable disease that causes hyperventilation in anxiety when I walk away from the door."

    To my bullshit, the other person said, ''Various things.

    Yes .'' he muttered, and threw the papers on the floor.

    That didn''t mean I threw it to be picked up, but the papers fell closer to him than where I was standing.

    Do you think you want me to get inside somehow?

    Those who are thirsty find the well.

    " who called me first, shamelessly."

    The opponent did not respond to my provocation.

    You are wearing a mask and covering your mouth, so I have no idea what you are thinking. If I do this, I get a tree frog symbol for nothing... .

    "It''s obvious if you don''t read the contents anyway, but you don''t want to go in even if you have a chronic illness, do you?"

    Bluff doesn''t work...

    " It''s dark, right?"

    Guess I was stabbed, the other person didn''t say anything and kept his mouth shut. I guess this was right too.

    When [Master of the Holy Sword] was serialized, the aides asked the cause of the death, and

    Many people including ''I had guessed that they had found documents related to the Dark House.

    The author did not comment on it, so this must be correct.

    "Hey, how about that Oh, I knew it!"

    I''m the Duke''s assistant, can''t I be unaware of that?

    " but he must have known that his predecessor was trying to distribute drugs in the dark."

    No, I didn''t know that]! what? Jeon

    Was the assistant the bad guy?

    Maybe Serpence put him on the back and killed him. But why is it known that he was killed by robbers?

    What, that reaction? If you didn''t know...

    No! It''s because I''m frustrated, because I''m exhausted! To come all the way to this place because of something I already know so clearly...

    " if you knew everything, you wouldn''t need the rigged information."

    He picked up the papers and burned them in a lamp on the box next to him.

    all.

    ''Did you just give out falsified information?''

    Perhaps he manipulated what the former aide had done in such a way that Serpence did it.

    As it is information manipulation, I feel a sense of d��j�� vu.

    How can you trust someone who''s only been a little over a month this much... But keep in mind, for whatever reason, he murdered and hid it!

    Aw, that''s not it! It''s all circumstantial, and he was a bad guy.

    ok? Since he bought a grudge from somewhere and did something worth being stabbed to death, there is no evidence that our duke killed him. So that''s why you''re flirting behind the scenes like this, right?

    And what if he killed him? The drug distribution! It''s about preventing more people from dying and suffering, which is justice! Oh, of course, there''s no evidence that our duke killed him.

    But why did that bastard come with fabricated information and try to estrange the relationship between me and Serpens?

    "It''s about the realization of justice . Yes, if I had believed the documents without knowing anything, I would have been willing to die with the heart of at least doing justice."

    Yeah? What else is that?

    I''ll give you one last chance. Listen carefully.

    Even in the letter, he ignored all the replies I wrote and wrote only what he had to say, and even when we met in person, there was nothing else.

    It wasn''t us who killed the former Duke and Duchess of Prasidus.

    "We ? are you a demon worshiper?!"

    Somehow, he said he was used to the term information manipulation.

    If you think about it, the only people who could face Serpent blindly were the demon worshipers.

    For nothing, he was talking about the true nature of Serpence and talking about his former aide, so he was lost in that direction.

    "If I had gone, I wouldn''t have come!"

    I don''t know if this is okay with just one low-level defense scroll. Wouldn''t it have been better to take it for an attack?

    But that''s because I''m afraid that someone might accidentally die... .

    Nevertheless, the current Duke of Prasidus pointed us to the cause. How about it, don''t you feel something?

    I don''t feel it at all. If it was so unfair, you should have come forward and explained it yourself, right?

    That can''t be possible!

    That was it.

    Regardless of whether people believe or disbelieve it, they''ll be caught asking what kind of amber this is.

    But now it doesn''t matter. Now that I have a delegate.

    Representative, who is that...?

    He raised his hand and pointed at me.

    If I didn''t know anything earlier, I thought I knew what he was going to say by reminiscing it with what Goo-hyeon would say.

    You came to realize his hypocrisy while assisting Duke Prasidus.

    If it was Serpense''s hypocrisy, he was already aware of it even before he became an assistant.

    And he recognized the many evils that he had committed without anyone knowing.

    I knew it right away too.

    "I feel threatened with my life, but I am determined to expose it for the sake of justice."

    It was true that he felt threatened with his life, but now he decided to bury it.

    Of course, we have prepared all the materials on our side, so there is no need to worry.

    I''m more worried about what they''re doing to force me to do that than the data.

 CH 33

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 33

    8. The Duke''s House without the Duke (4)

    " why do I have to do that?"

    With your right foot slightly back, you are ready to run away if you leave the car. No, you have to run away right now... .

    That''s because your family is in our hands.

    He said as he lifted up his lantern, which he had placed on top of the black-clothed box.

    with empty hands not holding a lantern

    Gently stroking the fabric, he deliberately folds his fingers slowly and grabs it.

    family ?''

    I thought maybe I would never see them again.

    When I think of it, I miss it infinitely and I feel lonely again. Because of that, I tried to shake it off somehow and not to think about it, but I couldn''t.

    Because they are family, even the smallest things contain memories with them.

    No matter what I see, I unconsciously associate it with the things I did with them.

    It made me think, it made me smile, and it made me sad.

    Even now.

    Even though he knows that this cannot be the case, he first thinks of ''I'' and his family, not Zion''s family. He caught the footsteps he was about to run away from.

    Among them, the one that came to mind most clearly was the figure of the older sister who spent the most time.

    ''Now that I''m gone, what if I don''t have anyone to run errands for?''

    Saying I''m late for a date on the weekend, wake me up with my feet up to dry my hair

    I remembered her giving me pocket money and a hair dryer and putting on makeup.

    ''Now you look late every day... . Wouldn''t that make a difference?''

    Ever since I was little, I was afraid that ghosts would come out if I washed my hair or bowed my head to wash my face, so I forced myself to stop in front of the bathroom door and tell me to talk.

    It eventually became a habit even when I grew up, and when I was in the military, I was the girl who came to visit and grumbled that she was bored while washing .

    I wondered who would take such an older sister, but I didn''t know until the end.

    While I was immersed in thought, the tantalizing man thought he was ready, so he took off the fabric at once.

    ...Huh? ...Wait, this is nonsense.

    After the cloth was removed, the first thing that caught my eye was a square iron fence.

    And the being lying there with his hands and feet tied in it. It was a woman of a familiar body, with long black hair hanging down.

    Yeah, you wouldn''t want to believe it.

    He said in a hoarse voice as he saw me peering through the iron bars, lost in his mind.

    ''For Zion, the only brothers are an older brother and a younger brother.''

    And Zion''s green-brown hair is her father''s inheritance. His mother, the only woman in the family, was blonde.

    No matter how dark it is, there is no way you can''t tell the difference between blonde hair and black hair.

    "Daddy, what ?"

    At the question close to my own self-talk, the woman in the iron cage flinched as if reacting.

    In the movement, the long hair that covered her face fell, revealing the hidden face.

    ''How could [sister] be here?''

    This is impossible. It was absurd.

    How could she exist in this world? And how did they know she was my family?

    Could it be that they were the ones who caused me to enter the body of Zion?

    If that''s the case, since when has she been held captive?

    How is it? It''s a family reunion after a long time... Isn''t it nice?

    "What the hell did you do ?"

    The voice in my ear was trembling.

    The words of my voice, full of anxiety and impatience in a panic, he giggled and laughed with satisfaction.

    Don''t worry, I haven''t done anything yet. And aren''t the words a bit short?

    Unknowingly, I took a step forward in his act of kicking the iron fence with his foot.

    Why don''t you come and see me a little closer? It''s been a few years, isn''t it nice to see you?

    I reflexively tried to take another step forward, but stopped.

    ''some year? What did the author just say?''

    He completely stopped walking at the sense of disparity in his words.

    As I no longer come closer, he illuminates the lantern a little closer to get me to see her face properly.

    The exposed face was also ''me''''s older sister.

    Although he looked exhausted, it is the same face that I saw on the evening of the day I entered Zion''s body.

    Didn''t you keep in touch so often? Don''t just send money, go down and see your face.

    Something is out of focus.

    As he says, in that cage

    Doesn''t it sound like the person trapped in the room is ''someone from Zion''s family''?

    ��]

    Oh.

    now it calms down The spirit I had left came back.

    It''s ridiculous that he was deceived even though he knew this world was like this.

    And I realized that I missed my family more than I thought.

    ''Oh , this was a fantasy.''

    The reason he deliberately took the time to collect the cloth after mentioning his family was,

    It wasn''t just to make fun of me.

    So that I can clearly picture the image of my family. In addition, it must have been to buy time for the magic to be cast.

    Perhaps the original plan was to trick me into believing that Serpence was the bad guy.

    At the same time, they handed over fabricated information saying it was their investigation, and I would have thought that if I, his aide, disclosed it, other people would believe it too.

    If I don''t believe it, or if I''m afraid of the aftermath, this is the hostage play that I prepared to use when trying to get rid of it.

    You''re really mean...

    For the last time this time, I took a look at the face of my older sister, whom I might not be able to see any more.

    Even though I noticed that it was fake, I thought it was like a photo. .

    It''s really heartbreaking to see you care for your family more than you think.

    " well. I didn''t know either."

    "Then you know what to do now.

    ok? Announce these at dawn this morning, before Duke Prasidus returns. After all, today is Wednesday... . If possible, it would be nice to have a seat at the advisory council, but I wouldn''t be able to go in alone. Yes, the main gate of the Imperial Palace would be nice.

    He picked up a briefcase that was hidden behind the cage and pushed it out this way.

    I couldn''t see it, but the face behind that mask was sure to be laughing at me.

    His behavior to deceive me and my family], annoyance rushes in.

    Nope?

    Therefore, I purposely raised one corner of my mouth and opened my mouth.

    what?!

    "No. Why do I have to do that?"

    He got up from his seat and kicked the iron bar hard.

    Someone inside, whose identity is unknown, groans in pain with his teeth clogged by a gag.

    Can''t you see your family is being held captive here? If you don''t follow my orders, you''ll lose interest!

    Ah, yes. I''ve been thinking about it. Using black magic to inflict on me, brainwashing me. Leaving such a simple method aside and using such a troublesome method... If I detect black magic, I will Is it because you know that no one will believe you if you reveal it?"

    If this is the case, the reason why the hostage play is a more effective method than trying to deceive me with fabricated documents can be explained.

    It won''t leave black magic in your body like brainwashing, but the remnants of it may be buried, so use it if you can.

    Maybe you didn''t want to?

    And that explains why they didn''t kidnap the real Zion''s family.

    If you suddenly disclose such information as soon as your family is kidnapped, it will be easy to find out that you are lying because you are being threatened by the kidnapped family.

    Do you think that will give you the upper hand? As long as you have hostages, that doesn''t change anything.

    And to spread this kind of false information. For now, the Duke is powerless.

    There is nothing to be done from the enemy side, so it seems like they are trying to isolate socially. that''s right?

    You just shut up and become our puppet!

    I didn''t mean to ask with the intention of getting an answer.

    It seemed to be understood just by looking at the reaction, but rather, the purpose of organizing my own thoughts was greater.

    ". Are you going to kill me anyway?"

    If you follow our instructions, I will release your family safely.

    Are you saying I''m going to kill you in the end?

    And is this the end of this plan to be blamed on the Duke even for that?"

    Not all demon worshipers are warlocks.

    These are the people who were kidnapped as a child, trained in stealth, assassination, and swordsmanship, and were brainwashed into following their doctrine.

    Perhaps one of them was the one who broke into my room and left the letter.

    ''If you use them, you will be able to kill me without leaving behind any black magic... .''

    In addition, when demons are later summoned, they are promised to receive power or other benefits, and knights, nobles, merchants, etc. who support them.

    ''Are you trying to instigate that Serpens, whose truth (?) was uncovered using them, killed me?''

    This must be the end of the demon worshipers'' plan.

    Nevertheless, I will release only your family here safely. With all my mana, I swear in the name of the devil.

    For now, I ignored that bullshit and continued my thoughts.

    ''In the original history, how did Serpence get through this without a fuss?''

    Since there was an official writer, it was obvious that Serpens killed Shion.

    In other words, their plan did not come true.

    Let''s review the situation first.

    In my case, I left it in the duke''s family, but if it was Zion, wouldn''t it have been better to go back to my hometown on a vacation?

    Since he wasn''t stuck inside the duke''s mansion like me, it is possible that he approached it directly rather than a letter.

    And .

    ''I have no idea!?''

    From here on, it''s not about reasoning or anything, it''s just the realm of creativity, right?

    Even a reaper wearing a blue jacket and a red bow tie can''t untie it.

    Besides, I know that Shion''s death was disguised as a wagon accident, but I don''t know if he died from an overturning while riding a wagon or was hit by a wagon.

    "If I turn down the offer, will you kill me right away?"

    Of course. I can''t just let those who know the plan go...

    Ummm... is it like that?

    That said, it seems unlikely that Zion would have rejected this offer.

    It must have been Serpens who killed him... .

    ''This is purely my brain, but .''

    first. Zion accepted that offer, but the place was not the capital, but the Rivelon estate. Or on the way there or on the way up the capital.

    second. Sion, who accepted the proposal, returned to the capital before Serpens with the documents they had fabricated.

    third. While on the way to the place to publish the contents of the document, for some reason, I was killed by a Serpence who returned earlier than I did... ?

    ''Is the third obviously weird?''

    Aside from Serpence''s return earlier than planned, why did he kill Shion as soon as he returned?

    Did you even add a tail?

    If I can guess based on my memory, the original Sion was just a stupid and simple guy who made a lot of mistakes and trusted others well.

    The corner is suspicious enough to be followed...

    '' Come to think of it. As soon as I became Serpens''s aide, of course there was a person in the duke''s residence who was monitoring everything and reporting to Serpens, of course.''

    I did a little bit of something suspicious... Although, Hans was before that.

    On the second day of work, having lunch at a restaurant

    He was a person who spoke at the speed of light, even talking about friendship.

    And now he had his eyes turned on, hoping that I might be doing something wrong.

    ''If you do this well ?''

    What are you constantly thinking about? The life of your precious family and the honor of an unknown stranger. You don''t even need to weigh which one is more important?

    He threatened again and kicked the barbed wire. That ''Kang-Kang'' noise is very annoying!

    Ah, I''m thinking, please stop talking.

    Oh!

    "Well, don''t think that this guy ? If he doesn''t harm you, he will do the same to your family."

    That was really true. In this situation, why are you quietly kicking the iron bars?

    Shouldn''t it be threatened by throwing magic through the grates or stabbing it with a knife or something?

    ...Uh, is that so?

    Come to think of it with a calm mind, that guy had never shown any advance moves to use magic.

    According to the original setting, the conditions for the activation of the installation type magic were very difficult because it was a group of prayers that activated the pre-installed magic.

    It was established only when the target unconditionally fell within the specified range.

    In other words, there is a very high possibility that I, who is still standing at the door, will not fall into that range in the first place.

    seemingly inconsistent. One assumption flashed through my mind.

    ''...these bastards, aren''t they together?

 CH 34

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 34

    8. Duke''s Mansion without Duke (5)

    I''m sorry. He didn''t do anything, so I didn''t think of that.

    "Well, there are all these guys ?

    Isn''t it funny to say respectful words to a guy holding his family hostage?

    As I shrugged and spoke calmly, his head, which was facing me, moved slightly diagonally.

    all.

    It was a small movement that normally would not have been noticed, but I was able to notice it because I was suspicious.

    It must have been that he had just had a silent conversation with the person inside the cage.

    Black smoke rose from his fingertips and became a single line, drawing a magic circle in the air.

    It soon turned into a black arrow, crossed between the iron bars, and lodged in the thigh of his comrade (presumed).

    I knew it wasn''t real

    all.

    But apart from that, when I saw him twisting his body in pain while taking on the image of a family, involuntarily, I flinched and closed my eyes.

    "Now, if you understand, follow me."

    " Ha, but! But, that doesn''t mean you can betray the Duke!"

    It''s not just a throwaway word.

    Pretending to agree clumsily, if Serpence appears at a strange time, he may die without even trying to make an excuse.

    Once again, an arrow made of corrupted mana is shot down into the cage.

    The warlock inside the cage struggled in pain again.

    If it hadn''t been for the gag in his mouth, he would have screamed out loud as he trembled with tears in his eyes.

    Eww , I''m sick of seeing it.''

    It''s amazing to be able to still maintain illusion magic while feeling such pain.

    I see you staring at him if you go with bloodshot eyes.

    Maybe you want to say something like ''Do you have any bad feelings?

    That, though...

    Can''t you see this painful face here?!

    Look, I can see it...

    No matter how much you squeeze and hit GoStop, people are right in front of you. Even that, watching the figure of a family-like being pierced and bleeding, I couldn''t help but feel at ease.

    Actually, right now, my legs are shaking and my body is in a state of shrugging.

    I didn''t see it in the mirror, but I saw my face

    He must have been terrified and his blood had gone white.

    ''Wow, I''m so glad I didn''t get too close... .''

    I had a very weak stomach.

    Perhaps, if it had been a little brighter here, or if the distance from them had been closer, I might have vomited my stomach right here.

    Are you still hesitating!

    The guy kicked the iron fence again, and the guy inside made a sound of U-eup and pretended to be afraid.

    ''It would be a more appealing direction to remove the gag and ask for help.

    As it turns out, seeing how he only referred to him as ''family'' from a while ago, it seemed that the man who used the magic didn''t know who he was in detail.

    ''but. I don''t know, so I guess that''s why he keeps doing such stupid things.''

    It''s hard to see that this has happened, but let''s continue to induce team kills.

    I have only one scroll, and even that is low-level, so there is nothing I can do about it.

    One person was injured and the other person could not miss the chance to make a difference.

    Ha, but! My family doesn''t want me to do such mean things...!

    The man inside the cage shook his head like crazy.

    It''s painful for me to watch! Run and stop right now, I''ll do anything you ask me to, I want to get down on my knees and beg! Sleep with those fierce eyes

    God is okay, so please don''t betray the Duke... !

    Ah, no! It''s the expression that wants someone to live!

    What do you know about our family!!

    At my cry, the demon worship duo is silent and looks over here.

    I don''t know who wore the mask, but seeing that the guy in the cage looks like a madman, it seems like the other side is no different.

    I, I''m in so much pain..., I want to help somehow...! Whoops!

    As he clenched his fists and looked hesitant, did he feel that he could do just a little more?

    This time, the magical energy that rose from the masked man''s fingertips turned into flames.

    As the flames hit his legs, he swayed with a roar of pain that no longer a moan could be described.

    The iron bars shook and dragged to the floor, making a rustling sound.

    Big-!

    Unknowingly, I turned my head and closed my eyes at that cruel scene.

    Hey, are you going to continue like this! It''s not too late now! How much more are you planning to inflict pain on someone more precious!

    It''s too much for you to do it yourself and overwrite it on me.

    Now that the flame was extinguished, the person inside the iron cage was exhaling a breath mixed with muffled weeping.

    Come to think of it, this is the place where the earthquake just struck, the place where the arrow was first struck.

    Did you even stop bleeding? pretty head

    write... .

    Ha, but...

    When I mumbled and couldn''t answer properly, he turned his gaze to the cage.

    The guy inside kept his illusion magic and shook his head nervously, judging that it was unreasonable to endure any more pain.

    How can you do that while watching your precious family suffer!

    It''s hard to see and it''s painful! But there''s nothing you can do about it!

    It''s not difficult. Maybe yes.

    Your family will understand you in time.

    You''re talking about our family...

    Hey, you crazy bastard!!!

    The masked guy groaned. Wow, Mr... . I was surprised!

    His face was covered so I couldn''t judge him, but his patience must have been gradually depleting.

    Is this over now... .

    Are you crazy? Are you crazy? Do you have no empathy at all? Or are you having trouble distinguishing facial expressions because you have a problem with your eyes?

    Come on, wait! Let''s do it one more time! I think we''ll be able to make up our minds...

    What..., well, there are all these bastards!!

    I still had regrets and shouted the last encore, but I was like, ''Is that right? Then, there was no such thing as shouting ''one more time and taking pictures.

    I know that I will look like the person I am now, but it was not very pleasant to hear that someone pointed it out.

    If so, then you are your own

    Are you not torturing your colleague?''

    And to say something like that, you''re a shameless bastard.

    You honestly don''t like your family? Or do you have any bad feelings for the guy in here?

    There are so many bad feelings.

    He was one of those guys who made fun of me by pretending to be my older sister, who plotted to make me die, and one of those who want to overthrow the world by summoning the Demon King.

    There can be no ill-feeling

    "Who are you talking to?"

    what?

    Who are you specifically?

    Stuck in here!

    Yeah, so. No. 1 father, No. 2 mother, No. 3 older brother, No. 4 younger brother.

    Of course, there is no answer among them, so it is up to you to choose which one you choose.

    By the way, the correct answer is noona number 5.

    "That, what?"

    It''s hard to choose? Then No. 1, Her. No. 2. What''s the probability of half/half?

    " l times?"

    In the midst of this, you choose it again and sit down.

    I know it''s embarrassing, but isn''t it time to think that it''s an unreasonable number?

    The reason I chose No. 1 is probably because the family consists of three men and one woman, except for Zion.

    But in my house, except for me, there is one man and two women... .

    Ding-! Unfortunately, I was wrong.

    Since when did you notice?

    Well, I guess that''s what it''s like

    How would you like to see it?"

    How? A guy with neither magical powers nor divine powers? Obviously, the first reaction was right.

    "Is it because I have a good eye for seeing people? At first, I even forgot to be deceived tl

    Hey! You bastard!!!!!

    Startled by the sudden sound of a desperate voice, he shifted his gaze towards the iron fence.

    Apparently, he used magic to release the restraint on his own.

    Throwing the gag I was biting on, I

    You can see the crab spitting out all kinds of double lust.

    Maybe it was because he lost his temper in anger, or was it because he thought there was no need to maintain magic in the yard where everyone was caught.

    Or, I don''t know if it''s both, but she doesn''t look like her sister anymore.

    No. She looked like a woman in her 30s, so who is the older sister?

    "Uh well. I don''t know who you are, but you did a great job."

    "Hey, this ! I''m going to kill you xx bastard !"

    As soon as those words were finished, I immediately turned around and ran out of the building.

    At the same time, he put his hand in his arms, took out the scroll, and grabbed it so that he could use it at any time.

    һ bang!

    A roar erupted from behind. Startled, I reflexively looked back.

    Judging from the fact that there is nothing yet to be seen, perhaps even the time to open the iron cage was so wasteful that it was blown away by magic.

    I looked back and ran back to the road I had come from.

    But before I could even take a few steps, I could see my son-in-law brightening and a long shadow cast in front of me as I was running.

    There was no need to go back and check this.

    Reflexively, he roughly threw the lantern he was holding in his left hand, and fell on the spot, tearing the scroll with both hands.

    - Chaeng!

    Because it was a low level, there was only a little bit of time punishment.

    As soon as I heard the sound of the shield breaking, I rolled over the floor and saw a fireball the size of a fist falling on the spot.

    Compared to the brightness illuminating the back, the size seemed too small.

    It looks like a long shield that reduces the power a bit.

    There was no time to be lost, so I got up on the ground, and... !

    Something grabbed my ankle. The center of gravity shifted forward in order to run, and it fell to the floor as it was.

    Tears welled up.

    Is this because of pain or fear?

    I turned to look at my legs and saw something like black tentacles wrapped around them.

    Even when I tried to shake off the caught foot, it did not come off, but instead pulled my body.

    At the end of it, a female warlock

    stood staggering.

    Next to her, a masked man supported her, and raised a ball of fire a little larger than a person''s head with the momentum to blow it away at me.

    Never! I won''t kill you finely...!

    Damn it!

    I tried to kick the tentacle with my other foot, but it just passed like smoke without any resistance.

    ''When is Serpence coming? Aren''t you doing Hans'' work right?!"

    If I had known this would happen, the letter would have arrived

    Be sure to speak to Hans in advance when you do!

    Or, I should have ejaculated from Solertia and received an installment payment, and bought more scrolls.

    At that moment, a single flash of light flew and cut off the black tentacles.

    The body that had been dragged to the floor also stopped on the spot.

    Go, Duke!!

    The woman''s face, who had a fishy smile on her face at my shout, was colored with embarrassment.

    And the guy with the mask on

    silver .

    Without delay, the fireball that had been floating in front of her face was blown away, and she went out.

    Ahhh-!

    A terrible scream rang out.

    It staggered and collapsed, engulfed in flames, and the wooden building caught fire.

    What is this

    I stared blankly at the blazing building in the blink of an eye.

    The fire spreads to the building next door.

    gradually expanded its power.

    Oh .

    Calm down. You have to get out of this distance.

    He tightened his legs again and stood up. However, his trembling legs could not move forward and were stuck to the floor.

    " can''t you walk?"

    A clear and soft voice that did not suit the current situation rang calmly.

    Raising his head, he sees Serpens throwing something at the flames.

    came into this eye.

    I was startled to realize that I had thrown the guy who ran away for a moment, but when I looked closely, it looked like the briefcase he was about to hand me.

    He was gently held by the back of Serpens'' hands.

    I don''t know if he died or fainted.

    Ah, ha ha...

    Feeling relieved at the thought that the threat was gone, he sat down.

    Seeing that, Serpens took a small breath and came to me and lifted me up lightly.

    oh raised

    "Let''s go back and talk for a moment."

    Serpens put me on one of his shoulders like a carrier, and quickly ran out of Semita Street.

    The pressure on her stomach was very uncomfortable, but compared to the warlock whose legs were being dragged, it was a very good treatment.

 CH 35

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 35

    9. The Duke and the incident statement (1)

    Upon returning to the duke''s residence, Hans was standing at the front door as if it was natural.

    Serpens handed the warlock holding the sentry to the Southern guard, and ordered him to keep an eye on him, as he was going to take him to the council tomorrow morning.

    "Doesn''t that mean I don''t have to confine myself?"

    Is there anyone left to arrest?

    Another Warlock Appeared?

    I wanted to, I grabbed Serpens by the shoulders and looked around.

    I looked around, but the figure of a suspicious person was nowhere to be seen.

    I turned my gaze to Hans with a puzzled mind, and I saw him pointing at me.

    No, why are you imprisoning me?!

    "If not, why are you hearing that?"

    Let''s go in and talk.

    Serpens cut off the conversation between me and Hans, who were arguing.

    Then he strode into the mansion, followed by Hans.

    I had no choice as I was still being heard by Serpens.

    I feel like I can walk slowly, but... .''

    Once you get used to it, it seems like this pose is worth doing other than the blood rushing to your head.

    Since you''ve worked hard today, I laid my body on Serpens''s shoulders, thinking that I should rest a little more.

    ''When it''s time to drop off anyway, drop it down

    I guess.''

    The place they arrived was the drawing room connected to Serpens''s office.

    Serpens laid me down on the long multi-seater sofa, and he sat down on the single-seater sofa at the top.

    You said you were going to the advisory meeting earlier, so I couldn''t sleep today.

    Why is the aide coming to the Duke?

    I''ve been through tough things, but it could be.

    Does that matter in the current situation?

    There must be a lot more questions or things to say, but that''s what I''m more concerned about.

    This yangban was also very serious.

    Lord Rivelon is unable to walk because of the weakness in his legs, but he does not want to borrow the power of divine power, so he has no choice but to...

    Ah! It''s fine now, so you can turn it on when you recover!

    Come to think of it, I had told him not to use it when he felt unstable.

    ''I''m so crazy, I forgot for a moment .''

    As soon as I received my permission, Serpens immediately infused me with divine power.

    Seeing that, Hans looks at me with his flagship eyes.

    Perhaps because I was too lazy to walk myself, I misunderstood that I used the serpenes as a means of transportation?

    No, this is...!

    "Once we get the situation sorted out, it comes first."

    He opened his mouth to explain it, but Serpens stopped him.

    You are right a hundred times, so I shut my mouth again.

    You must have received the previous situation in a letter, so I will omit it. And this is today No, it is a note that arrived yesterday.

    What Hans handed out was a note mentioning what his predecessor was going to say.

    I wondered when I started noticing the word about the previous situation, but it seems that he has just been in and out of my room regularly.

    After all, the aide did not trust the master. To be called out on such a nonsensical note...!

    Yes?! No, why is that? It''s a useless elixir!

    Sir Ribelon is right.

    I didn''t even have to respond. Serpence''s soft voice answered firmly.

    Not because I don''t believe it, but rather the opposite.

    Why the hell are you on his side again?

    At his exasperated cry, Serpens looked at Hans with subdued eyes.

    Please wait.

    Instead of answering the question, Serpens got up, opened the door leading to the office, and went inside.

    ''What if I leave the two of you alone like this... .''

    As I patiently endured Hans''s sharp gaze at me, Serpence came back and sat down with a pile of papers.

    "As you can see from the data, a dark district has formed somewhere in the Empire and is corroding society."

    If it were me, all of a sudden, I wondered what kind of bullshit noise it was, I would only have my eyes twitched.

    will be.

    But, as the Duke had said, Hans immediately began to scan the documents without question.

    In summary, my former aide not only covered up the dark side of things... Do you remember the drug dealer I caught two months ago?

    yes, remember... do .

    Was it because he was checking the documents, or was the content shocking? Hans stuttered in reply.

    Judging from Serpence''s words, the former aide was suspicious and followed.

    He seems to have witnessed an encounter with a drug dealer along the way.

    And you killed the former aide and arrested the drug dealer?

    He tried to distribute drugs in the dark. Unfortunately, fortunately, he was able to catch the merchant, but maybe it was to cut off the tail... As you know, the former aide was murdered by someone.

    Hey, I''ve never heard of that!

    "According to the investigation, a circumstance has emerged that a small number of nobles may have been involved.

    has been tolerated. For that reason, according to His Majesty''s orders, the leakage of information is limited to a minimum, and the investigation is being conducted in secret.

    It usually didn''t seem to be strictly limited.

    Even the Crown Prince Humanus did not know of its existence until more than a year had passed from now.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], how did you act as soon as you found out about the existence of the Empire of Humanus and the Dark House?

    ''Before I even heard of the location, I was indignant and tried to break in... .''

    The heart of the emperor, who kept a secret even from Humanus, is understandable.

    Another problem is that he has a very strong sense of justice.

    "I had no choice but to tell you this to help you understand "

    You], I will make sure you never say anything out of your mouth.

    The day before, Hans, who had zealously praised his former aide, blushed.

    With his head bowed as if he had no face, he arranged the materials he had been handed over to Serpens and laid them neatly on the table.

    Did the aide already know? So, you risked the investigation...?

    Hans glanced at me and asked quietly.

    Serpens looked at me with eyes wondering how he knew his question.

    "What did you notice it? I like people''s eyes a little bit. Oh, of course, I haven''t seen him in person, but you know what the public has to say? .

    Today, as we talked about gibberish, I felt a bit uncomfortable.

    Something is very confusing.

    Wait! The butler watched me thoroughly, going in and out of my room, and the former aide didn''t do any research?

    ''''That''s right. Unlike anyone else... .

    Hans shut his mouth as if he had nothing to say, even with ten mouths.

    There was no sense of injustice, but thanks to that, Serpence was able to return earlier than planned, so let''s move on.

    What was important was the serpens.

    Why did he look at me with those eyes, how did he know that?

    ''Even so, Hans, why don''t you look at me with those eyes?''

    It was hard to see that I was acting to defend myself.

    If that''s the purpose, it''s enough to just say that you''ve already given it to me. Then I would know how to deal with it.

    ''There''s no way Serpens didn''t know that... .''

    They think that I knew the truth from the beginning and left.

    Suddenly, a sense of betrayal hit me.

    " Since when has the Duke been here?"

    Before he could answer my question, he sent Hans out. Ostensibly, it''s because what we''re going to talk about is confidential.

    Lord Rivelon should have entered Semita Street], they''ve already arrived.

    Well, then, why were you watching me?

    My sadness surged up, and I screamed without realizing it.

    He was momentarily startled by the sound he uttered. Soon, I remembered that this was a soundproofed place to welcome business guests and opened my mouth again.

    Do you know how scared I was!? If you have already come, give me a signal in advance. Why...!

    " Are you testing me?"

    If I had pretended to accept their offer to get out of the situation right now.

    Not that much, but if he showed any signs of doubting Serpence... .

    ''...I must have been able to live like the original Sion.''

    The goose was crawling up the spine.

    It''s similar, but a little different.

    "Then are you observing me?"

    Yes. That''s it.

    His voice is so calm that no words come out.

    "What is this or that?!"

    I check in on an unknown person, even when I''m nervous.

    He is also deceived by illusion magic and is in a state of panic.

    Even with two warlocks in front of him, he was acting while trying to somehow improve the situation.

    ''And even the moment I was chased by them:

    until the very end of it. can run no more

    Until that moment that is so close that it is impossible.

    " Are you just watching? I didn''t even know that Ha-."

    It''s ridiculous and all the laughs come out.

    I felt so stupid that I didn''t even know that and believed that he would surely come and help me if I took the time.

    I didn''t mean to do that in the first place. It''s just..., my thoughts are a little complicated...

    Even so, could you have saved me sooner!

    I clenched my teeth and glared at Serpens. I could see him avoiding my eyes.

    I knew I had a one-sided feeling for him.

    ''I knew... .''

    The way he showed me his feelings, even a little bit. Unbeknownst to me, I made the mistake of thinking that he also had similar feelings to me.

    Unconsciously, I continued to regard him as my side.

    As much as I do him a favor, he will also answer me.

    each was

    ''How does a betrayed person feel? .''

    A feeling of disappointment flooded in, and my head was dizzy.

    Because he was sitting right now, damn it, if he had been standing, he would have collapsed on the floor again.

    I''m sorry.

    I even doubt if that apology is sincere.

    "If it''s Sir Rivelon , if it''s you.

    Now that...

    Are you calling that an excuse?

    Couldn''t it have been a little more sincere?

    It can''t be!

    got tired rapidly. Are you okay, what is it?

    ''Oh yeah. No matter what I do, I''m fine with that, right?''

    Yes, I was wrong for believing from the beginning. People can''t change so easily.

    Alone drumming and janggu, Adeungba

    Everything I was trying to do was in vain.

    In the first place, he is a person who is not touched by the pain of others.

    From the beginning, he was a man who did not believe in anything in this world.

    ''I can''t believe that such a guy needs someone or is willing to rely on him.''

    All of that is bullshit. No such thing happens.

    I should have just pretended I didn''t know anything from the beginning, packed my stuff, and quietly stayed in a rural village somewhere in a foreign country.

    Even if I''m unlucky and get caught up in a war and die, I don''t know how I feel like a beggar like I am now.

    ''It''s not too late now.''

    As soon as this is over, right now... .

    Lord Rivelon. I think you''ll be fine...

    Serpence didn''t have a clear tone as usual, but pulled out a voice that was locked up as if he was squeezing it forcibly.

    "So I believed it."

    What Serpens said now

    Beggar?

    I can''t believe the way he put his faith in his mouth.

    "Believe don''t you? What do you mean?"

    you.

    did you believe me? Did Serpens say that he believes in me now?

    It couldn''t be. I must have heard something wrong.

    If not, he''s definitely acting.

    You must have deceived me like that... .

    '' therefore?''

    What will he gain by deceiving me? my belief? get that... .

    so? There''s no need for him like that.

    But why?

 CH 36

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 36

    9. The Duke and the incident statement (2)

    Does that make sense? Why can you think I''ll be fine in that situation, with no power?

    A normal person who can''t even wield a sword properly fights two warlocks?

    If there is such a way, I would like to know everything.

    Do you think everyone in the world will be strong like you?

    "Ha, but you actually responded well ."

    "Are you saying those words even when you see this?"

    The wounds caused by being dragged on the floor were healed by divine power, but torn and worn clothes became rags.

    I didn''t check it by looking in the mirror, but it was obvious that I didn''t look at it.

    There will be no beggars

    when they tried to dazzle Lord Rivelon with black magic, they were about to do so.

    But why...!

    Lord Rivelon will soon become calm...

    "Damn it because I found out it was fake! Do you know how confused I was?"

    " usually impossible."

    Serpent looked at me with a dazed voice at my anger and stinging tone.

    Still, somewhere, he looked at me with eyes filled with wonder.

    '' The words you believed. Were you serious?''

    No, don''t be fooled.

    I was deceived by those eyes and is ...

    Sir Rivelon, unlike me, has a clear subjectivity, don''t you?

    Those who lifted me up like that... .

    Because you have the bizarre insight that can turn things around, and because of how you overcome them even when you are shocked. So I thought you''d be okay.

    I had no such insight.

    The only thing I knew about Serpence was because I had read the novel.

    Even in the midst of the chaos, you calmly regained your consciousness and noticed that it was an illusion. You went one step further to uncover the purpose of the demon worshipers, and thwarted the plan...

    It was possible because I was not Zion, so I could see through this magic.

    But I was so misunderstood... ?

    It''s about their purpose, the Duke can figure it out.

    peel?

    If I had come forward, I might have ended up with a line of speculation. It would have been impossible to obtain certainty through a direct reaction like Sir Rivelon.

    Somehow, I began to feel as if I was being repaid for the goodwill I had sent him.

    It''s not just about saying something to cheer you up... .

    The more you talk, the clearer it seems. I''m sure... that''s what I expected of you.

    I think he''s starting to lean on me.

    If it were you, I was wondering if I could get a better result than I did...

    To understand the true meaning of what he said, I looked into his eyes.

    Serpens looked at me with a sad face.

    Was it because I thought it was time to give up on everything and just run away?

    Those eyes look like abandoned kittens, so I gently turn my head

    avoided

    Lord Rivelon I''ve seen is a strong man... No, even this sounds like an excuse. You knew my strength was strong, but you cared about me, but I wasn''t. Like me...

    Come on, wait!

    Again, Serpence was on the verge of going into self-deprecating mode, so he cut off his words abruptly.

    Only then will I be able to get angry properly.

    Haa. When a really dangerous moment comes

    You kept watching to save him, right? It''s not that you doubted me, but on the contrary, you believed in me, didn''t you?

    I asked him with a long sigh.

    After each question, Serpens nodded his head with a tearful face.

    The force of the final boss that was read in [Master of the Holy Sword] was nowhere to be found.

    '' Is it all right?''

    I narrowed my eyes and looked at him with a questioning expression, and he crawled in.

    ''Sorry... '' He apologized again.

    Okay. I''ll just skip this one time.

    I couldn''t help it because my expression looked like I was going to cry if I pushed it more than this.

    It''s been less than two months since I was possessed by Shion''s body.

    However, I do not want to achieve 3 gold medals by already ringing Serppens after Solertia and Hans.

    ''I got Serpence''s trust anyway,

    Preventing him from falling over to the demon cult was his top priority... .''

    is that good?

    I looked at Serpens with a complicated mind.

    He was delighted with my answer, then paused, then turned pale.

    ''Why are you doing that again?''

    It''s impossible for his facial muscles to work ten days these days, but I''m worried that he might even have cramps.

    What''s wrong this time?

    "Actually during the story he was talking about

    - Knock, neck-

    A knock was heard on the door of the sailor''s parlor.

    When I turned my head and looked at the window, the day was suddenly dawning.

    I''ll tell you later.

    With those words, Serpens quickly got up from his seat, as if running away.

    to make a confession or something

    It was the same expression, but today is the end of the run.

    ''Still, if you listen to the rush and anticipate... ,,

    Maybe he was trying to talk about the murder of his parents and a former aide?

    He seemed hesitant about whether or not to talk about it before going out on a mission.

    I guess I''ve finally made a decision.

    Isn''t your assistant coming?

    I can be this historic moment

    This situational word], I looked at the person who was disturbing me.

    Hmm, hmm... Don''t be like that, the aide, and I''d better go back to your room and wash up and change clothes first.

    Hans coughed for nothing and avoided my gaze.

    Come to think of it, Serpens also apologized to me again, is that gentleman going to wipe his mouth like this?

    Doesn''t the butler have anything to say to me?

    I''ve misunderstood all this time... well, I''m sorry.

    NS.

    There''s only one word, ''Gee, so why does it sound so crooked?

    I wanted to argue with him, but I didn''t want to see the old man''s disgraceful expression any longer.

    In the future, when judging people, I just gave a tip to be careful and passed by him.

    It took a while to dry my hair, so I passed the morning in the end.

    It''s because Shion has curly hair, so if she doesn''t take care of it properly, her hair will stretch in a strange direction.

    In the carriage, it was not an extension of the previous discussion, but rather a time to organize the stories to be told in the advisory meeting.

    The former aide''s story had to do with the confidential dark house, so the story had to be omitted.

    Still, I had to inform the emperor, so Serpens will send the documents before the meeting.

    ''I had to come up with a reason why I was called to that place .''

    You can''t say you went to keep your mouth shut for fear of blaming Serpense''s evil deeds, right?

    To the extent that he was threatened with being held hostage by his family, he kissed Serpens.

    Other than that, I changed small settings, and in the process, there was a distortion of the liver, but .

    ''Since the overall outline of the case and the outcome are the same, there will be no problems ?''

    arrived at the conference hall.

    Since the matter was Saran, the emperor as well as Humanus were present.

    It was.

    When the seats were almost filled, the polite warlock was dragged in by the knights, imprisoned.

    The face, which had been covered with a mask, was visible only to the size of my age.

    Are you okay with it like that? His Majesty is also here, but if you use magic...

    Without hesitation, he ran away using his colleague who had injured his leg as a bait.

    I''m worried about what will happen if you suddenly die and I''m going to die like that.

    Serpence asked a question.

    In that case, you can rest assured.

    Since the constraint that suppresses magic has been filled, there is no need to worry about that, Serpens explained.

    ''Even if there is a car, there are serpenses, so it''ll be fine... Ji?''

    Again, just look around. This time, he will run away to a foreign country without looking back.

    The end of the case is...

    The meeting began in earnest, and Serpence started reporting the circumstances of the incident.

    Afterwards, I will answer questions from the emperor and other members of the committee.

    ''Is this the first time I have been given the right to speak at an advisory meeting?

    Wouldn''t it be comparable to presenting a PPT in class?

    When I give a presentation, I think that all the people sitting in the seats are professors, so I get really nervous.

    " Thanks to that, I was able to receive a call as soon as I came out of the barrier after finishing the subjugation. According to the contents of the letter that arrived ."

    The reason Hans contacted him was because Hans noticed my behavior that was different from usual after receiving the first threatening letter.

    That too had turned into an action out of concern, not suspicion.

    ''But you can''t say that Hans distrusted me and periodically searched the room, can''t you?''

    Because of this, the relationship between me and him has turned into a trusting comradeship that can be understood only by the light of his eyes.

    It''s a pure lie.

    Whatever the cause, Serpence, who came out of the barrier, was able to understand the situation from the letter that had arrived.

    This is the truth.

    And there was a beautiful story that Serpens, a great housekeeper who cares for gasoline, led his body exhausted from battle and headed straight to the capital.

    ''I have no choice but to go to Semita Street for the sake of my captured family... .''

    Pretending to ask passersby for directions, believing that Hans and Serpense will notice my situation and come to rescue me.

    He showed the wit of announcing his destination said the late Serpens.

    ''Actually, Hans had already skimmed the notes, so there was no need for such wit.

    It was a secret only the three of us knew, so it will never be known.

    Anyway, thanks to that, Serpens arrived on Semita Street on time and was able to rescue me from being threatened by the warlock safely.

    Indeed! The Prasidus family also has a strong trust in each other!

    As expected, Gaju''s personality is wonderful...

    It would not have been possible without strong trust in each other.

    ''In other words, it''s a story that is less probable, but should I say that it was filled with Serpence''s external image?''

    Shouts erupted from all over the conference hall.

    The warlock, whose original purpose was to undermine Serpens'' personality, went crazy, but was trampled on by the knight and became unable to move.

    ''...If you''re going to proceed like this, why did you bring him in already?''

    The meaning was unknown, but the hearing of the incident continued.

    "Hey, how did you know it was an illusion?"

    I couldn''t say that I had seen my older sister, not Zion''s family.

    Even if I just saw it, I could understand, Serpens passed over without saying a word.

    However, he pointed out that he felt that it was not probable enough to be heard by others, and could lead to suspicion.

    ''Two warlocks bait, and planting me as a spy seems to be the real purpose.

    Could it be?''

    Judging by the fact that he said so openly and tried to cover it up, I guess he really thought he would trust me.

    For that reason, Serpens suggested that we try to make the phrase ''what do you know about our family'', which I used to do with my demon worshipers, to be more specific.

    I accepted it and recited the lines we had prepared together.

    "It was due to their lack of information.

    You are not a real person.

    In my heart, I wanted to speak passionately, as if exalting someone I really admire.

    However, my acting skills were not enough for that.

    If it were true, he wouldn''t have looked at him asking for help. Rather than having him choose the path of losing his loyalty to his children for his own safety...

    Instead, he laid an iron plate on his face and spoke sensibly, showing his shyness.

    That alone worked out pretty well.

    When my speech ended.

    Zion''s mother was at the forefront of justice and was a great heroine who did not give in to injustice.

    The cardinals and bishops who participated in the council sought the god Luxmea, and were moved by her high devotion.

    The emperor declared that she was a hidden contributor to this case, and declared that he would grant the woman''s honorary title, ''Dame'', to a woman who knew loyalty and fidelity.

    ''Looking at the reaction, if I had caught him not towards my mother, but towards my father or my brother . You must have summoned me to the capital?''

    Really, it''s a million blessings.

    Even if Count Rivelon became a central nobleman, I would come across it often, and it would be very difficult for me.

    With this response, Lord Rivelon was able to figure out all their plans. Their plans were

    Serpence''s report continued again.

    Everyone who heard the conspiracies of the demon worshipers lamented that such a thing should not happen.

    At the same time, he said that in the future, even if anyone tries to frame the Duke of Prasidus, he will never fall for the trick.

    gathered and claimed.

    ''Please keep that mindset well even after the day of choice... !''

    Thanks to their plan to threaten Serpence, his position was rather solid.

    I spent an hour on this.

    When interrogating the warlock that is tied up over there by loosening the gag.

    Even if he mentions Serpence''s parents, no one will listen.

    It wouldn''t be that much.

    What happened once can happen twice

    ''If things go wrong later and they find out about the dark side, wouldn''t it be possible to drive it into a hoax by demon worshipers?''

    It makes me feel like a bastard of a demon worshiper who''s staring at me like I''m going to tear it apart.

 CH 37

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 37

    9. Duke and case statement (3)

    Originally, he should have asked the Warlock why he had done this or his plan.

    However, since all the contents have already been revealed, such effort was reduced.

    Instead, something more important remained.

    Their base''s right]chi. They had to hunt down the other worshipers and the traitors who helped them.

    ''I don''t think it''s going to be a big deal, but... .''

    The demon worshipers were point-organized.

    Afterwards, the Luxmea Church began to unite in the form of religion in the midst of sectarian divisions, but that is a later story.

    They were now scattered.

    For that reason, I did not expect much to find out the main base.

    But, considering the instigation plan, wouldn''t he know a traitor or two?

    ''Of course, there will be no way to answer just a question... .''

    Regarding that, the denomination side insisted that since the opponent is this cult, they should take them and have the heretic interrogator investigate.

    The aristocrats insisted that they were captured by the emperor''s servant, Duke Prasidus, and should be taken to the imperial palace and tortured.

    Instead of participating directly, the Pope has delegated the position to Cardinal Fidamen F. Dilucesco, who is also a permanent member of the Advisory Council.

    Because of that, there was a problem with the face of emperors of different ranks intervening. Although he ostensibly expressed neutrality, he was secretly siding with the nobles.

    ''It''s torture, no matter who does it, the result is the same... ? Why are you fighting?''

    The warlock looked at me with a pale complexion as I watched them fight each other over putting themselves in front of their eyes.

    ''I caught a serpent, why are you doing this to me?''

    He was a warlock, so he was skeptical that he might be casting a curse, so he took a step to the side and stood behind Serpens.

    Meanwhile, the confrontation between the priests and the nobles continued.

    Numerically, the nobles were more advanced, but they also believed in the god Luxmea, so they avoided an active offensive.

    On the other hand, the denomination''s power was small, but they were united around Cardinal Dilucesco.

    Because of that, their argument was forced to continue drawing the horizon.

    all.

    "How about asking yourself?"

    No, who came up with such a crazy comment?

    The crazy man with a flower garden in his head looked around looking for someone else.

    Humanus, who was next to the emperor, was slightly raising his hand halfway as if he was standing.

    The conference hall was silent.

    The emperor''s face looking at Humanus is an expression of wanting to slash the back of his head if there are no people here.

    Irrespective of the emperor''s expression, Humanus glanced at the knight who was stepping on the warlock.

    The knight watched the emperor''s eyes and secretly released the black magician''s gag.

    Shion Rebellion! Cursing you! The devil has descended on the earth and stood before your eyes... and your mother... Oops!

    The knight protecting the imperial family kept a gag in his mouth again in time to protect the council''s deliberations.

    ''What a great chivalric spirit!''

    As I was deeply admiring his quick response, I could feel everyone''s eyes focused on me.

    It didn''t look like she was worried about the pad lip, but it seemed like she was asking for an opinion... .

    '' I wonder if I was nominated?''

    It gave me goosebumps just to see them stabbed with magic arrows and set with fire.

    Doing it myself is too much for me.

    Besides, looking at his condition, if I torture him, he must die of a vase before he vomits out everything he knows.

    "Well, I have a weak stomach How about the Duke?"

    Recalling the original text, I tossed it to the all-round teacher Serpens, who has a knack for torture.

    Even so, that''s not it! Duke Fra Cedars is a person who can''t even kill ants because he''s pitiful]! To torture such a person...

    Lord Rivelon, are you really human?!

    That''s right, I can''t show such a cruel scene to someone with such a good and delicate heart!

    Serpence hasn''t said anything yet, but there''s a lot of uproar around it.

    Who the hell was the one who had been fighting each other over the leadership of torture until now?

    They unitedly vomited, saying that the terrible scene of torturing someone is not worthy of being shown to an innocent person like Serpens.

    Aside from the brutal sight, he is someone who can''t even kill ants to those who have just been subjugating monsters... .

    ''Oh! no. You must not be able to kill ants.''

    It happened when I was young, so I guess that''s true.

    ''Instead, it''s a matter of killing others well.''

    If it stays like this, my evaluation, which had been raised by this incident, is in danger of being used again as a second-class dog bastard.

    I quickly opened my mouth and corrected my words.

    No, I was just asking for your opinion! What do you think of the Duke! I''m the Duke''s assistant to the end. I can''t decide on such an important issue alone!

    The hustle and bustle of the intestines subsided.

    Then everyone shook their heads as if in agreement.

    uh... , I don''t know about that... . Can''t we just do it all together?

    It''s like Serpens saying, ''I don''t know anything.''

    He tilted his head with an innocent face and let out a terrifying sound.

    There''s nothing else in the world we can all do together... .''

    Nevertheless, Serpens''s opinion was accepted.

    The warlock was transferred to the Order, where he enjoyed the luxury of being tortured by the highest torture expert in the Imperial Palace and the highest cult inquisitor.

    ''As the authorities on both sides are called me as advisors, won''t they vomit out everything they know?''

    As soon as his treatment was decided, the advisory council

    broke right away.

    However, Serpens followed the emperor to give a more detailed report, and I was caught by Humanus, who was about to return first.

    Sir Sion, can we talk for a while until Sepi returns?

    I was tired from staying up all night, but I had no right to refuse the Prince''s invitation.

    He followed him to the Crown Prince''s Palace.

    "Is it okay if I don''t go with your Majesty?"

    You haven''t decided to entrust important things yet... That''s why you brought Sir Zion like this, didn''t you?

    Humanus said with a smile.

    In fact, it was closer to the fact that the emperor did not want to entrust a dangerous task to Humanus rather than not entrusting him with an important task.

    ''If I hadn''t really entrusted myself with anything, I''d have gone to the duke''s mansion on a fictitious day.''

    The peacocks told the story that he was like that before he was appointed Crown Prince.

    I must have heard it from

    Sir Sion has a rather daring side, unlike what it looks like. The thought of calmly obtaining information from two warlocks.

    "I was not at all calm, I was so scared that I thought I was going to die."

    Still, with a body that hasn''t mastered any self-defense techniques... It''s a great achievement. Is that also the mother''s influence?

    Ahahaha. .

    Come to think of it, Shion''s mother never became a strong female general.

    "Besides, what did Sephi go to talk about?"

    I don''t know.

    Where are you secretly asking?

    Before coming here, especially since Serpens had asked him not to say anything to Humanus, he took it off.

    Of course, I knew what Serpence was going to say.

    He is talking about linking the dark house with the demon worshipers, and saying that he will be in charge of the investigation because there may be another victim.

    I guess

    Chit. If you look at it, Sefi is a younger brother than me, but like my father, everyone always treats me like a child...

    Maybe it''s because of the difference in personality.

    If you put a lively and mischievous Humanus next to a calm and dignified Serpence, you can''t help but look like a relatively young child.

    Rather .

    Your brother? Aren''t you two the same age?

    Yeah, but I was born in January, and Sephi was born in December. When I was born, Sephi didn''t even exist! This is it!

    Age in this world is not calculated by birthday, but by adding one year from January 1st.

    If they are 11 months apart, they''re the same age, and in reality, it''s safe to say that they''re one year apart.

    Duke was born in December? It''s special.

    Is it because of the way the age is counted?

    Apparently, at a young age, the difference of a few months feels big, so

    It was advantageous to be born even a little earlier in order to look great.

    Especially, it was more prominent among the nobles.

    ''Shion, a nobleman in the village, was also born in March... . Even if they are born late, they are from a bloodline with the confidence to be superior to others, isn''t it?''

    For this reason, most of the nobility''s birthdays are held at the beginning of the year, and January to May is the busiest period in the social world.

    Maybe it''s because Serpence is always busy with work, or it''s because he doesn''t want to participate in such a place and prefers to work.

    I wasn''t interested in parties like that, so naturally it had nothing to do with me.

    Because you''ve become an aide, you don''t even know your boss''s birthday? It''s December 25th, so know that.

    Thank you, I will definitely remember.

    Since Christmas is my birthday, it was so easy to memorize that it was not necessary to write it down.

    Of course, there is no such thing as Christmas in this world, but... .

    ''But it doesn''t matter since I''m less worried about forgetting it?''

    Meanwhile, the maid brought out a tea set in a three-tier tray with Heungcha.

    Sandwiches, scones, and slices of cake were placed on the top floor.

    It''s not even Serpence, and I and I, who are his assistants, can''t eat together... .

    ''Even if the humanus is not formal, the grade is not right.''

    Since the story could come out from behind, it seemed to be prepared as a meal substitute.

    Perhaps Serpens had a meal with the emperor

    We''ll be talking while we''re

    As expected, Humanus was a comfortable conversationalist.

    I was more comfortable with Serpence than anyone else, but when it comes to leading a conversation, the other person''s response is more important than anything else.

    Me and Humanus emptied the tray one by one, exchanging bizarre stories.

    "So, are you going to keep working?"

    " Yes? Of course it is, right?"

    All of a sudden I wonder what kind of nonsensical question this is, I''m bewildered at Humanus

    When he saw it, he burst out into a smirk.

    I thought he might be scared and quit because of this job. Well, yes. You must have that much guts!

    I didn''t even think about it that far because I felt betrayed by Serpense.

    ''It''s a situation in which you might get scared and quit normally.''

    But little by little, potential began to appear in him.

    In the present situation, everyone''s future is to hold the center by Serpence''s side.

    is the best choice for

    Hey, it''s the other way around! Since something like this has happened, shouldn''t I be on the side to help?

    Hahaha! Yeah, you''re right!

    At my generosity, Humanus smiled brightly as if he was very happy.

    You, do you really like it? Sir Sion, if you ever get cut by Sepi, how about coming to me? No, would you like to just be my aide?

    Suddenly, what kind of scout offer is this?

 CH 38

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 38

    9. Duke and case statement (4)

    No, it''s fine! The Duke has to take care of me here and there... Do you think Jeon-jae is good on his own?

    When I responded by waving my hand, Humanus chuckled, saying that you might be the only one who thought so.

    "Am I really serious?"

    If Sir Zion thinks so,

    I''m sorry, but I can''t help it. If you change your mind later, you are welcome, so when that time comes, just tell me.

    He said it was a pity, but his expression was blankly written to see if he liked my reason.

    - Knock, Knock, Knock.

    At that moment, a knock was heard at just the right time, and the servant standing outside the door announced the arrival of Serpence.

    "Did you have a good conversation with your father?"

    Yes. Thank you for taking care of my aide all this time.

    What do you care about, just talk

    shared.

    Humanus smiled and motioned for Serpens who had entered the room to sit down.

    Thank you for the offer. But it was just after returning in a hurry, so I''m probably tired... Sorry, I think I''ll just have to go back and rest today.

    Serpence politely refused, showing his perfect appearance as a model of manners.

    Oops, I forgot about that. Okay, let''s go inside. Lord Zion later.

    See you again.

    Yes, it was fun today. Next time you have free time, please come to the duke''s residence!

    Puhaha! You say that?

    "Isn''t it okay for the three of us to play together with the Duke?"

    When I glanced at the Serpence, she smiled as calmly as usual and motioned for me to come quickly, not nonsense.

    Then we''ll go.

    "Would you like to see me off?"

    It''s okay if you don''t. Goodbye then.

    We left the Imperial Palace, leaving behind Humanus'' goodbye.

    "You don''t want to go back to work as soon as you get back, do you?"

    I had just said that Serpens was resting, but I doubted that it was just words, so I asked him as soon as I got on the wagon.

    "I think it would be difficult."

    In my mind, it means that I want to do the same.

    ''His workaholic... .''

    He added, lack of sleep and the state of using up a lot of divine power to compensate for it?

    As he touched his temples, he seemed to feel dizzy.

    If it''s that hard, will you close your eyes until you get to the duke''s house? I''ll wake you up.

    No. If you fall asleep in this state, it will be more difficult after that.

    A serpent who woke up and had a nightmare... . I can''t imagine

    If Serpence, not anyone else, said that to himself, then the average person would have already passed out.

    ''After all, no matter how hard you try, you''ve been walking around inside the barrier full of water... .''

    I did just that.

    Even if his divine power is strong, there will be a fixed total amount in the end.

    I think there were a lot of demons? If the Duke''s divine power was exhausted...

    It was, but that''s not the direct cause.

    There is no train station near the Volta Mountains.

    Even the station that you have to move for a long time does not go directly to the capital, and it takes quite a while to get around.

    He explains that it is faster to ride a horse and move in a straight line.

    And by saving time], he poured out his divine power to the running horse and covered it with all sorts of buffs.

    Hey, he''s really tired... .''

    Rather than explain it to me

    All in all, it feels like he''s talking to himself so he can''t fall asleep.

    Anyway, because he drove his horse like that, he was able to arrive on Semita Street earlier than me, who was supposed to arrive around tomorrow afternoon.

    '' Why didn''t the horse and serpent suffer more than me?''

    I''m sorry for being angry with him this morning.

    Business will resume tomorrow as scheduled, so you can go back and rest for today.

    As soon as Serpens arrived at the duke''s mansion, he left behind only those words and quickly disappeared into the mansion.

    next day.

    As soon as I went to work in the office, Serpence handed me 1.2 million ass, saying that the price of the scroll I used yesterday was treated as an expense.

    ''I was going to talk about it, but it''s good that you took care of it''

    In addition to that, I asked a tailor to take my body shape, saying that I would compensate for the clothes that were now rags.

    He said that if he went down to the Duchy this time, his clothes would have arrived.

    ''Hey, I''m a craftsman, so I''m sure they''ll compensate you for the damage you''ve suffered on the job!''

    Welfare was very good.

    I thought that the duke of Prasidus was not called the dream job for nothing.

    ''But I thought this was the end.''

    After work, before Solertia came and held out two magic scrolls.

    What is this?

    This is a scroll engraved with the highest level of defense magic. The Duke asked me to deliver it.

    Apparently, even after Serpense apologized like that yesterday, he still felt sorry for me.

    I don''t know what happened, but you said something very dangerous happened? Are you okay?

    The details of the story are not known to the public, but it seems that there was a fire on Semita Street, so it was guessed that it was a big incident.

    Ah, yes. The Duke came to the rescue in time...

    "If I had known this would be the case, I would have taken care of something better than a low-level one "

    No, that alone helped a lot.

    "Nevertheless If something like this happens in the future, the trauma is okay, so please tell me as much as you want!"

    Saying so, she clasped my hands tightly and moistened my eyes.

    I was deeply moved by his kind and gentle heart.

    and later.

    Through the documents, I found out that she had received an additional 400,000 ass from the duke''s family, as well as the top-notch scrolling fee, but that is a later story.

    * * *

    Again, it''s an advisory board.

    Serpens, who had been away for a long time, returned, but was scheduled to leave to visit the Duchy again.

    Yesterday''s day, as it had been in the Duchy, went by in a flash without an eye open.

    Today''s advisory meeting mainly talked about Semita Street.

    It was only now that I heard the story that the fire was extinguished by the imperial wizards who arrived after consuming most of Semita Street.

    Rather than being late, it was because the report was delayed because it was an uninhabited street in the first place, and it was early in the morning.

    Not just ruins, but ashes

    It was unanimously concluded that the redevelopment of this street, which was no longer left, was to start immediately, no matter how much it cost.

    It''s hard to believe that it''s been dragged on for nearly 10 years due to budget issues.

    ''Is it fortunate that the cost of demolition was reduced by luck out of misfortune?''

    I thought, but the cost came from other places I didn''t think of.

    The fire on Semita Street was caused by a fire created by black magic. Plus, a warlock was killed by the fire.

    ''It''s good to hear something like a curse''

    It''s a shame, right?''

    In fact, there was erosion by black magic, so the entire area had to be cleansed in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

    The church will send one bishop-level and five general priests to clean up the streets.

    Cardinal Dilucesco spoke on behalf of the Luxmea Order.

    It was by no means a beautiful statement to do free service. Now that this has happened, the imperial family is telling them to give the money.

    ''And the cost will be billed as a voluntary donation in gratitude for the grace of God Luxmea... .One

    Since then, discussions have taken place quickly about how to build the street and who will be in charge of the work.

    The hands and feet fit so well, it made me wonder why they had left it unattended.

    Is that really the advisory council here? Isn''t it wrong to enter the parliament of another country? Huh?''

    In the end, today''s meeting has no dispute.

    It proceeded peacefully without a single sheet of paper flying around.

    That wasn''t enough, it ended 15 minutes earlier than usual, which ended only on time.

    The gap between the normal times and the time is so great that even before returning to the duke''s residence to eat lunch, he is stunned.

    Contrary to the past, when I finished my meal quickly and was negligent, this time, I took my share of papers with me.

    As I got on the carriage heading to the train station, I felt the passage of time again.

    ''By the way, has it already been a month since you decided to speak openly with Serpence?''

    Although two weeks were actually about two weeks because Serpens was away .

    As I recalled that day in a moment of reminiscence, I also remembered Serpence, who came in through the window in a suspicious outfit.

    "Duke, where are you going tonight?"

    n O Uh... " -, �[I

    Instead of reading a book today, on my lap

    Putting it on, his hand stopped to sign the paperwork against it.

    I''m not going today.

    Then tomorrow?

    After showing signs of contemplation for a while, he opened his mouth more cautiously than usual and in a very low voice.

    No. Instead of inspecting this time , there is a place I need to visit a little bit.

    If there''s a place you''re going to go to... maybe that...? Are you talking about there?

    He leaned forward slightly, lowered his voice a lot, added, ''Is it dark?''

    Serpens flinched and glanced at me with sullen eyes.

    ''The reaction seems to be right?''

    As for the dark district, it was mentioned at the beginning of [Master of the Holy Sword], so my memory is a little vague, but I do remember it as a countship near the capital.

    ''Isn''t it too difficult to get to the Duchy of Prasidus, which takes 50 hours by train from the capital?''

    Since it is farther than the Volta Mountains in terms of distance, it seems impossible to overuse the horse.

    That''s why at night while in the capital

    I expected you to be sneaking around... .

    ''At a time like this?''

    Something smelled of an event.

    Otherwise, there was no reason to say that I would visit during the busy duchy''s schedule.

    And even more so if it''s in lieu of an inspection.

    ''Last time we toured together, will we pass this time?''

    It''s not like I''m looking for work.

    Disappearing somewhere alone

    There was no reason for Serpence to intentionally do something suspicious.

    This is probably for good reason.

    "Would you like to go with me?"

    Yes?

    "I hope your expression is full of curiosity."

    Even though he doesn''t know his own feelings, he''s a serpent who notices the eyes of others incredibly well.

    But to say... .

    If that''s the case, will you take me?

    " Did you take the scroll you got from Mr. Reseratus?"

    Yeah, I just brought it...

    Even though it was just a question for me, Serpens seemed to take it seriously.

    Even if he was immersed in thought, his reaction, which seemed to narrow his forehead slightly, was all that was left of him, but this time, he clearly revealed his troubles, which is rare this time.

    - Tok, tok-.

    As I flicked the hand holding the pen, a dot or two appeared in the blank space of the document.

    It''s the first time I''ve seen you worry like that.

    Can I just say it''s over now?

    " then we do. Instead, you should go and listen to what I have to say."

    It''s like saying I feel like a kid coming to an amusement park with my parents in a group.

    "Is that okay? I thought you would say no?"

    You decided not to hide it.

    While showing a hint of hesitation, Serpence opened her mouth and spoke.

    Compared to the past, where people kept their mouths shut when they were in trouble and did other things, this is a huge step forward.

    However, since I have a lot to hide, my conscience has been very pricked.

    '' Do I have to tell him someday?''

    I stare at him with a complicated heart

    Seeing that, Serpens opened his mouth again with a stern expression on whether he had misunderstood it.

    And the conversation we had last time... We will continue when we get on the train.

    Last time I was talking about his parents, who was cut off because of Hans, and also why Serpens ran out the window of my room.

    I thought I would keep my mouth shut, pretending not to know, but I guess I was really determined.

    "Will you continue to follow me after hearing this, or "

    Serpence blurted out the end of her words, but somehow she seemed to understand the omitted words behind them.

    ''what ? Did you hear what I and Humanus had to say?''

 CH 39

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 39

    10. The Duke and the Dark House (1)

    As soon as he got on the train, Serpens sat down on the sofa with the table.

    Even though the work was pushed to the point where he had to process the papers in the wagon, he did not take them out.

    Instead, he motioned for me to sit across from him.

    If I had to say anything anyway, he seemed to think that it would be better to get rid of it quickly.

    First of all, before I tell you... No, there is something I need to point out about that.

    Yes? Well, you do.

    As I nodded to signify that I knew, Serpens opened her mouth with a serious expression.

    Judging from the words and reactions of Lord Ribelon on Semita Street...

    Even though I was lucky, I felt an unfamiliar feeling of anxiety.

    It seems that I... convinced that I had murdered the former aide and went to cover it up. Why?

    are you?

    Like such a sharp guy... .

    He must have been very concerned about it, but the reason he didn''t talk about it right away was probably because I got angry in the first place.

    Was it because of this that I said I was confused too?

    " I will, why?"

    Don''t be kidding, answer me seriously.

    Serpens narrowed his brows and spoke sternly.

    Not only that. How do you know about the existence of the dark district... Let''s assume that the problem will be skipped. But a little while ago.

    It seems that I became convinced of what I had been thinking about in the carriage without much thought.

    Who is to blame for this? You have to blame me for being stupid.

    Yeah, the Duke is the former aide who was associated with the Dark House...

    That''s the problem. I

    How did you know that you were hiding your former aide and that you already knew the location of the dark side? And, knowing that, why did you want to cover it up?"

    No matter how much he thought about it, he couldn''t come up with an excuse that would work for Serpense.

    No matter how he tries, his heart will always remain in his heart.

    Still, he''s a guy who groans alone and then jumps out to a strange place.

    Even if we pass now, we do not know in which direction problems will arise in the future.

    ''After all, hiding something is not my aptitude... .''

    And most of all, it seemed that I shouldn''t lie to him who said he believed in me.

    I don''t even want to

    "For some reason, the more I organize and pick out the stories I need to tell, the more I look back at your words and actions I''ve seen so far, this is really absurd But somehow, if it were you, you probably already knew everything ,

    I think so.

    "After I ran away from your room . Ordinarily, he tried to change the subject or comfort me. Someone who would have tried to talk to me somehow. Wasn''t it because you had guessed the reason why you waited for me to speak? "

    The relationship that I thought was one-sided was two-way.

    It was not a story limited to mutual trust.

    I watched him in real life, contrasted him with him in the original, and saw him as he is now.

    while getting to know

    He was also watching me and analyzing in his own way.

    "From the beginning . no matter how insightful it may be. In your case, it was too specific. It was just that I was so embarrassed that I ran away from reality, so it was too late to notice". bar]

    Although his expression looked a bit confused, the horseshoe bird itself was calm.

    As long as it paid off for him to face himself over and over again

    It seems like

    ''Instead, it''s just that I''m embarrassed... .''

    Looking back after escaping reality, all my attitudes must be suspicious.

    It was a limitation of the ad hoc response.

    Is that response, the correct answer?

    Lately, I had vaguely thought that I might be able to tell them one day.

    But it wasn''t right now.

    It was a mistake to start a psychological warfare with Serpens from the beginning.

    ''But in that situation, there is nothing

    I didn''t even have... .''

    Inevitably, he took a deep breath, cleared his breath, and slowly opened his mouth.

    It''s just as the Duke said. I knew it from the beginning.

    " if you knew everything, why did you talk to a human like me like that? Why did you say you have pity on me?"

    His expression and voice that pours out questions are bleak.

    Or, I hope that I will despair even more... God...

    Oh, no! Why are you falling for that?!

    Before his thoughts drifted into strange places, he hurriedly shouted and cut them off.

    He was in danger of becoming a person who accidentally picked up and dropped people and pretended to heal wounds and then confirmed and killed them.

    Someone who gives hope, then steals it, and pushes it into the abyss.

    " I believe you."

    That''s why I don''t want to leave any doubts.

    There was a young sense of urgency in Serpence''s expression as he spoke like that.

    No matter how suspicious and suspicious, he has no choice but to believe in me.

    So, I just want to believe, but the doubts keep coming out of my head, so it seems like everything is in a hurry.

    If it''s the Duke I''ve seen, I''ve decided that he''s not a person who acts like that with bad intentions. Whether it''s about the former aide or the dark house. Probably, I thought there was a reason... occur

    I went out because I thought it would be good to know who sent the note."

    As stated in [Master of the Holy Sword], Serpens won the hegemony of the dark district before the Day of Choice, but it was after that.

    Exactly what he did before that is unknown, but... .

    If it were a disease that would arise anyway, wouldn''t he have thought that it would be better to put it under management and control it?

    There must have been a reason for using it as a bait to attract demon worshipers, but

    If not, I think it might have been done in the name of a ''necessary evil''.

    "And isn''t there such a thing as self-defence? I feel more pathetic than you, who had to do it, than that the Duke''s parents were murdered."

    that is.

    I''m serious.

    "Did I tell you from the beginning? I felt sorry for you. So I wanted to help. The story about how I found out was a lie, but since then,

    I''m proud to have treated you as a Duke.

    Serpens looked at me silently and blinked a few times, then suddenly smiled faintly.

    He nodded his head slightly.

    I thought so.

    Yes?

    You can lie shamelessly, but you don''t have a knack for making up feelings you don''t have.

    I thought it wasn''t, but it means that I thought of it once just in case.

    Then it suddenly changed, ''Everyone

    Did you know that you were playing with me? and I''m worried that I''ll run into a runaway...

    Fortunately, there doesn''t seem to be any sign of that.

    Uh-huh... By the way, I really knew everyone.

    "Not all, but roughly?"

    With a look of disappointment, Serpens leaned deep into the sofa.

    It is the first time he has shown such an appearance, always keeping his back straight and upright.

    ''No, didn''t he always feel that way in [Master of the Holy Sword]?''

    A languid smile hung on his lips.

    There was nothing reflected in the two eyes that had sunk indifferently.

    It could hardly be called a smile. It was just an empty shell.

    Looking back, it was strange.

    No matter how many demon worshipers manipulated

    Even if the documents fit perfectly... .

    ''No one else, Serpence didn''t respond?''

    It collapsed so helplessly.

    Wasn''t the guy so thorough that he didn''t leave a single piece of evidence prepared for what he would do when he was found out?

    ''I thought it was simply a contradiction in the setting in the novel... .''

    Serpens in [Master of the Holy Sword] did not even run away, let alone rebuttal.

    Do nothing, knock yourself down

    He greeted them who came to drop them off.

    Maybe he".

    Are you desperate...?

    Yes?

    Serpens raised one eyebrow and asked a question as if wondering.

    It''s desperation, a very absurd conclusion. However, it was a method that suited the Serpence he encountered in person.

    Because of that, I guess I spit it out of my mouth without realizing it.

    To say that you are desperate for trusting in you, aren''t you being too low on yourself?

    Ah, no! It''s not like that, because the Duke doesn''t seem to have any energy...

    "After hearing your story, something lighter was trapped . It just loosened up for a while."

    Serpens smiled softly and straightened his posture.

    His expression looked a little sassy.

    "More than that that''s the fear that you will continue to be my aide in the future.

    are you?"

    After all, I heard all the conversations I had with the Crown Prince.

    Serpens coughed at my murmur. Just in case, I guess I really heard it.

    I can''t say anything in this world.

    It seems that Hans is picking up everything in the mansion and Serpens outside.

    I''d rather ask from my side. Isn''t that ignorantly suspicious?

    "Where is that for a day or two?"

    So, isn''t that more of a problem... ?

    Nevertheless, Serpens said in a way that it didn''t matter.

    If you can''t explain it right now, you can tell me later.

    " are you really okay with that?"

    I''ve been thinking about it in many ways, but I don''t think you can do any harm to me.

    Somehow it''s an ambiguous word.

    ''You are the one who can harm me

    I must have mistakenly didn''t say ''this isn''t it''... Ji?

    ''I''ve been told that a jab is not okay with you, but I want to believe that it must be my misunderstanding.

    "Lord Rivelon waited for you, too. So I will trust and wait for you."

    It was very inspiring.

    ''The day will come when Serpens will be able to speak like that!''

    Is it because he has been denied and neglected for such a long time?

    Or he himself didn''t realize

    He may have been starving for love all the time.

    Just seeing them as they are and affirming them. He readily accepted his heart and showed faith.

    ''Our Duke is so easy... . No, I am a good and pure child!

    Had he been raised in a normal family in a normal family, he would have grown up brilliantly.

    This is why home environment is so important.

    How the hell did you ruin this kid? .

    "But I will wait indefinitely.

    It''s not all.

    Probably so.

    Making them wait indefinitely for an indefinite period of time was horrendous to the opponent.

    In fact, I''ve been thinking about it all the time, so I''ve thought about a good point in advance.

    "After the selection of the holy sword is finished, I will tell you everything."

    Something to do with that day... No, I''ll wait.

    Serpens was about to ask a question, but he changed his words because he thought he would never hear it again.

    ''I haven''t even said it yet, but somehow I''m a bit naive.''

    While hiding the fact that he continued to know the truth of the past, it was becoming increasingly difficult to deal with him.

    Watching him suffer, pretending not to know anything is like making fun of him.

    I even felt a bit of guilt.

    Although it was a compulsory situation, it seems as if he had let it go after he had confided in some of it like this.

    ''Then from now on, with the permission of Serpence, I don''t mind being suspicious.

    Is it?''

    It''s a pity that the suspiciousness is becoming my trademark, but in other words, it seemed like a lot of mystery.

    Now that it''s all sorted out, let''s get to work.

    Serpence took out the paperwork.

    My slightly excited heart plummeted to the floor.

    ''Oh, I don''t want to work.''

    I sighed and looked down at the numerous piles of paperwork in front of me.

    * * *

    As soon as I finished my morning service schedule, I got down to a remote place and disguised myself just like I did when I visited.

    This time, not only Serpense, but me too.

    The hood was pressed down and the collar was raised to cover the nose, completely covering the face.

    Is it okay not to use dye?

    It has a time limit, so I''ll use it after I get to my next destination.

    all.

    Seeing that it is the next destination, it seems that there is a place to go through to get to the dark side.

    So, I wondered how I was going to get there, so I looked at Serpens and he naturally wrapped me around his shoulders.

    I , why is this?

    First we will move to the Viscount Libor.

    like this?!

    Viscount Libor feels like a bean dropped out of a bowl, Pracidus

    A small estate near the Duchy.

    There was nothing like the Count of Rivelon, and even the size was smaller.

    However, just because it is near the Duchy, it is a manor that is managed well by picking up Congolese such as tolls.

    that doesn''t really matter

    Anyway, I have to go secretly, so instead of riding a horse, I think I''m going to run with myself.

    No, it''s not like this, though!

    After short negotiations, a compromise was reached by riding on his back.

    A bizarre appearance was created in which a dubious duo with their faces covered tightly played a fisherman bar.

    Still, thanks to Serpence''s quick and stealthy movements, no one can see it.

    It was really fortunate.

 CH 40

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 40

    10. The Duke and the Dark House (2)

    Serpens stepped over a very minute gap in the wall and jumped over it lightly.

    Even though I fell from a high place while carrying me, there was only a very subtle sound.

    ''If I was alone, would I have landed like a cat without making a sound?''

    As soon as I get to the floor, he sneaks into a deserted alley and gets me down

    placed

    Yes, we broke into the Viscount of Libor illegally.

    The process was so secretive and flowing, that it was not discovered by anyone.

    ''What, this easy?''

    Even if it was a do-it-yourself order, the basic defense was in place.

    Not only the guards, but like a fantasy world, there was a barrier to prevent intrusion from the outside.

    In the case of other countries, a magic barrier is installed, but in the case of the Lumen Empire,

    True to the name of the Holy Empire, a holy barrier was spread out on the outer edge of the realm.

    Thanks to this, it was able to boast superior defense and security compared to other countries.

    This is partly because it is more suitable for protection due to the unique nature of the divine power, but the most important reason was another.

    Magical barriers can also be broken by wizards from other countries.

    However, if it is a person who is capable of ignoring the Holy Barrier and sneaking in and out, then he would be a high-ranking priest above the cardinal level.

    place.

    Who would have thought that such a person would cross walls and commit crimes within the Holy Empire?

    ''In other words, to a Serpens, who control the divine power easier than breathing, it''s like nothing.''

    But no matter how it is, it seems too familiar to see him running over the fortress wall in broad daylight, avoiding the eyes of the guards.

    It''s definitely not something I''ve done once or twice.

    ''The capital also came to and from my house.

    would have gone... ?''

    After confirming that there was no one around, Serpens pulled back the hood and sprayed dye over his head.

    Staring at him, he silently handed me the dye as well.

    ''First of all, should I sprinkle it... ?''

    After all, I have short hair, so I wouldn''t be able to see it if I put the hood down. It was much more thorough than when he inspected the Duchy.

    His hair had become a common brown, while mine had a strikingly intense red.

    Hmm... .

    Serpens looked at me with a smirk on my head.

    Then, all of a sudden, I put my finger in between my hair and started rummaging around.

    No, what are you doing now?"

    Ummm...

    He didn''t just mess around with it, but sometimes he pressed it hard as if he wanted to fix it.

    Then it doesn''t seem to work as well as I thought. Frowning slightly, after me

    I pulled it out and pressed it tightly to cover it.

    "What did you just do?"

    "I was afraid that leaving a strong impression on my red hair would help hide something else "

    If both of them are publicly hidden, the suspiciousness doubles, so I guess I was thinking of taking off the hood on my side.

    After all, it covers under the nose anyway, so if it was Zion, who had an ordinary impression, it wouldn''t be very memorable.

    ''Somehow they gave me a striking red dye, so I did something... .''

    But I''m a little nervous about changing only the color

    So, I think I tried to create a different atmosphere by changing the shape.

    However, as Shion''s curly hair kept returning to its original state like a shape memory alloy, it seemed as if she had just given up.

    Hahaha! If you wanted to change my hairstyle, you should have brought some wax!

    Serpence, where the setting is finished just by tying the frizzled hair into one, must be an unknown pain!

    In my generosity, he shook his head and said that nothing had happened.

    It seemed to bring up a different topic.

    From now on, I will go through the gate to the dark area.

    "Gate? Isn''t that a technology that has been obsolete by rolling the country?"

    Officially.

    To my question, I added an explanation that Serpence is being used secretly only on a small scale so that it cannot be tracked.

    Can it be used by two or three people at a time?

    ''Well, how can a human not use such a convenient technology and throw it away.''

    Still, it seems to be used only for illegal purposes because it is a national threat and wary.

    As I entered a darker alleyway, Serpens was vigilant about the surroundings.

    Close to me, barely audible. He continued his explanation in a very low voice.

    It''s kind of an underground city under the Count of Puskator.

    Underground ''city?

    You''ll know it when you see it for yourself. Anyway, it''s in the Countess of Puscator.

    Holding on to it is a secret, so entry must be done through the gate to hide it.

    The gates are spread all over the empire, and most of them are said to be operated without even the owner of the territory.

    One of them was that it was located in the Viscount of Libor.

    "When you enter from the Countess?"

    female |.

    It''s very thorough.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], Humanus simply infiltrated through a physical path, so I don''t know about the gate for the first time now.

    it was

    According to Serpens, only a few people know the way to go directly to the dark area.

    ''Clearly, one of his men was guiding the way... .''

    It is said that even Count Puscator is receiving only a certain amount of the profits generated there in return for ignoring the existence of the dark house.

    Maybe the ball...:

    I know. And just call me Master.

    What I''m saying is how to get in and out of yourself

    It was a nuance that I knew of , so I tried to ask, but it was nonetheless.

    '' By the way, what else is the master?''

    Perhaps today''s concept is something like ''Bocchan and Servant''.

    By the way, shouldn''t the master say respectful things to me?

    No, this is more appropriate.

    Serpens cut it out and said.

    And then, I added, ''Is it the setting of ''a master guard and an immature and curious master who pretends to be servants with the master''?

    " why are you twisting it like that?"

    You don''t have to be very conscious about the setting. It''s enough to just pay attention to the name and act as if you were just the two of you.

    "What is my usual behavior?"

    Respect for superiors is everywhere rude, outspoken, and disrespectful.

    As usual, he seems to be using a mixture of johndae and hadae.

    By the way, am I not that much towards Serpens?

    It seems like I''ve been on the right track... , maybe not. It''s a bit long or flimsy

    ''If you feel that way, why haven''t you ever said that before I didn''t,

    He seems to have realized the truth of life that it is easy to just give up.

    Anyway, you mean you don''t have to act?

    It took a little bit of immature part, but it''s comfortable and good setting.

    Be careful from here.

    Serpence stopped for a moment in front of an antique shop that looked like it was going to collapse at any moment, and gave me my attention once again.

    For some reason, his voice had become lower and thicker than usual. Whether it was intentionally scratching his neck or something, he felt husky.

    Its characteristic clear and refreshing feeling disappeared, and it was like a completely different voice.

    The building looks more like an antique than what it sells...

    Entering the store, I unintentionally spit out

    Serpens glanced at the sentiment, but immediately ignored it as he thought it fit the setting.

    I looked at antiques or not, or approached the shopkeeper and exchanged passwords or something.

    Hmm, hmmm.

    Looking around, I turned my attention to the sound of coughing, and Serpens was beckoning me to come closer.

    Come to think of it, I decided on a title by which I would call him, but I did not decide what he would call me.

    Apparently, today is only a pronoun

    seems to be called

    ''It wasn''t my name anyway, so it doesn''t matter?''

    I followed Serpence past the owner of the store and entered the basement through the back door.

    The owner of the store pretended that no one had come, and he was cleaning the pottery and pretending not to know.

    The basement was very sturdy and well-maintained, unlike the first one, which was all crumbling down.

    Please stand in the center of Jin.

    Presumed to be a waiting wizard

    The figure said, pointing to the circle drawn in the center of the room.

    A magic circle was drawn around it in a mess.

    ''By the way, can I step on this?''

    As I was walking cautiously, stepping between the lines with my claw feet, Serpens told me not to play around, grabbed my back and strode, and stood in the center of the circle.

    The magic circle that looked like a black line shone blue as if the connection to the destination magic circle had been completed.

    Then I''ll go.

    As soon as the wizard finished speaking, a bright light flashed and burst out.

    I was worried that I would get motion sickness, but it was okay except that it was a bit dazzling as it was a magical crystal that pursues convenience.

    The next customer is going to arrive, so please come out the door over there.

    As soon as we arrived, we were kicked out of the building.

    It was in the dark district, so unlike the Viscount, there was no camouflage. As soon as I opened the door, the street spread out.

    "Wow no, how did you make a deal like this?"

    I imagined a cave-like interior at the word "underground city", but the ceiling and walls were all surrounded by solid bricks.

    It is also roughly two or three stories high.

    Bright magic lights hung from the ceiling.

    ''In the theme of a criminal gathering center, I would have secured an area at the level of a ''city'' at this height .''

    If you see him in person, you will know

    You were right. What the hell did you use?

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], there was no explanation that the dark house had enough power to create a place like this.

    Actually, this is the church''s lost holy land.

    Holy ground, holy ground, what else have you lost?

    Serpens looked around and slightly bowed his head and continued explaining to me in his ears.

    Long ago, before the establishment of the Lumen Empire, when the power of demons spread across the earth.

    It is said that ''humanity'' on the continent that believes in the god Luxmea was able to continue to live by hiding underground and praying to the gods.

    Based on that place, it is said that the demons were defeated by the grace of the gods.

    Among the Christians who came back to earth, most of them, including various ethnic groups, returned to their homeland.

    The territory of the present empire is fertile soil.

    I''m proud of it, but it wasn''t like that at the time.

    It was the area where the most fierce battles with demons in the past1, were they contaminated by the blood of countless people and the magic of demons?

    So, it was a land that was almost abandoned, but it is said that some people with deep faith in the god Luxmea stayed there and cleaned the land.

    The kingdom they founded is the Holy Lumen Empire.

    And as time passed, the underground holy land was eventually forgotten.

    do.

    ''Is that here?''

    I looked around.

    Drunk men and women stumble, swear words, and solicitation performed here and there .

    The holy city that the beings of this land who believed in the god Lux Mea joined forces to fight against the devil had fallen in a wonderful way.

    ''Won''t the god Luxmea shed bloody tears when she sees this?''

    Thinking of finding an alternative holy land and turning it into an underground city full of illegality, I don''t know who started it, but it''s insane.

    You don''t even know such a basic thing... Why don''t you read some history books sometimes?

    Serpense''s voice as he said that was filled with pity.

    Suddenly, I did not know the story of the founding of the country I live in, so I became the person who asked others.

    No, I knew it?! The word holy land and here don''t match.

    I was fed up for a while.

    Hmm... .

    You don''t seem to believe it at all.

    Still, as I listened to Serpence''s explanation, I remembered about it.

    Of course, it wasn''t my memory, it was Zion''s memory.

    Isn''t that in the capital? There''s an event that the Pope personally walks around the capital once a year to find it.

    " I really knew."

    How the hell have you been ignoring me?

    If my memory had come to my mind immediately, none of this would have happened... .''

    Although I was treated as pathetic, the explanation itself was not bad because it felt like I had visited a historic site with a tour guide.

    But from now on, I''ll have to think deeply and ask before asking anything.

    ''Anyway... .''

    In case of accidental damage to the holy land that may be underground

    I was about to get a fall.

    Even that was to the extent that the law forbade the digging beyond the second floor... .

    ''By the way . Is it here?''

    It was the selection of the location of the slightly deviated capital.

    Did he even fail to measure the land while he was frantically purifying the land?

    Uh, maybe this...?

    Some of those who know this place will guess, but most probably don''t.

    When it becomes known that this place is a holy place, the empire will be turned upside down.

    Even though there are so many magic lights on the ceiling, why isn''t this place not found...?

    Since the purpose was to run and hide from the demons from the beginning, it is because the defenses are in place to keep mana from leaking out.

    Looking at this place now, it looked like a place to hide the demons.

    The world works really well.

    I don''t have time to be like this forever.

    It is."

    As I was dazed in shock, Serpence grabbed my wrist and dragged me with his tongue.

    ''Oh right. I came here because I had something to do. .''

    Serpens, a family member of the inquiring tribe, kindly added additional explanations and informed me, so I thought that I had come on a tour with a guide.

    "Master, would you like to go on a trip with me later?"

    If the guide is a serpent, it''s a rip off

    No, they will tell you more about the area than the locals.

    " Do you usually think of me as your superior?"

    Ahahaha... Well, isn''t that good? Your subordinates and bosses are like friends!

    Obviously, I think it''s a very good relationship in that it''s beneficial for me.

    Ummm... well, I didn''t expect it.

    "When did you expect it?"

    It goes the other way... No, that''s fine. Let''s go.

    Serpens let out a small sigh, and increased the pace of his steps.

    The street scene was not very pleasant to look at.

    When I heard that this was the sacred site of the Luxmea Church, I felt even more uneasy, and the desire to see it completely disappeared, so I walked along with him.

 CH 41

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 41

    10. The Duke and the Dark House (3)

    Serpence''s setting was very appropriate.

    He blocked those who came to me to solicit me in advance.

    He picked up drunk passers-by and threw them with one hand.

    Among the dogs, there was a person who was carrying an escort knight from another country, and they were also hung next to the other owner.

    Occasionally, there were guys who saw our suspicious outfits with their faces hidden and made bets with each other and rushed to take our hoods off.

    Serpence seems difficult to deal with, so it was of course me who was the main target.

    With just a gesture of pulling my wrist, he avoided their touch and kicked it lightly.

    ''What the hell is this doing''.''

    When he arrived in front of the building with a sign with a picture of a scorpion on it, Serpens stopped walking.

    No one else wanted to attack us.

    this moment right now.

    The best outlaw on this lawless street was Serpens.

    Seeing him like this, who the hell would see him as a master who escorted his servants to places like this... .

    Master, aren''t you showing too much force? What will you do if you get caught...

    Yeah? You haven''t even pulled out your weapon yet.

    Subjects who did not bring a sword in the first place

    He''s good at saying things like that.

    I was going to a dangerous place, but because I was bare-handed, I thought there was such a thing as an arms restriction agreement like the advisory council.

    ''But I didn''t know it would just be unnecessary!''

    As proof of that, don''t other people, men and women alike, wear weapons that can be used for self-defense around their waists?

    The only people who were bare-handed here were me and Serpence.

    "Those who attack are not even a pharmacist. They are just pyramids that do not even recognize the level of the enemy, and they can be said to be real.

    The guy wasn''t there. only this much

    am *

    Are you a pharmacist? There were people who looked like knights... .

    How strong do you have to be to become a normal soldier within the criteria of Serpence?

    "Now let me in."

    Serpens grabbed my weak wrist and dragged me into the building that looked like a tavern.

    Building a building under the basement was amazing.

    Welcome, it was quite noisy from the beginning.

    caused... .

    The shop owner said in a gloomy voice that he uttered lines that looked like he would immediately enter a declaration ceremony against a clumsy novice villain.

    However, since Serpence was not the first time, he lightly ignored those words and took out a platinum-colored plaque from his pocket and showed it.

    "Hot-, it is !"

    Whether the tavern master who checked the hand was surprised or not, Serpens dragged me past him.

    Enter the warehouse inside the checkout counter, remove the carpet and go down the hidden stairs underneath.

    went down

    I wondered if this was okay, but I heard the sound of forcing guests out as if they were used to it, so it looks fine.

    From here on, the trap is set up. Don''t touch the wall and step on it, ummm...

    It''s dark, can''t you see things like your feet?

    " it seemed so."

    As soon as those words were finished, my body floated.

    I''ve been this way to a man all my life

    I never thought that the day I would embrace you would come... .''''

    ''Please correct me as I heard it. I thought you didn''t like it being put on your shoulder, but did you like that as well?

    " let''s just go like this."

    What I heard anyway, my pride was hurt, but my body felt more comfortable this way.

    ''Is this the end of all of Serland''s Big 3 rides... ?''

    In that state, Serpens increased his stride length and shortened it, and sometimes bowed his head or jumped until he reached the middle of the long passage.

    Perhaps the door at the end of the passage was fake, and when I pushed the left wall with my shoulder, the wall turned round and round to reveal a hidden room.

    Oh, the secret revolving door!!

    A rotating bookshelf, a secret door that cannot be distinguished from a wall, etc... .

    Someday, when I have my own house, I''m sure I''ll find my romance that I''ve always wanted to install in a place like this!

    Do you like this...?

    At my cheers, Serpens lowered me to the floor and asked tremblingly.

    Isn''t that cool!!

    "Is there something similar in the room you''re using now?"

    " Yes?"

    Bewildered at the first hearing, he asked again, but he kept his mouth shut.

    Instead of explaining kindly, he sat down at the desk in the room and began to sort through the papers on it.

    Wait, what did you just say? Yes? Where and how is it hidden?!

    I''ll tell you later, be quiet...

    Shut up?

    What is such a vulgar expression. No, it''s okay.

    You''re offended by just saying shut up... .

    You seem to be living a very noble language life.

    I looked around looking for a place to sit, thinking that I should be careful not to stain an innocent child.

    But the chair is where Serpens sits

    It seemed like it was all, so he just sat down in the corner of the desk.

    ''By the way, what kind of papers are these?''

    I picked up something out of curiosity, but I couldn''t even read the signs that I had never seen before.

    It seems to be the password used only here.

    At that time, the wall we passed through once again rotated and the master of the tavern entered.

    ''If I look through the papers

    Do you want to look weird?''

    I couldn''t read anything anyway, so I quietly put the documents down in their original place.

    "Someone who usually sneaked in without anyone being noticed, today, for some reason, ��

    The question is probably whether you brought your companions to the point of making a fuss.

    Serpens didn''t even look at him, he was silent.

    "I was just curious, so I followed."

    The man seemed to be sulking, so he answered instead.

    "Who are you?"

    Oh, just don''t worry about me.

    It''s a very caring look.

    In fact, he seemed to know what had happened while he was here, so it was worth wondering.

    ''Do you think so, I''m curious too?''

    Serpense sees the papers here

    Seeing what''s there .

    I don''t think he''s an ordinary tavern master. Maybe he''s the boss of a dark district?

    I swallowed a sigh as if I had touched a sore spot.

    Did Serpence even take away what this guy was originally managing?

    "Have you already completed the dark district registration?"

    Originally, it was managed by three different factions, so not all of them, but one area still remains.

    When I turned my gaze to Serpens and asked a question, an answer came back immediately.

    That said, the master of the tavern here was the head of one of the factions, and based on his power, it seems to be devouring other factions.

    "Isn''t it enough to subdue all three chiefs from the beginning?"

    One side is too rotten, and the other side is close to a gathering of independent forces...

    If that''s the case, I can understand.

    As he nodded his head in agreement, the tavern master gave a grim expression.

    was looking towards me.

    "Why do you see it that way?"

    "That , darling what kind of relationship do you two have?"

    "For now, we are holding the concept of a master and a servant."

    He pointed to Serpens and me in turn and answered.

    At those words, the man swallowed his saliva and nodded hard, saying that he understood enough.

    Looking at that state, it seemed that I had not completely understood it, but that is the true concept of today.

    So there was no need to fix it right away.

    What should I call you? I can''t keep calling you the tavern master or the barge boss.

    Ah, it''s just a Scorpion...

    Onepoop! Oh, I''m sorry. It''s too dark, so stop...

    Come to think of it, the sign was also a scorpion picture, right?

    I was thinking about the correlation between the scorpion and the tavern, but I think it was derived from the nickname he used in the dark.

    "Then what do you call the master?"

    He did not refer to himself as ''He'' among us...

    I''m not the one who shouldn''t say anything... .

    Rather than that, I was surprised that the nickname of the dark house was made by myself, it was so much like middle school.

    "Besides is there anything you need?"

    Shouldn''t it be called Fly instead of Scorpion?

    To the extent that I was worried about it, he rubbed the palms of his hands and asked me.

    I thought he had a rough face, but seeing him smiling and rubbing his hands makes him look like an ordinary man next door... .

    But it''s just that he''s better than other factions, isn''t the author supposed to be a villain too?

    Anyway, looking at that attitude, I think I misunderstood that I was receiving a report from Serpense and I.

    It seems that the false setting worked quite well.

    ''If this happens, he'' will serve

    What the hell am I going to call myself?''

    I was a little curious.

    I''ll have to ask the next time I come.

    A proper chair... is there anything to pass the time with your boredom?

    At first I thought it was just sorting papers, but Serpens picked up a pen and started editing or rewriting the papers.

    I don''t know exactly what you''re trying to do, but it seemed like it would take quite a while.

    I''ll prepare it right away!

    Scorpion swiftly pushed the revolving door and went out.

    Perhaps it was because he was the one who ruled 1/3 of the dark district, so his actions were very quick.

    He seemed to understand why Serpens called those who were attacking from the outside as pawns.

    "What skill level is that person who just left?"

    If it''s the front, it''s unreasonable, but if it''s an assassination, Count Pgnuto will do enough to get rid of it.

    Even if I say that, I can''t figure it out because I don''t know the skills of Count Pgnuto in the first place.

    do.

    But if you think about the bursting tailcoats you saw at the banquet, and the fact that Count Pgnuto rose to the ranks of great aristocrats with pure force.

    He must be one of the most talented people in the empire.

    "Why is such a great person so sullen?"

    It''s one of the ways to survive on this street.

    Should that be understood as saying that Serpence killed all the rebels? ?

    There was nothing good to ask, so I just chose to keep my mouth shut.

    After a while, the Scorpion went in and out of the revolving door a few times, and all of a sudden, not only the chairs but also the chessboard were set on the table.

    And he was hanging a dartboard on one side of the wall.

    ''Throwing darts will only make you laugh, but what about chess alone?''

    As I alternated between the chessboard and the scorpion, he went out again and took another chair and sat down in front of me.

    Brain games like this consume a lot of time when playing with talented people or fighting for numbers.

    I only knew the brief rules, and there was no strategy, so the game moved quickly.

    Scorpion had a longer time to reconsider than me.

    But even as the cuts continued, the victory came back to me in the end.

    Is this really a hospitality game?''

    Still the taste of shouting a checkmate

    It was so cool, and there was nothing to change, so I continued to move the chess pieces.

    - Rumble-!

    Suddenly, Scorpion jumped up and the chair he was sitting on fell backwards.

    Huh! What the hell is that , no, why ?!

    Seeing that restless appearance, I looked back in the direction he was looking, wondering what was going on.

    There, Serpens was putting a pile of papers in a bucket or something and igniting it.

    Sort and revise documents, create new ones for some, and cleanly incinerate old ones.

    It is a moment of great manipulation and destruction of evidence.

    Serpence turned around only after confirming that the papers had completely turned to ashes and went out because there was no more to burn.

    Then let''s go to the next place.

    I handed the document with the instructions to Scorpion, and Serpens turned to me.

    said.

    Is this just a sidekick, is the future going to go my way?

 CH 42

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 42

    10. The Duke and the Dark House (4)

    What was written on the instructions, the Scorpion you received was astonished and asked if what was written here was true.

    This time, Serpens ignored him.

    "I''m sorry, but could you please talk to me?"

    "My way of speaking is not good enough for a place like this".

    I went outside and talked to Serpens.

    Nenny, he replied with an awkward expression.

    As he said, Serpense''s tone of voice was very respectful to the other person, so it was very inappropriate to use it in a dark place.

    It was very conspicuous.

    ''Of course, the black screen with respect is a very attractive setting.''

    It was the same with Serpens in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    I think I could do a great villain role when I think about how he was putting pressure on me on the train last month, but that doesn''t mean I don''t stand out.

    Because pressure on the atmosphere does not change the tone of the voice.

    You always use respectful words, right? From now on, on this occasion, how about getting used to being polite to each other? Shall we talk?

    I tried to bury it secretly, but it seems I can''t.

    Serpens sent silent pressure with his gaze.

    Even though most of his face was covered, for some reason he felt his skin tingling as he was staring at him.

    I''m sorry, am I being too harsh?

    You should know.

    It was a great opportunity to become more comfortable with each other, but it was a waste.

    Even now, I was very comfortable, but originally, people are not creatures that seek convenience.

    ''Afterwards, when Serpence gets used to the banter, he should try again secretly.''

    Come to think of it, if I enter the semi-speaking mode from now on, I think I will be writing semi-horse by myself from some point.

    So where are you going now? To file the remaining areas?

    There is something more important.''''

    Perhaps this is the purpose of the day.

    Serpens will take care of everything anyway, so I guess I''ll just have to watch some goodies and eat rice cakes.

    You, aren''t you too relaxed?

    "There is a master next to me, so why am I doing a long chapter?"

    ...Ummm...

    I don''t know if I''m alone, I''ll be right by your side

    One Ser Fence was holding out.

    Even though this place was dark, there was nothing dangerous.

    ''I will become a sheep free from the attack of wolves within the strong fence called Serpens! All you have to do is run around in peace!''

    As proof of that, there were no more men attacking.

    So now, instead of being dragged around with my wrists grabbed, aren''t they walking comfortably as if they were out on an outing?

    This floor, as information is life, while Serpense is processing the paperwork

    It seems that the story about the mysterious duo has already spread all over the dark district.

    The place I arrived after walking so leisurely was a building that looked particularly large and glamorous, even in a dark area.

    "Is this an auction house? Do you have anything to buy?"

    Similar.

    If it exists, it exists, and if it does not exist, it does not exist.

    Instead of the hall where the customers were to participate in the auction, we went into the official entrance.

    "Are you going to sell me something?"

    Shh one.''''

    Serpens expressed the words ''Shut up for a while from now on'' in a single word.

    I promised to listen quietly before coming, so I have to ask everything like a good child.

    "You are not allowed to come in here."

    Did the dolls to be auctioned today''s arrived?

    A man who looks like a manager

    stopped Lee.

    At that, Serpens pulled out a gold plaque with a scorpion engraved on it from his bosom and told him what he was doing.

    ''Wow, that''s a doll Serpens would want to have! how pretty... .''

    silver horn

    If there were any dolls that could be sold in a dark street auction, the only ones would be slaves.

    Of course, slavery was illegal in the Holy Lumen Empire.

    Not only the Holy Lumen Empire, but also the entire continent because the doctrine of the Luxmea Church denies slavery.

    have.

    All rational beings living on the continent are brothers and sisters created by the god Luxmea.

    It''s because of how they can own each other and make them slaves.

    ''By the way, if you see that a scorpion tile is eaten, isn''t it the jurisdiction of the Scorpion? Totally trash?''

    I can''t even imagine what kind of guy was more rotten than the replacement Scorpion.

    It''s difficult! Dolls are the best item at our auction, but they won''t sell them anymore...!

    It looked like they were having a fight, and I think it was something like that.

    While taking over the dark district, the drug dealer was caught, so I expected it to some extent.

    It seems like he''s trying to set aside enough to lure out the demon worshipers, but only to stop them from completely crossing the line.

    ''No, rather than to prevent damage to people not related to the dark side?

    There is no guarantee that drugs will only be used in the dark.

    It''s been abused for nothing, so it''s perfect for catching people

    it was good. Needless to say, slavery is human trafficking.

    Or even just until today!

    If you don''t want to die... shut up.

    I couldn''t understand the words that came into my ears for a moment.

    I thought I might have heard the wrong thing because my ear canal was blocked, so I unknowingly tilted the hood slightly and almost plucked my ear.

    Serpens, who sensed my movement, didn''t even look at me,

    If it hadn''t been snatched and stopped, it would certainly have been put into action.

    ''What just came out of Serpence''s mouth?''

    A child is a mirror that reflects an adult, so it learns and imitates quickly.

    Serpens are all grown adults, aren''t they?

    He said earlier that he looked disgusting at me... .

    ''Aren''t you embarrassed by what you said?''

    Thinking of intimidating in moderation

    I spit it out, but I thought I might be shy.

    I suddenly wondered what kind of expression he was making.

    One step forward, leaning over, and glancing up into his hood... .

    Suddenly my vision darkened.

    It seems that the spine has become cold for some reason.

    It''s terribly cold and terrifying.

    Deafness, stiff body, less

    less trembling

    ''Uh, huh? Why are you doing this all of a sudden... ?''

    What that feeling was, before even giving a definition.

    Serpense''s hand grabbed my head and pressed it.

    The weight was placed on my head, but somehow my body became lighter. No, something that weighed heavily on my body was gone.

    What was that a while ago?

    Then I know you know... .

    His hand was removed.

    When I looked up, the auction manager, who had been actively protesting against Serpens before before, was lying on the floor and trembling.

    Bewildered, I looked around and saw that not only the manager but also the guards and everyone present had pale faces.

    ''Is that the only way to live that you''ve only come across in print?''

    Is it because you didn''t target me directly?

    Contrary to what has been described in several articles, nothing happened.

    " Can you walk?"

    Of course, look at this!

    He raised his leg and stomped on the floor as if pounding on the floor.

    I wondered if Serpens was okay with that figure, so I turned my head again and headed to the manager.

    I''ll talk to the seller directly, so hold on until I get back.

    As Scorpion said, ''I don''t think it''s just a nickname for not referring to yourself.

    It was a strange sentence without a subject, but

    The manager nodded his head as if he understood the context.

    " are you really okay with that?"

    You keep saying that because you''re right? Look, you''re walking fine, aren''t you?

    As soon as all the guards guarding the warehouse disappeared and all eyes around them disappeared, Serpens asked the question again.

    Perhaps it was because there was no one to look out for, and there were more feelings of worry than before.

    It''s okay if you''re saying I''m sorry! Is it because I''m just sneaking around?

    "O.Uh "

    -,--��

    It seems to me that possessing a chimney means that I am forcing myself to say that I am fine.

    I don''t know how I can live in this harsh world because I''m so gentle.

    Now, the limbs on the same side are going out together...

    I guess it wasn''t okay.

    How am I supposed to live in this harsh world like this?

    I stopped and took a few breaths.

    Then, a few times, alternate hands and feet

    After trying, I was able to find the right gait.

    "Oh, by the way, the seller? What are you going to talk about with that person?"

    "Rather than having a conversation "

    Rather than?

    So that we can''t talk forever... No, no.

    ''Are you talking about killing me?!''

    He was also very good at telling snarky things. The suspense didn''t go anywhere.

    But let me tell you, I don''t think this is it

    I staggered into the warehouse, asking for something I didn''t hear.

    When we arrived at the deepest part of the warehouse, we saw that there was a large cage-like iron cage in the innermost part.

    Inside, a woman in a translucent negligee was crouched down.

    Her hands were tied behind her back by handcuffs, she wore a metal restraint with a lock around her neck, and a gag in her mouth to prevent suicide.

    But the eyes are not covered,

    He was looking straight at us.

    It made me feel even more filthy as it seemed that even people were treated like objects when they were laid out with the splendid treasures in the warehouse rather than the prison.

    I wondered if I had deliberately not covered her eyes.

    It''s just like the treasures placed here, it''s nothing more than something to be sold to someone. It feels like you are frustrated and telling you to give up.

    " are there many slave traders here?"

    "From what I have learned so far, there are some people who are sometimes sold as bonds, etc.

    I, this seller is the only one who professionally targets, kidnaps, and puts it up for auction on a regular basis."

    He opened the door of the cage with the key he had been robbed of by the manager.

    And approaching the woman inside, he answered in a sullen voice.

    The expression on his face was unknown, but his voice, which had lost all his emotions, seemed to be angry.

    Is it a reflection of himself or herself in the image of being treated as a tool while being deprived of free will?

    ''Or maybe he thinks so, that''s what I want... .''

    I could see Serpens putting the cloak he had stolen from one of the guards over her shoulder.

    " but it''s still not that many, I''m glad out of the misfortune."

    Neither is it.

    At my words, Serpens flatly denied it.

    Did you see the entrance gate? Rather than the fact that slaves are being sold here, the problem is that there are people who have slaves.

    Yes?

    I understand your anger, but more details later...

    Oh!

    For a moment, I forgot that the person in front of me was listening.

    In fact, rather than forgetting, it was more correct to think that it would be okay if I said this because I was a victim unconsciously.

    Huh? Wait a minute! This guy isn''t human...

    I was thinking about something else, and only then was I able to take a closer look at her.

    The color has faded due to exhaustion, but if it comes back to life, it looks like it could be compared to Serpence. Ears that extend horizontally.

    It was the appearance of an elf that is often described in novels.

 CH 43

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 43

    11. Duke and Elf (1)

    You''re going to see elves in a place like this.

    He also had turquoise hair and lemon-colored eyes, and even though it was the first time he had seen an elf, somehow he felt a sense of familiarity.

    Yes, the elf heroine ''Euges Yulydia'' from [Master of the Holy Sword] was exactly that description... .

    '' Is it a coincidence? Is it a coincidence?''

    [Master of the Holy Sword] Among the elves in the worldview

    In this case, green hair is common.

    No, most of them have green hair.

    So wouldn''t turquoise be common?

    '' What motivated Euges to join the Humanus party?''

    Liena, a priest, and Anima, a wizard, had been together from the beginning of their journey to assist Humanus, the master of the holy sword.

    The heir to the druid clan and the daughter of the mercenary king, ''Puror Bestialis'', is saved by Humanus,

    was it done?

    And Euges, the nephew of the Elf King, is obviously .

    "Even if I knew the place, it was only because I didn''t know how to get there "

    If it''s the road to the Darkside, I know.

    No one in the seat opened their mouths, but a single, muffled voice resounded.

    I accidentally stole it

    I left it, but may I show you the way?"

    Oh, Eugenes! You don''t have to.

    That''s right, it''s enough just to show you the way.

    The elf king discouraged Eugenes, but she shook her head.

    Humanus'' offer was also rejected by her.

    You already know how terrifying it is outside, don''t you?

    If it was just a scary place, I wouldn''t be here.

    She knows how cold and ruthless the humans outside the forest are.

    She also knows that even in the coldness, warmth blooms.

    I have someone to find. I also have a favor to repay him.

    Yu Jis said in a voice that seemed to sing.

    Master of the Holy Sword, please allow me to accompany you.

    Humanus can see that there is a firm determination in the soft tone.

    there was.

    "Slave ! I thought something like that was going to happen . I can''t go beyond saying that I didn''t know. On behalf of the Empire, I apologize in return. I''m really sorry."

    Humanus realized how much he had been just a flower in the greenhouse.

    Even though I knelt in front of Eugene and apologized, I feel so guilty that I could only do this to her.

    It was rough.

    It''s okay, wake up. I was scared while I was being held, but that''s how I was saved.

    Is that the benefactor you talked about last time? Hey, what kind of person are you?

    To Eugenes, who raised Humanus, Puror''s eyes lit up with excitement.

    That''s what I''m curious about.

    The anima, who always seemed to be dazed, showed interest on rare occasions.

    Liena, who is on duty tonight, also,

    Cooking and listening.

    Actually, I don''t know either. He is a person with the coolness and blunt atmosphere like a sharply forged knife, but that''s somehow cool...

    Eugez''s ears, which were red hot, moved up and down slightly as if they were flapping their wings.

    '' What do I do? Do you think this elf is right for you?''

    I joined like that at first, but as I was incorporated into the harem member of Humanus, the mention of the benefactor naturally disappeared.

    lost.

    Then, it is a rice cake that is forgotten until the very end until the final episode.

    Readers scolded the author for forgetting to collect rice cakes because he was too busy forming a harem... .

    ''That was a serpent?!''

    I just couldn''t get it back.

    They hide their faces and change their voices.

    It''s like that now, but it wouldn''t have been different back then.

    ''And above all... .''

    Who would equate a human who freed slaves in the dark house and secretly performed good deeds with a man who wielded the power of the dark house to eat a little of the empire and then destroyed it?

    '' If you thought that the latter killed the former human, I would.''

    The more I couldn''t find a clue about the benefactor, the more I would have imagined it that way.

    Or they thought that the empire where the dark house was located was destroyed, and that they died in the process.

    Then he must have fallen in love with Humanus, who was fighting alongside him.

    ''Who are you talking about who is more like a sharpened knife?''

    I know one cat that looks like it will startle you when you poke it, jump and run away out of the window... .

    Of course, it really won''t be.

    Anyway, if you look at the current situation, it must be referring to Serpens.

    Even then, if he saved Eugenes like this, shouldn''t he still be showing his ''sharp what''s going on''?

    ''Not at all?''

    I''m afraid you''ll be scared because I''m next to you

    Maybe it''s getting worse. Or did the person named Serpence change because of me?

    ''Is it because of me anyway?''

    Feeling a certain weight of responsibility, Serpens was coming out of the cage.

    Looking at Eugene (presumed), the restraints on her limbs that had suppressed her movements were released.

    The gag did not need to be released by Serpens, but was released directly with her free hand.

    If you don''t mind, the two of you earlier

    Can I hear the details of what you are talking about?"

    "I don''t know everything. I''ll send you out of the dark, so you can go back to your hometown calmly."

    As soon as he released the gag, Serpence was awkward at Eugene''s question.] He answered in a slurred tone.

    If you can just release the magic constraint, I''m sure it will help!

    When Euges (presumed) seemed unwilling to get up, he clicked his tongue as if he didn''t like Serpens.

    those who brought me here

    It''s just a part, when I''m dragged... .

    It must have been blinded back then.

    But it''s better than nothing without evidence! Besides, I can borrow the powers of the spirits, so I think it''ll be of great help.

    If the flow had been the same, she would have just quietly followed her instead of swarming her like that.

    But after listening to our conversation earlier, they seem to have changed their minds.

    Because of Eugene (presumed) holding on saying that he won''t get up, the serpens grow again

    I had to go inside the cage.

    He grabbed her by the arm and forced her to stand up, uttering a threatening low voice.

    If you don''t want to get tied up again and go out...

    Ugh-!

    As if strength had entered the hand holding her arm, she frowned and groaned.

    Regardless of that, Serpence dragged her out of the cage.

    If you''re a little bit quicker... .

    Even though it looks like this, your body is incomparable to yours.

    Serpens said so, but his slender forearm, held so tightly by his large hand, looked like it would break at any moment.

    Still, her arms are so thin...

    "With that arm, you can easily break your neck vertebrae."

    It was pitiful to watch, so I tried to sneak a peek, and it only hurt my heart for nothing.

    However, unlike the answer that came back, Yu Jis (presumed)''s expression became a little more comfortable.

    As you can see, it seems that the power has been reduced a bit.

    ''Aren''t you listening to me too well?''

    I keep forgetting that Serpence is my boss.

    ''is not it? This time it seems to be because of the strange setting... .''

    The more he appears to follow the orders of others, the farther away the suspicion that he might be the Duke of Prasidus disappears.

    At first I thought this was something, but the more I looked at it, the better it was. situation like this

    Was it made with this in mind?

    My heavy rain], no! Our master is very capable, so don''t worry about it, and calmly in the forest... So, let''s go back to the Arche Kingdom, right?

    As an elf with sensitive hearing, I was a little worried that he might recognize me with his voice.

    But since me and Serpens have already listened to my eyes, nothing will change now.

    According to the flow of the original, the next time we meet will probably be about a year and a half later.

    By that time, it will be time to fade from memory.

    still !

    I know you want to punish them yourself, but...

    It''s not like that! Of course, I want to prevent any more victims from appearing, but...

    They say they can handle everything on their own, but seeing that they are trying to intervene, I think there must be some other reason.

    Come to think of it, the original story said that he wanted to repay the favor1, was it because of that time?

    However, if you forcefully pass it on because you don''t need it, it is no longer an explanation of grace.

    because of the ring. My grandmother left it as a keepsake, but the person who brought me here took it.

    He was rescued from the water, but now, rather than asking him to bring a bag, he seems to have done it because he was sorry to ask for such a request.

    In order to get it back on your own, you must also want to help.

    "Have you ever put the item up for auction?

    If so, isn''t it somewhere in this warehouse?

    It''s not like that. I saw you put it in a case and put it in your pocket, saying it was going to be a present for my wife.

    Does that kind of person have something precious to them? It gives me goosebumps

    Can I just find it?

    A numb voice rang out. It was Serpens.

    Yes, that is correct.''''

    "Want to help?"

    Yes!

    Eugene (presumed) nodded enthusiastically.

    I thought he''d try to clean her up and do the job alone. I must have changed my mind for some reason.

    Serpens nodded at her, then shifted his gaze to me.

    You and the elf wait outside the dark side while I do the work.

    Yes?!

    I don''t think it''s going to be a very good scene, but even leaving it alone

    I was worried, but it turned out well.

    Interpreted, it would be something like, ''While I torture them and wipe out the identities of other accomplices, you are protected in a safe place.''

    ''I don''t want to see that scene either... .''

    Waiting alone with her... . I am worried that my identity will be revealed.

    What if he wants to take my hood off? As the master just said, I don''t have the strength to resist.

    Then don''t let me get the ring back.

    It could be, but it can''t be!

    "But what if you find out who I am and use that as an excuse to threaten you?"

    I can''t do anything to avenge grace...!

    If that''s the case, that''s fine. All you have to do is make the oath of the three counts.

    Serpens lightly cut us off our aung daung.

    ''The oath of the world tree.''

    It is the elves who have their own in the world tree.

    It is a pledge made with the meaning of existence.

    You can never tell a lie, and if you don''t keep it, you lose all the spirits'' power and you fall into a dark elf.

    ''Perhaps because of this oath, the elves are called the true race.''

    In addition, according to the setting of [Master of the Holy Sword], the Dark Elves would have been better off dead. It is said that he feels a phantom pain as if his soul is being ripped out.

    Until the end of his life, he had to suffer from that pain all the time.

    Still, living a life that makes it impossible to commit suicide is too harsh for a penalty for not keeping one promise.

    I will do it if you can believe it only in that way. It''s a matter of keeping it anyway, and there''s nothing difficult.

    As if she had given up, she shook her head and sighed.

 CH 44

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 44

    11. Duke and Elf (2)

    At that time, Serpens released the arm of Euges (presumed), which he was still holding, and unlocked the last restraint on her neck.

    After leaving the Darkside. Until you come back, guard him and do no harm, such as taking off his hood, is that enough?

    Cooperate quietly until you have further escaped the dark area. Do not leave the designated area during the escort. And

    Don''t try to find out.

    Could you leave out the last thing? If he divulges a clue, either intentionally or by mistake, my oath may be broken regardless of my will... And I will limit the period to until you return with the ring. If The condition is that they will not return it intentionally, or that it will be invalidated immediately if it is not found.

    Seeing that her words made sense, Serpence nodded.

    Instead, he asked me to be careful with my words, or to just keep my mouth shut if it was difficult.

    ''I thought you were writing a contract... .''

    The oath under the name of the devil uttered by the demon worshipers before, the oath of wizards about mana, the oath of the knights'' swords, etc.

    Contrary to such wordy oaths, there is a real penalty, so what can you do about it?

    Therefore, we have no choice but to follow the detailed conditions, such as the completion time, more carefully.

    I, Eugene Yulydia, swear by the mother tree for the significance of my existence.

    Euges, who spoke like that, later

    I wrote about the detailed conditions. When her oath was finished, a green energy flowed out and embraced her body.

    ''I was expecting a different name for the twist, but it was Eugese after all.''

    As soon as Serpens saw the green energy surrounding her, he motioned for her to follow her without saying a word and left the warehouse.

    I was worried about her physical condition because she didn''t know how much Eugenes had been caught, but after she had released the magical restraints, she followed Serpence with a much lighter movement than me.

    What the hell are you guys doing...

    He took the one who had been held as a slave and escaped confidently, but no one stopped him.

    Beyond that point, she muttered puzzled as they all looked away with fearful expressions on their faces.

    Of course, I and Serpens remained silent.

    "Why are you trying to hide your identity while doing a good job?"

    Even so, the people in the dark districts have no reason to hide from themselves.

    I don''t know, she questioned.

    It also couldn''t answer.

    ''Since our child has a strong sense of justice externally, we have to get rid of these dark streets as soon as we see them, but we have no choice but to hide them.''

    or,

    ''It''s a concept where you have to stop eating and drinking because you''re shocked by the joy that''s happening here, and you have to be captivated by tears of mourning at the sight of the streets that don''t trust each other and hold knives behind their backs, but I have no choice but to manage this place.''

    Isn''t it possible to give an answer like that?

    If her identity is discovered, Serpens may use force to silence her through the World Tree''s oath.

    "You seem to be going down a strange path from a while ago, is this the right path?"

    He suddenly entered the gambling hall and passed through a secret passage full of traps underground.

    When I came out, it was a narrow gap between the building and the building. there the wall

    As you go through the secret door you knocked on, you find an empty house with nothing. There he is looking for another secret passage... .

    that kind of repetition.

    Until the way out, it seems like you are going to go through the secret passages like this.

    ''How does this guy know all these paths?''

    My moon talk skills weren''t normal, so even if I became a thief, I wonder if I''d do well.

    In the end, Serpens never answered her until the very end.

    Occasionally there are traps, so just follow the place you step on, don''t touch the wall, or if an arrow or knife is flying from anywhere or in any direction, avoid it on your own.

    Except for such instructions, I kept my mouth shut.

    When I arrived at the narrow passage that an adult man could barely pass through, the traps scattered inside the secret passage caused Serpens to drop me on the floor, which I had been carrying all the time.

    From now on, there will be no traps.

    It was very welcome.

    The passage is very narrow for a narrow subject.

    And there was no light coming in.

    If it hadn''t been for the Fire Spirit summoned by Eugene, I couldn''t see anything.

    ''Rather than a gap in the building, it seems that the wall was built again with a few gaps in the wall?''

    As I walked idly while looking at the fireworks floating in the air, I suddenly remembered that she was also quite talented.

    ''Before, I forgot about the Serpens attacking guys so easily... .''

    It is said that only a few of those who kidnapped Euges came here, but considering the fact that she was kidnapped, aren''t they quite powerful?

    I''m hiding my identity, and since the places are all over the place, I''d have to hide my divine power even more... .

    Master, are you okay without weapons?

    There are many weapons.

    "Didn''t you see me taking it?"

    It''s a local procurement method.

    To steal the opponent''s weapon and use it

    sound

    Ordinary people would sneer at him saying it was nonsense, but if it''s the skills of the Serpens I''ve seen before, I can understand.

    I don''t know his exact skill... No, I can''t figure it out. You don''t have to worry.

    Even if someone who was kidnapped says something like that, I don''t believe it.

    "Ah, back then ! I was stupid. Because I was careless because I thought they were kind people I spilled my mana on the food they gave me.

    It''s mixed with depressing drugs... .

    As if he was absurd and angry with himself, Eugenes hesitated.

    ''It''s a drug that disturbs mana... .''

    In terms of martial law, it means that it has been subjected to something like the Sangongdogok.

    ...Didn''t you learn not to take anything that strangers give you?

    Of course, it''s the fault of the person who gave it to me, but the world isn''t so smooth, so we have no choice but to filter it out.

    More than that, if you''re worried about that, wouldn''t you like to buy him a decent weapon that is commensurate with his skills?

    Perhaps at a loss for words at my point, she changed the topic for nothing.

    Yes? You are a servant who buys and offers swords to the master you serve. Where in the world is such a thing?

    Besides, a weapon worthy of Serpence''s skill?

    If it''s a weapon of that size, it''s worth the price. Where the hell did I get that?

    I''m noticing, too. That''s you.

    It''s like a secret escort, isn''t it?

    It was just an escort knight setting, but for some reason, an additional secret was attached.

    It was a very good bummer, so I kept quiet so she could take it in a positive way.

    As I continued walking along the road blocked by walls on the left and right, I saw an open passage on one wall.

    Fragments of huge stones were rolling around only on the periphery.

    Judging by the heavy drag marks on the floor next to the passage, it was hard to tell that the pieces were originally part of a huge gate.

    "Why did you break the door and cover it completely with a wall?"

    It wasn''t just the door.

    A wall with a door was completely covered up so that no one else could see it.

    The reason why I had to break the door is ...

    ''Since this place was a holy place, did you need divine power to enter?''

    That''s probably probably the reason.

    Eugene, feeling suspicious, tried to examine the scattered stone fragments in detail, but Serpence said he didn''t have the time and hired her, so he had no choice but to pass by.

    The road leading to the outside was as described in [Master of the Holy Sword] when Humanus and the party passed.

    It was a natural cave that was twisted around and connected intricately like an ant''s den.

    Truly a natural labyrinth itself.

    ''In the original, I was lost for a long time when I came in... .''

    Even though Euges knew the general path, he managed to reach the dark place after mobilizing even the spirits.

    On such a path, Serpens walked straight to the exit without a single hesitation.

    The entrance to the cave was intertwined with huge tree roots, and vines covered it.

    Even as they passed right in front of them, they were hidden so naturally that they passed without noticing.

    The vines hanging at the entrance like a curtain

    When I removed it, I could see a gap between the roots of the tree, just enough for a person to pass through.

    I got out and looked around.

    Judging from the scenery, it seems to be somewhere in the mountains that look quite rugged.

    "Can we wait here?"

    It''s unlikely, but there might be someone who wants to use this entrance. It would be better if it fell a little bit.

    After moving a little more, Serpence left a message telling us to wait and went back the way I had come alone.

    With a light movement, he disappeared through the trees in an instant.

    It is so secretive that it is confusing whether what he learned as a child was training to become a master of the holy sword or education to become an assassin.

    You look very loyal.

    What , yes.

    The reason Serpens cares so much about my safety is, of course, not loyalty.

    ''Where is the boss who is loyal to his subordinates in the first place?''

    For him, the present me was the only ''understander''.

    I know him who is real, not a lie, and he accepts it. Whatever the reason and the process, it has nothing to do with it now.

    It''s the first time I opened up my heart, so I don''t want to lose it, so I''m going to cherish it more.

    ''Is the last time I whined on the streets of Semita, that I was scared, also played a part?''

    Come to think of it now, I was a little embarrassed, but then I felt my life threatened.

    I wasn''t in the mood to worry about that.

    "Looking at the fact that you have such a talented person under you, you must be a person of a considerable family, right?"

    No matter how much you try, I won''t give you an answer.

    If you put Serpence under him, you''re the only emperor, but if it''s an emperor, you''re right. that''s not me

    By the way, seeing him staring at me as soon as he leaves, I think I look quite sane.

    In my heart, what I know

    Boro wanted to counterattack, but since she had already revealed her name, she didn''t seem to want to hide any information about her.

    Don''t get caught up in babbling like in Serpense for nothing, just be quiet... .

    ''It came to mind when I said serpent... . Shouldn''t Euges have originally had a crush on him for this?''

    Considering her description of her fluttering red-hot ears, even if it wasn''t completely lost, maybe she had feelings of at least green love?

    In fact, it took quite a long time to fall in love with Humanus, even considering that she was the last to join among the female protagonists of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    To the extent that the other party members judged her not as a love rival, and was completely unaware.

    She had a fairly straightforward attitude towards Humanus.

 CH 45

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 45

    11. Duke and Elf (3)

    Maybe because I got caught in the middle, things got twisted up, and Serpens treated her more harshly, so his favorability was eroded?

    ''Of course, today''s work should be kept secret, but... .''

    He glanced at Eugene''s face.

    Her face, which had begun to revitalize thanks to the surrounding trees and relief, was quite beautiful.

    When I first encountered Serpence''s crazy beauty, the memories of losing my mind come to mind.

    ''Is it because of the race correction? [Master of the Holy Sword] Wasn''t there a setting for the author to have the most outstanding beauty among female protagonists?''

    If she regains her original condition as it is, she will blossom with a fresh charm comparable to that of Serpence.

    If that happens, no matter how high-eyed Serpens are... .

    ''is not it? Do you want something much prettier than yourself?''

    So, what if she puts on makeup and adorns herself with jewelry and dresses?

    It would have added more charm, wouldn''t it be prettier than Serpence?

    ''But what if I dress up a serpence and even put on a dress!''

    Calm down.

    I didn''t even know what this confrontation meant, and I was a little afraid of what might be at the end. let''s stop

    In any case, it would not be an exaggeration to say that the eyes were watching the aurora in the ten spheres.

    For him like that, I wondered if Eugenes was his last chance.

    ''Then did I trample that only chance?''

    In the first place, I don''t know who I am as a Serpence, and I''m flaunting an elf-like beauty.

    Even angelic blood flows through the real Prasidus family, what is it?

    But in Wilydia-sama''s eyes, what kind of person does our escort master look like?

    It''s not good.

    Even if I couldn''t help, at least it shouldn''t have been a hindrance, but I was wrong.

    As an apology, I have to treat Serpent with respect as a superior for a while.

    He doesn''t answer well and he doesn''t talk too much1, so maybe you''re not mistaken for a sense of weight? He was very sophisticated... He said he was rough, but he wasn''t a little forceful! He was a rude person! Of course, he treated you politely, but he''s very discriminatory! It''s obviously cold to others,

    You must be a warm, caring, respectful and kind person as far as your loved ones are concerned! No matter how much you saved me, I don''t like that kind of person!

    With an angry expression on his face, Euges said as if out of anger.

    However, no matter how I listened, I only heard that ''I fell in love with that look.

    Judging by the intense reaction, it seemed that he was more deeply immersed than he had seen in the original.

    ''The bean pods were used very well... .''

    Even Eugene''s ears were dyed red and pricked hard.

    It must have been something like the star in my heart.

    Yeah, that''s right...

    Yeah, it really is! How the hell did you ever have someone like that under your control?!

    Why do I hear Eugene''s words asking me to pass on the secret to how he seduced Serpence?

    How long has it been since we met, how can you be so zealous without seeing your face?

    Are you golden daddy?

    No, after years of suffering alone, I passed on to Humanus... .

    ''A smart father-in-law?''

    I do not know. It was an area I couldn''t understand.

    No matter how many women say they don''t see their faces, was it true that my sister was wrong when she said, I will look at faces ''less'' than men, and consider other factors more instead.

    ''Of course, Serpens is the ultimate face.

    Class!''

    No matter who it is, a woman who catches a serpent is a windfall.

    If you eat your face, you''ll be happy until you die, but there''s a lot of money and power... .

    ''It''s a little flawed that I''m mentally weak, but... .''

    I am managing the problem.

    As Eugenes said, he is an iron barrier to others, but if he can overcome that easily, he is infinitely soft.

    It''s like this for me too, but I can''t imagine how I would treat that person if I had a lover I love.

    I, over there?

    How hard it is for me to open up his heart, and now I''m starting to get better little by little!

    A year and a half later, he secretly appeared and made a plan to plunder my well-bred child, which made me very uncomfortable.

    Is this the feeling of a mother-in-law who lost her son or a father-in-law who lost her daughter?

    It''s a trade secret, I can never tell you.

    I said firmly.

    I had a thought that I should teach her the harshness of the world to her, who wants to eat it raw, but that was only an additional reason.

    Even if it wasn''t, Serpence''s personal history was at stake, so I could never tell you.

    * * *

    Suddenly, the night sky turned black, and the moon instead of the sun was illuminating the world whitishly.

    Fortunately, no one climbed the mountain during that time, and the wild animals were well managed by Euges and returned.

    Eugenes found the freedom of both hands by wrapping the cloak covered by Serpens like a tube top dress, and fixing it by tying the upper chest and waist with a tree trunk.

    She took the blade of the wind that she had made by borrowing the power of the spirits, and carved out a thick branch to make a bow.

    Then, by twisting the torn vines like little ropes and hanging them on the bow, a longbow was made that could be used temporarily.

    ''Are you sure you have the minimum armament?''

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], there was a description that Eugenes made mana with the power of a spirit and made it like an arrow and shot it.

    Now that I''m on my guard against people, I think she''ll be able to safely return to the forest alone.

    In the meantime, I sat blankly, and even he got bored so I cleaned the grass on the floor and lay down completely.

    I was so bored that I wanted to talk to Eugese, but she was so interested in Serpence that I started digging around.

    I had no choice but to ask.

    I might make a speech mistake, so I have no choice but to keep my mouth shut.

    ''By the way, am I not a lifesaver in my own way?''

    It looked like she didn''t care about me.

    While being treated as Serpence''s superior, why?

    ''What''s the problem?''

    Maybe it''s because he looks so incompetent.

    I couldn''t avoid a single trap, so I was carried around by Serpens, and I was still protected by Eugenes.

    It just made me look ugly.

    Even receiving Eugene''s protection was Serpence''s own judgment.

    He may have just been seen as a vicious boss who did nothing and eat raw balls by having a handsome subordinate.

    Continuing these thoughts, I lay down on the bumpy floor and tossed and turned around. Then, when I found a reasonably comfortable position.

    Serpens is back.

    Seeing that he came later than expected, I think he may have come to see other business as well as stalking the guys who sold Eugenes.

    "Are you here?"

    "Did you go well with what you went through?"

    for now.

    To Eugenes, who ran out of nowhere when he returned, Serpens handed a case with a ring and money enough for travel expenses.

    ''I''ve never seen you treat her before]

    I thought... .''

    It was a little surprising.

    Of course, if I had paid more attention, I would have prepared clothes that I could wear, but it just seemed to be filled with money.

    Oh, thank you ! Actually, I almost gave up, but I will keep it as a treasure for the rest of my life!

    Wasn''t it a precious thing from the beginning?

    I don''t know if Serpens really understood what she meant.

    Then I''d like you to keep a secret about this place...

    Well, if there is someone like you, you can feel a little relieved there.

    But I have to investigate the people who kidnapped me. There are elves who sometimes went out of the forest and lost contact... Maybe I''m not the first.

    Serpence seemed to think a little at her words, then pulled out a piece of paper from her bosom and handed it to her.

    There, their stronghold and the personal information of the main characters are written.

    Yes Yes?

    "What!? Can I hand you something like that?"

    Originally, they are from the Pelo Kingdom, and they have branches in other countries as well as here to smuggle slaves. The headquarters is in a foreign country, and the scale is bigger than I thought .

    Serpence, who had her eyes fixed on me, ignoring Eugene, who was stunned after receiving the data, answered.

    As the Duke of Prasidus, stepping forward, does the source of the evidence matter?

    If it was the original flow, Eugenes would have been kicked out immediately, so I don''t know how he would have dealt with this issue.

    Maybe it was just buried... .

    As the smuggling of slaves from outside the Dark House is also suspected, I know that the same documents will be sent anonymously to the two dukes of the Empire.

    "Uh that''s right. You did a great job."

    Anonymous reporting, there was a way

    Goo!

    In addition, speaking of the two dukes, while pretending to inform the high-ranking person, he can naturally create an excuse for himself to move.

    When he said ''the problem is that there are slaves'' in the warehouse, he was probably referring to the slave trade outside the dark district.

    The desire to have one''s own because others have it. However, due to the nature of the moving gates in the dark district, it is not easy to bring in many slaves.

    A slave auction in the dark is a kind of

    Is it for publicity? .''

    It must have stimulated the desires of those who did not have it by raising one slave who could receive the highest value.

    Anyway, the slave trade is a problem that the nobility has no choice but to get involved with.

    It will be resolved by either the Duke of Argento or Serpens.

    And since the Duke of Argento has already taken over the post, Serpens will take over as a matter of course.

    Is that so...?

    "Well, we''re also working inside the dark district.

    It''s hard! This ideal should be left to the high-ranking people, what should I do?

    Leave it to me! I will make sure there are no slaves on this continent!

    The expression on her face changed to a wretched one as she believed my words as she took off the shichimi.

    And if you catch them and come up with something related to the dark side, don''t worry, I''ll be in charge.

    ..Yes?!

    What the sudden declaration of serpentization of Euges?

    But that doesn''t mean she''s going to do something different on the outside like Serpence.

    Apparently, she misunderstood me and Serpent for something like a dark hero who works in the dark.

    From now on, you are a member of the royal family of the Arche Kingdom! If you take the position of a victim, you will be able to get involved as if it were an external torture. So, where are the two of you living in the dark?

    Eugene asked with a light smile.

    The main character runs through the heroines.

    In the novels that she attends, the basic and essential element that they must possess is activeness.

    There are a lot of female characters who stick to the main character, so if you don''t actively appeal to them, you''ll be forgotten.

    Perhaps because of her natural inclination, her aggressiveness was shining even in the current situation where there were no competitors.

    Uh, uh...

    I rolled my eyes and looked at Serpens, but I couldn''t see anything because of that damn hood.

    Even if I can see the face anyway, the facial expressions when I am with other people are all acting, so I will interpret and guess as I like.

    Still, it''s a different story if you don''t see it at all.

    That''s for you to know...

    If you don''t know, you must have some means of contact. Maybe we''ll work together.

    Because we could really work together, she said with a refreshing smile, not knowing where we had to hide more.

 CH 46

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 46

    11. Duke and Elf (4)

    ''Even Serpens didn''t know she would turn out like this... .''

    Had I known, I wouldn''t have been able to hand over the data.

    He wasn''t acting like an angel as usual. Besides, the face that attracts people is covered.

    It was obvious that he would not have even imagined that someone would have a crush on him.

    As proof of that, Serpens sneaked up to me and asked what kind of wind she had blown.

    I was shutting up without saying anything. Well, you seem to like the master.

    gibberish.

    To the extent that I want to ask, ''I just said that, it''s a setting error, is it okay?''

    ''Even I didn''t tell Serpens not to talk nonsense!''

    In any case, Serpence said that this

    I don''t know if it''s because I''m enjoying a middle life, if it''s because of the kind child complex.

    Could this also be a good opportunity?

    I can''t let him live hiding himself forever, all the more

    No, you like it...!

    Eugene showed a look of embarrassment, blushing and twisting his body.

    As if something had started, an ominous energy rose.

    Who, who is such a wild and ruthless

    human... !

    Ugh! Bad! Wow-!

    I hurriedly waved my hands and screamed to stop her from speaking, but it seems it''s already too late.

    Eugenes blinked in amazement at my sudden seizure, and Serpens grabbed my arm that was trembling wildly.

    ''Oh, it''s ruined... .''

    For Serpense, such a word is forbidden.

    Before she could judge whether her words were sincere, it was clear that she had gone into self-deprecation.

    ''Who is missing now!''

    I couldn''t understand the situation and sat down against an iron wall.

    If it wasn''t for the state of being caught in the arms, even Lee Mara would have lamented it.

    However, before Eugenes'' love business even started, there was a more important problem than showing signs of bankruptcy.

    '' Is he okay?''

    Serpense''s hand, holding my arm, is trembling slightly.

    One of the symptoms of the personally named ''Serpense Pre-Flight Syndrome''.

    You won''t run away leaving me like this, but you never know when you''ll try to escape. It was necessary to sort things out quickly, even by force.

    Just us in the dark, and Ms. Wiridi in the light! Let''s stand in our own positions and protect the continent! That''s it!

    Yes?! Oh, no, that''s !

    I keep signaling that my words are over before Suga gets the hang of it. As if waiting for those words, Serpens grabbed me and ran.

    I was worried that Eugenes might be chasing us, but it doesn''t seem so.

    didn''t

    He had lost contact with his family for a long time and had work to do, so he seemed to have chosen to make a promise for the future instead of chasing after him and buying backlash.

    As soon as I arrived at the entrance to the cave leading to the dark side, Serpens laid me down on the floor and ripped the magic scroll and launched a sphere of light into the air.

    Are you okay?

    Looking at the back of Serpens who quietly walked forward, I asked a question, but there was no answer.

    Sin, I''m sorry.

    " why are you apologizing?"

    She probably didn''t mean it, either. Maybe she was just shy...

    At my words, he stopped walking and looked back.

    You''re the only one who thinks that way. You''re just guessing what I''ve been doing apart from you, right?

    Yeah, I know, but why are you suddenly saying that...?

    According to the elf''s words, the words of my parents... My nature is, after all, a rough and ruthless human being.

    Wait, Master! Calm down for a bit...

    You''ve just been hurting people, how can you treat me like usual, knowing that?

    He already knew he had killed someone, and he knew I did.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], there were plenty of descriptions of him torturing and killing someone else.

    ''But now that I''m here, there''s no point in worrying about it... ?''

    It was after seeing nobles and priests arguing over the Warlock and torture each other on their side at the advisory council.

    ''That means it''s normal in this world.''

    But what they want from Serpens is noble and benevolent. It was the appearance of an impeccable gentleman.

    And he made it his standard.

    what people want from him

    I was obsessed with the obsession to fulfill.

    However, at the same time, the idea that in order to save the continent, those who eat it must be excluded under the name of ''necessary evil,'' was implanted in my mind.

    ''But by a necessary evil, does that mean that it is an evil anyway?''

    To the extent that killing someone is defined as a ''necessary evil'', cutting off the life of another is considered an ''evil''.

    Serpence will definitely understand it more than anyone else.

    despite knowing it.

    The self, who lost their lives and felt no emotion at all. Maybe even he thinks it''s because he''s a ruthless human being.

    So, it seems that he was a little frightened by Eugene''s words.

    ''But it''s not just Serpense''s problem, is it?''

    As a savior, everyone must save the continent and save the beings of this land. It drove me to the point where I couldn''t even think of a life other than that.

    He alone bears both good and evil

    And he was shaking unstable in the contradiction.

    He hates himself for acting inconsistent.

    You aren''t you scared of me? Why can you be so calm? Can''t you see the scene yourself, you can''t even imagine? More than you know about me, I''m !

    Serpens, who has been changing his voice since arriving in the dark district, has been constantly changing his voice regardless of who is listening, forgetting even that and pouring out questions in his original voice.

    Duke, calm down!

    When I called him by a familiar name, he seemed to have come to his senses, and then the question stopped.

    As the Duke said, if you actually see a scene like that... Yes, you''re definitely going to get scared. But that''s because you''ve seen a brutal scene, not because you''re afraid of it.

    If such a situation comes up and I avoid you, I''ll just be a little surprised because I''m not used to it. Don''t get hurt and wait until I calm down. I''ll be back again soon.

    I''ll come to you.

    lie.

    It''s true. I know you are such a timid and cowardly person... How can I be afraid of the Duke?

    "I, do you believe me?"

    Instead of answering right away, he tilted my hood slightly to look at my expression.

    Name, please be careful.

    Serpens said so in a somewhat blunt voice, and put the hood back on.

    overwritten

    He still couldn''t figure out his face, but it was clear that he was sulking.

    The reason I''m sure is because I was exactly that way after I got mad at Serpens for testing me.

    "Is it because of the master?"

    Let''s go back.

    "Why? Are you embarrassed, shy, and shy?"

    At my slap, Serpens turned his dog and glanced at me, then moved his gaze forward again.

    His steps got a little faster.

    ''Yeah, when did you see the side selling? I understand.''

    I have to understand, even if I have lived for one more year, what can I do?

    * * *

    Returning to the duke''s residence, the two of them left their luggage with the attendant, ate and returned to their room.

    "What is all this?"

    Why is it luxurious in the room?

    There were several things that looked like gift boxes piled up.

    When I opened it, there were clothes and shoes inside.

    " By the way, did you say you would be there when you return?"

    The one piece of clothing that was damaged was five pieces of clothing suitable for normal work, three pieces of tailcoats suitable for a banquet, and three pairs of shoes.

    Rather than compensating for losses during work, I think this is a way of expressing my usual gratitude.

    ''One well-bred serpent, I''m not envious of ten humanus!''

    As they are expensive clothes, I had to take care of them first, and as I was unpacking my belongings for a trip to the Duchy, Solertia came to me.

    You must be tired, but will you be okay for a second?

    I''m tired, what! It''s okay, come in.

    I put all the things that had not been organized yet, put the bag on the bed, quickly covered it with a blanket, and brought her into the room.

    "What are those empty boxes?"

    As soon as she entered the room, the high-quality boxes that stood out were Solertia, losing her purpose and expressing her doubts.

    The last time the clothes were broken, the duke ordered a few sets. Those are the boxes.

    I see! I heard that the Welfare of the Duchess of Prasidus is good, but they seem to care a lot.

    "Isn''t that all because I''m usually good to the Duke?"

    If Sion-san said that, then it would be, wouldn''t it?

    Let me tremble and say,

    Solertia smiled and replied jokingly.

    By the way, how are you today?

    I''m here to say hello because I think I''m going to have to open a store soon.

    Already?!

    Already no, the interior construction was finished a few days ago? But I thought I should tell you before I go, so I waited until you came back!

    Solertia replied cheerfully as always.

    Although they are using the same building,

    Because she was busy making scrolls, I could hardly see her face.

    But it made me sad that I had to leave.

    Oh, what''s with that expression? Aren''t you coming to the store?

    Yeah? Well, if there''s a scroll I need, I''ll have to go buy it, but...

    The scroll that Serpens bought this time has not been used yet.

    ''I don''t think I have anything to write about... .''

    As long as Serpence is not away for a long time like last time, there is no danger, and if it occurs, he will take care of it.

    I''ll give it to you.

    ''If there comes a time when you need to scroll... .''

    It will be around the time when the influence of demons on the continent becomes stronger, wouldn''t it be okay for the next year or so?

    "I thought we were friends, but was it just a business relationship?"

    Yes?

    The only friend I have in that capital is Mr. Sion. Are you really not coming to see me?

    As if Solertia was sad, she pouted her lips.

    That''s Okay.

    Yes?

    Do you live happily ever after, taking care of the Duke for the rest of your life? Heh!

    As if completely vomited, she spit out a swear word, whether it was a curse word or a good word, and closed the door with a ''bang-!'' and left.

    No, what the hell is this...?

    On the day of the opening ceremony, I have to buy a flowerpot and go to apologize.

 CH 47

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 47

    12. Hobbies with the Duke (1)

    Unlike last month''s friendly atmosphere, this month''s imperial palace banquet had a very quiet atmosphere.

    He must have been that kind of person...

    "Hey, did you say that you are the traitor of the continent right now?"

    How long have I been drinking and chatting with a guy like that!

    There are only murmurs here and there

    gained

    Like him, yesterday at a council meeting, there was an announcement on the results of torturing a demon worshiper.

    Since the captured guy wasn''t a very important person, I couldn''t get detailed information about their forces.

    However, there was a connection with a few nobles who played the role of windman to drive Serpens, and they succeeded in finding them.

    ''Two specialists in the torture world gather, really... !''

    It would have been easier if it had been a higher-ranking person

    He probably wouldn''t have opened his mouth, but even considering that, it was a great achievement.

    However, the result was an achievement, and there was no one to laugh and talk about being happy with the result.

    I thought it would be fine for now, but I''m worried because there is already evidence that demon worshipers are working under the water.

    ''In the midst of this, the three most powerful people in the empire have vacated their seats at once... .''

    First, Serpens gave the emperor a poison bottle.

    He applied, and the Duke of Argento, who had a corner to point out when he saw it, followed him.

    When the two dukes came out like this, he thought it was an important matter, so the emperor left the venue in a hurry, leaving the seat to Hugh Manus.

    Still, it was a gloomy atmosphere.

    Humanus, who had been standing still and covered with a stump, desperately excused himself saying that it was nothing.

    ''Jjasik, be strong!''

    Despite his efforts to improve the atmosphere, the

    Anxiety was heightened even more.

    "If you see that Duke Prasidus is also absent, then ?"

    Yes, that''s right. Seeing Sir Falsum say such things, also the Duke of Argento...?

    Sir Palsum, who had approached me all of a sudden, asked me a question as if floating. It was only me who knew it before, but I replied as if I had noticed it now.

    This morning, an anonymous letter arrived at the Duke''s residence.

    Surprisingly, there are those who smuggle slaves from abroad.

    to be.

    To think that it was someone''s bad joke, the story of their base in the Lumen Empire was contained in detail.

    It was necessary to investigate the truth of what was written in the letter. If nobles were involved in it, they had to undertake their follow-up as well.

    ''And for him, prior permission from the emperor is required.''

    Even while enjoying the banquet, Serpens was very excited to think that there would be people suffering somewhere.

    oh it hurt

    That is why, despite the chaotic atmosphere, he asked the emperor for a private study.

    '' was today''s setting, wasn''t it?''

    There is no need to even mention the identity of the sender of the letter.

    My aides and other nobles all listened to the conversation between me and Sir Falsum, who showed a clear sense of knowing something.

    I think I''ll be busy for a while. Come to think of it, I know that the Duke of Argento is also the prime minister, but it''s okay.

    Are you sure?"

    In this case, it was important to keep secrecy until it got to a certain orbit.

    So I changed the topic and asked a question I had been curious about for a long time.

    Sir Palsum did not want to talk about it, but rather to show off the leisure of those who knew him and strengthen his position.

    He naturally followed my topic.

    According to him, the Duke of Argento had left all matters concerning the estate to his son.

    Thanks to this, he seems to be able to focus only on the work of the Prime Minister and the role of the head of the advisory meeting.

    '' It''s a long story for Serpens.''

    However, even if there is no successor, it is said that they are living a leisurely life in moderation, taking care of their subordinates.

    Serpens, who work without holidays, are also unusual.

    Who else in the world is a nobleman who works alone on weekends when his aides are also off?

    ''Should I tell you to hire more administrators from the mansion on this occasion? .''

    There is only one Serpence, and it was clear that he would become even busier once his work began to gain momentum.

    So, the amount of time devoted to basic tasks should be reduced.

    Come to think of it, Lord Rivelon''s clothes are... Hmm, now it seems that I''m starting to feel like a full-fledged duke''s assistant.

    Haha, thank you!

    It looks a lot better than before.

    Sir Palsum patted my shoulder and said as if he noticed my clothes changed from before.

    "If there is something you do not know about the job of an assistant, please do not hesitate to come and ask me as much as you want."

    I pretended to be kind, but I could feel that they were treating me as a subordinate.

    I felt it from the last banquet, but he is a person with a very high sense of authority.

    ''Yeah, on the topic of escort... .''

    I''m no different in that part, so I can''t say anything outright.

    Here, it would be convenient to adjust the rhythm appropriately.

    But, like him, I am also an aide to the duke. There was absolutely no reason to bend over to him.

    ''Besides, if I accept being treated as a subordinate here, then Serpense will also be under the Duke of Argento, right?''

    It''s okay for me to be equal to Serpence, but seeing others like that is unacceptable as an aide.

    I''ve heard that Serppens shouldn''t start a conflict before, so I don''t even think about causing a conflict with Palsum.

    Just know that you are on an equal footing

    Let''s end it like Lee.

    Thank you for your concern, but that''s fine. Aren''t I strictly an aide to the duke''s family?

    So, there are many things you need to know and have. Attire is only the basic of the basics.

    His words can be heard translated as ''Now, where does a guy with the basics pretend to be on the same level as me?''

    ''I want the world to be round 1, why does the world keep dragging me into the battlefield?''

    I like to dress like that

    I thought it was important, so I wanted to sarcastically say that he was wearing a cloak like a cloak even to the prestige of the Duke of Argento, but he had to restrain himself.

    It is common everywhere that children''s fights escalate into adult fights. The situation is very different from the time of Tooth Tor or Hans.

    Just show that you didn''t kneel, and let''s pass it on nicely.

    Isn''t the most important thing for an aide to be respectful to the one you serve and to trust each other? As an aide to the duke, I never consider myself lacking.

    It would be great if everything could be resolved with just one''s heart. Sir Rivelon has just entered society, so you can rely on those around you a little more.

    If I start a dispute with someone, it must be their fault.

    Truly, I swear to heaven that I have never quarreled with anyone in the first place.

    '' Intentionally.''

    As I said a few times, I really didn''t mean to conflict with him. But he thinks a little differently.

    commanded

    "Do you, Sir Falsum, think the situation is so bad that the Duke of Prasidus has to turn to his neighbors and ask for help?"

    I never said it that way.

    "There are enough people in the Duke of Prasidus to help and advise me. So, I don''t think I need to rely on outsiders . So I thought that Sir Falsum thought that there were no talented people in the Prasidus family. ?"

    Lord Rivelon, it seems you have misunderstood for a while...

    Slowly realizing the seriousness of the situation, the Breath of Arms put on an expression that seemed to say, ''Ouch!''. But it''s already too late.

    If you don''t finish it after this, it''s even more awkward.

    "The honor of the Duke of Prasidus was almost tarnished, so how can we pass it on as a misunderstanding! I can tolerate insulting me, but if my duke is flawed, even if it is a misunderstanding, I cannot pass it on. !

    As I spoke, it really felt like Sir Armsom was chasing my child.

    In the first place, the reason why I''m holding on to things I can ignore for good and good is because I''m afraid that even Serpens will be underestimated.

    Naturally, I was able to shout at the monster parents by Bing.

    If I were a knight, I would have taken off my gloves and threw it, but unfortunately, my body didn''t even have proper physical training, let alone swordsmanship.

    I just couldn''t get out of there. under

    But that was enough.

    ''Win!''

    It wasn''t the time to like me thinking about it. The attention of those around him was completely drawn to him.

    ''The superior went out to have a conversation with the emperor, but is it only natural for his aides to be interested?''

    The funniest thing was watching the fight and disfiguring the houses of others.

    Originally, it was a situation in which Humanus had to intervene.

    When they glanced into each other''s eyes as if asking for something to happen, they just gave a wink as if not to worry that they wouldn''t come.

    '' So what?''

    Did you judge it to be a performance prepared in advance to raise the mood, or was it just fun watching?

    I don''t know until there.

    I''m sorry, I didn''t mean it that way. I made a big mistake.

    "It''s okay, everyone makes mistakes.

    Aren''t you supposed to do it? But since you''re the duke''s assistant, you''d better be careful from now on.

    Unlike Hans, who was likely to be transported to high blood pressure at any moment, seeing him politely apologize in a calm manner, this yangban is not common.

    In spite of the last words that scratched his insides, he left the place with a positive attitude towards my words.

    ''It would be fun if Sir Eight Sum was red and rushed in... .''

    No, but a big deal was about to happen. star

    I''m glad it ended without work.

    By the way, I screamed, but my throat was a little dry...

    It was just a small mumble to himself.

    Just in time, someone handed me wine from the side, and I was thirsty after receiving it.

    I''m sorry about what happened last time. I don''t have a good eye for people, so I didn''t realize how great Lord Ribelon was.

    Lord Tustor?

    It was Tustor, who I thought was one of the royal court servants who worked as a waiter.

    I felt uneasy about whether the wine had poison in it, so I put the glass down on a nearby table.

    "Do you have anything to do with me?"

    "I want to apologize for what happened last time."

    Ah, yes...

    When I got home and thought about it, it seems that everything Sir Ribelon said was true. What was it that I was thinking too short? Hahaha!

    His eyes that look at me for some reason contain an unknown source of respect

    there was

    ''Whatever'', this ? Aren''t you that kind of person?''

    I just ignored it and passed, but Tustor started chasing after me as if he had been my aide.

    Picking up food for you, recommending delicious food, etc. He exhibited condescending behavior.

    No, really, why is he doing this?''

    Tustor''s strange behavior continued until the servant of the Imperial Palace came to me and told me that Serpens was waiting outside.

    Then go in carefully!

    Ah, yes...

    Leaving behind his warm greetings, he left the banquet hall with a sense of dread.

    Last time, he noticed that he couldn''t eat me like that and was anxious, but what the hell is that dazzling change of posture?

    It reminded me of a Scorpion rubbing his palms in a dark place.

    Did he ever give it to me... ?''

    Feeding Lord Palsum with one shot

    After seeing it, it seems that he has decided to ride the Zion Line from now on.

    ''I''m going to crawl on my own, so there''s no need to dry it, right?''

    I must have defined his awkward attitude, and with lighter steps, I got on the carriage waiting for Serpens.

 CH 48

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 48

    12. Hobbies with the Duke (2)

    Serpens, who was already in the carriage, let out a sigh as soon as he met my face.

    ha .

    What''s your sigh? Did something go wrong with you?

    At my words, Serpens sighed once more and shook his head.

    The people who treat me today

    The reaction was all bizarre.

    I''m asking because I''m really curious, is Sir Rivelon a hobby of arguing?

    No! I really dream of living in peace with everyone, but other people don''t.

    uh... .

    Weren''t we just having a conversation in the Imperial Palace?

    No matter how much Serpence was there, he wouldn''t have heard the sound of the inside of the venue... .

    Come to think of it, I could see the nobles grinning with brighter faces.

    came to mind

    It was the perfect gossip to cover up the troubled minds of demon worshipers, so it seems like everyone was talking about it here and there.

    And Serpens must have picked it up.

    For the honor of me and the Duke, it was an inevitable choice.

    It wasn''t unavoidable, but... After all, let''s just let it go until this time.

    I was worried that I wouldn''t hear a single voice, but I''m glad I did. A very soft guy

    all.

    If you don''t want to be stabbed in the street, be really careful from now on.

    "But will you protect me?"

    In my heart, I feel like I want to hit one.

    When I took his worried remark as a joke, Serpens looked at me with a look of disgust and was dying.

    I don''t know whether I should be happy with the friendly expression or worry about the radical content.

    If you get hit by the Duke, a weak person like me will not be safe.

    "Won''t it be okay if I hit it with moderate power and then restore it with divine power right away?"

    Absolutely not okay!

    At my desperate cry, Serpence let out a small laugh, as if it were fun.

    "Are you kidding me?"

    Please help me end with a joke.

    Next time I''ll have a fight with someone

    If that happens, I think I''ll have to fight with the determination to hit Serpens one by one.

    ''If it was a Serpence before, he wouldn''t have joked about that.''

    Wouldn''t he rather hate himself for having such a thought and feel sorry for me?

    If you think about it that way, you can think of it as a joke between friends until you get hit by a very skinny one.

    ''I''ll take control of your power... Ji?''

    Anyway, after going to the dark side, he is more to me than before.

    And more than that, it seems that he is slowly breaking down the boundaries he has toward himself.

    With a brighter image than before, he sometimes jokes with me, and his tone of voice has become quite comfortable.

    ''Maybe it''s because of the last conversation we had... .''

    At one time, I thought I was going to do something because of Eugene''s shovel, but it seems to have turned into a phone call.

    * *

    For reasons that came to mind at the banquet, Serpens accepted my suggestion that it would be better to hire more people to help with administration and accounting.

    Come to think of it, Lord Ribelon''s eyes are on people...

    "It was all a lie, wasn''t it already revealed?"

    To my shameless attitude in the world, Serpens said, ''I can see why people fight you... .'' He murmured, rummaging through the documents of job seekers.

    "No, if you say that, you think it''s all my fault, don''t you?"

    That''s what I''m saying.

    Serpence replied sternly. It''s a joke... increased

    ''Are you kidding me?''

    At the same time, some noble families had evaporated, so there were many skilled and experienced people in the talent market.

    But he was branded as a member of an aristocratic family that had ties to demon worshipers.

    No one was going to hire them.

    ''Actually, it''s almost like my career ended there.''

    However, Serpens selected a suitable person among them.

    His judgment was that it could be more reliable because a thorough investigation had been carried out on all those who worked in the aristocratic family.

    Those who do not know the details praised Serpens'' goodness and benevolence.

    In their view, at once unemployed

    It would seem as if he had reached out his hand for those who became so desperate to live, it was worth it.

    Even one of the administrators hired this time was very sensitive, so when he saw the serpent on his first day of work, he burst into tears.

    Uhhhhh, the Duke is a lifelong benefactor for me and my family!

    It must have been very moving among them to see him go down with all his tears and runny nose.

    Nose tickling all over the place

    I heard it.

    Meanwhile, Administrator Guberno, who had succeeded in inserting his grandson into an intern, looked at me and gave me a thumbs up.

    ''You didn''t suggest that I like you?!''

    But it was welcome to see more of my side in the mansion, so I secretly gave a thumbs up.

    It was only after their tears had stopped that work began.

    The unexpected took some time, but with the exception of one

    were all experienced.

    Those who would have been unemployed for the rest of their lives.

    Of course, it was a time when their desire to work was in full swing, so their ability to perform their duties was about to soar through the sky.

    Perhaps it was because they were forming a strong sympathy, but within a week, hands and feet began to fit together.

    Although the number of administrators has been increased for that purpose from the beginning, they are really at least what Serpens needs to check.

    I finished it all, leaving only the documents of

    Of course, the process of receiving and checking their reports was necessary, but it was perfect without any fuss.

    ''Just because there are fewer documents to process, it doesn''t mean that Serpense''s speed of processing is going anywhere''.''

    Serpens added a bit of a manager, handled the remaining paperwork in the blink of an eye, and even took my work, which I didn''t ask for, to solve it.

    Yes. Serpence has now become idle like never before!

    Of course, the dark side had to sneak around at night.

    The case of the slave trade had to be carried out in secret until some solid evidence was obtained.

    ''In the first place, that kind of deal will only be done after dark.''

    As things turned out like this, it was only natural for Serpense''s daytime hours to rise.

    " Ummm."

    Serpence looked at the table with tea and desserts in front of him with a puzzled expression.

    It seems that he is not used to drinking tea in the drawing room, which he used to drink while processing documents in the office.

    Originally, Serpence sometimes taught the swordsmanship of the knights when he had spare time, or watched the training of the soldiers.

    However, as the idle Serpens started snooping around every day, they began to feel a sense of pressure, who were grateful at first.

    ''Hey, I''m training in the army, and a general officer watching a fictional day

    If you come... .''

    I was just imagining it, but I get goosebumps and a cold sweat runs down my cheeks. The body and mind are not left anywhere.

    It''s never a human thing to do.

    So that''s what I''m doing now.

    It is known that I am the only one who enjoys dessert externally.

    Putting the one and only fork into Serpens''s hand, I asked a question as I picked up a piece of pound cake with my hand.

    Do you not have any hobbies, Duke?

    "...Really?"

    No, how can a person live without hobbies? The best way to increase life satisfaction is leisure activities.

    O O uh *'' --, -��

    Ah! You used to read a lot in the carriage, so maybe you like to read?

    It''s not just a hobby, it''s just to build up knowledge and skills.

    I only read books that seemed difficult for some reason, so it doesn''t look like I''m reading them because I like them.

    Besides, these days, even swordsmanship feels like it''s blocked by a wall...

    I did just that.

    No matter how talented Serpence is, there is a limit to how he can grow alone.

    ''If there is at least someone of the same level, let''s fight swords and grow up or not.

    It must have been a long time since he couldn''t find a suitable match.

    It is possible because of bloody hard work that I have reached the present level.

    This is the reason why Humanus, who was far behind from the starting point, was able to win against Serpens in about a year.

    The holy sword and the armor of the warrior obtained by overcoming the trials of the gods also played a part, but that was not the final blow.

    ''A fight between life and death.''

    Serpens has no such experience.

    Unlike Humanus, who climbed all the way up against enemies stronger than him, Serpens had always dealt with those who were far inferior to him.

    ''If you dare to find a similar experience, it''s about when he first picked up a sword?''

    He suffered violence in the guise of Dalian by his father.

    '' Poor guy.''

    One side of his chest was drenched, and when he looked at Serpens, he had a puzzled expression on his face.

    Being silent during the conversation and suddenly showing a compassionate gaze can only feel strange.

    "Duke, a hobby is not something you do to achieve something. Of course, you can achieve something through a hobby.

    It would be nice if But just . How about doing something meaningless sometimes?"

    At my words, Serpens made an unknown face.

    After thinking about it for a bit, I asked myself again if I couldn''t find the answer on my own.

    Then what about Sir Ribelon''s hobbies?

    Oh, I:

    you are?

    He was about to say something, but when he stopped talking, Serpens tilted his head.

    ''I used to play online games on my computer or read fantasy novels on my smartphone in bed, but I don''t have it anymore.''

    could not be said.

    Even if he had said this, Serpence would have tilted his head just like he had just said.

    Uh, no.

    Serpens wrinkled his brow.

    It looked as if he were swearing, ''Did you talk to me like you were bragging without you?''

    If you don''t have it, you can make it, if you do!

    I shouted with enthusiasm, but nothing comes to mind.

    Serpence is said to be idle right now, but the trip is dismissed because there are things to do, such as attending an advisory meeting.

    ''You want something good?''

    If possible, there is something that can satisfy even the hobbies of Serpens at once .

    _ again and again

    I looked at the clock at the knocking sound I heard, and it was the promised time for Count Pgnuto to come.

    Last month, I had asked Serpense to do a match, but I had to put it aside because I was busy.

    The message arrived a few days ago as I expected to have some leeway thanks to the appointment of a new administrative person recently.

    I got up with the fork Serpens was holding in front of me.

    I was still at work, so I put my worries about hobbies aside for a while.

    followed

    ''By the way, this is the first time I''ve seen Serpens wielding a sword... ?''

    I couldn''t see the individual training because I was alone in the duke''s training room at dawn.

    Even when he looked at the knights, he saw them battling each other or spreading swordsmanship in the air to the extent of correcting their posture or giving advice.

    I asked Serpens,

    "The difference in skill is so stark that it is better to deal with people of a similar level unless you are blocked by a wall.

    It''s beneficial.

    I heard the answer

    Soldier training, well, it was just a map of ranks and tactics, so there was no need to draw a sword.

    However, Count Pgnuto wrote in the letter, ''It was nailed as swordsmanship, so you will finally see Serpens wielding his sword.

    Although the result was stingy, it was very exciting to see Serpens''s swordsmanship.

 CH 49

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 49

    12. Hobbies with the Duke (3)

    When I came out to the gym, for some reason, Hugh Manus was also with me.

    Seeing Count Pgnuto smiling awkwardly next to him, information must have been leaked from the other side.

    Serpens, who found him, tried to prepare himself first, but Humanus waved his hand and refused.

    Rather than that, if something like this happened, I should have told you in advance!

    Seeing that they were called ''something like that'', it seems that they put greater significance on watching a fight than on politeness.

    Your Majesty, what are you doing without contact?

    What kind of communication between friends? You can just come and play!

    Humanus puts his arm around Serpens'' shoulder and smiles happily as if he doesn''t care about all of that.

    By his standards, we''ve been friends since childhood, so it''s not that we don''t understand.

    I, too, wouldn''t have been very concerned if my best friend of ten years suddenly broke into my room.

    They didn''t just attack, but even if they had boiled ramen in a cupboard, they would have smashed a few backs of their heads and finished it.

    '' The back of my head is tingling for nothing.''

    It''s not like he was beaten with Shion''s body, but even thinking about that time, my head hurts for nothing.

    ''But Humanus, who has developed a friendship alone for over 10 years, is a little:''

    No, I had to reflect a lot.

    It was temporarily pushed back by the unexpected appearance of Humanus, but today''s main purpose was to fight to the end.

    Serpens received his sword from Hans, and was able to remove Humanus'' shoulder naturally.

    Serpence''s sword, which can only now be seen in detail, was in the form of a universally used heavy sword.

    Count Pgnuto unleashed a large sword as tall as a human being on his back.

    Two people with their own weapons

    moved to the center of the gymnasium.

    With their swords pointed at each other, Serpence nodded lightly. It''s a sign that it''s okay to go far.

    Ha-!

    Count Pgnuto slammed the ground with a powerful cheer, and at the same time immediately swung his sword.

    Although there was a certain distance between the two, it was a great surprise that was possible because the distance was greatly narrowed with the cloud of feet and the length of the sword was long.

    However, as expected, Serpens simply clasped his sword and pushed him away.

    ''It''s like a fantasy world.''

    It''s not even a water muscle, it must have been a real muscle, but Serpence, who looks slender, has more power than Count Pgnuto.

    It must be the effect of divine power, but the Count must also be in a state of strengthening his body with an aura, so that''s it.

    Furthermore, according to the description of [Master of the Holy Sword], Serpens wasn''t a force-push-style swordsmanship.

    His strengths and specialties are his graceful and flexible movements and fast and sharp swordsmanship.

    Again the Count swung his sword,

    Lepence only moved his upper body slightly, avoiding it so much that it looked almost breathtaking.

    After taking a light evasive action, Serpens lowered his body as it was and dug into the opponent''s gap. Following the movement of Count Pgnuto as he was about to retreat, he swung the pommel of his sword towards him.

    100 million - !

    With such a strong blow, Count Pgnuto''s upper body was bent forward. But he persevered, and rolled back to widen the distance again.

    Instead of catching up again, Serpens straightened his stance.

    It''s actually round two.

    I just hit him with a pommel part, but if this had been a real battle, Count Pgnuto''s waist could have been cut in two.

    This time, Serpens rushed in first and swung his sword.

    Count Pgnuto brought the sword to the expected path of the sword''s arrival, but the sword of Serpens naturally changed its trajectory as if the river was flowing,

    He stopped the tip of the sword at the corner of his neck.

    Serpens clenched his sword and opened the distance again, and Count Pgnuto attacked him again with all his might.

    Each time, Serpence dealt with him in a variety of ways, such as spilling his sword, dodging it, or deflecting it.

    "Now huh, huh it''s done."

    Good job, Count Pgnuto.

    thank you !

    Count Pgnuto, exhausted and out of breath, barely stood still, supported by his sword.

    On the other hand, Serpens returned his sword to its scabbard, still in perfect shape, without a single breath being disturbed.

    Hans naturally accepted Serpens''s sword.

    Then, facing me, the duke entrusted me with this as well. Heh, how are you? Let''s pretend we didn''t see

    Come to think of it .

    ''I''ve never met anyone before, but aren''t I just putting my weapons away?''

    Serpence in the original is after the day of choice.

    As if everyone in the world was criticizing him1, he always carried a sword with him.

    It was not mentioned directly, but it must have been because the description of the handle of the sword continued to follow.

    ''Even when I read that, I''ll kill the opponent or not. I thought it was just a matter of judging which one would be more advantageous... .''

    Now that I think about it, I just feel threatened.

    It felt like I was wearing it and putting my toenails up.

    Another thing that bothers me is .''

    The point was that the sword he was carrying was thinner than that one and was about 10 centimeters longer.

    I said three swords, but should I call it an early form of rapier without lupus?

    In any case, it is like reading the article in [Master of the Holy Sword] that it has blades on both sides, so it can be cut.

    There the author annotated the side sword blah blah blah blah, but nothing

    I didn''t care, so I just read it.

    Anyway, considering that the handle of the sword that I glanced at when I went out on an expedition to the Volta Mountains is the same, it must be that that sword is the current Serpence''s main weapon.

    ''Then you''re talking about suddenly changing weapons... . why?''

    Of course, the weight is the same, and although it is the same double-edged straightness, there is no sense of difference.

    And yet, for almost a lifetime, changing a weapon that was familiar to me means:

    , I''m guessing that''s a much better fit. Maybe the achievement of Serpence stopped... .''

    The achievement of the sword may be something I skipped over.

    Still, there''s no way I''d suddenly change my armament just because I wanted to try a new challenge one day.

    Maybe he''s already feeling that there''s a weapon that''s right for him, or maybe he''ll figure it out in the future?

    So, how did it look to Sir Zion?

    It was Humanus who was watching from the side.

    Aside from me, Count Pgnuto''s aide stood next to me like air.

    you]? What do you mean?"

    He had a serious expression on his face and stayed still, so I thought maybe he was thinking of something.

    "What do I know, a novice?"

    I just want to know that the serpens are incredibly strong.

    At first, I managed to follow it with my eyes

    could However, the speed gradually increased and the movements became more complex, so I could barely see the preparation and finishing movements from the middle.

    That''s why I refused to comment, but even Count Pgnuto, who returned to breath, encouraged me by my side.

    This was the reason that sometimes a new perspective presented from a blank slate could be helpful.

    Uh, that''s...

    He glanced at Serpens with a glance.

    He is as generous as ever

    He nodded his head lightly.

    According to my very subjective interpretation, it seems to be saying, ''Tell me a moment, I''ll listen.''

    ''Hey, I don''t know!''

    I want everyone to say something, so I''ll have to tell a story that seems as good as possible.

    As a bonus, it would be even better if it was helpful to Serpens.

    "The Duke thought that it would be better to wield the three swords. The weak swordsman grows with divine power anyway.

    It can be used up, and the power of the sword cannot be overstated considering the appearance I saw earlier.

    And?

    Especially, the Duke seems to have the greatest strength in his attack, which is aimed at precisely opening gaps with light and agile movements. He seems to be good at using spears and spears, but if he uses a three sword, he will be able to move more freely than he is now. .

    Oh hey...!

    "And what if I increase the number of blades a little more? It may be a little confusing right now,

    Once you get used to it, you can set the distance, but it seems like it will be lower... .

    I fumbled over the descriptions of Serpens'' swordsmanship that appeared in [Master of the Holy Sword?

    By the way, Humanus had a really good reaction. It was definitely a good conversation partner.

    In response to a proper strike, I roared with laughter without realizing it.

    "Hmm I saw that. Are you really a beginner?"

    Lord Rivelon, aren''t you talented with swords?

    It wasn''t the reaction I was expecting.

    Somehow, both Count Pgnuto and Humanus admired me, and said nothing about it.

    I thought it would be a question of where Serpence''s perfect swordsmanship was lacking, but the reaction was that he knew something.

    That''s correct. I''ve been thinking that if I change the weapon before, it''ll be a little more efficient.

    But the duke''s change of weapons is...

    It''s a bit like that, too.

    Suddenly, they started talking among themselves about me.

    Why is everyone so skeptical of Serpens changing weapons?''

    In particular, Serpens felt that way, so I don''t know why he still insists on using a heavy sword.

    When he looked at Serpens with an expression asking for an explanation in the newly created question, he opened his mouth as he put on his glasses.

    That''s because the holy sword has the same weight and shape as the sword I use.

    Ah...! That''s right, it was.

    I glanced at Humanus'' waist.

    A sword similar to that worn by Serpens was seen hanging from his waist.

    ''The holy sword of that killer!''

    How much Serpens suffered because of the fact that he was the nominee to become the master of the holy sword!

    Even that wasn''t enough, Serpens should have picked up a weapon that didn''t suit him well, but that was the basic weapon for Humanus.

    If that''s the case, why did I delay my choice by 25 years to make this 4 months, I really want to just throw it in two.

    ''It''s not a holy sword, it''s a very magical sword, demon sword!''

    It is something to apologize to the Demon Sword as well.

    In the sense of the sword that is the starting point of the problem, let''s call it the starting sword for short.

    Your eyes are as good as knights! So, what do you think of my sword?

    Count Pgnuto''s gaze, who looked at me as just a bridesmaid, was quite

    changed favorably.

    But even if I asked that question, there was nothing I could answer.

    ''The defeats of the various repertoires were very impressive!''

    You can''t say ...

    Oh?

    Even if it was Humanus, what would I know about him who wasn''t even mentioned in [Master of the Holy Sword]?

    I could feel Count Pgnuto''s gaze looking at me with anticipation. It''s incredibly burdensome.

    That, that...

    Yeah, it''s fine, so let''s talk about it!

    I, I only see the Duke, so I don''t know!

    Hmm... Duke Prasidus-sama has a charm that catches the eye of a black man.

    He seemed a little disappointed, but he seemed to understand for some reason. Count Pgnuto agreed and nodded.

    Sir Zion hasn''t learned any weapons yet, has he?

    Humanus, who seemed to have been quietly immersed in his thoughts before, suddenly asked a question.

    A weapon means:

    He had experience with marksmanship and bayonet skills learned in the military, but there was no such thing as a gun here.

    "Aren''t you thinking of learning a sword?"

    Yes? No, that''s fine. What''s the point of starting at this age?

    No, from my point of view, there is definitely a possibility.

    Possibility is bullshit. Sleep like that to Zion

    If he had the wealth, he would have wanted to be a knight, not an assistant.

 CH 50

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 50

    12. Hobbies with the Duke (4)

    It is said that swordsmanship begins by watching the enemy''s movements. In that sense, Sir Sion is born with the greatest talent!

    Humanus said with admiration with his eyes shining.

    ''What did you say? Who hasn''t known anything about serpens for over 10 years?''

    I don''t know anything else, but seeing that people''s eyes are clearly inferior, that

    It seems that his swordsmanship hasn''t even started yet.

    As I was staring at him with my mouth wide open, a streak of pure tone flew into my ear.

    It certainly doesn''t sound like a bad idea.

    Look, Sepi is right, too!

    As a courtesy, he smiled slightly at Humanus, and then moved his gaze to Serpens.

    "Not bad, what do you mean?"

    Lord Ribelon is learning swordsmanship.

    I have no idea why Serpence makes such a noise.

    Even if no one else knew about it, Serpence would have noticed that I wasn''t really talking about how I felt when I saw his sword?

    "Last time, I had a job on Semita Street . It seems that you have some talent, so why not try to learn even if you can defend yourself?"

    Serpens smiled softly and spoke in a stern tone.

    Talent, something like that... There is no such thing.

    Didn''t the Crown Prince give you such a guarantee? You can be confident.

    If it''s the second thing because I don''t have confidence in myself, a sad and timid fence would say something like that to me.

    It was absurd, but there was a sense of d��j�� vu in his words.

    ''That guy definitely caught my eye.''

    As evidence of that, ''the appearance of existence'' or ''Your Majesty is also guaranteed''.

    He cleverly put himself in the words.

    It was clear that this was something I was saying after noticing that I had done something similar to cheating somewhere else.

    And by saying implicitly implied that fact,

    ''It''s all I know, so there''s no point in trying to get out.''

    It is conveying the meaning to me. As a Serpensian master, I am confident.

    A secret barrel in my room, connected to Hans''s room, that this idea is correct.

    can also be hung

    '' I really don''t want someone to take it away.''

    Whether it was a secret passage or a hidden room, he was very tired now.

    As expected, I was denied the right to veto.

    In front of Humanus and Count Pgnuto, he couldn''t help but say he didn''t want to do it to Serpens.

    Because of that, after they returned, they once again shouted against the association, but that was in vain.

    ''I''m not doing this because I don''t want to be strong.''

    As Serpens mentioned, when I think of what happened on Semita Street, I desperately had to cling to him.

    ''And yet this is the reason I am refusing to do''.''

    [According to the setting of the master of the holy sword, in order to use mana or aura, the vessel must be at least 10 years old or older.

    had to make

    The reason that the vessel can be stably settled in the body during the process of body growth.

    ''Of course, if you ask if you can handle Aurors unconditionally just because you have made a bowl, it''s not like that.''

    However, the possibility of awakening the Auror even afterward was very important.

    If you missed the time and didn''t have a foundation... .

    ''At least, he has strong muscles, so he can make up for the absence of aurora a little.

    Wouldn''t it be meaningful to learn a sword only if you have it?''

    Or, like Serpens or Humanus, he was born with divine power that could replace Aurors.

    Of course, none of Zion''s body was relevant.

    Other than that, it was just exercise for health, nothing more, nothing less.

    Even if I try desperately from today, when I think of the disaster to come... . well?

    ''Isn''t it much better to make money in that time and buy one more scroll?''

    Nevertheless, the reason Humanus felt a futile possibility was because he had mistakenly thought that I had a body sight that could confirm all movements of Serpens.

    Besides, even though he had no knowledge of swordsmanship, he accurately grasped him and even gave him a prescription... .

    Perhaps it was expected that he would have the art of predicting and avoiding the opponent''s attack.

    ''If you shut up, you''ll be halfway through... !,

    It was my fault for making fun of my mouth lightly.

    But even though Serpens knows that, he doesn''t know why he''s trying to pour water into this bottomless poison.

    Despite persistent persuasion by giving the above reasons, he showed an unwavering attitude.

    "Are you sure you don''t want the Duke to teach you?"

    When I asked with a feeling of half giving up, Serpens showed a victor''s smile leisurely.

    "I have time, so I think it would be better to do that."

    That time is for the Duke himself.

    Wouldn''t it be better to write?

    He would concede to learning swordsmanship, but that wasn''t really the case.

    ''I don''t know if it''s only to the extent of watching training from time to time. Are you sticking with me from the beginning and teaching me step by step?''

    It was clear that many swordsmen who admired him would appreciate me.

    Right now, the knights in the mansion, who are you, how dare you?''

    "Even if it would be better for you to teach me?"

    That''s right. It''s the Duke''s skill.

    everyone .

    That''s not what it means.

    Then, making an expression asking what the meaning is again, Serpence answers with a bright smile for some reason.

    Alarm bells ring in my mind

    If you want to participate in the training of knights and soldiers, well.

    The alarm gradually took shape and turned into a wake-up call or the sound of an arm.

    ''What a brutal suspense!''

    When I stopped at the barracks with Serpens before,

    I think you heard me muttering that I''m glad I''m an aide.

    I definitely want to learn from the Duke! If you''re going to learn it, shouldn''t you be with the best?

    It''s a very good judgment.

    Whatever it was, it was better than going to the army twice.

    Still, looking at him with resentful eyes with an unfair heart, Serpens smiled mischievously as if he didn''t know anything.

    "Now you and I. We both have new hobbies, didn''t it go well?"

    "What kind of dog are you trying to do with a sad expression?"

    With desperate patience, he quickly turned the back words of ''That''s bullshit!''

    When I asked him why he was so obsessed with such meaningless work, it must have been that it literally meant nothing.

    Anything meaningless doesn''t make it a hobby. It''s a hobby when it''s fun!

    uh... .

    Let''s find a proper hobby together, so let''s pretend this wasn''t a thing

    all. Yes?

    But it might be fun to try, right? There are quite a few nobles who learn swordsmanship as a hobby.

    Serpense''s words were correct to some extent.

    I don''t intend to use it in practice, but I just like to move my body, or just for fashion.

    Most of the high-ranking male nobles learned swordsmanship, perhaps because of the thought that it could be a lifeline when she was there.

    It''s not just about male aristocrats.

    It is said that even among female nobles, there are cases where they learn swordsmanship as a hobby, so swordsmanship was a fairly common hobby in this world.

    still .''

    Serpens is a genius, right?

    Usually, when it comes to geniuses, they come up with an answer right away without an intermediate process, and it''s frustrating to see people who can''t do it.

    Isn''t that an image?

    ''Sometimes Serpens will hold the swords of the knights.

    Seeing you watching... .''

    I thought it would be okay to some extent, but I was different from those who had the basics and talents backed up.

    Even newlyweds, who are full of love and affection, tend to fight while teaching each other how to drive.

    ''However, as a subordinate, I will be one-sided and excited.''

    Of course, I know it''s bias.

    However, another genius from [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''Anima Fruito, at least she did.''

    For her it was normal, for others it wasn''t. He was puzzled by other wizards who could not understand things that were too simple by their standards.

    "Huh? Why can''t you do something so easy? It''s strange ."

    The word she spit out without thinking when she was a child.

    Because of this, the wizards of the tower thought she was ignoring them. Deep in defeat, jealousy and hostility

    had

    However, he couldn''t directly harm her, the granddaughter of Ma Thapju, so he pushed her away and rejected her.

    ''The more that happened, the more skeptical she felt about her abilities, the more she began to become sluggish.''

    But only one. She had an understanding.

    Perhaps it was thanks to the understanding that Anima was able not to step on Serpens'' chariot.

    Instead of ostracizing Anima, she tried to stand on the same level as her.

    lice.

    There was a person who watched over her like a real sister so she wouldn''t feel lonely.

    ''Yes . there was.''

    The anger caused by the death of Hae-jae becomes a springboard for her growth, and she changes from being indolent.

    The author who wrote this beggar''s master of the sword must have had a bad taste that plagued geniuses.

    Anyway, [Master of the Holy Sword] had a precedent like this.

    That''s why it''s called serpens

    it doesn''t seem like it will

    "Are you going to quit after a few days because it''s frustrating anyway?"

    Are you that desperate?

    I didn''t mean to say it in that sense, but I didn''t have to make any corrections because I thought it would be the same in Serpence''s standards.

    * * *

    Because it was nailed as a hobby to the last, the dawn of Serpence

    The situation of being dragged into training could have been prevented.

    ''Learning swordsmanship is within my working hours, when I finish work early.''

    This was the set rule.

    The wooden sword and training clothes to be used for practice were brought from the duke''s furnishings, so the fact that I learned the sword quickly spread.

    Even though it was decided to learn at Serpence''s private gymnasium, I thought that the only thing left to do was buy my own eyes, but an unexpected result appeared.

    For some reason, the knights and soldiers were overjoyed.

    When I grabbed a servant who worked for the barracks and asked a sneak peek about it, the answer I got was so sympathetic that I almost shed tears.

    "When the Duke visits, the training intensity becomes more intense than usual. If you make a mistake while doing so, the general manager will take care of you later .

    After all, it was a place no different than an army. My choice was right.

    After changing clothes and heading to Serpence''s gym, he was waiting for him in his usual outfit.

    It''s no wonder he didn''t shed a single sweat against Count Pgnuto.

    First, let''s check the basic stamina.

    Starting with Serpence''s words, he had to undergo various tests.

    Strength was confirmed through sit-ups and push-ups, and agility was confirmed through long jump and sprint in place.

    There is a round trip to the earth

    squeezed the force. I had to run until it became difficult to even walk.

    When I was lying on the floor because of exhaustion of stamina, Serpens sat me down and pressed my back firmly to complete the flexibility test.

    This is not done. it was forced

    Is this a bit below average... It''s better than I thought.

    In fact, I was completely exhausted, and I was not feeling well.

 CH 51

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 51

    12. Hobbies with the Duke (5)

    Is it because the reference point was lowered in advance?

    Even though it was below average, Serpence accepted it positively.

    ''It''s because I''m dissatisfied... .''

    He boasted that he had gained quite a bit of stamina every day thanks to going up and down the stairs to the 4th floor where Serpens''s office was located.

    However, in a world without elevators or cars, the average looks a little different.

    "Go, Duke Nim. Heh, Heo Eok-."

    Yes, tell me.

    They gave me a bottle and gave me medicine, and Serpens handed me water and answered.

    Sah, save me...

    This was also done in an informal way. If I had gone to the barracks, I wouldn''t have been able to rest as much as I do now.

    Wasn''t it not that he was rolling left and right as soon as he finished measuring his stamina?

    But still, this is not really the case. It can never be a hobby!

    I, haha. Already, it''s no longer fun...

    I haven''t even caught a sword yet.

    It''s like a half full glass of water.

    In other words, he had fallen out before he even grabbed his sword.

    When I shot him with a dissatisfied face, Serpens averted his gaze.

    "Uh-huh So, do you like the Duke, so you use a sword?"

    I drank the water that was handed to me and rested a bit, but my heart still pounded,

    There was no discomfort in speaking.

    "It I don''t know."

    Look! Stop this, right?

    When I say it with a sense of momentum because I think it''s an opportunity, Serpence is noticeably gloomy.

    Yet, the way he avoids his gaze gives him a feeling that it is about to come.

    I''m sorry, even you because of my ego...

    Just in case, I did.

    Seeing you say it''s not you, it''s you too, so it seems like you''re overlapping with your past, where you were forced to learn something you didn''t want.

    ''I forgot to eat for a while because I''m in such a good mood these days, but it''s still a minefield.''

    Still, in those words, it was revealed that Serpens had begun to realize the absurdity of what had happened to him.

    You''ve grown!

    It''s okay to just exercise after a long time, what. You don''t have to worry about it.

    Is that true?

    No, where did this duke only be deceived!

    At least you''ve been deceived a lot.

    Having said that, there is nothing more to say. It automatically closes its mouth like a salivating centipede.

    Conversely, Serpens let out a soft laugh, apparently feeling a little better.

    Rather than that, let''s think about it properly! When you ask about your favorite food, don''t you mention the tomato risotto you just ate?

    Ji . Isn''t this a little bit?"

    no.

    If you know, from now on...

    That''s not it.

    Serpence''s expression changed very decisively.

    Even if the sweet pumpkin was mixed with the soft flour, it could not be more firm and powerful than this.

    The ''meatball'' is missing. And it''s a favorite.

    that, you see.

    The sound that I just did this hobby

    It wasn''t.

    what if not

    Did you even want to see me rolling on the floor and struggling? Such suspense?

    I won''t deny that it was semi-impulsive. But...

    Serpens muffled his words, then suddenly fell into a thought.

    However, the slightly tilted head seems to have a question rather than a concern.

    It seemed like it was trying to come up with an unsolved, deficient final formula.

    all.

    ''Why all of a sudden?''

    Serpence fixed his glasses and drooled again.

    Even then, he occasionally tilted his head to the other side.

    Somehow, I thought I shouldn''t be disturbed, so I looked at it blankly.

    As if he had finally settled his thoughts, Serpens opened his mouth first.

    "I guess I like to teach someone."

    Serpens had a bewildered expression on his face, as if he could not believe what he had said.

    ''That expression isn''t acting?!''

    At Serpence''s bombshell remarks, we looked at each other''s faces without speaking for a while. It was Serpens who broke the silence first.

    ...Lord Rivelon?

    He looked like he wanted to say something.

    but now i''m so amazed

    is speechless. It was a little strange, but it was still very surprising.

    I struggled and struggled on my own, and the results came out right in front of my eyes.

    Is this the way parents feel when they see their baby turn over for the first time?

    A wave of deep emotion flooded in.

    ''Serpens finds out what he likes on his own!''

    Even if our children changed, it couldn''t have changed that much.

    It was so unique that he even stroked his hair and said, ''It was so good, I want to get a few stamps.

    ''by the way .''

    By the way, I never thought that Serpens likes to teach someone.

    But looking back, I think he was very sincere in answering the questions I asked.

    ''Especially in the dark areas, there were no tour guides.''

    I just thought I had the talent of a guide, but I guess I felt like a teacher who led a field trip.

    In this way, whenever I had time, I would visit the barracks .

    ''Is it not image making, but self-satisfaction?''

    I enjoyed my hobbies without realizing it, but I think I was disappointed because they were uncomfortable.

    It''s kind of a bit worrisome.

    It wasn''t a question of whether it could become a hobby. Hopefully I''ll be a teacher, but at the wrong moment, I''m down to a scavenger hunt.

    throw it away

    ''Why?''

    If it''s frustrating to watch, you don''t have to teach me swordsmanship from the beginning.

    Or do you feel a sense of superiority by looking at others who are inferior to you?

    I never raised the Duke like that!

    Yeah? Who told you, uh...

    Serpens, who was about to snort with an absurd expression, swallowed the tip of his words in the middle.

    He must have felt a lot of things.

    But I hope you haven''t forgotten that I''m your boss.

    With a look that Serpens didn''t like, he raised the tip of his chin slightly and said.

    His attitude was arrogant, but he seemed to have stopped thinking about denying it.

    A bizarre situation like saying, ''Give me permission to raise me in the future.''

    ''Is he doing this knowing how his words will be interpreted?''

    In the first place, such other people''s black histories should be collected.

    Then, when it''s unforgettable, mention it to remind you, and after that, it''s a friendship between friends to make fun of.

    "More than that, why did you suddenly say that?"

    A declaration of parenting?

    Ah! Why did you come to the idea of wanting to teach someone, I wonder?

    It''s done.

    "How can I express that?

    With a look that he didn''t really understand, Serpens touched his forehead.

    In the future, Serpens must learn the Zion language a little more.

    If I pretend I''m pretending, I''m pretending, but it seems that reception hasn''t been done properly on that side yet.

    To be honest, I wonder if it''s for the same reason you feel when you look at me...

    The Gilnyangyi found out that it was an organic cat.

    De, when I took a rental and raised it, it turned out to be a dog-nyang?"

    ...Nyan?

    In this world, it seems that such abbreviations are not used.

    Lacking Zion, he tilted his head to the side with an expression on his face that he heard some code.

    I don''t know what you''re talking about... But, in terms of tone, is it correct to say that you are feeling the rewards of growing up?

    As a result, yes. Yes.

    So do I.

    Does that mean that Serpens was feeling rewarded by teaching someone?

    ''It''s a little bit like I said it was for the same reason... . Maybe this isn''t following me, is it?''

    I was a little worried, but my life changed after I met a true teacher. It was not uncommon for him to respect him and set his future hope as an educator.

    ''Do you think I''m pushing myself too hard when I say this?''

    Still, I taught him a human life and the happiness he deserves.

    No one gave it to me... .

    I don''t know where to start with this...

    Oh, you can speak slowly and whatever you feel comfortable with.

    As I continued to look up at him, my throat got a little sore, and I motioned for him to sit down.

    Serpence hesitated and squatted down to keep his clothes from getting dirty.

    So, you come dressed comfortably like me. What is that while you''re in shape?

    I''m sorry, let me tell you.

    Apologizing quickly, before he shut his mouth in anger.

    Serpens opened his mouth, thinking that he had just decided to dismiss it as not listening to me.

    To look after the swords of others, it was only a pretense.

    "Then when did it change?"

    "We should all work together and help each other. Do you remember what I told you before?"

    That''s what I said on the train. energy

    He nodded his head as a sign of embarrassment.

    "I thought it was just a responsibility and a burden. But I think of them as allies that we have to fight together in the future . They grow and become stronger. The way they broke the wall and expressed their gratitude to me felt different than before. I think I also felt a sense of accomplishment and reward."

    In Serpense''s words. How deeply he thought, rehearsed, and pondered what I said.

    I felt those things.

    ''I just lightened my shoulders a little.

    I said it because I thought it would be nice... .''

    He finds more meaning in those words. Also, he took it and made it his own.

    They say they feel rewarding themselves, so it doesn''t seem like they''re following it without thinking.

    If that''s the case, you can rest assured.

    That''s what I''m saying, but I also want you to train your sword to some extent, even if it''s not to the point of being serious.

    Yes?

    "Last time, it was fine because I had arrived in advance, but there is no guarantee that it will be like that in the future."

    You came late, so I wasn''t very good.

    Anyway. At least until I arrive, even if it''s impossible to run away, I''d like to be able to take some time off. Of course, it''s not forced, so if you don''t like it, you can say no.

    Seeing him smiling bitterly while saying that, I can''t say no.

    Sometimes I say that I''m worried

    Even so, it feels very different from back then.

    previous worries,

    ''If you live like that, will you be hooked in one room?''

    If it was like that, this time I was just sincerely praying for my safety.

    You''re my most reliable ally...? So. Oh, I''m not saying that you shouldn''t feel pressured. You can refuse, so please feel free to tell me.

    This ain''t me, whoever hears it

    It was the perfect answer.

    Yeah, my hobbies...

    What are your hobbies?

    As if wondering what would happen next, Serpence looked at me with an expression of mixed expectation and anxiety.

    ''What should I say about that... .''

    Before returning home from a child who used to play with public toys at daycare.

    Holding it tightly with both hands, he looked like he was asking if I could borrow it for just one day.

    Yeah, that''s it. I couldn''t find a more appropriate expression than this.

    After all, my hobby is swordsmanship. There is no better hobby on this continent than that.

    Serpense''s expression brightened.

    Instead, there is one condition.

    * * *

    When Serpens accepted the condition

    At the gate, the water lily resumed.

    Although he learned the basics of swordsmanship, he boldly gave up on the actual attack.

    ''Are you sure it won''t happen anyway?''

    His teachings were mainly focused on physical strength training and reflexes and defense for evasion.

    Because the purpose of the training was changed from ''learn swordsmanship'' to something else, the posture was centered on learning the basics and fighting for actual combat.

    ''Could it be better to call this Dalian?''

    I just dodge or block Serpens'' attacks

    Even if he couldn''t do it, the wooden sword he wielded stopped just before it touched me, and I listened to advice and advice on it.

    Given Lord Rivelon''s physical abilities, he was able to avoid the attack just before.

    Yes? Didn''t you?

    Let''s do it again. The position and posture we had earlier... Yes, in that state, shift the center of gravity to the left foot and twist the waist slightly...

    Hey, is this happening?!

    It''s a strange feeling as if I''m not moving my body.

    As a long-distance countermeasure, we practiced avoiding serpens shooting a group of divine powers from a distance.

    Since I don''t have an auror, hitting doesn''t make any sense, so I had to run thoroughly and roll the floor.

    The more he was attacked, the more his health was restored, and the more he rolled, the more he recovered.

    ''This is something... . It''s like a VR game?''

    Even if they roll the same way, it''s definitely different from the military-style ulcha-ryeo that just rolls without a clear purpose.

    A clear goal of avoiding the attack was presented, and it was perfect because it was shot in line with my skill. .

    It feels like a barrage dodge game? It''s leveled very well...

    Barrage evasion...a game? Where is that illegal arena? What''s leveling?

    At the self-talk that I had unknowingly spit out, Serpens hardened her face and asked.

    Trapped in a space where arrows and magic rain in his head, people

    It looks like Chang Asura running away screaming.

    ''''That''s... . I''ll tell you that later on the Day of Choice.

    It''s best to postpone it when you can''t explain it.

    And there was one thing that I realized while learning the sword from Serpens over the past few days.

    Unlike the anima, who showed genius only in learning magic, Serpens, an all-round genius, was also talented in teaching.

 CH 52

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 52

    13. Secret stories about the Duke (1)

    I met Jack a few days ago and we were talking.

    Father will meet with the aide once.

    "Is that really true?"

    "It''s all thanks to me writing a letter every week and sending it home."

    thank you!

    "Next weekend is my off-duty, so I''ll go with you then.

    I have contacted you.

    The above is the content of the conversation that took place that day. Jack''s expression was very bright when he said that.

    But unfortunately, tomorrow would be his off-duty. Due to a sudden change of schedule, he will be unable to go.

    If you want to have an in-depth conversation about what happened at that time, it is inevitable.

    ''Besides, I''ve been confirmed that Serpens will go with me... .''

    Instead of practicing swordsmanship, the condition I put forward was this. how to lure

    I thought about it, but I thought it went well, so I inserted it in secret.

    In fact, if Jack''s father refused to meet again this time, I was thinking of looking for someone else.

    The list of users used at that time will surely remain in the duke''s residence.

    Still, wouldn''t it be better to be Jack''s father? My son is at work, and I''m going to be a bit shy.

    At least, it would not come out shamelessly saying that it was a natural sacrifice for the continent.

    ''Looking at the current Serpence, it seems like I can get over it even if I hear such words... .''

    It''s not that it''s not, but rather, it seems to be preaching to the other person the doctrine of the world we live in.

    [Repent, now you can do it too]

    with a slogan like

    Wouldn''t it be nice to explain it step by step and try to understand it step by step?

    I believed in Serpence, which showed growth that exceeded expectations.

    But, isn''t it natural to want to feed only delicious food and show only good things when possible?

    Moreover, as long as the problem with the first sword remained, it was too early to be completely relieved.

    "What you need to do right now is "

    I headed to Hans'' room to secretly give Jack a new schedule.

    * * *

    " how did the aide get into my room?

    Are you there?"

    Hans, who returned from work, frowned.

    As soon as he opened his door, he could see me sipping my tea, so it was worth it.

    When I found the mug Serpens was drinking in my room, I was stunned.

    The butler seems to want me and I to have a friendly relationship that allows us to go back and forth between each other''s rooms, so I''ve been there once.

    "You still brought the tea leaves from my room?"

    After taking a deep breath, Hans entered the room and closed the door.

    I was in and out of my room on a fictitious day and that''s how I reacted that I only came once. It''s a really narrow barn.

    I think it''s hard to go up and down the ladder every day, so I went down today.

    How do you know that...

    "You mean the passage behind the mirror in the bathroom? Did the Duke tell you?"

    ugh... .

    I don''t know why the reaction is so irritating.

    Serpens explained that this passage was originally made for business purposes.

    The aide who serves the Duke closest and the butler who manages the affairs of the mansion

    Since it was such a relationship, there were things that had to be done together while avoiding the eyes of other people, and there were people or documents that I had to share secretly.

    The space created for this kind of collaboration

    Using as a check... . Isn''t that too much?

    "So, are you here to pick it up?"

    Hans asked, slumping down on the chair. Even if he dies soon, he is a dignified yangban.

    Oh no, I''m going to visit Jack''s home tomorrow.

    "What are you thinking?"

    So, by the way, I''d like you to postpone Jack''s off-duty until later.

    " What are you going to talk about?"

    "Hey, knowing everything."

    As I said with a smirk, Hans frowned as he pressed his temples together.

    I don''t understand aide at all.

    That''s what I agree with. As I said, there were hardly any servants or maids who worked for a long time in this mansion.

    In a prestigious family with a long history, isn''t it very rare?

    It''s a question I''ve had for a long time.

    I thought maybe Serpens had cut everything, but when I asked, he said no.

    That''s also... .

    Yeah, I made him quit. I thought he was sure to keep his mouth shut, but where the hell did the information leak from...

    You don''t know that. I didn''t expect you to admit it right away, but it''s surprising.

    Waste of time is discouraged.

    When you say it cut like a knife, it seems like you want me to get rid of it quickly.

    More than that, it''s called shutting your mouth.

    ''Of course I wouldn''t have killed him.''

    It would be a big deal if there were even rumors that the people who worked for the Duke of Prasidus were dying.

    Perhaps, with a little intimidation, he poked out the cost of joining the group?

    More than that, the fact that you kept your mouth shut means that the butler also decided that the events at that time should not be known.... Then why did you stand by?

    "The Duke was born to protect the continent. Such trials were necessary.

    Look. What a wonderful .

    Damn...! Ah, no. I was too talkative. So even if I''m senile now..., um.

    I wanted to honor the old man, but he kept attacking the old man.

    I expected Hans to think that way, but it was even more shocking to be confirmed like this.

    Besides, this is not what you expected.

    ''Is that great?''

    At Hans'' words, I remembered the figure of Serpens from [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Look at that figure, who, knowing what their true enemies are, are swindling and slandering each other and pointing their weapons at each other!

    How foolish and delightful is this?

    How could that great empire collapse so easily?

    It''s so simple that you can feel boredom.

    I don''t know why in the past he left the easy path and chose the difficult path.

    Serpens laughed at his stupid past.

    With an angelic face and a smile as cold as a snake.

    It''s been a while since I''ve thought about it, and I can feel a bit of madness, huh? Did I think of another novel?

    ''What can I do with this disparity?

    It was so good that it almost went down in history as the worst disaster in the history of the continent.

    all.

    This is going to happen in about two years if the original flow goes.

    ''At this time, I thought that the difficult road meant taking control of the empire and dictatorship .''

    Now that I think about it, it must have been about protecting the continent.

    You''re talking too much.

    I wanted the butler to see the duke as a person. So, last time... But I don''t think that kind of thing works for the butler.

    I heard about the former assistant

    Afterwards, I wondered if I was reflecting a little.

    But the fundamentals haven''t changed in the slightest.

    ''Isn''t it possible that Jack''s father is also a human being?''

    I was starting to get a little worried.

    Do I have to tell Serpense to stop listening to him outside and wait until he finds out who he is?

    If you''re a butler, shouldn''t you be thinking about how to carry the duke''s luggage together?

    God is more incompetent than I am.

    It''s not something anyone can listen to. It''s like a destiny that the Duke has been carrying since he was born.

    I want to sew that mouth that speaks of fate so that I can sleep forever.

    Of course, it is not that Hans knew the future and said such a thing, but it is inevitable that he will be angry.

    "The continent will surely be saved. But I will not hand it over to the Duke.

    What the hell can you do...

    I''ll do it anyway! That''s why I''m here.

    I wondered why I became Serpence''s assistant.

    ''Why do you have to be an assistant?''

    There was a better way to prevent him from becoming attached to the demon worshipers and increasing the damage the continent had in their mouths.

    For example, when Serpens was defeated by Humanus and imprisoned. What would have happened if you had become a guard who guarded the place?

    If it was at that time when he was imprisoned and defenseless in a special prison that restricts the flow of divine power.

    And instead of an indecisive person like me, if a cool person had possessed him, he would have been able to kill him easily.

    But what about my case?

    Somehow, he was changing the serpents, but the beginning was only a fluke.

    "There are too many uncertainties."

    Nevertheless, my presence in this world as his assistant meant one thing.

    The being who brought me to this place wants to save the continent and at the same time save the Serpens.

    ''A greedy man who neither side can give up on... .''

    There is a point to point out about its existence.

    No, there was nothing other than that.

    ''God Luxmea.''

    [Master of the Holy Sword] is basically the story of the master of the holy sword, who inherited the power and will of the gods, to defeat evil.

    But it and the paradoxical feature

    there was one

    Serpens used the three swords throughout the course of the play, and used [Holy Power] over it until he got the power of the Demon King.

    Those who cried out in search of God, Serpence was killed with a sword wrapped in God''s power.

    Demons were beside him, sprinkling a silvery brilliance in an angelic holy form.

    ''Isn''t the new Luxmea waiting until the end for him to come back to me?''

    And now, isn''t it giving him another chance?

    I thought so.

    Perhaps the reason I didn''t drop the holy sword on him was because I didn''t want to burden Serpens any more.

    The reason I couldn''t send me earlier than now was that this was the limit of Luxmea''s power... .

    ''Did I interpret it in my own way?''

    But it is a plausible hypothesis. It would be nice if there was more clear evidence.

    choice day. broken heart

    To Aol Serpens,

    ''No matter who you are, there is someone who loves you unconditionally and watches over you .''

    I want to say it so proudly.

    "The reason for your existence isn''t it that you are overconfiding in yourself?"

    That''s for me to do. So, the butler, just play the role of the butler. Will you change Jack''s schedule tomorrow? The duke is also going with you, so if you refuse, we will go to the duke.

    In the end, Hans frowned, okay

    He told me to get out and chased me away.

    It must have been like this, I was arguing for nothing.

    A person has to be flexible to some extent like a tortus.

    Because of people like Hans, it''s okay to insult even the old gentlemen who are in good shape.

    "When the hell is that guy going to retire?"

    I think we should have hired a butler when we were hiring administrators.

 CH 53

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 53

    13. Secret stories about the Duke (2)

    Just before departure, Jack was caught by the chieftain and returned to the duke''s mansion.

    I didn''t even have time to ask someone to change it because I had to do it right away.

    ''Instead of giving you two days off later... . it''ll be fine

    Instead of returning one day off work, I got two days of vacation.

    I think it would have been an award.

    I''m sorry I couldn''t go with you, said Jack, roughly explaining the location, but it wasn''t really necessary.

    I knew this was going to happen, so I prepared a schematic in advance.

    "What are you going to do?"

    Arriving at Jack''s home, I asked Serpens a question.

    "How are you doing?"

    Would you like to go in together, or I should see the situation first...

    I mean, Serpens swipe the hood

    If that''s the case, why did you bring me?''

    "I understand what you mean, but would you mind telling me in words?"

    - Smart.

    Serpens, who put the hood back on, ignored me and knocked on the door.

    As we were waiting for our visit, the door opened right away.

    Come on... Who are you?

    Jack''s father, Wayne welcomes us

    As he tries to do it, he looks surprised and wary.

    I couldn''t see the son I thought would come with me, and I was standing there with an unidentified person wearing a hooded hood, and I was standing there for the first time.

    This is Zion Rivelon, whom I have agreed to meet today. Jack is unable to come today due to a sudden event.

    His hand, holding the doorknob, relaxed a little.

    But instead of telling them to come in, it seems like they''re looking at Serpence.

    Ah, it seemed like he was asking for an explanation.

    Let''s go in. Don''t worry about that...

    When I said that, showing the duke''s badge, Wayne with a shaky expression on his face led us into the house.

    When I went inside, I saw no one but Wayne.

    It seems that the other families were sent out in advance.

    "He he wanted to see me."

    Yes. I used to work in the duke''s house.

    I heard I want to ask you something about what happened back then.

    "Exactly, the reaction of the users at the time, the general atmosphere. Or what do you think of the current Duke . I want to know something like that. If the butler has kept his mouth shut, you don''t have to worry about it. .

    Although it was not voluntary cooperation, it was cooperation anyway.

    I heard that you are the current Duke''s assistant.

    Yes, that''s right.

    "Why are you asking this?"

    You can''t be stuck in the past forever, can you?

    Fuu һ. That''s right. Me too...

    Wayne pauses for a moment and glances towards Serpens.

    I guess you noticed?

    Come on, don''t worry about that...! Please tell me.

    With that said, Wayne seems hesitant for a while, and then beware.

    opened his mouth politely.

    At first, you are the one who will just carry the continent, so I tried to raise it a little stronger than I did.

    Early morning~?!

    It was exaggerated, but not serious. However, as the master was so good, the expectations grew. In the end, it led to madness.

    Wayne corrected my sarcastic tone. There was a hint of guilt in his bitter smile.

    Yes, this is a normal reaction.

    "When the master showed a longing for help To be honest, I thought that someone would help even if it wasn''t me. I was afraid. .

    The Duke was also young.

    Yeah, that''s right. But yes. I was wrong.

    Since Jack said he was 21, he was only three years older than Serpens.

    He understood that he had no choice but to make such a choice as the head of the household.

    As the child''s father, I don''t know.

    Let''s go on.

    "As time passed, the master gradually changed too. I can say that he has become more confident."

    "I would rather have given up."

    Yes, that''s right. He must have been. No one helped him... Maybe he felt betrayed. But, nevertheless, seeing his efforts for the continent. After all, to become the master of the Holy Sword The person who was born is different...

    All of a sudden, the point went out of line. why

    Did the words go like that?

    It certainly started with the sacrament of confession, but the ending was strange.

    I admit that the Duke is the most suitable for being the master of the Holy Sword...but... Hans as well, why do you even say that the Duke was born just for that?

    "You really were born just for that you have no choice but to express yourself like that."

    Serpens, who seemed to be listening quietly, lowered his hood and said so.

    Instead of startled or panicking, Wayne got up and knelt quietly in front of Serpens.

    I guess I was also noticing it.

    I''m really sorry.

    Ummm.''''

    Serpens, who looked down at Wayne apologizing with his head bowed, looked at me as if he knew what to do now.

    Wait a minute! I''m sorry for interrupting you in the middle of exchanging apologies, but...

    I''d like to hear more about that story.

    Today''s purpose was to make people who worked in the mansion in the past admit their mistakes in front of Serpence.

    So whether Serpens accepts it, or becomes angry and resentful.

    I just wanted to express the emotions I had accumulated and get rid of them.

    ''But when you hear that kind of noise, you can''t just ignore it!''

    He knows that he is sure he will be chosen by the Holy Sword.

    It was. But isn''t this enough?

    You must have thought that you were born just for that... .

    I know that the duke was forced to take responsibility by others. But the duke has his own life. Saving the continent is to protect that life, but that may be the purpose of life itself. There is no!

    ...Lord Rivelon?

    "So, after saving the continent? No, before that, the Holy Sword was different.

    What if you choose a person? What are you going to do then?

    Without realizing it, I got excited and started talking to Serpence.

    It occurred to me that he wouldn''t be able to go any further unless he radically changed that idea.

    Even if he doesn''t claim to be a villain, if he eventually loses his purpose in life and falls into a sense of disappointment... .

    Sir Rivelon, calm down.

    Huh, huh-up!

    Serpens tried to appease me with a calm voice,

    Wayne sucks in the wind... .

    I removed the me that was holding Serpens by the collar.

    It was then that I realized that I was holding him by the neck.

    Ummm... I thought you knew everything about me, but I guess you didn''t.

    It''s so calm that it''s hard to believe that someone was just grabbed by the collar. Having said that, Serpence opened her mouth with a passing voice while organizing her clothes.

    "Originally, my my mother was a priest.

    He said he wanted to be.

    ...Yes?

    It was known to the public as a love that overcomes class differences, but the people in the duke''s house would have noticed that it wasn''t.

    Serpense''s dazed voice continued.

    His mother was an aristocrat from a small rural estate, but perhaps there was a possessor of divine power among his ancestors. Or maybe it''s just a mutant, I don''t know, but it has excellent divine power anyway.

    is said to have been born

    To what extent, was she the most outstanding single woman at that time?

    Here, "at that time" refers to the time when the holy sword appeared.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], the day the Holy Sword appeared was expressed like this.

    "The day when the past moon sets and the future sun rises."

    Although the author expressed it outwardly,

    Simply put, it''s January 1. And Serpence''s birthday was obviously December 25th... .

    In other words, ''the purpose of being the master of the holy sword, I married him with super speed and gave birth to him.

    ''Another fucking sword like this?!''

    God Luxmea needed to change the method of dispensing the Holy Sword.

    No, at least people and swords should come out! Swords come first, then humans, so this is what happens!

    If you have a conscience, right now

    had to come down

    When he came down, he had to kneel down in front of Serpence with Hans and stand with his hands up.

    "On the surface, we made up a harmonious family, but "

    It was said that they were a thorough business couple.

    "And to me". Outside, he always called me ''Sefi''. It was the only time he treated me kindly . um :

    Oh, now it''s done. I understand what happened...

    I''m so stunned, I don''t know what to say to him.

    ''what''s this .''

    I realized the true meaning of the title of the novel [Master of the Holy Sword].

    It was the story of Humanus who was chosen by the Holy Sword and became the master of the Holy Sword, and grew up overcoming the ordeal.

    At the same time, it was also the story of Serpens, who was born to become the master of the holy sword, suffered constantly, and eventually fell.

    Are you okay...?

    Serpens'' face with a worried expression came into view.

    Why is the Duke so worried?! You are the one who needs comfort now!

    Oh, I''m fine. I knew from the beginning .

    So, it''s only natural...! Haha.

    he let out a big sigh.

    Sometimes he looks infinitely cunning, but when he sees it like this, he can''t be more foolish than this.

    Somehow, when visiting the Duchy of Duchess, he said, ''I heard that he had a very disgusting expression on the name of Sephi.

    It was probably because of my parents calling me rather than Humanus calling me.

    ''And the bright humanus who didn''t know anything sang along to it... .''

    There were so many things that I only learned after coming to this world.

    [Master of the Holy Sword] omitted too much content.

    I''m not just talking about what I heard today.

    The reason why Serpens killed the aides, the work of Euges, the story of weapons, etc... .

    It had a lot more secrets than I thought.

    If this is enough, next to Luxmea, the artist should also be summoned and punished.

    Duke, would you like a new nickname?

    Yes? I don''t know why you suddenly say that.

    Serpens shook his head with an expression like, ''What else is he talking about?'' Ji

    didn''t

    Instead, for some reason, he made up an awkward smile as if he was a little embarrassed.

    It puts my heart at ease to see the two of you friendly. Yes, I''m glad...

    Because Serpens and I had created a very serious atmosphere, the owner of the house, who had lost his place, said awkwardly.

    Contrary to the saying that it puts my mind at ease, she glanced at me with eyes as if she were looking at a ephemera.

    ''Ah, for some reason, Serpence has only used hondae since a while ago... .''

    For a moment, I forgot that Wayne was there.

    In conclusion, Serpens did not blame him. That didn''t mean he forgave me.

    He just smiled bitterly with a complicated face, and Wayne responded that he didn''t even want forgiveness.

    "If at that time, there had been at least one person who came forward with sincerity like the aide No, no."

    Just before we left, Wayne stopped talking to me.

    Perhaps, ''If someone had stepped forward first, others would have tried to help Serpence as well.'' Something like that.

    But, thinking that even that was an excuse, Wayne quietly saw us off.

 CH 54

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 54

    14. Duke and Investigation (1)

    A smooth day followed.

    Serpens rejected my offer to go on an apple pilgrimage by searching through the old roster, but it didn''t mean much anymore anyway.

    I also went to the Duchy.

    He would have written down the names that would become his new nickname on a piece of paper and handed it to him].

    After Serpens glanced at it once, the train was torn to shreds.

    Nothing happened except to throw it out the window.

    Oh, I''ve been thinking about it for days! Aren''t you being too ruthless?

    "What are you going to do with my nickname ?"

    " Oh.

    It was started out of a resentment that the name Sepi was derived from his parents.

    But, as he said, I was not in a position to call him by name or nickname.

    Realizing that it was a meaningless action, I gave up neatly.

    And now, we are on our way to the Imperial Palace to attend the banquet.

    The advisory meeting yesterday didn''t have any great agenda... I hope that nothing happens until the day of choice.

    As long as you don''t cause any major accidents, that''s okay.

    "When did I ever buy?"

    "At least in the banquets I''ve been to, I think it''s always been the case?"

    I''m going to be quiet today, really!

    Serpens snorted with a look of disbelief. It''s like saying, ''You''re fucking me!''

    I once said I believed it, but it was all a blatant lie... !

    "Are things going better than that?"

    "If it''s taking over there, it''s all over, and if it''s that side of the job, now, if you just raid the trading site and catch the evidence

    It speaks of a dark district, and that

    Work is about the slave traffickers, right?

    I didn''t do anything, but things are being resolved automatically, so I wonder if it''s okay to do this as an assistant.

    Isn''t it enough if we just run into them? They would have locked up people anyway...

    "The sentences are different for kidnapping and confinement and slave trade."

    Human life is the same wherever you go, but what criminals do seems to be the same everywhere you go.

    "But in the kingdom of Pelo, which is my hometown,

    Maybe it''s because there''s a bunch of things going on, and everyone seems to be cautious, so traders don''t come out very often.

    If that''s the case, it''s probably thanks to Eugez''s active presence.

    I don''t know, but the results would have been much better than the original historical flow.

    ''The kidnapped victim escaped with the relevant materials. But since she was of high rank... .''

    In the process of catching slave traders in the country, Serpens found these and such materials, so they asked for action.

    It was far ahead of that in terms of justification.

    ''Since this guy knows that too, he must have handed over the data to Euges for this kind of situation... .''

    Perhaps, if it had been the way it was, it would have passed roughly in a blindfolded way in the Pelo Kingdom.

    Indeed, one of the demon cult''s executives was a former gladiator slave, proof that the slave trade continued to flourish under the water.

    ''He had a grudge against the world, and the demon worshipers scouted him and made him contract with the devil, maybe?''

    The more power you want and the more resentment you hold, the stronger your bond with the devil. From the standpoint of the demon worshipers, the Scout is not an option but a necessity.

    Returning to the point, the kingdom of Arche, a country of elves, was outraged at the fact that its citizens were being abducted.

    Even if a war broke out right now, it would not be strange.

    Perhaps, if he hadn''t been concerned about the catastrophe to come, even the most peace-loving elf would have declared war.

    Besides, the slave trade is also entangled with religious issues, so not only the Arche Kingdom but also the Empire.

    Furthermore, it is a country in which all countries on the continent have to look into their eyes.

    For that reason, the Pelo Kingdom paid compensation to the Arche Kingdom, as well as the right to investigate as well as the right to punish.

    ''And in the name of diplomatic envoys, the elders of the elves sat down?''

    Without making any concessions, they seem to be arresting nobles and whatever.

    And during the investigation, evidence of kidnapping not only elves, but also humans and other races emerged.

    With that as an excuse, I had to conclude unfair treaties with various countries... .

    ''It''s ruined, just.''

    There was no other way to express it.

    Anyway, the situation is like this, so I''m going to save myself.

    Since it was a world without the Internet, the content did not spread to the general public.

    However, everyone in the ruling class or the people in the back world involved in this case would know.

    As proof of that, I picked up my curtains in this detailed way, didn''t I?

    "However, no matter how much the Duke moved alone, compared to the other side, isn''t the progress on our side too slow?"

    To get it completely right, it''s better to move quietly.

    Then they hid in their base and laughed, saying that it would be of no use to destroy the evidence in haste since the ledger had already been copied.

    In addition, the entrance that they originally used to enter and exit ''there'' has been closed, and the documents related to ''there'' have also been prepared to be replaced. ?

    It was prepared so that no one could escape, but the connection with the dark district was completely cut off.

    ''I''m not your boss... . I asked if the progress was a bit slow, so I don''t have to report this in detail... .''

    It was a bit of a boring story, but a child in the lower grades of elementary school told his mother to go to school.

    It looked like he was talking about what he was standing in, so I left him to talk in moderation.

    When has he ever had an experience like that? I just listened to it with interest, thinking that it would fill in the experiences I didn''t have when I was young.

    ''If it wasn''t for that reddish content, it would have been a very heartwarming situation... .''

    After listening to something that Serpens had to explain or report, he arrived at the imperial palace.

    We got off the carriage and went to the banquet hall. Nobles fill the banquet hall

    Then, the emperor begins the opening remarks... .

    ''After it''s over, the nobles will come and surround the Serpence, right?''

    However, after the speech was over, the emperor spoke other words instead of announcing the start of the banquet.

    The time has come for beings from all over the continent to slowly join forces in preparation for the coming disaster. For him, we must maintain stronger international relations, and King Arche''s message that he hopes to exchange diplomatic ambassadors with each other this morning. He was also good.

    Suddenly, a diplomatic envoy

    At the Emperor''s words, murmurs were heard everywhere.

    ''It''s an envoy... . It''s probably not about Eugenes, is it?''

    Last time Euges went to work with him, saying that he would definitely come back, but there was a greater possibility that he would not be able to come.

    Why didn''t the [Holy Sword''s owner, the elf king, love Euges, who returned after being kidnapped, and didn''t stop him from becoming a companion of the Holy Sword?

    But how long have you been abducted and returned to a foreign country?

    Besides, she later had to guide Humanus and his party into the dark district.

    Listen to me.

    The murmur grew louder at the Emperor''s words.

    The envoy may not have already arrived... Then, is it the messenger who brought the message?

    Why do you need to call a messenger to a place like this...

    If I ever come...

    I also served as an ambassador.

    Conjecture-filled words flowed from here and there.

    If it was an exhibition, it was meaningful enough to send a messenger in secret like this. Meanwhile, the messenger said that he was a diplomat and could not sit down right away.

    ''If it''s normal... .''

    But considering the situation of the Pelo Kingdom, it was quite possible.

    Eugenes wouldn''t have even made it to the dark side, but it could be said that he was handed over to a branch in the Empire.

    ''Besides, the strongholds of the Pelo Kingdom have been wiped out... .''

    They said they found evidence that there was a branch dealing with slaves in the Lumen Empire, and they said they would bring it in and investigate... .

    ''As a holy empire that serves the new Luxmea, it must not be possible to deny its will.''

    Rather, they did not talk about slaves openly and internationally, and just sent them secretly like this, showing sufficient courtesy.

    ''Perhaps secretly opened in advance only to the emperor

    There may have been a lock... ?''

    So far, I don''t know the details.

    Anyway, arriving in the morning, by now, if not enough about the matter, it must have been after the conversation.

    Soon, the door to the banquet hall opened wide.

    Euges Yulydia-sama of Arche Kingdom is entering!

    It was a neat introduction.

    Although they take the form of kingdoms for diplomacy, elves, unlike humans, are basically not concerned with status.

    didn''t

    ''The king was also closer to a symbolic meaning, like the modern Queen of England, rather than an absolute person... .''

    According to [Master of the Holy Sword], it seems more rude to call someone from a certain family due to the nature of the elves who value their existence rather than their status.

    With that in mind, it could be said that it was very unusual for Euges to say that he would join the royal family as well.

    Either you fell for the serpens that much, or you didn''t drive people in the dark.

    Maybe there''s a romance for heroic deeds that help people, or it''s one of them.

    ''I can''t help it that I''ve already come, so when are you going back?''

    At least I have to send it back before the demons are summoned to the dark side, so I''m worried that Humanus will deal with the dark side demons or not.

    ''Why are you here now? You could just come with Humanus later!''

    You did the same in [Master of the Holy Sword], so why did you already come this time?

    ''The only thing that has changed since then is... .''

    Eugene, who should have returned immediately, was left to protect me, and that only caused Serpens to hand over the slave traders'' information.

    ''No. Isn''t that all?

    Based on the story Serpence had with me, I think Eugenes accepted us as dark heroes hiding in the shadows and implementing justice.

    ''Yes, I would like to help. I have the ability to help... .''

    If I had to add to that, was it that Serpens''s attitude toward me made me realize that he wasn''t just a blunt and cold person?

    '' Is it my fault if Eugez doesn''t come to the Holy Sword Party?''

    Glancing at Serpence for a moment, he was maintaining a perfect smile without even the slightest shaking.

    Serpens, who noticed my gaze, sent me a curious glance, as if there was something going on.

    But I mean the first one, shut up. Second, pretend you don''t know. three

    Third, it was not difficult to recognize the fact that it was a 3-step combo of ''Look ahead.''

    ''Yes! What, was I the only one wrong?''

    Strictly speaking, Eugene''s re-appearance is a collaboration between me and Serpens.

    As Serpens noticed, I kept my mouth shut and watched Eugenes ascend to the podium.

    Hello, my name is Eugene Yulydia, who came to visit as a diplomatic envoy from the Kingdom of Arche.

 CH 55

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 55

    14. Duke and Investigation (2)

    When she finished her greetings, applause erupted.

    They all smiled, but their eyes were full of questions such as ''Why are you an elf at this time?''

    After that, a few more words from Euges followed.

    Contrary to concerns, as an eternal friend

    It was just a story about driving out demons together and protecting the continent.

    Eventually, after she came down from the stage, everyone was able to genuinely laugh.

    He was worried that the tyrant would attach Serpens as her guide, but the Duke of Argento was acquainted with her, so it was decided that he would take over.

    At the wedding of the current emperor, who is also the father of Humanus, Euges came as a congratulatory message?

    ''That''s the age of Eugene... .''

    In the original fantasy world, the

    Exact age doesn''t matter.

    For example, in [Master of the Holy Sword], was it not mentioned that Eugene''s age was only three digits?

    The Duke of Argento and Eugenes seemed to exchange brief greetings, and then I saw everyone approaching me and Serpens.

    ''I''m an aide, so I''ll just keep my mouth shut and stand like a folding screen... ?''

    Serpens, the atmosphere is different from back then, and he even changed his voice, so you won''t be noticed.

    The problem is only me. With a gluttony, he moved to the back of Serpence.

    This is the Duke of Prasidus.

    Nice to meet you, Serpens A. Prasidus.

    Ah! Of that holy sword... Nice to meet you, Yujisu Wilydia.

    Eugene admired, and smiled softly. There seemed to be no doubt about it either.

    Although Serpens''s face was not visible due to the location, he must have been making up a gentle smile as usual.

    So, is that the ''assistant'' in the back?

    Suddenly, Eugene''s gaze fell on me.

    ''That''s the assistant''... .,

    Since it is a story about demon worshipers who are enemies of the entire continent, there must have been an exchange of information between the ruling classes of each country.

    Yes, this is my assistant, Sir Zion Lee Bellon. Thanks to this, I was able to capture the demon worshiper and capture those who cooperated with him.

    Serpence is my introduction.

    So, without having to open my mouth, I just bowed my head down to show yes.

    ''Today I am a reticent and loyal aide!''

    Someone who sees it might think, ''Can''t you see the guy who usually talks about the heavens and the earth, catches up with him today?'', but what can we do?

    It''s been a little over a month since I met Euges, so you may still remember his voice.

    "I heard it was going to be a big deal."

    Of course, there are no people in our Holy Lumen Empire who will fall for such low-level mischief, but small doubts can easily turn into big strife...

    At Euges'' words, the Duke of Argento said, ''In the novel [Master of the Holy Sword, we fell for that kind of bullying, and we were fighting each other and then beating each other in the head and shielding the Holy Lumen Empire, which was destroyed by demon worshipers.

    As it is a time when everyone''s unity is more important than that, finding the traitor of the continent is the greatest harvest.

    That''s right, that there are such people in the Lumen Empire, not anywhere else...

    The conversation between the two slowly begins to lengthen.

    ''Can''t you go somewhere else and do it?!''

    Even if it is a topic, I wish it would be made as something that has nothing to do with me.

    I was starting to get anxious, wondering if I was suddenly asked to speak.

    Anyway, how dare you remain so cool against demon worshipers...! What a valiant man.

    Yes, besides, Lord Ribelon is me and the moon.

    Lee is a man of great wit... . I get a lot of help from him.

    To the words of Eugene, who looked at me in wonder and spoke, Serpens responded appropriately.

    "There are a lot of people waiting for that, so I''m worried that I''m taking too much time."

    Ah, really. Then I''ll just...

    Mainly, the Duke of Argento and Eugenes were talking, and Serpens seemed to listen quietly, but Serpens expressed that he was wasting his time.

    According to my Serpensian interpreter,

    ''Now, I was euphemistically telling you to go to someone else.

    Watching her walk away, she sighed in relief.

    And taking advantage of the attention of the nobles focused on Eugenes, he moved into Serpens and the empty terrace.

    Wow, Euges is already coming...

    Well ?

    Yes?

    Serpens expressed his doubts at the self-talk that flowed while locking the door on the terrace.

    Did I say something wrong?

    Ah! We talked about coming back last time, but I thought I might not be able to come out of the kingdom for a while.

    "Isn''t that, are you calling me by my first name?"

    Uh uh... um. Well, this one is shorter and sticks to your mouth better, right?

    I mumbled it unconsciously, so it must have come out without a filter.

    Serpens and Humanus, I''m very nervous because if I call it wrong, it''s going to cause a lot of trouble, but the other characters in [Master of the Holy Sword? .

    ''No. Serpence seems to have gone over the neck, so why not take care of calling my name by pretending to be a mistake sometimes?''

    I thought it was very plausible, and when I looked at Serpence, he had an expression that he was not praying.

    be careful.

    Yes, yes?! What, what?!

    I''m telling you, don''t assume that I''ll just let your rude behavior go, and others will.

    In the end, Serpens reads my thoughts

    I was surprised that I had succeeded in doing so, but I guess it wasn''t yet.

    "Your Majesty is still taking care of you, but if you cross the line and even insult the imperial family, it can be a little difficult for me."

    "That''s why I didn''t even know that because His Majesty is a person who is so easy to talk to "

    At first, I was not used to the aristocratic etiquette.

    Since he has Shion''s memory, he''s been following it, but even if he relaxes a little, his original attitude will come out.

    Besides, even when I climbed up, Serpence kept asking me to come and go, so I didn''t have to get used to it any more.

    This is all the fault of Serpence, who misbehaved my habit.

    Moderately, while watching the opponent, he is flirting.

    You seem to have a lot of meaning in the words you just said, am I mistaken?

    "If you say it''s a little harder than that, you mean that you take it out, right?"

    Saying that with a smile, Serpens shook his head left and right with a look full of skepticism.

    Did I look at you too much...

    I''ll protect the Duke, so let''s think of it as both sides.

    Let''s see how well we keep it.

    He said as if he was going to give it a try once in a while.

    "In that sense there is something you have to do."

    Yes? Me?

    This is the first time Serpens has ever entrusted me with a job directly... No, it was the second.

    The first was a bait station for security check in the Duchy, but I remember that I didn''t see much effect.

    The guards took care of everything before they even got to me.

    It''s what we were talking about earlier in the carriage, but I guess I''ll have to hurry up a bit.

    "Yeah? Does that make you hurry?"

    Apparently, Serpence said, ''They raided the trading site I said .1.

    But the state of the fortress Pelo kingdom is also very sensitive to the slave issue.

    The envoys from the Arche Kingdom have arrived.

    No crazy person would want to trade slaves in this situation.

    No, now is your chance. At this time, the last one I had..., yes. Anyway, you''ll want to sell it as soon as possible.

    It was just as Serpens had said.

    From their point of view, the Pelo Kingdom has been robbed, so they would think that it is only a matter of time before their turn comes.

    The slaves who had

    It''s not worth letting them go or killing them, and moreover, the supply route for slaves is blocked, so you''ll want to take a big bite last.

    "But in order to sell, you have to have a buyer "

    Don''t worry. I''ll hide and take good care of you.

    In the end, it was about using me as bait again.

    They put up a different cause, but obviously, the purpose of the Arche Kingdom''s envoys is to catch them.

    "Yuji , is it Wilydia-sama?"

    Yes. So we have to move first. At least not late.

    After all, there was no way that Serpens could not have thought of what I had come up with.

    And to be on time means you need time to change the paperwork.

    ''I''m obviously trying to catch a criminal, so why should I feel like I''m going to commit a crime?''

    I''m afraid that if I make a mistake, I will ride a fallen route with a set.

    Feelings are blooming

    * * *

    it''s a closing day The place of contact was not the capital, but some counties nearby.

    This time, it was a public matter, so I had to refrain from talking.

    Instead, when entering and exiting, he showed a certificate that Serpens had come under the Emperor''s secret order, and the security was cracked down.

    Seeing that, I

    The security level of the Emperor''s secret is significantly lower than the Duke''s personal affairs. What do you think of the current situation?

    He joked around with Serpens, but had to keep his mouth shut while facing his cold expression.

    As soon as we passed the castle gate, we entered the inn seen nearby. for my disguise.

    As I did when I went to the dark, I dyed my hair red and used the wax that Serpens had prepared.

    raised her bangs

    I wanted to set things up nicely, but I ended up making a perfect all-bag by applying wax because Serpens said it didn''t match today''s setting.

    Wherever I got it, I had to wear a rustic jolbu-style outfit with lots of jewels on it.

    ''He''s really obsessed with details... .''

    [Fortunately, a rural aristocrat who became wealthy by opening a mine in the territory

    there was.

    He was proud of that fact, so he went to a relative''s house to play.

    His relatives were very hungry at the sight of him bragging about hanging all kinds of jewels.

    While the relatives are wondering if they have anything to brag about, they remember the slave they bought a while ago.

    And the rural aristocrats who saw it became blinded by useless vanity like a pawn... .

    In the end, he can''t even judge the state and asks for a deal to buy the slaves.

    This led to the following.]

    is today''s setting.

    Hmmm, the face is a bit lacking... .

    Me, what''s wrong with my face! Compared to the Duke, everyone is the same. That''s good enough!

    Yeah? It''s not like that, but I wonder if Sir Ribel Ron''s face is not known anymore...

    Oh, yes.

    There are not enough elements to cover the face.

    I guess it meant

 CH 56

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 56

    66. The Duke and the Trap Investigation (3)

    No matter how much you change your hairstyle and attire, it is still the face that plays the biggest role in distinguishing a person.

    Oh!

    Serpens, who was staring at me with a dissatisfied expression, let out a small sigh as if he had suddenly remembered something.

    Then the glasses he was wearing

    I take it off and put it on me... .

    Huh? Duke, is this irresistible?

    Of course, isn''t it?

    Serpence replied as if it was insignificant.

    I heard it and it is It''s not like anyone else, isn''t it a Serpence full of divine power in her body?

    He must have had a superhuman level of physical ability, including hearing, but it was absurd to say that his eyesight was bad.

    ''Before possession, I corrected my eyesight with glasses

    Is it because it was used for... .''

    Naturally, I thought it would be the same.

    Then what''s the story behind these glasses?

    Not at all.

    This setting is

    I looked at him with a puzzled expression, but Serpens ignored it.

    He just nodded his head to see if he was satisfied with the water he had created and smiled proudly.

    "I think this is enough.

    And this is a bag containing the transaction amount. There are papers on the floor, so don''t show me the details.

    No, I''m nervous... Don''t leave this to me!

    It''s just in case. The location of the documents that need to be replaced is also written in it, so if it''s still there, Lord Rivelon, please do your best.

    Even though there was no one around, Serpens lowered his voice and spoke as if whispering.

    It smelled of crime.

    ''This isn''t something [assistant, please corrupt!] .''

    If it wasn''t for the fact that the demon appeared in the dark district, I would have persuaded him to hold onto Serpens and repent together and push the dark district away!

    However, it was self-evident that if a demon was summoned in a distant place, not in a dark place, the damage to civilians would increase.

    ''Hey, I don''t know! it will work out somehow!''

    and currently.

    I was alone at the meeting point.

    ''There''s a serpent hiding nearby.

    Are you not alone?''

    This time, he also had two top-level defensive scrolls in his arms, and Serpence decided to help him right away if he felt any danger.

    Still, I can''t help but be nervous. Strength entered the hand holding the bag.

    Are you the one who promised to make a deal today...?

    When I turned around at the voice I heard from behind, I saw a boy about 15 years old, startled for a moment.

    Watching his eyes move up and down for a brief moment and scan my whole body, my bizarre outfit

    seems to be perplexed by

    "Yes, but I didn''t know that such a little girl would come, didn''t you?"

    "If that''s the case the product is bulky, so you can''t take it with you? So, we have to move in our wagon, but when an adult arrives, we become a little wary . Children of the same age are in charge."

    It''s not like that, it''s probably because you''re planning to cut off the tail if you do.

    In this case, should I curse the adults who use children as criminals?

    Should I curse the sassy guy who adds a hand to the slave trade in that age group?

    '' I don''t think there''s such a thing as a youth protection law in this world.''

    I don''t know if I''m really ignorant and helping, or knowing and helping out, it wouldn''t be extenuating.

    More than that, you have to move in a wagon? Can''t you just bring it out? One person... or one, doesn''t it matter?

    We always deal with only the best products, but you''ll be completely satisfied with what you see and choose.

    I had heard of moving places before, but I pretended not to know and flicked it once.

    Perhaps there were a lot of traders who were wary like me, and the boy answered as if he was used to it.

    If that''s the case...

    Nodding his head as if he understood, the boy immediately led me to the prepared carriage.

    Considering the last time we went together in the dark, Serpens would be able to follow a moving wagon.

    And even if you miss it, you know where you''re going, so you''ll come by yourself.

    "But are you here alone?"

    " huh? Then who are you coming with?"

    "If you don''t have an escort or something that''s fine."

    Hey, hey! Of course he does! Look at my attire! I look like a non-escort without a single escort

    Just as a peacock shows off its tail feathers, I also spread my arms and open my chest to show off the jewels on my clothes.

    Dreaming of a crime that saw my dignified figure

    Mu''s expression turned into absurdity.

    Ah, haha... So where''s the escort? You can ride with me in the wagon.

    "Hey, he''s a little too shy .

    Where in the world is there an escort who hides away from the object of protection and hides his face?

    The boy''s face was colored with bizarreness, and his eyes began to look like, ''So what can I do?''

    "So I''m going to jump."

    Yes?

    Ahaha! That''s right! Yes, I understand. Then, get on the wagon.

    Perhaps the boy dismissed my sincere words as mere pretentiousness, and a smirk appeared on his lips as he opened the carriage door.

    This world that doesn''t believe even if you tell the truth is savage.

    At an age when she should have been naive, she must have become like that because she was hanging out with a slave trader.

    ''There is no one in this world who needs to repent

    So many... .''

    When I got on the carriage, I found that there was only one light on the inside, and there was no window, and the whole area was completely closed.

    From the outside, it looked like there was a window, but it must have been a decoration that made it look plain.

    Since the purchasing class is wealthy people, it seems that they paid attention to the carriage, but as I was used to the high-end carriage of the Duke of Pracidus, the ride was the worst.

    ''Aside from the fact that my butt is bloated, I feel like I''m going to vomit because of motion sickness... !''

    Every time the wagon rattles, I''m in vain

    made a gurgling sound. The boy was pinned into the corner of the carriage, and his complexion turned blue.

    Thankfully, the carriage stopped before I could get upset.

    Ugh, it feels like the ground is shaking... . Aren''t you familiar with carriages? I can''t! I can''t see this dress, this wagon I''m riding in doesn''t even compare to anything like that...

    Yeah, of course you do. It''s time to look at the Zaize products. Let''s go.

    A boy supports me as I stumble

    What looked like an ordinary family house went into the water.

    Anyone who sees it would think that the drunken brother was dragged home by the younger brother.

    Oh, our wonderful customer! Welcome. Is this your first deal today?

    What, right?

    As I opened the door and stepped inside, a shaggy-looking man greeted me with a somewhat exaggerated tone of voice.

    The interior of the building was just as plain as the exterior. I can''t pinpoint what to say, but I felt something foreign.

    ''It''s more like a model house than a house where people live.''

    A man guided me towards the basement. The boy gave him a small whisper, and stayed upstairs.

    _ get on-.

    The door connecting the basement and the first floor was closed.

    The stairs were too long for the basement of an ordinary house.

    While I was going down the stairs, I could still hear a voice talking about something, but by the time I stepped on the last step, I could feel the iron dragging on the floor.

    I couldn''t hear anything but sound.

    A fishy smell, whether it is blood or rusted iron, pierces the tip of his nose.

    The basement was lined with iron bars like a prison, and armed guards stood in front of it.

    It wasn''t as good as Count Pgnuto, but he had a strong appearance, and he was very intimidating.

    ''Of course, it is not the case that the people trapped in the iron bars were talking... .''

    They must have shut their mouths to the guests while chatting, or they must have forced the people inside to be quiet.

    ''By the way, how does Serpence follow you all the way to the basement?''

    If he does, he will be able to detect my threat from above, but it seems that there will be a certain amount of time difference until it arrives.

    Haha, it looks like you have a bad complexion.

    I got a bit of motion sickness when I came here... .

    Hey! It seems that our carriage was uncomfortable. Next time, we will prepare so that you can come more comfortably.

    Of course it is.

    Of course, there is no next time.

    It was a separate story from Serpens''s decision to capture them.

    Considering the current situation, they will certainly be closing their business for the last day of today''s deal.

    ''To talk about the next time, it must mean that they want to sell at my price by emphasizing that they are still in good health.''

    They won''t be able to sell it anyway, so if you ask them to cut it down, they''re only hurting themselves.

    Come to think of it, the clothes you are wearing

    Seeing the tea overflowing... . Do you think the family has considerable wealth?"

    "Actually, a lot of iron ore in our estate a while ago , heh heh! I thought you were doing this a secret?"

    Oh, of course! Even if you know it, it''s just a story between us, and you can rest assured that it will never leak out.

    If the deal is canceled or if a complaint is made later, it will be used to bring up the family name.

    Or close your business and try to get help by pulling you in as an accomplice when you''re on the run.

    all or

    ''As soon as this transaction is over, shall we find the estate where iron ore was recently discovered?''

    That''s why people shouldn''t do bad things recklessly.

    It may be just one deviation for me, but the moment I get caught in it, I fall into a bog from which I can''t get out.

    ''By the way, isn''t this enough?''

    The evidence seems to be enough already, but how come the serpenes don''t come?

    ''Isn''t it possible that he left me alone and started tampering with evidence?''

    I got anxious for nothing, so I grabbed the bag with the documents tightly. Once I have the documents to replace, I think it''s a little comforting to think that it won''t be.

    There was a possibility that Serpens had prepared the documents separately, but still .

    "Are you worried?"

    "Yes?! Oh, no. Not at all! What do I have to worry about?"

    Of course not. There''s something really great out there...

    snorter?

    I haven''t heard of such a thing.

    No matter how much Serpent has mastered magic, did he not reach the inside of the straight corridor, avoiding the guards'' eyes?

    Yeah, really... Khuh, it''s a really expensive item. If you''re interested, would you like to take a look?

    Perhaps he accepted my doubts as curiosity, the man said with a savage smile.

    I wonder what the heck is there to say something like that, I freeze my head down

    Thanks to him, he almost pushed me in half and led me inside.

    Come on, over there... Can you see it?

    It''s dark and I can''t see anything...

    Hey! I''ll open the iron cage, so let''s take a closer look.

    Until that much...

    Okay, it''s safe.

    Seeing him open the iron cage while saying that, I think I know what will happen next.

    I saw the guards who were standing far away slowly walking this way.

    all.

 CH 57

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 57

    14. The Duke and the Trap Investigation (4)

    As expected, the identity of the expensive things he said was me.

    I was almost thrown into the cage, shoved into the cage.

    Oh, my pride...

    How the hell did you look at me like water, to lure me in such a frivolous way? And why am I hooked?

    "Isn''t this the guy who has completely lost his fear head?"

    Okay, I admit that.

    From what I can see, it was just a bit harsh. At the thought of Serpence watching, he must have been unconscious.

    Tonight is an unconditional quilt kick angle.

    It''s too late to admit it now, gang ho. So who''s been alone in a place like this for a long time?

    I''m not alone...

    I guess that''s what you want to believe.

    A mean smile appeared on his face, who had just seemed like a shrewd salesperson.

    The guards giggle and laugh behind him], there really is no clich��.

    ''I''m going to have a blast for the last time anyway, so getting my ransom is more profitable than selling my slave, isn''t it?''

    A poor man who can''t control himself after sitting on a money cushion by unexpected luck, isn''t he a great hogu?

    Besides, since you''ve just touched money, it must have looked like you didn''t have a proper backyard.

    ''Oh really . Pretending to be alone inside

    I''m done 1, I''m embarrassed to die 1.''

    Recently, I was overconfident of myself because all the predictions I had in mind came true.

    However, it was only possible because I was ahead of others in information.

    Still, I acted as if I was a genius.

    Hey, nobleman. So where is your family?

    The man squatted and asked, looking me in the eye.

    ''Serpence anticipates this situation and

    Did you send me?''

    If so, let me tell you in advance.

    Anyway, since this has also added to the confinement of the nobles, isn''t it time to save them?

    "Why no answer?"

    "This guy, is he completely out of his mind?"

    As I was hugging my bag in the same way I fell, I was so shocked that I thought I had lost my mind.

    If you look around, you''ll find something like a family mark.

    Hey~, besides, look at the jewels on the clothes! Doesn''t it look pretty savory even if you take them off and sell them?

    "Yeah, and let''s check how much money we have in the bag."

    ''''That''s not right!

    Other than that, the bag was a bit difficult.

    After cutting off their conversation, I jumped up and gave more strength to the arm that was holding the bag. In that state, when I slowly pulled back, the guys burst into laughter mixed with ridicule.

    "Come on, wait! Do you know who I am?"

    "I don''t know, so you''re trying to figure it out from now on, aren''t you?"

    I didn''t know it was going to be like this, and I didn''t even decide on a family name, but it was scolded.

    '' By the way, did you say that the serpents of the settling have missed this?''

    Haven''t you thought about it until now?

    To be thorough, Serpens, the original tower of the [Master of the Holy Sword], couldn''t have predicted that something like this would happen.

    ''I mean, I meant to save you before this happened, so why didn''t you come? Maybe something happened to Serpens... . no not yet

    Is there no one who could be a threat to Serpence?''

    Of course, no matter how strong the serpents are, there is nothing that cannot be suppressed if you properly organize a raid squad.

    ''But if there was such a big commotion, no matter how underground it was, it wouldn''t be this quiet.''

    Doubt bit his tail, but let''s take some time because we have to live first.

    Hey, it''s difficult to do this... Is it not okay to do this to customers? Trust is life in business!

    Oh, if the customer quietly cooperates, we will take only what we need and release it safely.

    Come on, boss! Come out boss, huh)], what kind of customer service is that?

    The boss? Ha! The head office went bankrupt, so what''s the point? There''s nothing we can do if we want to start a new business together.

    That guy must have been the branch manager.

    - Whoops, whoops-.

    I heard a rumble from somewhere, so I looked up and saw one of the guards loosening their knuckles.

    They seem to prefer fists over words as a way to get what they want.

    Help me?

    Then~, of course, I have to save him. How much is the ransom?

    Am I really going to be scared now?

    "Foot! Only now?"

    "Aren''t you there? No one?"

    At first, they answered my words one by one, but in the middle, they looked at each other''s faces to see if something was strange.

    At the same time, holding the index finger and turning it round and round from the temple side... .

    I''m not crazy... ! No, is it better to leave it crazy here?"

    {The Duke told me to tell you to use the scroll.}

    "What the hell is this bastard doing?"

    Wouldn''t it be better to just say you''re crazy

    As soon as I thought about it, I heard an auditory hallucination from somewhere.

    Are you saying that, you really didn''t mean to go crazy?!''

    {Come on! Even if you are taken hostage, I can rescue you, but you may get hurt.}

    Once again, the hallucinations were heard. It was a very clear voice, but it wasn''t Serpence''s.

    But it''s definitely a woman''s voice I''ve heard somewhere.

    Wait. Doesn''t it look like the wind just blew somewhere?

    What? Can''t the wind blow in the basement?

    {I think we should take the plunge before they know for sure.}

    As soon as I realized that the voice was not an auditory hallucination, I did not hesitate to take out the scroll I had hidden in my arms and tore it.

    Uh-huh?! What, what!

    Magic scroll?! Something like that , damn it!

    Thinking it was attack magic, they scatter left and right and bow down, and almost at the same time, a translucent blue film wrapped around me in a semi-spherical shape.

    And Serpens came down from the side of the stairs connected to the first floor, and one wall suddenly rotated and Eugenes came out.

    ''Why is Euges out there?!''

    Somehow, Serpence said he was late, but after explaining the situation to her, it must have been because he was planning a bucket operation to block the escape route.

    Hey, look... I said no! I have someone to protect me!

    I screamed out loud, but no one listened to me.

    The man who was presumed to be the branch manager was caught by the wind spirit summoned by Yujisu and struggled in the air.

    Before the guards could even properly wield their swords at Serpens, they were struck by him and passed out.

    And Serpens deliberately pretended not to listen to me, and released the people imprisoned in the cage one by one and healed them with divine power.

    Finally, Eugenes put his ear to the wall or the floor, pounding his fists here and there.

    Who''s going to care about me?

    Are you ?

    In the end, Serpens came to me only after releasing every last person.

    Are you okay, Sir Rivelon?

    Nothing other than a slight scratch on the palm and a serious heart injury.

    Uh, umm... I''m sorry, I should have taken care of you first... But the other people''s condition looked so bad...

    What I meant was a small grudge for not helping quickly, but Serpense''s words quickly turned it into garbage.

    turned into a speech.

    Over his shoulder, I could see Euges making a sullen expression on his face.

    Oh, no! I don''t mean that, Duke. Of course, you have to save the others first! I just thought you were a little late... Of course, that doesn''t mean the Duke did something wrong .

    There are people who have been imprisoned, including Eugene, so I can''t complain.

    "First of all, I think we should inform the guards of the territory of the situation here.

    Can you take a look?"

    yes I''m okay! Come on.

    And you go downstairs and bring your books and other documents.

    Yeah, leave it to me!

    Serpence gave instructions so that I could change the paperwork naturally, and ran up the stairs with a regular crackling sound.

    '' Isn''t the detail really a joke?''

    In the dark area, I walked around swiftly and softly without a sound on the stairs or anything, but now I am a skilled knight.

    The sound of footsteps was deliberately made up.

    I stick my tongue out inward, and Eugess crawls hard down the passageway he finds.

    ''Actually, even if you don''t, Serpens already knew .''

    There is a magic sensor that turns on automatically when a person arrives on the second basement floor, so there is no need to search for a switch or a candle and flick it.

    ''Euges will be fine on top ?''

    listened quietly.

    The people who were held in custody

    He seemed to be soothing what he was feeling.

    As I read them extensively, I heard a sound as if asking about their names, where they came from, etc.

    I secretly exhaled a breath of relief, opened my bag and looked at the instructions Serpens had written down.

    ''Isn''t this the typeface you usually see on documents?''

    I was skeptical for a moment, but it didn''t matter. The first thing I need to do is read your content carefully.

    ''The safe with the ledger . here

    I turn the dial like this... . And the red-banded documents are the 20 sheets in the upper right corner of the bookcase , what. Do I have to count them all?''

    There were three sets of documents in red, yellow, and blue.

    Is this the last blue...?

    "How many sheets is that?"

    Forty sheets? This is quite a lot .

    Who did I just talk to?

    Swallowing his saliva and slowly turning his head, he saw Eugese counting the papers carefully.

    Wei, Wilydia-sama? Since when...

    I don''t know when he''ll be back, hurry up before he gets caught!

    The ''he'' here means serpens, right? ''He''s the one who made this happen!''

    As if he had forgotten how far he had counted because of my conversation, Eugese returned to the first page of the document and counted his longevity again.

    ''No, what the hell is this?''

    As I stared at her for no reason at all, Eugez knew

    Arthur removed the belt and finished replacing the last paperwork.

    Finally, a fire spirit was summoned and the original documents were burned.

    ''I think I''ve seen this scene somewhere... .''

    It is a scene of great evidence destruction.

    Hey, Wilydia-sama over there...?

    Shhh! I know. I''ve grasped the general situation. It''s not the first time we''ve seen it in our banquet hall, right?

    Yes ?!

    I guess I know roughly what happened.

    So now I''m caught, and Serpence isn''t. Is that so?1

 CH 58

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 58

    15. Duchess'' Suspicious Assistant (1)

    ''Didn''t Serpence think that I would be caught unconditionally?''

    So, I doubted that I was the only one who slipped through me as a bait.

    There is a possibility that it was a paranoia, but Serpence went outside, leaving only me and Eugenes.

    If you think about it up to that point, it was good to say that this was not a suspicion but a certainty.

    You said that you volunteered for this bait operation yourself?

    didn''t I''ve never done anything like that

    Whether it''s a trap bait, or a bait to divert Eugez''s attention.

    I volunteered neither.

    ''What the hell did Serpence explain to Euges?''

    Somewhat predictable.

    Even if they push themselves into the depths of danger, using others as their bait runs counter to the external image of Serpence.

    So maybe,

    I told you Lord Rivelon did not need to take such a threat, but he said that we must hurry at least once before the number of victims increases...

    It must have been luck with words like that. The expression that touches the heart of the beholder will be a bonus

    I must have misjudged you. I thought you were just a person who looked up to your subordinates, but it was all my misunderstanding. I''m really sorry!

    Innocent, Eugene, repented of his mistakes and sincerely apologized.

    have overworked

    Sir Rivelon... Oh, is your real name correct?

    No, that''s right.

    That''s right. Anyway, Sir Rivelon seems to be the type of field that runs directly on his feet.

    It seems that I thought that the reason I took the bait this time was to naturally infiltrate the hideouts of slave traders and get an opportunity to manipulate documents.

    That thought was a real misunderstanding.

    ''Besides, is your real name correct? How far in the world are you spreading your delusions?

    is... .''

    Of course, that''s not his real name. Is this the same as catching a mouse while walking backwards?

    However, it''s not normal to have the guts to hide as a duke''s aide. Truly the true ruler of the dark house...

    Uh, I don''t know what you''re talking about.

    It''s okay, if it''s a sound, it''s blocked by a spirit...

    What kind of person did I become in Eugene''s head?

    ''Shion Rivelon, the author''s trusted assistant. However, his true identity dominates the dark district and banishes evil with evil.

    Eoha was the ruler of darkness.''

    What is it that you are making such an illusion?

    He seems to think that he hides his identity and boldly sneaks into the duke''s aide, gathering or hiding information in the middle.

    As for the story of the demon worshipers... you were a great man. Oh, are you in the family business?

    That misunderstanding spread not only to me, but also to Count Rivelon.

    What do you know about my family, the aftermath of the

    Ji?

    Now I don''t even know about Zion''s family.

    ''There''s a reason why such an outstanding person serves you.

    ..We''ll talk more about it later. The Duke will come soon.

    I think you should talk to Serpence about this first.

    ''If it''s just suspicious because they have similar voices and tones, you can say no... .''

    The scene of the document manipulation was discovered.

    I couldn''t even take it off or put it on.

    At my promise of a later date, Eugene shook his head with an expression of understanding and went back upstairs.

    ''Serpens, you bastard... ! If you were going to make a plan like this, it would have been nice if you had given me a hint in advance! Why are you doing this secretly!''

    Even if he had told me while making plans anyway, I wouldn''t have had a choice, but still, there was a big difference between knowing and not knowing.

    Where don''t you smoke cookies with capsaicin...?

    Just make sure to secretly feed Serpens.

    * * *

    When Serpence returned, he handed over the gang of slave traders to the guards and asked for the extradition of the victims.

    And immediately returned to the capital and headed to the Imperial Palace with the ledgers and exchanged documents.

    The emperor immediately checked the list of buyers written on the ledger, and

    He sent knights with Hwang Myung to the castle.

    They say the house was searched by knights who arrived before they even heard the news.

    The Empire confiscated all of their property, leaving them with minimal maintenance costs, and additionally sentenced them to a central ban for the next 100 years.

    ''In the case of the Pelo Kingdom, it was said that the territory was completely confiscated and even the title was deprived . Compared to that, it''s medicine.''

    The confiscated property was paid as compensation to the victims.

    The remaining amount will be paid for their settlement or return.

    It is said that it will be used to help incense, to find the families of those who ended their lives as slaves, and to compensate for the damage.

    ''Even if the property was confiscated, the foundation remained, so it would be restored quickly after a few years... .''

    It''s bittersweet, but it''s not like Ruth can''t execute them all.

    As in [Master of the Holy Sword], it was difficult for him to become empty inside the Holy Lumen Empire.

    ''No matter how many serpenses remain, will the empire become a toothless tiger?

    Will other countries follow suit? .''

    I don''t think so. It would be nice if we didn''t fight bloody to seize the initiative.

    "Are all urgent matters finished now?"

    I''m done with my work. The rest of the work will be handled by the Imperial Family and Prime Minister, Duke of Argento.

    Due to repeated emergency meetings of the advisory council for several days, even the work of the duke was pushed back.

    When I came back to Serpence''s office after a long time, the desk was full of papers.

    was piled up

    If it hadn''t been for the mansion''s administrators to be elected, there would have been no answer.

    This is the end of the work that has been pushed back, so you can leave today.

    So said Serpens, who checked the last report I handed over.

    These were the most pleasant and sweet words I''ve ever heard from Serpense.

    But I have one more important task left.

    I watched Serpence sign the final report.

    ...do you have anything left to say to me?

    "Is there something the Duke needs to tell you more than me?"

    I urgently needed a solution to the situation in which Eugenes found out about my identity.

    Right now, I''m busy, so I haven''t had a chance to meet with Eugene, but when it starts to get quieter, I think I''ll come into contact with him somehow.

    I? To you?

    Don''t pretend you don''t know? Yulydia-sama.

    Ummm... did you finally find out?

    "I put the board on the floor so that I could be found out, and what the heck did you get caught in the end?'' Is that the same thing?"

    Maybe he didn''t like the way I was imitating himself, so Serpens frowned slightly.

    From the beginning, it was as if you had heard the documents from me... Didn''t you already have a plan?

    I thought maybe she would show up, but I didn''t really expect her to come. It was just in case.

    Even so, you told me

    Was it good?"

    Even if you try to hide it, you will be found out so quickly, but if you know it''s okay to be caught, you don''t know how far you''ll be known...

    In the end, I found out that I was wrong.

    If you hadn''t ordered me to change the documents, I could have taken them off...

    If there was any way to get rid of it, of course I would.

    Serpens, who looked like he was looking at something terrible, glanced over my whole body once.

    Compared to the duke, he looks completely inconspicuous. His physique and voice are completely normal!

    You stand out more than me in a way.

    "No, is there anyone in the world that stands out more than the Duke?"

    You used your beauty to your heart''s content, so I thought you knew how conspicuous you were, didn''t you?

    ''Even if I put it side by side with the main character, Humanus, I think Serpens will stand out more.''

    At first, the stimulating color of humanus

    At the end of the day, all eyes will be on Serpens.

    A good-looking handsome man is used for some, but the ultimate beauty is the law regardless of age or gender.

    It''s not like that. The problem is your tone and behavior.

    There are some unusual aspects, but within the general category .

    Absolutely not. That''s why I''m sure. Lord Rivelon will never be able to hide it, no matter how many times I take it, I won''t believe it...

    "How am I?"

    "You''re so like you?" The tone was very insulting.

    Either you are too dog-like, or the dog is too much like you . Anyway, it sounds like that nuance.

    "Are you insulting me now?"

    I was only talking about the uniqueness of your existence.

    That''s what I said, but by looking away, I could tell that it was never meant in a good way.

    His side face with questionable eyes

    After staring at him, Serpens coughed and opened his mouth again.

    "Hmm, hmm ! If Wilydia-sama had gone out and you and I had stayed, eventually, I would have been suspicious of myself as well.

    Then what do I do?!

    When I spoke to him with full of regret, he opened his mouth with a sad expression to become a serpent.

    Did you say you would protect me?

    Yes?

    "Are you saying that you will protect me, and then you come back and change your mind?"

    I didn''t mean to say that in this way...

    He looked at me with sorrowful eyes, as if he was really going to abandon him like this.

    You know what you''re acting? You''ll never get over it!

    I said so, but somehow my conscience began to pierce me for not doing anything wrong.

    ''Why, it''s like watching only movies and dramas... .''

    Even if you know it''s acting, doesn''t it make you cry, laugh, and get angry because of it?

    Serpence''s acting was very good, and he had a face and a voice to maximize it.

    I just believed what Lord Rivelon said...

    Hearing what he said made sense.

    ''Yes, I said I would protect you, but against what and how do you protect me?

    didn''t you say?''

    Depending on the interpretation, I thought that it could be taken as a meaning of making sure that his nature or setting would not be found out.

    And keeping that secret is closely related to keeping his spirit... .

    I didn''t know that Lord Rivelon was a person who spoke two words with one mouth.

    Serpens hit the last wedge.

    Oh, no! Who are you? You just told me in advance from next time onwards.

    I mean, I wish I could!

    Yes, I''ll be more careful next time.

    Serpense''s expression quickly brightened as if he was sad. The unmistakable victor''s smile hung on his lips.

    I wonder if this is what happened knowingly, but even if I blamed what happened anyway, nothing came back.

    "Ugh so what should I do now?"

    You just do what you normally do.

    Yeah?! Still, something like a plan...

    You''re the most suspicious when you''re just being yourself, so it''s okay. Just look at the conversation and be nice.

    Suspiciousness goes beyond my trademark, and it seems to become my identity itself.

    I believe, Lord Rivelon. Please protect me.

    It''s suspicious!

    I believe in your suspiciousness.

    I can assure you. That Serpens is spitting out anything he says right now.

 CH 59

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 59

    15. The Duchess'' Suspicious Assistant (2)

    It blew up the scroll without meaning to the extent that it was safe to say it was a waste.

    At the time, I was afraid of being called a hostage and used it in a hurry, but after a while, even though it was a waste, it could not be this much.

    I feel sorry for Soler Tia, who must have worked hard to make the scroll.

    ''Even so, what I used is what I used

    you .''

    After all, I think it would be safe to have at least two copies, so I went to her store to say hello to Solertia as well.

    - jingle

    A small bell rang, and the door opened.

    Welcome! What scroll are you looking for?

    "Welcome , oh my. Sion-san!"

    When I went inside, there was another woman I had never seen other than Solertia inside the counter.

    "It''s been a while, Solertia. But who is that ?"

    "I guess I didn''t have enough time to make scrolls because I was going to visit the store alone. So I hired one."

    Hello, my name is Ella Benditum. You are an acquaintance of the president''s sister, so you can just call me Ella.

    You''re the boss''s older sister, have you already become sister-in-law?

    I visited the store on the opening day of the store last month.

    Solertia was alone at the time, so it must have not been that long since she started working... .

    Haha, Solertia had excellent affinity for the original body, and Ella, who looked bubbly, seemed like a good fit.

    My name is Zion Rivelon.

    The friend of the president''s sister who used to work as an aide at the craftsman is the one!

    Yeah, that''s me!

    As if facing a great person, Ella''s eyes shone brightly.

    Sister, that''s amazing! You''ve been a real friend of mine!

    Okay then! Oh, you didn''t believe me until now, did you?

    Hehehe...

    And her twin-eyed respect was not directed to me, but to Solertia, the Duke''s aide''s friend.

    I thought he was a really good social worker.

    More than that, why did you come, Mr. Sion? You didn''t come without any business?

    Oh no, that''s...

    I''m joking, joking~!

    When I reacted in embarrassment, Solertia smiled and waved her hand.

    I thought you were busy because the capital city is very noisy these days, but I didn''t send anyone, so I asked if there was anything going on.

    Now that your busy work is almost over, it''s fine. Of course, I have a business, but I also came to ask how you are doing these days.

    I''m doing well. At first, I didn''t know many people and I was bored.

    I have Ella now and it''s okay.

    I needed someone to look after the store, so I hired an employee, and when I asked him why he was out, he must have been chatting with her.

    Business is also going very well? The ready-made scrolls are coming out often. I can''t give you detailed customer information, but there are quite a few orders made to order.

    Solertia said with a very proud expression.

    I was a little worried because there were no customers in the store, but the scrolling was very difficult.

    Since it is a family item, only people who buy it buy it, so it must have looked like that.

    More than that, how about Sion-san? Are you getting along well with the Duke?

    "Yes, there is no one who gets along better with the Duke than I do."

    I mean it seriously, but Solertia seems to have taken it as a joke. She laughed loudly.

    Ella, who was next to her, didn''t understand, but when the boss smiled, she smiled brightly as if she was smiling.

    Hey, you said you have a purpose? Is it scrolling purchase?

    Yeah, I had to use a scroll a while ago, so I wrote one. I''m going to buy it again just in case.

    This time, the best defense, right?

    "It is treated as an expense, so of course it is."

    Me and Solertia made eye contact and smiled. Solertia is good for making money, and I like being safer.

    Hearing our conversation, Ella quickly

    Crab got up and brought the scroll.

    Actually, until now, if I was an aristocrat''s assistant, I would just follow the nobleman, managing schedules and doing paperwork.

    Usually that''s right. But I wish I was already dry.

    Why don''t you take this opportunity to buy another scroll? There''s no law that says self-defense should be limited to defense, right?

    But it''s dangerous, isn''t it?

    Oh my gosh? You''re not going to use it on innocent people anyway, are you?

    "Of course it is, but if the other person is wrong even by mistake "

    "Even if it''s an attack magic, it doesn''t necessarily mean that you get seriously injured or die? There are also a lot of light electric shocks and other types of magic that bind or push the opponent away."

    That was a little tempting.

    There are many other scrolls with magic that are useful in life, how about this one? Actually, magic is a science created for convenience, but to use it only for quarrels... Don''t you think it''s too bad?

    Wow, sure...

    Is that right?

    I nodded as if possessed.

    After that, Solertia''s magic praise or something continued, and Ella added Chuimsae next to her, so she couldn''t help but buy it.

    In the end, a cross-body bag was hanging loosely from my shoulder as I left the store.

    The bag had been lent by Solertia, and inside was full of scrolls with colorful labels for identification.

    ''I accidentally took care of all of this, but what do I say to Serpens?''

    This is not enough to say that it is not small, but it is enough to call it "big robbery" in the sense of ''daringly certain embezzlement''.

    ''But what would I have to personally use these for? It will all be used in relation to serpents anyway.''

    When I think about it that way, I pray that it is not embezzlement.

    Instead, a new problem arises.

    ''After I possessed Shion''s body, I didn''t take care of Serpence and did something else.

    Have you ever done it?''

    I didn''t even think about it.

    After work, I mostly just rolled around in bed alone and replayed the contents of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    I''d like to write it down somewhere I feel like it, but Hans will find it and give it to Serpence.

    And if it''s a serpent, even if it''s not the text of this world, it seems like he''ll be able to interpret it somehow.

    ''No, it''s phonetic characters, so even if you learn to read, you don''t know what it means?''

    Otherwise, Administrator Guberto

    Doing the given homework, or going to Po Pina, the kitchen maid, to suggest tomorrow''s dessert.

    Occasionally, he made a reservation at a famous restaurant, secretly bought cakes, etc. and fed them.

    ''Am I a workaholic and nobody else?!''

    It was so shocking.

    This is a bit serious...

    Yes? Did something big happen to you?

    "I can''t say yes or no , ugh!"

    A moment of introspection, someone suddenly intervened in the quiet mumbled self-talk.

    When he screamed in surprise and turned to check, he saw that Eugenes had a serious expression on his face at the same time.

    "Wylydia-sama?! Suddenly where ."

    I don''t know why Euges keeps appearing in unexpected places and at unexpected times.

    It''s not a coincidence that you appeared now, isn''t it?

    Yes, I did it last time, but I wanted to continue the story. At first, Prasider

    I even tried to apply for a visit to the Duchess of Sue, but I thought it would seem a bit strange to meet only the aide alone."

    It is strange for a diplomat from a foreign country to visit the duke''s residence and only see his aide. Even after meeting the duke, it was strange even if only the assistant was summoned and met.

    "So I was thinking about it, but today it seems like you went out alone, so I came to see you."

    How the hell do you not know that? It is doubtful that even a spirit was waiting near the duke''s mansion.

    Oops! I didn''t mean to monitor. At first, I thought I''d ask the spirit to summon him a little...

    Because of the Duke?

    Yes, that''s right. We will endure until we are caught and reverse summoned, but even if we are traced back, it may turn into a diplomatic problem."

    I know that reverse summoning also puts a lot of strain on the body, but you can tolerate it.

    I don''t know what the hell I''m trying to do like that. Later, he realized that it was all his mistake.

    How embarrassing would it be to close it?

    "So, why did you want to meet me?"

    I''m not talking about on the street...

    At her suggestion, we moved to a nearby cafe.

    Now let''s talk comfortably.

    As soon as the ordered car came out, Eugese summoned the spirit and asked to shut off the sound, then opened the rush.

    Oh, before that, are you alone today? The escort at that time .

    He''s obviously excellent, but he''s still not as good as our duke. He might get caught, so I told him not to come to the capital if possible.

    Actually, this is a hint from what Euges said a while ago.

    ''I couldn''t even send a spirit for fear of being caught by Serpens, so this is a good excuse... !''

    If you say this, you won''t even be able to think of a question like, ''When the Duke is present, there is no escort, and when he is there, the Duke is always invisible.

    i See .

    Eugene''s ears drooped down very slightly. I guess I was a little disappointed.

    Why? Isn''t he supposed to be without him?

    Oh, no! I was just asking because I was a little concerned!

    If you have anything to tell me later, just let me know.

    She seemed to be contemplating on how to answer her, but in the end she nodded her head meekly.

    The story that was more serious earlier than that

    what? Have you ever been spotted in a dark area?"

    No, it''s not. It''s just a personal thing.

    At my words, Euges put on a happy expression. He doesn''t seem to care in the slightest about my personal problems.

    But, why are you so interested in that place, Yulydia? Isn''t that the place you want to destroy right now?

    "Maybe you would have thought so in the past."

    There seems to have been a change of heart recently.

    I believed that humans have good hearts, and I still believe in them.

    There was such a thing, but you still believe in the good heart of humans. It was still difficult to determine whether it was because she was an elf or her personal disposition.

    Looking at the figure of her I read in [Master of the Holy Sword], it seemed like the latter.

    "But they also have endless desires.

    have it with No matter how hard you try to pull it out, no one knows. I felt deeply that I grew up in a place that only they knew."

    Then I saw the actions you did in the dark and I realized that if it does not disappear and continues to exist, it is more effective to manage it as it is. Stop them from crossing the line as humans I need someone to do it.

    You''ve learned some really good things.

    ''But the villain boss with a story behind it

    Isn''t that one of the clich�� lines of

    When he tried to conquer the world, he was executed by the protagonist, and he said, ''I wanted to make a better world to live in It feels just right to think of a deceased family member or lover with the words ".." to himself.

 CH 60

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 60

    15. The Duchess'' Suspicious Assistant (3)

    Get rid of the dark district anyway] Well, they''ll end up repeating the same actions in different places with different names. That''s what their history tells us.

    Eugene smiled bitterly.

    So, even in a lawless zone, we need an absolute existence that can become a law that must be obeyed. Also, if that being has a just mind, there will be no innocent victims.

    "Is that right?"

    It was a shock. It''s been solved so easily... Are you saying this is a necessary evil...

    It just looked like that.

    She freed her, who was almost sold at auction because she was treated like an item, but no one stopped her.

    Rather, did you not see him bowing his head in tension?

    ''Besides, I got their information easily.

    Maybe Serpence will go inside the dark district.

    What if you hadn''t taken control?

    If they had tried to catch them using only the external position, it would have been quite difficult just to find a branch in the empire, let alone their head office.

    "I thought that if I could help from outside, things would be much easier .

    Couldn''t there be even a law of conservation of corruption in this world? If it wasn''t, the protagonist and his party, who had only been fine, couldn''t become like this.

    Rain on Humanus in [Master of the Holy Sword]

    Among his colleagues, including Lot, ''no one spoke of such a necessary evil.

    The end goal is not to manage the lawless zone as Yulydia-sama thought. It''s just to save those who can be saved in the process.

    " isn''t it?"

    Of course! It''s not good for emotional education, and I just want to throw it all away.

    "Me, emotional education?"

    Was it a choice of words that did not fit the situation?

    Eugene asked again with a bewildered tone, but Serpens couldn''t explain it to him, so he just ignored it.

    Occupying the Dark House is a process to the end.

    "What is that for?"

    That''s of course...

    I deliberately stopped talking in the middle and took a sip of tea as if I was thirsty.

    The purpose was to heighten her tension, but she also needed some time to organize her speech.

    ''The purpose of Serpence is to set traps to attract demon worshipers.''

    It wouldn''t be a big deal if Eugenes was left in a misunderstood state like this, but if their destinations diverge, the ship might go to the mountains.

    ''More than anything else, if you''re struggling to rescue Serpens from the swamp of corruption, and Eugesse is diving at full speed next to him, what does that mean!''

    Still, I thought for a moment that it would be better to deal with Eugenes rather than Serpence, but I quickly shook it off.

    Minimize the sacrifice of the continent by the devil

    It''s for reconciliation.

    ...Yes?!

    According to my reasoning... The first place where the devil will be summoned will be the dark district.

    "Why do you come to such a conclusion?"

    It just came out of the book.

    After completing all the trials of the god Luxmea, Humanus defeated Serpens, who was considered to be the master of the holy sword.

    In this way, Humanus proved his qualifications as the master of the holy sword.

    ''If the previous content was about growth and travel in a bright atmosphere, the words of dog trouble after that were not enough.''

    If Serpence was the turning point, the devil in the dark district is a sign that guides you there.

    But of course you can''t do this.

    How many times would I tell Eugenes that I have already seen the story that I had put off even to Serpence?

    Yeah, because this is the Holy Empire. When dealing with demon worshipers, it should be the focal point to gather the power of the continent.

    "But wouldn''t it be impossible to summon a demon strong enough to face the Empire from the start?"

    No, the power of the devil doesn''t matter. Just weaving a dark place is half the success.

    Euges shook his head as if he still didn''t know.

    it would be Because I''m just stating the conclusion that came out, pretending to be a guess.

    "Actually, there are a lot of nobles who use the dark district. Those who do not know do not know, but those who do know all know.

    Joe.

    I didn''t know about those details.

    Because you''re an outsider. That''s why the Duke is secretly investigating it as a protest, but put this aside for now.

    Hearing that it was under investigation, Eugesu flinched and made an expression of concern.

    But instead of interrupting my words, he listened and seemed to remember them in the back of his head.

    If you''re a demon worshiper, you can''t help but use it. Hopefully, it will be able to shake and torn apart the Empire from within.

    It''s an opportunity. Even if it fails, a significant number of nobles will become ''associated with a dark house where demons are summoned. As an added bonus, I might even leave the manipulation papers and tie them up to a decent noble family.

    "Oh, is that so?!"

    That''s right. As the Empire, we have no choice but to weed them out, and if that happens, the Empire will falter. There will be a lot of territories without owners, so there will be a fight for this title.

    And if you hit it... . Oh my gosh, empires are so easy... ?

    Seeing the astonished Yujis

    He pretended to be relaxed and took another sip of tea.

    ''The only thing that grows more and more is acting and wit... . I''m not lying though.''

    Still, I was nervous and my heart kept pounding. How did Serpence make such an anxious thing a daily life for nearly 20 years?

    Necessary evil is a horn. If it is an evil that can be eliminated, it is natural to get rid of it. Do you repent, Wilydia-sama?

    Uh, shhhhhhh...!

    Eugenes became depressed and shook his head.

    He bowed down and his ears drooped.

    Then, as if he had thought of something, he shook his head. At the same time, the ear that went down also went up again.

    Wait a minute. Then why are you taking over and maintaining the Dark Street. You didn''t explain why.

    It''s simple. If there isn''t a dark place, they will use their numbers in other places and in other ways. If the devil is summoned somewhere else, doesn''t it harm ordinary people? It''s a kind of bait. After the devil is summoned, we become the masters of the holy sword'' All you have to do is inform the

    We''ll have to take the time to fight and get rid of the evidence that could be problematic.

    "And then?"

    That''s... Well, that''s right. It''s undecided whether we should take it out and make it pay for the crime, or if we should completely destroy the evidence.

    Even so, I talked as much as I could, but the future treatment of the dark house was not for me to decide.

    Sir Rivelon seems to love baits.

    Not me, but Serpens

    it seems

    Before that, the ''Duke 1d'' you mentioned earlier was referring to the Duke Prasidus, who is being served by Lord Ribelon, right?

    Yes, it is.

    From what I hear you say, it seems that he is unaware of this plan.

    I guess...

    I''m glad you understood that. It seems that the subtle nuances of such a nuance worked well.

    Last time while Lord Rivelon was the bait, I spoke to him briefly, and he''s quite trusted.

    It seemed.

    Of course it is.

    how hard i tried! The only person he trusts right now is me.

    When he answered triumphantly filled with pride, Eugese nodded his head with a serious face.

    That''s right. Of course, that''s how we can hide information about the dark side, and let us know naturally when the devil appears...

    No matter how interpretive it is than a dream, Yuji �� 1һ1 һ Nh... 1һ ��

    ''Isn''t it closer to creation than interpretation?''

    What kind of world was unfolding in her head, she was a little scared.

    Wouldn''t it be much more stable if the plan, Prince Prasidus-sama, was also involved?

    Yes?!

    They sleep together, and that''s just the plan he''s leading. Eugenes doesn''t know about that.

    Even so, I didn''t know that he would even try to insert Serpence.

    Have you not heard of the rumor that the Duke does not compromise with evil yet? It''s a famous story in the Empire...

    I''d almost say it''s a setting.

    Anyway, that''s not okay. If I just stabbed it, the plan itself might go awry.

    "Then there is nothing I can do about it."

    Did you roughly fix it with this?

    Judging from what he said, there seems to be no doubt about Serpens.

    In addition, Eugenes will not suddenly appear as an evil organization while shouting a necessary evil.

    "Since when did Lord Ribelon come up with this plan?"

    Yes?

    "The work for the Dark House, as well as becoming an aide to the one who will become the master of the Holy Sword is also a part of that plan, isn''t it?"

    That''s right... isn''t it?

    Are you a member of a secret society by any chance?

    There is no such thing.

    Oh, I''m sorry. Is it a secret?

    When I stood still, I saw something like an Illuminati.

    I don''t know anymore either. It''s a feeling of wanting to be.

    "Then what can I do and how can I help?"

    Let''s go back to our hometown first. So, after the master of the Holy Sword completes the final ordeal of the gods prepared in the Kingdom of Arche, if you lead me to the dark side...

    "Yes? Why?"

    I secretly tried to return it, but there was no jaw.

    Wasn''t the master of the holy sword the duke you serve? I wonder if I need to wait in the Arche Kingdom soon...

    Surprisingly, the first prerequisite was wrong, so it was necessary.

    How can the existence of all continents be so certain that Serpens will become the masters of the Holy Sword... .

    ''Is it because the serpens are so perfect?''

    From the outside, it seems that he has strong force, beautiful appearance, and even an angelic heart, so he could be mistaken for a hero of the continent that God himself had given him.

    Anyway, the dark streets are in the Empire, so even if you do not know the exact location, you will come to the Empire first.

    Ah! That''s right?!

    Humanus isn''t even a child who can''t come home, so I don''t know why I didn''t think of that.

    "Did you really mean something you didn''t know?"

    Ha ha ha ha ha !"

    You miss the basics of the basics on a topic where you were just pretending to be smart and arguing with hypotheses.

    As if there was no absurdity, Euges exhaled a short breath, ''Huh-.''

    Aside from that, what I can think of right now is... Oh, can I say something like this?

    Yes? What ?

    As I was contemplating whether or not to speak with only luck, Eugenes put on a nervous expression at the same time.

    "Among those who were sold as slaves in the Kingdom of Palo, were there any knights?"

    Once I spit it out, I''ll leave the follow-up to Eugene''s misunderstanding.

 CH 61

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 61

    15. Duchess'' Suspicious Assistant (4)

    Yes? Why is the knight in such a place .

    Exactly which country he came from is not stated [the owner of the holy sword?], but it is said that the demon worship leader, who was a gladiator slave, was originally a knight.

    ''I was a escort knight for the son of the lord, did you say you were only speaking the right words?''

    Externally, he ran into a group of thieves and was known to be innocent while buying time to escape.

    was different

    The lord''s son sold him into slavery, and even blew the money into gambling.

    He vowed revenge when he saw the master who betrayed him and the fellow knight who flattered him next to him.

    He persevered and survived.

    After rolling in the arena for so long, he was scouted by demon worshipers and was finally able to achieve revenge.

    "It may not be the Palo Kingdom to be precise, but once it was organized, the only places that were organized were the Empire and the Palo Kingdom, and the Empire did not.

    you . I would like Wilydia-sama to check it out at least once.

    Yes?

    It would be nice to know your name or appearance, but...

    Unfortunately, it was not mentioned in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    He always wore black full body armor, including a helmet, and was simply referred to as the Black Knight instead of his name.

    ''When I read it, I thought it would be good not to waste the amount of useless depiction of people around me .''

    When I came into this world myself, it was frustrating

    It''s like going crazy and running around.

    If I could only meet the writer of [Master of the Holy Sword] for even one day, I wanted to make him spit out all the hidden settings while shaking his neck.

    "Still, it''s not common for knights to become slaves, so are you okay?"

    I, over there!?

    Perhaps it was because he spoke too much, Eugesu didn''t understand at all and looked confused.

    Do you need at least some explanation to motivate you?

    Is the person you''re looking for who meets the criteria, or are you looking for a specific person?

    It''s the latter. And I can''t give you the exact source of the information, but I''ve heard that a demon worshiper is trying to get him to come...

    Yes?!

    Eugeus raised his voice in amazement.

    If the sound had not been blocked by the spirit, all eyes around him would have been focused and the size would have been more than enough.

    Come to think of it, the exchange of diplomatic envoys,

    You''re doing it with places other than the Empire, right? For the eradication of slavery on the continent.

    On the surface, it is said that it is for the maintenance of international relations, but yes. That''s right.

    if so !

    "But, unlike the Empire or the Palo Kingdom, there is not much information about trafficking organizations in other countries .

    "Such a blind spot If you can''t find it in Palo Kingdom, focus on the arena side.

    You''d be better off looking for it. I heard you were a gladiator slave.

    With a slightly perplexed expression, Eugene nodded his head.

    Just don''t do it.''

    I thought it was simply a matter of managing the dark district, but it turned out that the scale had grown to contain the demon worshipers.

    Going one step further, I was forced to take on the task of grasping their actions that no one knew about and stopping them.

    "Are you sure about that information?"

    "With this arm, what happened in the Kingdom and the Empire may have been a variable but it is almost certain."

    If you manage Serpence well, the continent will be safer, but if you can reduce the enemy''s power, it would be better to reduce it as much as possible, right?

    If possible, I''d like to find out and prevent all famous demon worshipers. It is a pity that there is only one Black Knight who is certain of his previous actions.

    For now, that''s the urgent matter, and if you need help later, that''s it.

    I''ll tell you more when.

    "How can I contact you after the investigation is over?"

    I think you can write a pseudonym and send a letter to me.

    I''ll have to tell Serpense to not let Hans read my letter, just in case. That gentleman, I''m sure you''ll read it thoroughly.

    And for once... .

    Ahh! If you have a spirit waiting near the duke''s residence, you''d better not do that in the future.

    Yes. The purpose of meeting each other was achieved in the first place, so of course it is.

    In preparation for when Serpence would go out for a night out, we decided to put away any obstacles in advance.

    * * *

    You usually seem to live without thinking, but sometimes when you look like this...

    "What do you mean? How hard do I live my head?

    there is!

    When I delivered the conversation I had with Eugese to Serpens, he had spoken that way.

    How hard I''ve been trying to get Serpens out of the swamp of corruption1, it seems like I''m living a life without thinking!

    Even if other people point their fingers at me, Serpens shouldn''t do that to me.

    The demon worshipers are trying to use the Dark House to destroy the Empire... I thought maybe it could, but

    I thought the chances were low... .

    Sure enough, it was Serpens who finalized the plan.

    Wouldn''t it be impossible with only demon worshipers?

    I think it''s pretty high.

    You], now I think so too. If Lord Rivelon could think of it, they would have thought of it too. If so, we should view it as a confirmed matter and prepare for it more clearly."

    A man who is incredibly great for Eugenes

    After returning from being treated, I felt even more depressed as I was immediately being evaluated by Serpens.

    "Isn''t your evaluation of me too harsh?"

    Then do you want me to misunderstand you like the elf diplomat and send you a compliment?

    No, it''s too burdensome, so please refrain from it.

    An experiment on how far the misunderstanding of a smart person can extend is a specification.

    Even Euges is already a secret society

    I can''t even imagine what would come out of a sieve if it were a serpent.

    Anyway, even if I was treated like a messenger from the god Luxmea, on the day of choice, there might be four months in which Serpens would choose my life or death.

    "Then, is that all you have been talking about?"

    There''s a bit of a prick in this question.

    Eugene, it didn''t matter to me because I was mistaken for being related to a secret society with tremendous intelligence... .

    ''Talking about the Black Knight... . It''s a little bit like Serpens, isn''t it?''

    Of course, it was enough to postpone this until the day of choice.

    But once or twice, I have a degree. Besides, wouldn''t it be better to hide for the time being that we knew the movements of the demon cults in advance?

    ''There is a big difference between knowing the past and knowing the future .''

    Even if I refuse to speak, if Serpens runs out of patience, I don''t know how I can hold on to my will.

    NS.

    ''And what if you find out that it is Humanus who is chosen by the Holy Sword?''

    Serpence might have cancer-killed Humanus at the end of the day.

    ''Ah, I didn''t mean to tell Eugene as well... .''

    Why didn''t I even think of this at the time?

    It seems like it would be okay for a little bit, but it''s already a level of regret.

    ...Lord Rivelon?

    Ah! And the next time she has a meeting, you''re going to write me a letter?

    "Can I just tell Hans not to open a letter to you?"

    Hey, if you pretend, you''re pretending!

    Serpens made a slightly suspicious look at my exaggerated behavior, then shook his head with a feeling of ''Right, that''s the original thing?''

    I''m so glad I passed, but I feel very dirty.

    Then the report is over, so I

    for a moment.

    As I was about to sneak out of the office, Serpens called me.

    Why, why?

    " ha-.

    Maybe you noticed that I was hiding something?

    Serpens sighed more deeply than ever and touched his forehead.

    "Why do you sigh so deeply?"

    Sir Rivelon? If I can, you

    I tried not to care about the way he spoke, but... "Why" isn''t a good thing, why? Isn''t that too harsh?

    I just called him to talk about something else, but I think Hyunta came into my tone for a while.

    If you think that as much as the Duke is more comfortable with me, I will also become more comfortable with the Duke...

    "From now on, can I use respectful words again and again?"

    Wrong! I will correct it!!

    Let''s dress up like a private soldier

    When he answered the tax, Serpens let out a low laugh.

    ''Someday, I will definitely have a conversation with you... . Absolutely!''

    With that promise in his heart, he cleared his voice and asked him again.

    "Then, for what reason did the Duke summon me, would I dare to ask?"

    Whoops... !

    What''s the problem again this time?

    Suddenly, he covered his mouth and seemed to hold back his laughter, and then began to squeak as if he had heard Sarera.

    Ah-ni! Our esteemed Duke is hearing the news! Would you dare come up to me and put your hand on it? Do you dare pat me on the back?

    Now he is smiling with his head down on the desk. You''re completely blown away.

    Still, his lung capacity was so great, he could barely breathe, but there was only a slight blush on his face.

    Other than that, there were no other symptoms of shortness of breath, so it seemed that it would calm down more quickly if he left it alone.

    Uh-huh.

    "Have you regained your composure now?"

    Uh... well, let''s just do it the way it is.

    No, I''ve been very comfortable with the Duke during this time:

    "Please, let''s stop."

    That''s right, what.

    " the hell, don''t you have a middle ground?"

    As he shrugged his shoulders in his usual tone, Serpens shook his head and clicked his tongue.

    Rather than that, I used to joke around with my friends like this from time to time, but I didn''t know that this would work as a gag code for Serpens.

    ''You should use it again later.''

    I got some unexpectedly good information.

    "So why did you call me?"

    Scroll... E-ni, that''s it. Just go back.

    Just looking at my face made me smile, Serpens'' lips seemed to quiver, and it seems that he finally gave up on talking.

    He waved his hands and gave a shout of congratulations.

    I was worried that I might get scolded for scrolling, but it''s going to end like this.

    After all, it is not for nothing that it is said that if you smile, good fortune will come naturally.

    '' But it wasn''t me who was laughing, it was Serpence, what would happen in this case?''

    And in this world, there was also the saying, ''Good things are good''.

 CH 62

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 62

    16. Guests at the Duchess House (1)

    In the Holy Lumen Empire, there was no maddening sense of the seasons, with the temperature difference between summer and winter exceeding 60 degrees.

    However, it is a blessed land with all the basic characteristics of the four seasons.

    Regarding him, all the people of the Empire tend to talk in unison as ''because the grace of God Lux Smea is with you''.

    If what they say is really true, then God becomes a huge favoritism.

    ''Is summer coming to an end soon? .''

    Even in summer, it wasn''t too hot, so even in this world without air conditioning, it passed without any problems.

    Of course, when I was training with Serpence, I felt infinitely hot because I was rolling all over the place.

    Anyway, when I first came here, it was the time of transition from spring to summer. It''s like coming here and spending a whole season.

    In other words... .

    ''It is consistent with the story that it has been 4 months since Shion has not contacted her hometown.

    It doesn''t work.''

    In fact, letters from Zion''s family arrived periodically. However, I had no idea how to send a reply.

    If possible, I wanted to write a similar letter by referring to Zion''s letter before, but that was not possible.

    ''Because you don''t know if it''s a letter you''ve received, but you can''t have a letter you sent, right?''

    In the end, while putting it off one by one, he said, ''The money is sent every month, so that will confirm your survival. maybe it''ll be okay... ?''La

    and have been ignoring it.

    And this month, too, a letter flew in.

    [ To our heartless second son.

    It''s already been 5 months since I started sending unanswered letters like this.

    Was it an accident in the first place? Otherwise, I could hardly get a job, so I was worried that I might have had a bad idea.

    Then, when the money arrived from the Duke of Prasidus saying it was part of his salary,

    Well, your warrior was more than happy with money. ]

    That''s why I didn''t want to read it...

    It''s like reading someone else''s letter secretly, and I feel sorry for making their son disappear for nothing.

    Still, it was usually written about what my father would do and what my brother would do, but today it seems that he is very determined.

    [ Then, a few months ago, when the title was suddenly granted to this mother,

    I was so surprised that I almost went black. It seems to have something to do with you... .

    Zion, what are you doing? I can''t figure it out because I can''t get in touch.

    So, after a family meeting, I made a decision. ]

    An unknown ominous creep creeps up.

    I wanted to cover the letter like this, but the anxiety made me unable to take my eyes off the letter.

    [ ,,,, your brother decided to visit you directly. By the time you receive this letter, it may already be near the capital or after you have arrived.

    I was worried that it might interfere with my work, but I was worried about how well you were doing, so I had no choice but to help.

    I''m curious about your well-being. Don''t just send money, send letters. Sometimes I want you to show your face too.

    A mother who is steadfast despite the neglect of her son. ]

    Something happened

    And the letter did not end there.

    [ P.s. I felt like I wanted to visit this mother myself, but . I may have another brother soon. ]

    I''m not sure if I''m going to ask you to come down to the Count of Rivelon, isn''t it...?

    With three grown-up sons, what kind of little brother is he suddenly?

    I''ve heard that Zion''s older brother is 28 this year, and his mother gave birth to him when he was 19... . I will do it moderately.

    ''If that''s true, then you should really go down''

    The day of choice is just around the corner, and you''re late at this time. There really isn''t a solution.

    Anyway, that''s for later, so I''ll have to go think about it then. What''s happening right now comes first.

    " I have to leave here."

    If I go to sleep for about a week, won''t Shion''s younger brother be tired and go home?

    I think I''ll be able to get a vacation I couldn''t use before today. I''ll report it to Serpence as soon as possible, then go to an inn room and rest in a nearby estate.

    I worked hard, go away!

    * * *

    "Who worked hard?"

    Serpens asked again with a tone as if there was any kind of nonsense like that.

    I didn''t think I''d give it to you right away, but I didn''t know that it would stretch out by holding on to that part.

    I admit that I ate raw for the first month, just spending time, but haven''t I worked hard since then?

    That''s me, me! Your aide, who has never been on a vacation that everyone else goes, is here, right?"

    It''s not that I didn''t send it, it''s that you didn''t.

    Even if your mouth is crooked, speak straight, Serpens pointed out.

    "So, I took that vacation today.

    I''ll write it!

    Whoa. For some reason, I said that I came earlier than the start time, what is this from the morning...

    "So, are you going to take a vacation or not?"

    Oh my God, a week-long vacation. Is there anyone who informs me about it in the morning without any special reason?

    Listening to this from a third person''s point of view, it doesn''t seem like the behavior of a sane social worker.

    what to do though There is a saying that if you can''t avoid it, enjoy it, but you can avoid it.

    It is best to avoid it.

    ''Isn''t there a saying to enjoy it even if you can avoid it?''

    That is already the realm of perversion.

    "Well it doesn''t matter if you have Lord Rivelon or not, as it won''t interfere with your work at all."

    This is never to say that I can''t work.

    As proof of that, in [Master of the Holy Sword], Serpence did well alone without an assistant. Besides, now that we have plenty of administrators, it will be much more relaxed.

    ''Yeah, it must be something like that.''

    But why do I feel like crying... ? Let''s say we made a good save just because it didn''t make us uncomfortable.

    "Then I understand that you gave me permission, so let''s just leave, shall we?"

    Hmm... It''s very dubious that suspiciousness is reaching its peak today. Yeah, okay...

    - smart.

    Reluctantly, with an expression of permission

    As Lepence was about to nod, someone knocked on the office door.

    It was Hans who opened the door and entered.

    Are you here? Your aide has a visitor. They say you''re my younger brother...

    Tell me I''m not here! It''s going on vacation! It''s gone too far, and I won''t be coming back for a while...

    Hans looked at me with crazy eyes.

    Please guide me to the drawing room. And

    Since guests have arrived, it would be better to prepare refreshments.

    Yeah, then I''ll prepare it right away.

    Unlike Hans, whose expression was distorted, Serpens still stood up with a calm expression on his face and said.

    As soon as his instructions were given, Hans responded immediately without hesitation and left the office.

    Hey, I''m on vacation,

    If that''s the case, I''ll withdraw it.

    No, why!

    " I really want to know why you do that?"

    "Can I wait in the living room?"

    Now that it''s unavoidable, should I enjoy it? I don''t know how to enjoy it.

    When I opened the door connected to the tattered drawing room and entered, Serpens naturally followed me.

    "Why are you following the Duke?"

    "I heard that the one and only aide''s family is here, so of course I have to say hello, right?"

    Don''t smoke.

    I was wondering what kind of home environment I could be like this.

    At least it was certain that Hans grew up in a home environment that had nothing to do with the person he was picking up.

    "And you''re the one who makes you want to run away, not anyone else You can''t help but wonder, right?"

    "Do you want to see me in trouble?"

    As if he didn''t know anything, Serpens who looked at me with a mischievous smile and moved on.

    I followed his movements with an absurd gaze, and sat down on the top of the sofa in the living room.

    Then he beckons me to come and sit down.

    ''What are you going to do with this?''

    There is no other snake that sneezes.

    Eventually I sat down, too, and not long after, Hans brought a young man with dull blonde hair.

    According to Shion''s memory, he was a four-year-old younger brother and the only brother among the brothers, with a different hair color because he resembled his mother. not curly either.

    It''s an honor to meet Duke Prasidus. My name is Xeon Rivelon.

    Xion, Xion''s younger brother, politely greeted Serpens and introduced himself.

    By the way, my older brother''s name is Charon. In the fantasy world, he had a sense of naming enough to say what he was talking about.

    ''Isn''t that even Saint Rivelon?''

    At this point, it becomes interesting to see what name the younger brother who is about to be born will have.

    Nice to meet you. Don''t be there, come and sit comfortably.

    Go, thank you.

    I didn''t know that Serpens himself would even recommend a seat, so Zeon crawled over and sat down next to me.

    ''Leave the empty seat across from me, and feel uncomfortable... .''

    The younger brother I saw for the first time was awkward and I tried to sit aside, but Zeon stopped me by grabbing the hem of my robe.

    I want to know what this is doing

    When we met, he seemed to signal something with his eyes.

    But when the first person I saw today blinked eagerly, I had no talent to interpret it.

    All I could do was stare at him with an expression of ''What, what?''

    Since it''s been a long time since we''ve had a brother reunion, you must have a lot to say, so please don''t worry about me and have a conversation.

    Serpens spoke with a gentle smile today in a soft voice.

    Perhaps Hans had ordered it beforehand on the way to pick up Zeon, the maid came out just in time.

    ''If you really want to have a comfortable conversation, it would be best for you to leave your seat, right?''

    After all, do you want to be able to overhear all conversations in the office anyway, and enjoy your troubles in front of your eyes in 3D stereoscopic surround?

    "It''s okay, I can share this story with you later."

    "No. Rivelon-kun, don''t be too uncomfortable, and act ''moderately'' comfortably.

    You can do the same.

    The word ''moderately'' has a subtle accent that others may not notice.

    ''Is it because of me, or that?''

    More than that, the fact that Xeon was nodding her head violently with a slightly lost expression on her face was of great concern.

    ''You know, that heart... . What state are you in now?''

    Now that I have developed a tolerance for Serpense''s beauty, I have been able to leisurely analyze her tone of voice, but I was like that at first.

    Look at me with an infinitely alluring face

    As I set my eyes on each other and slowly blinked my eyes, he spoke to me like a whisper in that deep voice... .

    Xeon must feel like his soul is draining out right now.

    ''The novel [Master of the Holy Sword] is a fantasy... .''

    If the genre was martial arts, Serpens were flocked to the apostles who had mastered the martial arts, and were even expelled from the faction earlier.

    A handsome face is also a face, but Serpens knew how to maximize it and use it.

 CH 63

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 63

    16. Guests at the Duchess House (2)

    Although he wasn''t his real brother, he spoke to Zeon as if he was trying to save a foolish sentient being.

    "Why did you even come to the duke''s residence ?"

    I tried to speak as comfortably as possible, but without realizing it, I became more careful with the handling of the tail.

    I don''t know what tone of tone the original Zion used when dealing with his family.

    you can''t help it

    When conversing with family or friends, there are few people who consciously say, ''I have to speak like this!''

    ''I distinguish between what to say and what not to say, and just say what comes out of the rest.''

    I don''t know if it''s the flow of conversation, but how many people perfectly remember the tone of their words?

    There''s no other way. They said the house was sold out right away? Arrived early in the morning and went to the address on the letter, but there was no other person.

    How surprised it was to come out.

    Oh, that''s right. Come to think of it, the address transfer service will end soon...

    Thanks to that, I was still able to receive the mail, but it would have been sent back if a little more time had passed.

    " Anyway, that''s why it was this time because I went to the duke''s house to find it."

    Although angry, Zeon clenched his teeth and spoke softly, as if he was patient in front of Serpence.

    At that sight, I was speechless, so I picked up a biscuit for some reason and muttered a fuss.

    "No, little hyung, really What are you doing with no manners in front of the Duke."

    I''m fine, you can eat comfortably, too.

    Yes?! Ha, but...

    It contains the sincerity of the person who made it. If you leave it like this and look at it, the food is too pitiful.

    Abominably, Serpence evoked a look of pride, as if he was genuinely sorry.

    Although his appearance was terrifying, his noble demeanor softened Zeon''s spirit, so please take care of it.

    decided to

    Of course, it wouldn''t change if I didn''t look at it.

    Then the Duke...

    "Yes? Ah Whoops, that''s right."

    As if he had never expected such an answer to come, Serpence responded that he was a little surprised.

    Then, as if Xeon was uncomfortable with it, he let out a soft laugh and picked up a chocolate chip cookie.

    If you look closely, you can see that there are a lot more chocolate chips than others.

    ''Just eat some, do you even plan something like that?!''

    Although it was a plan to induce human psychology, the result is very pathetic and insignificant.

    On the one hand, it is fortunate that such a head is being used not to destroy the continent, but to pick up and eat sweets.

    ''The late wind is scarier .''

    I don''t know if I''ll be okay after I''ve filled up all the sweet food I''ve been missing for 24 years.

    I turned my gaze to look at the side of Xeon who was sitting next to me, and my mouth was dry from tension.

    I also drank hot tea.

    "By the way, why did you come to the capital for some reason?"

    "Did you not receive the letter?"

    I received it. I should have received it, but I could have done it in a letter...

    "If my younger brother had sent me a good reply, I wouldn''t have come either."

    These are the only words that are a hundred times right in the family, I can''t even argue with them.

    "How busy have you been that you haven''t responded?"

    No, I''ve been very busy. I have a lot to learn.

    go .

    "Mom , no. It was given to my mother, but what is the title of Im?"

    Uh- that''s, uhm...:

    He blinked his eyes at Serpens and sent a rescue signal. But he was already unsubscribed.

    His current position is set as he warmly watches the friendly conversation between the brothers.

    He made up a happy smile and laughed at me.

    ''It was only a few that looked at me with the eyes of an abandoned kitten.

    It was a month ago... !''

    If it weren''t for the current situation, I would have been purely happy that a psychologically equal relationship was being formed.

    There were some circumstances. To say that it was a business thing .

    That''s all right. But my mother worries a lot, so no matter how busy she is, I hope she calls me at least once a month.

    That, yes...

    Silence fell again, and only the sound of crumbling biscuits and cookies reverberated in the living room.

    It was Serpens who broke the awkward silence.

    "By the way, how long will Ribelon-kun stay in the capital?"

    I expected about a week and bought a round-trip ticket. In the meantime, I was thinking of staying at the house where my younger brother is living...

    Yeah! Tender 1 with nowhere to stay, you better get down quickly. I''ll buy you a new ticket too!

    I did not want to continue this uncomfortable time for a week or so, so I quickly intercepted him.

    I can feel Xeon, whose words are cut off in the middle, staring at me.

    It''s not necessary. There are many vacant rooms, so why not stay at the duke''s residence?

    Oh no! I''d rather have the inn with my own money!

    When I showed my color to the point where I was close to desperation, a feeling of mourning came to mind on Serpens''s expression.

    Presumably, the question ''Isn''t it on good terms with your family?'' and ''Isn''t it? He seemed to be confused between the questions, "Is that a normal family?"

    As I read his expression, I suddenly felt a burning pain in my side.

    ___

    Sir Rivelon?! Are you okay?

    "Ah, no I didn''t pinch it that hard ?"

    Reflexively twisting in the pain, he jumped up and screamed.

    Serpens, whose eyes grew wide in surprise at my scream, asked first, and Xeon, who was embarrassed, responded one beat later.

    I really liked Serpence''s suggestion, but when I interfered with it, I was disgusted with it, so I tweaked it a bit.

    It''s okay, I''m just a little surprised, but it doesn''t hurt.

    Even treatment...

    No, at this level, there will be no bruising.

    It was because he unconsciously thought that Xeon was a stranger to him, and was bewildered by his unexpected behavior.

    It didn''t hurt that much, so I waved my hand to Serpens who was faithful to the setting today.

    "Um it seems that your younger brother is curious about the duke''s house, how about giving him a tour?"

    Serpence brought up a new proposal.

    Yes. It would be better to drive today than to keep an eye on Xeon from the peacock''s house all week long.

    Xeon seems to like it a lot too.

    ''If you stay for a week, don''t you think we should meet again after work?''

    , stop escaping reality now,

    I''ll have to think about it seriously.

    Right now, it seemed that Xeon was so distracted by Serpens that he didn''t notice, but that state won''t last long.

    As time goes by and you''ll be alone with him, you''ll think it''s strange how you''ve changed from before.

    ''Sion''s soul remains in my body, so I tell you to say something like this, or you can replace it if you want! Isn''t there such a feature?''

    Where did the original Shion really go? Just in case, I thought to myself, ''Oh

    this! Zion Rivelon! Man! I called, but there was no answer.

    "Then Lord Rivelon is waking up, so I think you can guide us from now on."

    The Duke is going with you... right?

    No, it won''t be inconvenient if I intervene any longer.

    I thought so, but it wasn''t. I hope he continues to be with him.

    "I will take care of all the work today, so why not take a tour of the capital city with your younger brother after visiting the duke''s residence?"

    Wouldn''t it be better if I did the job and Serpence acted as Xeon''s guide?

    As of today, I really want to work overtime. I want to burn the night in the office.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Xeon politely expressed his gratitude. Serpens smiled at him with a gentle smile, as if this was nothing.

    With today''s schedule decided, Serpens went back to his office. And Xeon went out of the drawing room with me.

    came out with

    "What was that tone and attitude from before?"

    Uh, huh? What am I?

    As soon as he came out of the hallway, Zeon hardened his face and looked into it.

    Am I so different from the original? I don''t think it''s even started yet, but I''m already suspicious.

    Even if I''m quick, I''m too fast... .

    In front of the Duke! No matter how generous you are, isn''t it too rude?

    I guess it wasn''t that fast

    all.

    Oh, no...! The duke wants me to be comfortable too...

    Haha~. The little hyung interprets people''s words too straight-forward, so it''s a mask.

    As if he couldn''t really dry it, Xeon took a deep breath.

    By the way, hearing those words, Sion must have been a very stupid guy.

    I also said about him, ''I was holding the same image as a simple country young man, so it can be said that I took the right route.

    More than that, Duke, you seem to be a much nicer person than I thought.

    "Yeah. He was a really good person that I couldn''t even compare to the ones I knew."

    what i knew So, remembering the appearance of Serpens in [Master of the Holy Sword], I sincerely agreed.

    You are greeted directly while the aide''s family is busy! Where in the world is such a person?

    This is because Xeon doesn''t know. That guy is so free these days!

    And Serpense didn''t come to meet him, I was in trouble.

    I came along to take a look.

    Besides, how about being considerate? Because it''s been a long time since we''ve seen each other, you give us time to be together, so take your day off work...

    I wanted to avoid that time. Knowing that for sure... .

    Besides, the vacation deal for a week instead of a day was canceled just before the deal was completed, so I don''t feel that it''s caring at all.

    The words I couldn''t even say out loud piled up in my heart.

    ''Is that much respect for Serpens in Zeon''s heart?''

    There was no need to ask and check. The familiar scent of a peacock mansion came from his sparkling eyes and praising Serpens.

    Each time Xeon spit out Serpens''s compliments, the eyes around him warmed.

    How about the gifts you sent me a while ago? The duke cares about his younger brother so much, but he doesn''t even follow basic manners well.

    It is not just a saying that if a wife is pretty, she bows down even if she looks at the stake.

    I sent a present to my hometown, so I am no longer self-proclaimed, but Serpens knows me."

    " what? Who sent what?"

    The duke said that he usually thanked me for this and that. Limited edition wine, mother''s accessory set, etc. Expensive work of art? I also received a handwritten letter, which my eldest brother put in a frame to keep it privately... What, did you not know?"

    I didn''t know at all. When did you send that again?

    ''Ja-sik, if you''re grateful, I''ll say thank you

    That''s it! Was that embarrassing?''

    Although it wasn''t really a gift I gave to my real family, my heart was moved. Thinking about it that way, the tip of my nose seems to wrinkle a little.

    That''s right, Serpens secretly... . Besides, a handwritten letter .

    '' What the hell is that little guy doing?!''

    As I thought about even the letter, a wave of emotion flowed out like an ebb.

    Perhaps the family meeting written in the mother''s letter is not whether or not to go to the capital, but to the charon that she will go.

    Wouldn''t blurring be the main agenda?

    Naturally, the scene of the advisory meeting and the family meeting of the Rivelon family overlapped in my mind.

 CH 64

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 64

    16. Guests at the Duchess House (3)

    Of course, that''s just an imagination, and it''s not really true.

    ''Of course it will. Perhaps .

    It seems like Xeon has been secretly scolding me since a while ago], this isn''t secretly, it''s really being scolded.

    It''s not because of my unusual behavior.

    I''d rather not have any doubts

    Are you free?''

    Looking back on Shion''s memory, Zeon was evaluated as ''nagging me about the subject of my younger brother.''

    As I climbed up the memory a little more, it seems that Charon was also being scolded.

    ''Is it the youngest On Top? . No, am I just not me anymore?''

    Anyway, I''m going to ask Serpens directly about the gift later, and I''ll have to guide Xeon about the duke''s house.

    "Well then is there any place you want to see first ?"

    I asked Zeon as I walked down the hallway.

    Huh? Well. When I say that vaguely, there is no place that comes to mind. Can''t we just look at the whole thing?

    The barracks are a little open to outsiders, but...

    I''m sorry, but I can''t help it. Oh, yes. Let''s go to the little brother''s room later.

    My, why is my room?!

    Why? I''ll have to see how you''re doing with my own eyes.

    Humanus pretending to be friendly alone

    Is this how Serpense feels when she looks at ?

    It''s incredibly burdensome, but there''s no way I can push it away. I can''t even say that I''m uncomfortable, and I''m so frustrated that I''m going crazy.

    Yeah. I''ll have to check...

    "Why are you reacting like this? Are you living on the subject of living on the floor without properly cleaning it?

    No, I live really well. Really...

    Somehow I want to cry

    ''I''m so uncomfortable with him... !''

    Why I first saw it. I don''t know if I should be scolded by a four-year-old or a child.

    Luckily, when he gets scolded by Serpens, he has a reason to understand, and he''s so soft that he gets released quickly and gets over it easily.

    ''My sister didn''t even nag me like this!''

    This guy is no joke My body shudders and dies.

    "I really can''t live !"

    Ugh! Ah...

    Perhaps it wasn''t enough just to scold me with words, so Xeon suddenly slammed my back with a ''chuck-!'' sound. This time, I was able to suppress the sound as much as possible by learning the lesson from my side.

    Why are you beating me...?

    No, the younger brother is the duke''s aide, and he''s still doing that?

    Yes?

    Straighten your back! Be proud! Anyway, little hyung, you have to know that you''re timid.

    The handmaiden who was passing us with a cleaning tool stopped.

    The servant''s hand, who had climbed the ladder and dusted off the ceiling, also stopped.

    The head of the knight who stood guard inside the mansion turned toward us.

    As if there was something to report to Serpense, the administrator who was heading to the office with the documents dropped the documents.

    Wherever I heard the sound of gasp, I looked up and saw Hans standing behind the pillar with his mouth open in disbelief.

    In a nutshell, the atmosphere is terrifying.

    i got cheap

    Yeah! I''m saying this right after the talk, but the weak older brother doesn''t even contact me. Do you know how worried everyone is?

    At this moment, the pupils of the Duke and his family here began to shake without mercy.

    After the younger brother went up to the capital alone, we made a bet to see if we could fix that timid personality.

    in his playful voice

    was full of love for his family.

    However, those who heard his story seemed to have chosen to cool off rather than feel warm affection.

    The knights, who stood guard at a distance, exchanged hand signals while moving their hands in a hurry.

    The servant who was on the ladder slowly came down. The maid who was carrying the cleaning tools approached him and began to talk.

    I listened to the faint voice,

    Did you hear me? Your aide is timid.

    Besides, you haven''t been able to fix it yet?

    "The people in the aide''s family are "

    I could hear conversations like this little by little.

    What kind of image do they see of me, can I get so serious about being timid?

    ''Doesn''t everyone live with a certain degree of timidity in their hearts?''

    Anyway, Xeon seems to have accepted my timid little brother as I looked at myself and squirmed because I was uncomfortable.

    Oh no...! I''m different now!

    It''s so lively!

    Yeah, if you think like that and act like that, you''ll get better gradually. But don''t overdo it.

    I''m a little sorry to express the younger brother I''ve seen for the first time like this.

    ''He''s not very smart?!''

    There''s a degree of dullness, can''t you see this atmosphere?

    It''s good to love and worry about your family, but I think you can create a much more beautiful scene if you do it while observing the surrounding atmosphere.

    I''m worried about my little brother, my mom is anxious

    I can''t even sleep well at night

    do you know?"

    "My mother said she was pregnant."

    I don''t think it''ll end like this, so I bet it wasn''t my worries, but something else, so I couldn''t sleep.

    As a result, he succeeds in closing his mouth, but instead, he hears a muffled and muffled sound from the surrounding area.

    What kind of rumors will spread about the Rivelon family in the future... .

    ''I don''t know anything else, but I will satisfy Serpense''s expectations.''

    Conversely, the honor of the Count Rivelon family fell to the ground. Still, it was Xeon that became the trigger.

    All bad things he did!

    Let''s go quickly! You want to see my room?

    Huh? Oh, yes.

    Unintentionally, in a situation where he was borrowing his body, he grabbed Zeon''s wrist and dragged him away to protect even the tiniest of honor.

    By barely pushing Xeon into the room, he was able to escape the gaze of the people around him.

    You cleaned it up really well. I also thought there was a corner where something could be broken.

    He grabbed my wrist and looked around the room.

    It''s no longer the timid me of the past, this is it. So tell your mother not to worry too much.

    So you''re calling me by a different name? Mom, would you be sad if you found out?

    I''m an adult now. I can''t act like a child forever.

    What was written in the letter and what was sung by Xeon

    By the way, I knew that Shion called her mother, not her mother, but .

    It seems like something I can''t do to Shion''s parents or even my real parents, so I can''t stop talking.

    "By the way, little hyung, you seem to have gotten a little stronger? Are you exercising these days?"

    ''Just as a hobby... . The duke is watching over you.

    Would you be more concerned about safety issues? But it wasn''t entirely wrong.

    It started out as a hobby for Serpens, but now I''m enjoying it quite a bit.

    ''When it comes to entertainment, it''s just gambling or playing chess... .''

    It''s kind of a blessing to be able to enjoy something similar to a VR game in a world like this.

    Seeing that training is taught as a game, wouldn''t Serpens do well as a kindergarten teacher?

    It reminds me of him taking care of the children at the nursery.

    ''Obviously that kindergarten will be a peaceful kindergarten that is nowhere else in the world... .''

    instead of leaving the children outside.

    There will be a war between parents.

    Oh, the Duke?! Aren''t you being too bothersome to the little brother, the Duke?

    It''s not like that. The Duke also said he likes to teach others.

    You must have said it politely!

    First of all, Serpence is set up to say, ''I do not say empty words, but I do it with a sincere heart''. Wouldn''t you be offended if I said that?

    And this level doesn''t even fit into the axis of negligence.

    No matter how much I trouble him

    Even if it does, will it be possible to follow the continent-scale annoyance caused by Serpens in [Master of the Holy Sword]?

    " Little hyung. He was originally a person who had very thin ears and trusted others. But he was a person who knew how to keep basic manners, right?"

    "I saw there was a little misunderstanding, but with the Duke "

    I paused for a moment and opened the bathroom door.

    ''Okay, no Hans.''

    Apparently, he couldn''t escape from the shock of the past, so he didn''t follow suit.

    "Little brother, what are you doing?"

    No, nothing. Anyway, should I say that my relationship with the Duke is a little like a friend? We''re only one year older, so we decided to get along really well.

    "I, really?!"

    That''s right! Don''t you trust this hyung?

    Little hyung is a little ungrateful, though.

    Me too, but the original Sion also has a lot of problems... ?

    "You know when the Duke sent you a present."

    Hey, I wouldn''t have done it if I had felt it was rude to act like a really small hyung.

    Of course! Rather, do you feel uncomfortable when I''m too polite?

    This is by no means my brain teaser.

    In fact, it is a proven fact that Serpens smiles so much that breathing becomes uncomfortable.

    I''m really happy. I''ve had the best job I''ve ever had, but I was worried that I might get cut off.

    "So what are you going to do next?"

    I''ll have to come to the capital next year, too. Not right now, after my younger brother is born?

    Uh, why?! Helping my brother in my hometown .

    "How much work can you help with that?"

    That was it. Because the Rivelon Territory is a place that has absolutely nothing to do with it.

    "By the way, when we were young, the eldest brother is the lord. The younger hyung is the aide. I am the butler. We promised that we would raise the three of us well enough to advance to the capital city of Ribelon Street together . Remember?"

    "Uh, uh it was."

    As I slowly traced back my memory, it seems that something like that happened. It''s a family run company, so the youngsters have big dreams.

    So, did Shion betray him first?

    Thinking about it now, it sounds like a no-brainer. I need something to raise it or not.

    Because I was young then.

    Yeah. It''s nice to see you after a long time and talk about the old days.

    Don''t talk like that.

    Because there is nothing like the past to remember with the person you met for the first time. Don''t keep making me feel guilty... .

    It was probably God Luxmea who put me in this body, but why is my heart so heavy?

    '' I don''t know how to choose a joint guarantee, but I feel like I''m completely obsessed with it?''

    You can''t call someone like this and not show your nose!

    Isn''t it the basic principle to at least come to me in my dreams and tell me something?

    ''At least see if I can go back

    The whereabouts of wealth and Zion''s soul. If you tell me something like that, I won''t be able to do anything that makes me feel comfortable!!''

    If we meet someday, he''s a god, and I''ll grab him by the neck and shake him.

    If I put the share of Serpens on my share, even a god will have a conscience, so he will be quietly arrested.

    "If I get a vacation later, when . No, will you come down when my brother is born?"

    "Ah, I think it will be a little difficult because it is a busy time back then."

    "Do you know when that will be?"

    I missed it for a moment, but it was already too late.

    The letter didn''t say what week it was now, and Xeon didn''t say it either.

    It''s due in April of next year.

    Yeah, that''s right. Busy time?

    Xeon''s expression darkened.

    "What''s wrong with you, really little hyung? You cut off contact all of a sudden, and avoid it for no reason!"

    "It was because I had so many things to worry about.

    What did you do? You will do well in the future... .

    Ha! You''re calling that an excuse now? Oh... Yeah, come to think of it, isn''t it all of a sudden? To be more precise, it''s from the time I joined the Duke''s.

    for a moment. Saying something like that... .

    Why? Now our Rivelons look insignificant?

    After I succeeded, I became the garbage I threw away my family.

 CH 65

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 65

    16. Guests at the Duchess House (4)

    Oh, it''s not like that!

    If not, what is it?

    I can''t say it was because I''m not really your family.

    Even if you believe it, it will be a problem after that.

    It was because I was worried.

    What? We stop by my little brother

    Are you afraid of getting stuck and having an accident? So, are you worried about your own safety?"

    First, calm down. Let''s sit calmly and talk.

    Zeon, who was staring at me with bloodshot eyes, was half-forced to sit on the chair.

    Seeing that there was no resistance at all, it was felt that he also did not want to end the relationship like this.

    To what extent, if it was an excuse that was reasonably understandable, he seemed to be reluctant to forgive him.

    ''Sion guy, from a really harmonious family

    You were born.''

    My family is also very nice people... .

    "What are you going to say?"

    So, that''s... this is a secret, so only you know. Don''t tell your family.

    Did you feel something serious about those words? Zeon''s face, which had been sullen, stiffened and straightened.

    His gaze, who had turned his head slightly and turned away from me, was completely directed at me.

    "A few months ago, some aristocrats in the capital

    Did you know that they were destroyed?"

    Since the family has evaporated into sesame seeds, no matter how far out of town aristocrats may be, they can''t know. I''ve heard it has something to do with demon worshipers.

    You don''t know how it turned out?

    Yeah... Does it have anything to do with what you''re talking about?

    As I nodded with a serious face, I saw him straighten his posture.

    ''Is it right to look around?''

    If I cut ties with Zion''s family like this, I will feel at ease.

    Conversely, the more I come in contact with the real Zion, the more different it will be from before.

    If that happens, other people will start to feel this hurt too.

    ''It''s still suspicious enough. Now, the Rivelon family were treated like strange people... .''

    Someone will notice soon.

    Serpens, I don''t know what to think, but in the worst case... .

    ''Maybe it''s my fault that he wasn''t chosen by the Holy Sword.''

    I''m actually a member of the Demon Worshipers, and rumors circulate that I killed Zion and took his place.

    There is a possibility that it will be pointed out that Serpence was corrupted by enticing him with all kinds of coaxing theories.

    ...little brother?

    Oh, I''m sorry. Well, I''m afraid that if I talk like this, I''ll worry and worry about you too.

    "It''s okay, when we have a hard time, it''s the family that helps each other, isn''t it?"

    That''s right. Except he''s not part of my family.

    Zeon, who knew nothing, looked at me with worried eyes and spoke kindly as if he was trying to reassure me.

    ''If it comes out like this, I can''t really turn my back on it... .''

    Not only Zeon in front of him, but everyone in Zion''s family will be hurt.

    ''Yeah, the reception system said to rule the country. It is said that there is no shortage of achievements when the family is stable first.''

    You''re saying you''re going to save the continent, but before that, you can''t destroy other people''s families.

    no

    Once again, I made up my mind and continued the story.

    The demon worshiper lured me in.

    Your little brother?!

    Yeah, they threatened to take my family hostage. It wasn''t really kidnapping, it was just a trap using illusion magic... Fortunately, the Duke came to the rescue in time. Thanks to him, we caught him and found the nobles involved.

    I hope the little hyung walks away from us

    Is that why you were going to let it go?"

    He nodded quietly.

    With that small gesture, Xeon seemed convinced that I was keeping my distance for fear of putting my family in danger.

    no lie told That''s my minimal conscience.

    Yes, it''s just self-satisfaction... .

    Mi, I''m sorry. I didn''t even know that...

    Anyway. Why did I try to keep my distance, now you know?

    I don''t know what to do with Xeon''s sorry

    He was restless.

    I didn''t lie, but I felt as if I had lied, and I felt sorry for myself at the same time.

    Is the little brother okay? It''s too dangerous.

    I''m fine. It''s something I''ve been prepared for since the beginning...

    It was the job of pushing me into the mouth of the final boss, but the danger was as good as having been prepared for it.

    And now the threat to him is almost gone.

    ''Now the main villain organization, Demon Worship

    Can we just check the power?''

    It is proceeding smoothly.

    Why don''t you just come back to your hometown and live? You don''t have to take that kind of risk.

    Yes, the Duke still needs me.''''

    No matter how much he faced himself and began to shake off the past, he was still in his infancy.

    ''The basic premise is that I am by my side and assisting him to the end.''

    Serpence still puts walls on others

    was standing up

    When I''m gone, I''ll be alone again, I''ll bear the burden alone, and eventually I''ll die under that weight.

    Should that be the younger brother? There must be many people who are better than you when it comes to the capital of the empire...

    You''re right. People with better ability to handle things than me have been hit. But if you put effort into that kind of thing, I''ll be able to keep up with you to a certain extent.

    "Are you going to have to take a risk while making such an effort?"

    Yeah. All I can do is

    but no one else can Should it be called the uniqueness of my existence?"

    I remembered the words I had spit out before becoming a Serpence, and said with a grin.

    It was used in a slightly swearing sense, but if you think about it differently, there is no more appropriate expression.

    After all, in this world, I am nothing but a distant existence.

    Little hyung, you''ve changed a lot...

    You said so.

    You look dignified and full of confidence.

    Nice to see the scene.

    "Are you regretting not placing a bet on the fixer now?"

    That''s right. It was a chance to sweep all the stakes.

    After you joked with a playful laugh, Xeon laughed and agreed.

    "I decided to buy a new train ticket earlier. Is it still valid?"

    "It is, but you didn''t stay for a week, did you?"

    I have changed my mind. I don''t think this is the time to be young like this.

    I don''t know why, but there must have been a change of heart. As he said that, his eyes gleamed with guns.

    Ah, I''m still going to look around the duke''s house.

    After the conversation, he left the room and looked around the peacock''s house very carefully.

    Why does he want to be here?

    Swipe the window sill with your finger, or stare openly at the passing maids and attendants.

    Carefully examine the decorations in the hallway, and the trimmed trees in the garden.

    I looked around carefully.

    Finally, we went to the restaurant and had dinner.

    '' Where else has my lunch gone?''

    Nine the 1 is the one who guides me, and I think I was dragged by Xeon.

    And before I left, I met Serpens again to say hello... .

    ''Why did I get kicked out?''

    With a very cautious attitude, Zeon asked Serpense for a solo session, and he accepted it.

    Thanks to this, I had no choice but to stand and wait outside the drawing room.

    What''s even more strange is that Hans is called in in the middle.

    ''No, what are you talking about?''

    I don''t know for sure, but seeing the bright expression on Zeon''s expression as he leaves the duke''s house, he seems to have received a favorable answer.

    And Hans looked at me with a very pathetic look and clicked his tongue.

    ''Did the three of you even curse at me?''

    After that, Xeon did not even look around the capital to get the fastest ticket and went right back.

    It really appeared like the wind and disappeared like the wind.

    * * *

    "So what did you talk about with Xeon?"

    The next morning, as soon as I got on the carriage heading to the council, I asked Serpens a question.

    If your brother didn''t tell you, I have nothing to say either.

    Uh, how can you keep a secret from me? We''re all open-minded.

    Is that what you mean? Put your hand on your conscience and think about it.

    I put my hand on my conscience and thought quietly.

    ''There are some things that have been postponed until the day of choice. Oh, and there''s also the Black Knight''s baby, which he secretly shed only for Eugene... .''

    As he said, I''m not talking

    seems to have been If this happens, you can''t ask for more, right?

    Still, I couldn''t help but feel a little betrayed.

    ''I''ve been trying to earn his trust for months! We''ve only been together for a few hours, so why don''t you make up a secret with the other guy?''

    What should I say about this feeling?

    Let''s say that we succeeded in taming a gilnyangyi, who was wary of people, over a few months and bringing it home.

    But as soon as I put the cat down in the living room, it lay on the lap of another family member.

    It was shocking like seeing him climb up and eat a snack.

    It''s not even on my lap yet!

    Yes?

    "Did you like the taste of Xeon''s chur?"

    ?One

    Serpence, whose face suddenly turned white, gave a dazed expression.

    I tried to pull myself back one more sip, but realized that this place was in a carriage with nowhere to go, and hardened my face.

    Swallowing his saliva, he opened his mouth with a determined look as if he had made a decision.

    I, I''ve never been on your brother''s lap! Besides, he''s chubby... he''s chubby.

    Yes?

    There seems to be a big misunderstanding of something.

    How frightened I was, Serpens put her legs up on the seat and wrapped her knees around me, alerting me.

    I only think of the difference between myself and my power

    There wouldn''t be a reaction like that... .

    Ah, no, that means...!

    I didn''t know that Lord Rivelon was looking at me like that! Maybe that''s the purpose in the first place...?

    It''s really a misunderstanding!

    In the end, I had to fully confess that I had been treating him as a cat.

    I was very enthusiastic about explaining which parts of Serpence were cat-like and how I had treated him like a cat.

    Finally, after telling him that chur was the cat''s representative snack, he relaxed his boundaries and lowered his legs to the floor with an indifferent expression.

    Hmmmm...! But isn''t the treatment of cats too harsh?

    "When I told you before, you didn''t say anything, so it''s a new thing."

    "When did you say that?"

    Did you do it? Gilnyangyi, Yugi-nyang, and dog-nyangyi.

    Is it possible that ''Nyang'' is...?

    In general, profanity and serpens

    It''s not a suitable combination, but for this moment, I''ll express his expression as ''deeply upset.

    With an expression that could not be described other than those words, he shook his head and let out a sigh.

    '' Don''t you know how to get angry with him?''

    I think of Serpense''s expression of emotions as positive in any situation, but I don''t think I''ll ever be able to view it as positive as it is now.

    Something like this... I thought this kind of thing belonged to the timid axis in my hometown? Is that really where people live?!

    My, it''s a thing of the past that I''m timid! It''s been a while since I''ve been to that hometown? So, because they don''t yet know about my personality that has changed while living in the monastery...

    Serpens, who raised his head slightly, looked at me with a look of disbelief.

    The possibility that the entire Rivelon family had similar or higher inclinations to mine, and the possibility that a simple country young man came to the capital and changed his orientation.

    I''m weighing those two

    may it be?

    " I can''t even imagine that you are timid and weak. It scares me just to imagine that there are people like you everywhere in this world."

    Why? Isn''t it healing and good?

    Serpens shook his head violently.

    He shook so vigorously that his hair was so tangled that he had to tie it back up again.

 CH 66

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 66

    17. The Duke''s Business Trip Plan (1)

    As usual, he threw a letter to me as I went to work with an expression that I did not like Serpense.

    It''s a bit embarrassing to have friends right away. Are you suggesting that we start with pen pals first?

    I didn''t write it.

    When I looked at the citrus-colored envelope, the first thing I noticed was a picture of three oranges side by side.

    ''for a moment. Isn''t this orange?''

    Kindly, ''Yuja'' was written under the picture. It was a yuzu painting, more than me.

    I looked back and forth through the envelopes, but nothing else stood out.

    Except that ''Zion Ribelon'' is written on the recipient''s name and there are signs that it has already been opened.

    Why did you open the letter addressed to me?

    Isn''t that what the elf sent? Of course, I thought it was related to ''that'' business.

    If it''s that elf, you''re talking about Eugenes.

    ''There is no such thing as the sender''s name written on it, so how do you know by looking at the surface?''

    After tearing it apart and reading it, it was only natural that I doubted that I was making an excuse.

    If not, how does Serpence evoke Eugenes in Yuzu? .

    Yuja: Yuja S , Yujas. Yuji?"

    If you read the content, you''ll know who sent it, so write roughly any name.

    I thought I''d pay it, but it looks like I''ve put a lot of effort into it.

    Like the Scorpion I met in the dark, maybe the purpose was to create a nickname for that world, right?

    You have noticed this kind of pun.

    A letter will arrive from her, as I have been told in advance.

    It was a request not to touch, not to speak. Since Serpence is due to arrive, it must have been interpreted as meaning to read it alone without showing it to Hans.

    It was a little awkward, but it arrived

    Should I read it?

    "But what are the instructions?" Without taking the letter out of the envelope, he paused.

    ''I''m sick of letters like beggars!''

    Did you lose any foes with the letter? I don''t know how it would end up in a crisis situation if the letter arrived.

    The first were demon worshipers, and Zion''s family came just before them. this time...

    ''Of course, except for the first one, I have a long cause. self-inflicted disaster

    It''s no different, even though I can''t say anything with ten mouths! That doesn''t mean things have to happen in a row... .''

    No matter how much I lamented, nothing would change. Let''s check the letter first.

    [ Completed instructions check. We decided that it would be better to meet in person for security reasons. Time and place . ]

    It was a concise report. There was really nothing written.

    She really does her best.

    However, it would have been better if only the time and place had been written down.

    is not it? If so, would Serpence have followed the appointment?

    Didn''t you say that''s all you told me back then? That''s how I remember it.

    His lips were clenched clenchedly as if dissatisfied.

    For some reason, he had been making a face of no, so when I asked why, I guess that was the problem.

    Hell, you won''t believe me even if I forgot.

    I''m the one who makes this secret

    Be quiet. That''s what you said to me, right?

    Ahaha...

    Serpens frowned at my awkward laugh. It seems to be asking for a detailed explanation.

    I''m just going to say that suspicious thing one more time, can you please stop asking?

    Okay, go ahead and try that strange sound.

    Contrary to worries, an overly cool answer came back.

    Now it''s bothersome to even doubt

    It''s a tone that seems to tell you to come up with the main point instead of talking about it.

    "If you agree and move on like that, what will happen to the hidden me?"

    Whatever it is, you''re a suspicious person as usual. But I can''t torture you, can you?

    Oh no, that''s absurd! Where do you try? You''ll run away!

    "Are you able to escape?"

    Since he insists that he never even think of such a thing, he takes a blunt attitude as if he''s not the same as Serpense.

    ''Uh, what is it''. I don''t think I''m joking?''

    It wasn''t just plain blunt, it was a tone that kept ticking and ticking.

    Why is he like this today?

    I... what''s wrong?

    It''s definitely not a good feeling.

    "Duke, are you upset right now?"

    Something stuffy and empty... Are you saying this is sad?

    In a normal country, I''m sure you''re making excuses by saying, ''I''m not upset right now, I''m just a little sad!-?''

    would have been pissed

    However, Serpense''s current state was not in an atmosphere where such pranks would work.

    I''ve said many times that I believe in you, but you must have doubted even my words.

    After a long time, the timid fence spoke as if muttering in a gloomy voice.

    '' That was the problem.''

    It was as he said. I did not believe him when I forced him to believe and wait.

    Believe in me, who is so suspicious

    Even though I said iron it, I have been wary of the case that he won''t wait.

    Serpens noticed it.

    "I am guessing that the reason you are putting off your answer after Choice Day is that I am not ready and waiting . Am I right?"

    "Uh, uh yes."

    This guy still didn''t understand what I said or did without thinking, but he stabs me right into the core.

    So I don''t mean to ask in detail. But you can tell others.

    Isn''t that good enough for me?

    I''m sorry. Next time.

    Not next time, from now on.

    Hey, from now on! I''ll fix it.

    At that moment, Serpens smiled faintly.

    As much as I believe in you, you must also believe in me.

    "If something like this happens in the future, I will tell the Duke first."

    "Of course it should be. This is something I can recognize by going out there alone.

    was deliberately informed to you.

    As I was despondent and despondent, he said deliberately scornfully.

    I must be feeling depressed too, did I have enough time to take care of myself?

    Now you know how to take care of other people''s feelings, and you''ve grown a lot.

    ...if you''re that way, it''s because I''m not used to it. You really don''t have a middle ground, do you?

    "Then, shall we aim for the middle today in the sense of reflection?"

    If that''s possible.

    His tone of voice was pathetic, but full of worries, and when he calmly answered with a playful tone of energy, he could see a grin and a grin.

    Come back to the point. Now, let''s talk.

    A group of demon worshipers was trying to recruit a knight-turned-slave gladiator, so I asked Yulydia to find him. First, I would like to find the Pelo Kingdom side, and, if possible, investigate the illegal arena side of a foreign country.

    I don''t know why they hid such a story. The source of the information is questionable.

    Me, it''s not going to happen anywhere in a day or two.

    But it''s a bit strange to know a future demon cult leader...

    Serpense had a strange sense of compulsion not to keep more secrets, so I made a mistake without realizing it.

    Perhaps this time, he had not even induced Serpence, he hesitated a little, and then suddenly fell into a thought.

    That''s right, what you said back then... Is that so? Hmm, um. That''s right. Roughly...

    Something was working hard in his mind. How the hell are you interpreting what I said?

    I''ve been thinking too much about it, so I don''t know.

    "Oh, duke?"

    it''s nothing.

    It''s nothing but shit! You seem to have a lot of thoughts right now, don''t you?

    I should have talked about treating him like a cat anyways, if he''s going to make a mistake, he''d be better off being caught on the previous identification with a baby who turned him inside out.

    It''s kind of embarrassing.

    He must be, right? Babies are at least human, right?

    It was very embarrassing, but... .

    ''Yeah, you have to believe me. Let''s believe it!'' At least there won''t be any buying and selling without my knowledge. I don''t know what you noticed, but if it''s too heavy, I''ll come to you

    Anyway, it''s written that we''ll have to meet in person, so it''s probably going to be a bit complicated. Let me go with you.

    "A duke or a escort master?"

    For now, the master''s side. If it is related to a foreign country, an external position may be necessary, but illegal issues can be discussed. For Duke Pracidus, it would be fine to look at the situation and ask for partial help.

    Anyone who hears it would know that there is one more Duke of Prasidus besides Serpens.

    * * *

    The place Euges designated was a room located on the second floor of an inn in the suburbs.

    all.

    I didn''t know you''d come through the window...

    "I didn''t know that the day would come when I would be able to go in and out of a room on the second floor through a window."

    Even today, the Serpens who covered their faces tightly put me down on the floor.

    "Are you here today?"

    You may have to decide a new policy depending on the content. If possible, it would be better to talk about it all at once.

    Euges nodded as if he understood, and sat down to me and Serpens.

    recommended

    From the moment we entered, her spirit was already blocking the sound, so Euges went straight to the point.

    Of the slaves liberated from the kingdom of Palo, none of them met the conditions you mentioned.

    Isn''t it going to be easy...?

    Instead, I''ve heard rumors that an illegal arena is popular in the Kingdom of Bastul.

    Are you abroad?

    It''s a foreign country.

    As if to say something natural, Euges answered.

    ''Are you there... . I missed getting help.''

    The current king of the Bastul Kingdom is a timid subject, even greedy.

    According to [Master of the Holy Sword], he was the first king to turn his back after the fall of the New Holy Lumen Empire.

    ''And Serpens used the situation to isolate Hugh Manus.''

    While indiscriminately attacking the continent, the Kingdom of Bastul did not touch a single turuk.

    Blood if you don''t help the master of the holy sword

    As if it won''t do any harm.

    Starting with the Kingdom of Bastul, other countries also laid down their hands one by one.

    ''But, I planted people inside and confronted the issue of helping the master of the holy sword... .''

    He deliberately added his power to the second prince, who was the only one who had the opinion that he should help Humanus.

    He endured the fray for the continent. In tears, he killed his father and older brother and usurped the throne.

    From the 2nd prince to the king of the scourge, he immediately gave his hand to Humanus.

    pushed

    To Humanus, who was ostracized here and there, it felt like salvation, like a cord of friendship.

    ''Things are getting more and more twisted, and information is leaking... .''

    In the first place, it was Serpens who helped him become king, so it was natural.

    The young king of the Kingdom of Bastul trusted those who supported him like a rock, and kept them by his side.

    Without even realizing that they were the nemesis of the demon cult.

    ''After all, Humanus had to doubt even the few who helped him.''

    Without realizing it, I couldn''t help but stare at Serpens with piercing eyes.

    He, who had not done anything yet, tilted his head as if he did not understand the English language.

 CH 67

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 67

    17. The Duke''s Business Trip Plan (2)

    "Why are you looking at me with those eyes?"

    Serpence, who felt my stinging gaze, asked curiously.

    For reference, today''s Serpence was found to have a hierarchical relationship because he used respectful words last time, so it is a setting that he is practicing using semi-speaking.

    No, just. I was curious to see what the escort master thought.

    Hmm... evidence of demon worshipers'' involvement.

    Without it, a formal request would be impossible. Even if we take issue with the illegal arena, it is difficult to see that it will be resolved properly."

    I think the current King of Bastul is a little like that.

    When I nodded my head to agree with him, Serpens looked at me in surprise.

    His face was covered, so he couldn''t see his expression.

    However, I could easily grasp the meaning of that gaze, ''Do you know anything about your subject?''

    "Certainly. Taking time while walking.

    It''s very likely to fade away... Big. Besides, are you sure that the person you''re looking for is in the Kingdom of Bastul?

    Well...?

    Serpens has pointed out another problem.

    Otherwise, the player might be taken away by the demon worshipers like this.

    I think there''s a high possibility. I haven''t checked where they came from, but I''ve recently heard that a gladiator has been winning consecutive victories. As Lord Rivelon said, if the goal is to recruit, I think it''s true that he will be a very talented person.

    You, you''re probably right.

    Eugenes put forward a plausible hypothesis.

    It is still too early to confirm that this is true, but the possibility has risen a bit.

    "By the way, where did you get this information, Yulydia-sama?"

    Did I buy it? Oh, I''m hiding my identity and being an elf. I pretended to be a guest who was purely interested in arena gambling, and asked only about the win rate and the gladiator''s personal information.

    When I asked the question that suddenly came to mind, Eugesu answered without even a single hesitation.

    Now, even if she suddenly appears as a dark elf one day, I don''t think it would be too surprising.

    Then, should I just submit the gladiator''s contract murder quest?

    Why did this one suddenly enter suspense mode too?

    The reason I don''t say that I''m going to kill myself is probably because of the round-trip time to the Bastul Kingdom.

    "Oh no! Why are you killing him?"

    In the Empire, I''ll wait for the demon worshipers to approach, and I''ll use the method to target them... but I don''t know when they''ll come.

    You can''t wait in a foreign country for something you don''t know.

    When I looked at Serpens in surprise, he made a strange sound.

    Doesn''t this guy love to dig traps? Is it like this gimmicky fence?

    I forgot to tell you this. He hasn''t done anything bad yet, he''s just a victim of good will.

    But, as you said, wouldn''t you eventually become a member of... a demon cult? Better get rid of it before it does more harm.

    For that reason, you are the one who should be punished first, man.

    ''Compared to the final boss, only an executive... .''

    Now that I do not know such a fact, I can say such a thing. If you think of something to confess later, you should correct that thought right now.

    You can''t just kill a person who hasn''t done anything wrong! He''s basically an upright guy. Right now, because of the wound he''s been betrayed, take revenge on the world for a little while.

    town ?!

    I was about to pour out a rant to change Serpence''s heart, but suddenly he shut my mouth.

    ''What, is this something you don''t want to hear?''

    He not only covered his mouth, but also completely restricted the movement of his head by grabbing the back of his neck with his opposite hand.

    If you are in this state, you should try to remove it, and it will only waste your energy and time.

    He rolled his eyes and glared at him with a line of dissatisfaction, and tapped the back of his hand.

    Ha-a.

    Taking a deep breath as if he was about to die, Serpens chin instead of both hands that had become unusable.

    At the end of it, Eugene was wriggling with his wide-open eyes.

    You didn''t know exactly who he was, did you?

    He''s so imaginative. He often says things like this, but it''s just speculation. You''re a knight-turned-slave gladiator, you''re sure there''s a story behind you.

    That''s right! Listening to the story comes first... I learned a lot today.

    With a look of great enlightenment, Eugene nodded his head.

    Today, I have no choice but to pray that a novel will be written in her head.

    Only after confirming the appearance, Serpens''s hand fell off.

    "By the way, isn''t that behavior just the worst?"

    " because I found out about escorts so easily last time. I asked you to just deal with me."

    ''''That''s right... . But what does that setting mean?"

    If you find out that you are serving, you

    I might get this focused attack?"

    Suddenly, I became a person who threw away my pride for safety.

    Yes, safety comes first!

    "More than that, what are your plans for the future?"

    Serpens hastily brought the topic back to the beginning and asked me a question.

    We''ll meet him, verify his identity, and scout on our side!

    "How do I verify my identity?"

    There must be information that you haven''t revealed yet, or you have your own method of identification. He has a lot of secrets... Is that what you are?

    You don''t have to worry about Jin.

    I don''t know, but I wonder if Serpens is sweating in the hood right now.

    At the words I spit out as much as I can, without even knowing the circumstances, I work hard to fix it.

    I''m sorry to see that, but more than that... .

    ''relaxing !,

    One well-raised final boss, I''m not envious of the ten main characters.

    Let''s say it''s Humanus, not Serpens, who is here. maybe

    Wouldn''t it have been possible to rip off the bottom of what we had while going back and forth together?

    Looking at Serpens with a happy smile, I see him clenching and opening his fist under the table.

    ''Are you debating whether or not to hit me now?''

    Perhaps he is contemplating whether to hit him with his palm or his fist.

    Calm down before it really hits you.

    Then Lord Rivelon must go to Bastul Kingdom.

    Yes? No, it seems like it should be, but I have to keep serving the Duke. Is it possible for Wilydia-sama to be alone...?

    That''s right, it''s not even a day or two away. But I''m the only one who infiltrated the arena and rescued him. I''m the only one who can convince him to bring him back to the Empire...

    He secretly tried to hand over the task to Eugenes, but it seems impossible.

    Serpence would have been able to do it alone. It''s a pity that I can''t stay away for a long time.

    "Really. Is that person going together? Two is enough ."

    The master is not!

    As you can see, he values his own safety very much, so it is impossible to fall more than a certain distance.

    At his useless remarks, a hint of reluctance was cast on Eugez''s expression.

    Yeah, you''ve been on the lure operation. No, thinking about it, even then, the best defense scrolls..., ah. Safety must be guaranteed, that''s it.

    Could it be that Serpens is revenge for being treated as a cat by me now?

    A very reasonable and reasonable doubt

    heard.

    In the end, isn''t it just a matter of getting Duke Prasidus to move? If that''s the case, then, as an assistant, you can naturally follow along, don''t you?

    Serpens spoke to me again, referring to himself in the third person.

    But he doesn''t compromise with evil...

    "It''s about destroying the evil of illegal arena and going to rescue the victims who suffer there."

    Serpence naturally took over the question raised by Eugene. But keep your eyes fixed on me

    there was.

    Can''t you convince the Duke?

    Yes! No matter how persuasive you are, it''s too bad that he''s been away for so long, isn''t it?

    I don''t know what the hell Serpence was thinking when he said something like that.

    Judging from that, it must be saying that there is a way, but... .

    It''s like they heard rumors of a demon worshiper over there, and secretly asked for help through you.

    I''ll make a report and do something about it.

    Serpens said while pointing at Eugenes.

    If you stay still, he''ll take care of it, so just answer me. is this going

    Let''s do it, huh?

    This kind of answer is all you can do.

    "But what if it doesn''t show up from the demon cult?"

    "Once you reach it, you will. If there are people who are suffering in front of you, they will

    I''ll try my best to help.

    Is it okay to just use the Duke like that?

    ����O ''

    One thing, one thing .

    Serpence, who was having a conversation with Eugese, turned to me again.

    I''ll take care of the Duke, so don''t worry!

    If you say that... First, I should think about what to say to the Arche Kingdom.

    Ah! If the duke is going with you, do you have to secretly chase after the master escort from behind?''''

    His body is one and it is inevitable.

    Looking at Serpence with a hint of luck, he nodded lightly as if he had done well.

    I will follow you while keeping a distance that you will not be noticed. But considering the duke''s power, I [...], I will not go out.

    Is that all right? Shall I send some spirits sometimes?

    I''m only going to be suspicious of the duke for nothing.

    "Ah I think so."

    It seems that the situation is finally settled.

    Serpense will take care of the future work, so can I take it easy and make travel plans?

    By the way, we''re working together, but you haven''t asked my name yet. What''s the name of the escort?

    "Do you really need a name?"

    Hey, it''s vague to call him that...

    "Do I really need to call you?"

    Yes?

    Euges questioned his ears and asked again.

    Yes, I didn''t know that you would deny the necessity of calling at all. be honest

    I didn''t know either.

    There is no iron wall in this world.

    Yeah, that''s a little bit shy of our master... Yes, it hides a lot of it. But it will get better once you get used to it.

    Doesn''t sound like you''re being shy?

    No! Think carefully, compared to the last time we met, your tone of voice is much more natural! We talked a lot more than the last time... Did we go back and forth?

    Well, it seems like that...?

    Ginger and gentleman, Eugesu cooks and cooks

    tilted his head.

    It''s nonsense, but it''s true that his tone has become more natural... .

    Although there is a part where he sometimes stops because he is unfamiliar with non-verbal language, this is enough progress.

    ''The last time I heard him in the dark, his low-key was quite unnatural.''

    No, it wasn''t unnatural.

    To anyone other than me, the ending was very awkward and hard, as if talking to myself or cutting off the back of the horse.

    Sometimes, they even convey their opinions around me in a way that they talk to me.

    ''If that''s not enough, I just shut my mouth.''

    After all, those who have eaten meat know how to eat it. It''s easy to talk to me, so it seems like you''ve slowly learned the persimmons.

    Do you know Sir Rivelon? That''s his name.

    Of course, I know the name as well as the face. But I am reluctant to reveal it myself...

    It''s just that you''re completely hiding your identity.

    I''ll have to figure it out on my own

    yo. This!

    She clenched her fists and burned with enthusiasm.

 CH 68

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 68

    17. The Duke and the Beginning of the Journey (1)

    It took one month for my official title to appear, but it took less than two weeks for the counterfeit ID to be issued.

    When I came down to the duchy, it was already completed.

    Strictly speaking, it''s not a forgery.

    " Yes, it is. It is a product that was officially issued by the Imperial Family."

    Naturally, the process was carried out in complete secrecy.

    Thanks to this, there was no unnecessary paperwork, and ironically, I was able to receive the results faster.

    ''Is the Empire okay with this?''

    After Humanus becomes emperor, there are probably not one or two things that need to be fixed.

    Anyway, for a while it was only known that Serpens was investigating something under the orders of the imperial family, and his going abroad was a secret.

    On the surface, it was known that Euges was briefly returning to the Arche Kingdom for personal reasons.

    When I opened the ID handed to me by Serpens, the name ''Zion Priveron'' was written on it.

    "Isn''t it very similar to your real name?"

    It''s because if you build a new one, you won''t be able to memorize it or you''ll make a mistake.

    Don''t you know me too well?

    To say that rather than that, does he mean that he himself made the name of the rank above?

    In this case, Serpense''s pseudonym

    I was curious. What is his own pseudonym that he made up for himself?

    Where''s the Duke''s thing? Show me!

    When I reached out my hand in anticipation that he might not use the nickname I had given him, he didn''t raise it, he just took it out and showed it to me.

    Percent Rashidus? At most, you''ve given me more than ten nicknames, but aren''t you using them? Perla or Sen... Huh?

    It doesn''t matter at all. It''s just an adjustment within the scope that is not significantly different from the original name. As I said earlier,

    I''m afraid you''ll make a mistake.

    Certainly, they sound similar. Serpense, Percent... Serpense....

    At first glance they seem similar, but when you put them in your mouth, the accents are strangely different.

    If the existing name pronunciation is round and soft, does the pseudonym feel a little rough?

    Still, they were so similar that you could call them Serpens and ask, ''Isn''t it Percent?''

    "Aren''t you just calling my name too easily?"

    "Ah, my original name is meant to be called by others.

    When you''re alone, you just call my name, but?

    After muttering Serpens'' name for a while, he asked in a dissatisfied tone.

    For a moment, ''- Dora had doubts about the investigation, but soon found out that it was referring to Eugene''s name being spoken out as it was.

    When you refer to yourself...? Well, it''s a thought, isn''t it my mind?

    I could feel Serpens looking at me with eyes lost for words.

    Were you too honest?

    But you can''t even call me Duke of Prasidus, can''t you? If that''s unfair, the Duke also calls me Zion.

    I think I can understand why you were so rude. There''s no such thing as respect for a guy who gave you nicknames in the first place.

    Isn''t our relationship about friendship and loyalty rather than respect?

    To my shameless attitude, oh

    As always, Serpens groaned while sticking out his tongue.

    Still, rather than feeling bad, the reaction was, ''I already knew it, but I didn''t know how to put it into words''.

    He said he didn''t know how to get his clothes wet in the drizzle, so he''s gradually getting used to it.

    ''Isn''t the progress rather slow by now?''

    Slow, but not usually slow. It''s just a normal friendship, but what does it take months?

    No matter how much relationship you have with your boss

    though it is

    Same age, six days a week for several months. It also hung around for about half the day.

    Where is that?

    ''No one understands his heart as much as I do!''

    We ate delicious food together, played pranks, and enjoyed our hobbies together.

    Besides, it helps me to openly and openly confide in my inner words! Comfort me too!

    It''s really sad to think about it! If you''ve done this much, you''re not a duke, but Hwang.

    Me and my best friend would have had enough left over!

    "I, my best friend ?"

    A close friend! If we''re just like us, huh? Calling your name in private! Isn''t that okay?

    Sir Rivelon?

    Look at this! His Majesty the Crown Prince also calls me by my first name, but someone called my direct superior! Yes?

    When I suddenly get angry and lash out at him, Serpens is visibly embarrassed.

    How much devotion to the duke

    D, what''s his name... ! I''m really sorry!

    "That''s , umm."

    Come on, let''s sing it! It''s not too long. It''s only two letters, isn''t it?

    Judging by his hesitant attitude, it seemed like he was going to fall over with just a little bit more.

    I''m going to have to use the pseudonym Zion Priveron for a while, but are you going to keep calling me Lord Rivelon? I feel a sense of distance, am I the only one who can''t do that to the Duke? .

    I keep complaining

    When I urged him, he said in a small voice, ''Poetry, Lord Zion... ? he answered, bewildered.

    Except Sir, once again in a loud voice!

    Si..., Shion?!

    "Yes, you did very well!"

    Although Shion was not my real name, I was very proud.

    If he had a snack in his hand, he would have given it as a prize, but it''s just a pity that he doesn''t.

    Smiling brightly with a satisfied expression, in return, Serpense''s

    face darkened

    It is an expression of self-doubt and remorse without understanding the current situation.

    What the hell is this...

    I should have done this earlier! Isn''t it, Serpence? It feels like we''ve become really close now! Right, Serpense?

    Fuu һ. Just distinguish between public and private.

    I don''t care if you call me by name, regardless of construction.

    We will separate.

    Serpence seemed to have finally realized the truth of life that it is easier to give up.

    He let out a sigh with a blank expression on his face, as if he felt life was free.

    I''ve only just handed you my ID, but I''m already tired...

    "Okay, were you talking about that?"

    My reaction word 1 that I had forgotten about, Serpens smirked as if he didn''t even want to pray.

    "The departure is in three days. And "

    And?

    "Rebel , Shion?"

    Yep!

    get out.

    Serpence, who seemed to have completely lost his soul, could not speak any more. In the end, he kicked me out saying I''ll explain the details tomorrow.

    He didn''t know that the sound he heard when his name was called for the first time would become a blessing.

    * * *

    There are three main ways to get from the Holy Lumen Empire to the Bastul Kingdom, assuming that it does not go around far.

    divided

    Passing through the kingdom of Arke, a land of elves and a lush forest.

    Passing through the Terrarum Kingdom, a country of dwarves and mostly rugged mountain ranges.

    Or just passing through the Pelo Kingdom, one of the human countries.

    ''Isn''t it the same as deciding where to go?''

    If you choose the Arche Kingdom, you may get a lot of cooperation, but it is impossible for the forest-loving elves to cut down trees and lay railroads.

    The round trip takes too long.

    Terrarum Kingdom had to have a train passing through the tunnel, but there were sections that inevitably needed to be climbed.

    If not, I don''t want to spend days and days in a stuffy tunnel.

    ''Who knows that the original is not a general store, the racial characteristics are also typical!''

    Without a choice, it was decided to go through the Pelo Kingdom.

    It was a welcome thing.

    Where is the awe of Mother Nature?

    Two days, basically, humans are animals that crave play.

    Rather than a country of elves who live a quiet life or a country of dwarves where the whole nation beats iron, the country of humans must have many things to see and eat.

    In a large suitcase, I packed a bunch of tourist guides along with clothes.

    And the sling bag, which can be easily carried, was filled with Solertia''s scrolls.

    ''If you don''t know, should I keep a protective scroll in my arms?''

    It was very reassuring.

    I''m going to stick around to Serpens anyway, so I don''t think it''s going to be useless. Do you not know?

    If there is a battle, while Serpens and Eugenes fight, they should wait safely inside the shield.

    ''There was a sense of urgency, but Serpens also said that it was too early for actual combat... .''

    I glanced to the side and saw Serpens wearing thick black horn-rimmed glasses instead of the usual thin silver-rimmed glasses.

    The shape of the glasses frame also changed from a round shape to a square shape, so the impression was quite different, but I liked that.

    More annoying than that... .

    Why is it that color?

    "Isn''t that so inconsistent?"

    Being out on the platform waiting for the train, Serpens pretended to be naive and ran through his dark gray hair.

    ''The face is very likely, so what''s wrong with that face?''

    Yet, there is one reason why I am so uncomfortable.

    It was because Serpens''s hair, which had been dyed with the Demon King''s magic energy in the novel [Master of the Holy Sword], was that color.

    If there is one thing fortunately, unlike the original Serpens that even dyed their eyes black, the current Serpens are .

    ''Ah, this is confusing]! For convenience, the serpence in the original should be called a fall fence.

    Unlike the Corruption fence whose eyes were dyed black, his eyes were still bright green at present.

    When it comes to hair color, you have to hide your identity for a long time, so did you use a semi-permanent dye?

    There is a special magic reagent that removes color, and it is said that it can be dispelled by using it or by using a high-ranking nullifying spell.

    it is sheep

    Of course, it is also possible for Serpens to use their own divine power to push and release magic.

    Leaving aside this convenient thing, the reason Serpence has used the part-time system must be the sale and price issues.

    ''Aren''t you suspicious of buying expensive semi-permanent hair dye in bulk?''

    Even if I secretly buy it, that''s only once or twice.

    On the other hand, there are many people who use the part-time system as a way to change their mood, so there are many items for sale and there are active transactions. It has all three elements at an affordable price.

    ''It would have been better if I had used brown hair dye as usual.''

    Since Euges is planning to accompany him, he seems to want to avoid overlapping with the escort master''s version.

    I know the situation well, but for nothing, I felt confused.

    As he inadvertently touched the ends of his gray hair, Serpens lightly shook his head to retrieve the hair.

    Sorry...

    At the reflexive words, Serpens struggled to smile and blinked somewhere.

    Li turned on

    At the end of her gaze, there was an elf walking towards her with her long turquoise hair fluttering.

    Without a doubt, it''s Eugene.

 CH 69

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 69

    17. The Duke and the Beginning of the Journey (2)

    The figure of her walking with her long turquoise hair fluttering was exactly as described in the novel [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''I''m very well prepared.''

    Euges was wearing a clothing weir that looked good in activity so that he could shoot a bow while moving agile] and wearing a minimal piece of armor. There is also a long bow and arrowhead hanging from the back.

    There, it is close to the waist if you have a car

    A dagger is also attached so that it can be immortalized.

    In fact, it is almost completely armed.

    That''s not to say it''s excessive, but in this world, that''s probably normal. This is the ideal attire for the archer class that emphasizes mobility.

    ''Isn''t this one too poor for that?''

    not so poor The figure of us wearing only a single sword in ordinary travel outfits seemed quite helpless.

    Needless to say, it''s me, Serpence is a big gray robe.

    this hidden state.

    ''If you look at it that way, you usually wear several layers of clothes, so it''s difficult to accurately estimate... .''

    On the train going to and from the Duchy, I expected him to have a stout physique because he wore light clothes, but it is also subtle considering his strength.

    There are people who look thinner than they really are when they wear clothes. Is Serpence that way too?

    ''In addition to the pretty face and glasses.''

    At this point, I was aiming.

    When I asked why you were wearing glasses, be careful

    that''s what you wrote Just looking at his face, it looked like he couldn''t even wield a sword.

    It looks like this, but there''s nothing wrong with the armor. Even the sword hung from the waist was seen only for the purpose of equipping the assortment.

    �� If there are special things... .''

    My swordsmanship was so poor that it was literally useless in the sense that it didn''t matter if I didn''t use the Serpens sword.

    "Hey, that is that right?"

    Yes, that''s right. Long time no see.

    He approached me when he saw me standing next to him, but he seemed to be terrified to see Serpence, whose impression had changed considerably.

    Since he hadn''t given the pseudonym yet, Euges asked around, and Serpens confirmed him.

    After properly checking his face as he answered with a soft smile, she nodded her head and made a gesture that she recognized her.

    It would be better to go in and share the detailed story.

    By the time she reached us. Just in time, the train we were supposed to take also arrived1, let''s go in and talk

    decided to go

    I got on the train, checking the seat number on the train ticket I had cut in advance.

    " Isn''t it the wrong car for us?"

    There was a common passage in the center, and small rooms were located close to each other on the left and right. Judging from the distance between the doors, it didn''t seem like it would be that wide.

    ''I heard it was a first-class seat, right?''

    Me and Serpens chose a double room, why does it look so narrow?

    Incidentally, Eugene''s seat was in a different compartment as it was a personal first-class seat. When the train departs and the ticket is confirmed,

    During the day, they will come over to the Khan where we are.

    ''Even if it''s not as big as a special room, I thought I''d be able to secure a certain amount of space.''

    There was a big difference between using a whole column and sharing it with several people.

    Even though it looks like this, I wondered if the inside would be spacious, so when I opened it, it was even more spectacular.

    Since it was a long trip, there was a bed for a comfortable sleep, but the problem was that it was on the seat like a bunk bed.

    If you get up and make a mistake, it looks perfect for banging your head.

    ''Ah, that''s why Solertia confiscated her face and followed her to the special room!''

    she was wise Yeah, after all, magic isn''t for everyone!

    When it comes to magicians in the original fantasy world, they are a group of intelligent people who would be sad if they were the second to be smart.

    It was no different in [Master of the Holy Sword], which had a box office frame.

    Seats and tables facing each other in an area of a little over 1 pyeong. over your head to the bed.

    The wall to protect privacy caused rather crampedness.

    "Aren''t we supposed to just ride the train all the time?"

    Yes, in border areas, the trains are not connected. Even if that''s not the case, we''ll get off and rest in the middle, so you don''t have to worry too much.

    I''m glad if I had to go to the Bar Stool Kingdom to get stuck in a place like this, I might die of frustration.

    . .Ummm.

    I had to reserve the seat opposite for Eugenes, so Serpens gladly gave me a window seat.

    It wasn''t my intention, but in the end, good things are good.

    As we sat side by side waiting, the ticket-checking staff came and went, and Euges came in shortly thereafter.

    "Shall we talk a little bit now?"

    Euges now blocks the sound with a spirit as usual. Every time I look at it, I feel it, but it seems very convenient.

    Of course, I didn''t dare say it because I thought I would be baptized with criticism if I muttered about the spirits.

    "My name is Lydia Yuzas."

    Is it milk again?

    The turquoise eyelashes that slightly covered her yellow eyes are starting to look like yellow citron fruits and the leaves on their tops.

    ''Serpens, it was easy to build because of me . Eugene has a very good naming sense.''

    While I was thinking about this, Eugese checked the names on the two identification cards Serpens had handed out.

    "By the way, I didn''t even think about disguising myself because my face was not known except for the imperial capital. Would it be better for me to do something too?"

    "I did bring some spare hair dye.

    I, mostly dark, with low saturation... . I''ve heard that the majority of elves have green hair anyway, so I think it''ll be fine as is.

    The gray-haired elf stands out again. It just turns into a dark elf with a light skin color.

    In general, the elf''s hair color does not deviate much from the bright green color as Serpens said.

    As an exception, maybe blue or yellow? Even that was rare.

    "Duke, the color of his hair is so striking and his face is so well known, so it''s inevitable. Look at me.

    Are you the same as usual?"

    i See .

    After seeing the figure of Serpence in disguise, it seems that he was still concerned about it.

    After listening to my words, Euges didn''t move.

    According to the novel [Master of the Sacred Sword] author Fifiel, Euges is set to be a beautiful woman that stands out among elves.

    ''But at that level, Serpens in a lowered state will look like humans.''

    Elf known for being beautiful from birth

    A very pretty elf. And a pretty human at the level of a non-human, comparable to that of an elf.

    People''s perceptions of the two are different.

    Like a world based on a typical general store, all the elves were beautiful.

    However, there is no mention of a human male as beautiful as an elf anywhere in [Master of the Holy Sword]. No one possessed an appearance that could be compared to an angel like Serpence.

    ''In other words, a serpent is just a serpent to anyone who doesn''t know him... !''

    Of course, the color of the hair and the glasses

    Since the award was changed, it was okay to stand out among humans to be uniquely handsome.

    However, if you are traveling with an elf, and the crazy beauty that is comparable to that of the elf shines, then the problem begins.

    Rather, it was more natural now to keep Eugenes as it is, reduce the sanctity of Serpence and cover his face with thick glasses.

    ''Just in balance, you look like an ordinary elf and a handsome human! And I .''

    What is it? What does it look like?

    Why do I have to be here?

    While I was contemplating the meaning of existence myself, the conversation continued.

    In case you didn''t know, I bought a few illusion magic scrolls that can temporarily hide your ears...

    That''s enough. I think it''s good to use it when conducting an operation in the Barstool Kingdom.

    Serpence said it all in a stern voice, as if not to worry too much.

    Seeing that figure, who was the same person as the person who built the iron wall in a blunt tone?

    consider it as

    "More than that today, what is the concept of this trip?"

    Yes? A concept?

    "You''re carrying out a secret operation in alliance with the Arche Kingdom, aren''t you?"

    Eugene and Serpence to my question. They both looked at me with an expression that they did not understand English.

    '' Even if Eugene is like that, Serpent shouldn''t be like that, you bastard.

    Innocence and hypocrisy came out very breathably.

    All right, you don''t need it. This is how it came to be, this setting is done by me!

    Two humans and one elf walking together for no apparent reason. Isn''t it strange?

    So is he. also !

    Also, what did you want to say afterwards? The gaze of Yu-Jis, who looked up with his ears pricked up, was burdensome.

    Serpence, who was tied to the external setting, made an expression that listened intently as if wondering what I would say.

    But inside, he must have been extremely anxious.

    For now, the Duke and I are friends, so we''ll go to the Kingdom of Bastul for sightseeing! Now, since we''ve even brought a tour guide like this, no one will doubt it!

    You''re really thorough...! With underlined marks. It''s folded in some places and slightly tattered. It looks like you''ve been really excited about the trip!

    Looking at the guides I took out of my bag, Euges was in pure admiration. Serpens also looked up at them and pretended to admire them falsely.

    No, that''s amazing... When did something like this happen?

    second ,

    Serpense''s words are,

    ''When did you start planning to go out to play? Was it the purpose of travel in the first place?''

    It was the connotation of . If I think about the behavior patterns he has shown so far and what he usually thinks of me, this is 100%.

    you can be sure

    There''s also a 47% chance of adding to the suspicion, ''Isn''t it a lie that the demon worshiper''s scout said something like that?''

    Well then, I... I happened to get to know each other on the train, but just because we went to the same destination.... Is this not enough? Do you need a clearer purpose and detailed process?

    Since no one is going to dig that far, it doesn''t matter.

    Looking at Eugene''s burning enthusiasm, the future looks promising. Soon, she too will be reborn as a great setting worm.

    I and the Duke would call each other names and let go of words, wee Li .

    Yes?!

    As if he had heard something he shouldn''t have heard, Serpens was startled. I was so surprised, I even forgot my own settings and cut off my words.

    I understood the name. But... to put it down. What about each other?

    It''s just a setting, isn''t it? Of course, I can''t imagine that the Duke would do anything to anyone. That''s why it''s meaningful, isn''t it?

    As if it was quite natural, I laid it on the basic premise that I would use half-talk to him.

    In that remark, Eugene and Serpens

    The embarrassment disappeared from his face.

    In particular, Serpens smiled awkwardly, but it probably wouldn''t be the case.

    I have eyes to see, so I can''t go out openly, but let''s just leave it alone, and within a few days after I gave you your name, I was able to open my mouth.

    Even if it''s temporary, he''ll know better than I''m never going to finish it once and for all.

    Chi, friends... Even if we are friends, if we respect each other. I think we can use respect.

    Then why don''t you call me hyung? Am I one year older?

    Even if you use rum johndae... , Oh.

    Today I have to take a step back.

    Outwardly, he was expressing difficulties and difficulties, but his eyes looking at me were cold.

    If you go beyond this limit, no matter how much the country... .

    '' I don''t think it will be cut?''

    If he could cut me, I''m already out by the time my name is called.

    Instead, I don''t know what the consequences might be, so today is a strategic retreat.

 CH 70

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 70

    17. The Duke and the Beginning of the Journey (3)

    I think I was wrong. They are friends who respect each other through respectful words! They are incredibly cool, full of loyalty .

    Yes, I think so.

    As it happened often, Serpens, who quickly regained his composure, made up a friendly voice and answered.

    But Eugenes, the first to see me climb to Serpense,

    couldn''t He still opened his mouth with a puzzled expression on his face.

    Sir Rivelon is really good at her job... You seem to be good at it. It''s like that, isn''t it? One hundred per day?

    No matter who heard it, it meant, ''Otherwise, you can''t keep using him, right?'' No one answered her question.

    There was a small disagreement while establishing the relationship between me and Serpens, but the name of Eugenes was quickly sorted out. From the usual ''Wylydia-sama'', minus the stomach, to ''Lydia-sama''.

    Bona Mana Serpens, I don''t want to be called by a title that is similar to my real name

    I will stand, I... .

    ''If it wasn''t for Yuzu, of course I would have called him Yujisu... .''

    The yellow citron fruit kept rolling around in my head, so I couldn''t do it.

    "Then Percent-nim and Sion-nim? Can I call you like this?"

    Yeah, I guess that''s it.

    To reduce mistakes], we decided to use a pseudonym when we were alone during the business trip.

    I was able to call myself Serpens at the best, but I felt regretful that things happened like this.

    I''m ready to call him by my first name at any time, so for now it''s enough just to get used to him calling me by my first name.

    "Rather than that, I think we should talk about our upcoming schedule."

    Pushing the travel books on the table to one side, Serpens took out a map and unfolded it.

    At a glance, the travel route and the estimated duration of the process were displayed for easy understanding.

    "Isn''t this too tight?"

    It''s not something that has to be followed, so you can take it as a reference. You never know what kind of unexpected situation will happen.

    What makes it worthwhile is the setting that Serpens cannot be a person who sets a schedule in units of hours and whips them for being a little late.

    If it wasn''t for Eugenes, I would have moved according to that plan, even if there was a time when I was running while carrying me.

    ''If it''s not confirmed and there''s room in the schedule... .''

    He took the brochure that had been shoved to one side and unfolded it beside the map.

    I heard that demon worshipers were involved in the illegal arena of Bastul Kingdom.

    As if he didn''t notice my actions, Serpens naturally took his eyes off the table and asked Eugene a question.

    Rumors that you are looking for a person with a grudge against the continent and at the same time possessing power... It is.

    You two have arrived in that matter], I''ll have to get detailed information. For now,

    It seems difficult to plan things blindly."

    I''ve heard the information, but I''ve never been there before... Even though there''s no clear evidence, I didn''t know you''d be willing to join us.

    "No matter how small the spark, it is not to be missed. If demon worshipers really appear, there is no one better suited to dealing with them. If not, it is an illegal arena . When I think of those who are receiving it, my heart aches."

    As if I''m about to shed tears at any moment

    With a single expression, Serpens said pathetically.

    For this moment, his gray hair became colorless. Divinity and reverence emanated from him.

    Euges must have felt it too, and he sighed with a distressed expression on his face as he felt the guilt of deceiving such a saint.

    But I know that his expressions and lines are all acting.

    In making such a perfect adult gentleman, where is the sincerity?

    ''I know how he behaves when his emotions are very agitated.

    I know.''

    Seeing them spitting out lies without spitting on their lips makes it impossible to pray, but that makes it even more pitiful.

    It''s said that other people''s plagues are not as good as mine, but Serpens'' life is nothing compared to a cold.

    In the novel [Master of the Sacred Sword], it is probably because of this that Serpens can''t empathize with other people''s pain, and shows joy again whenever they suffer.

    To suffer from being forced into an unwanted fight.

    The life itself of a complete serpent

    Isn''t that an expression?

    ''At first, I was going to make him repent and convince him to help Humanus... .''

    If he doesn''t want to protect the continent himself, why don''t he just take him and hide with him?

    As a bonus, the final boss and one executive will be removed. I have done enough for my portion.

    " Zion?,,

    "Ah, yes! Serpens, no, Per what was it?"

    Percent.

    Serpens corrected the name with a gentle voice. ''I built it to make it easier to remember... .''

    "Yes, Percent! Well, why did you call me?"

    You suddenly became dazed, so I wonder where you''ve become uncomfortable...

    No, it''s okay. It''s a little sad to hear what you just said. So it''s just because I''ve been thinking a lot.

    When I tried to pass it off with an awkward smile, it seemed more suspicious.

    Serpens turned to the side, leaning halfway against the table, leaning his upper body at an angle in front of me.

    It looked as if he was trying to take a closer look at my complexion, but in reality, it was probably because he was trying to hide his expression from Eugenes on the other side.

    ''I guess that''s the reason. What else is this time? Was there anything strange in my words?''

    It was clear from the look on his face that seemed to say .

    I was as impressed by his words as Eugez was, and realized that I wasn''t pitying someone I didn''t even know.

    all.

    But even so, he is making a sad expression on his face.

    It is only natural at this point that the object of compassion is a serpent.

    ''Euges is in front of you, can''t you elaborate on that?''

    ''So I''m not doing this instead of asking myself right now.''

    ''If you know, get out of the way, I''ll give it to you later.''

    In the exchange of gazes, the conversation went roughly like this.

    I didn''t say it directly, so I said, ''I''m sure things like ''Woo-Ju-Ju'' wouldn''t have been conveyed. However, it seems to have succeeded in conveying the approximate meaning.

    Serpens made an undesirable expression on his face, then erased it, and straightened his body.

    " what did you two just do?"

    Eugene asked the question with a curious expression.

    They sat next to each other and looked at each other without a word in that posture, so if you saw her from the other side, you would wonder what the hell she was doing.

    "I just looked at my complexion for a while. That''s haha: We have to act together from now on, so I don''t think we can hide it forever. Sion?"

    Yes? Me?

    Would it be okay if I told Lydia about the situation as well?

    what are you talking about

    Serpens asked me with a slightly heavy expression.

    ''This bastard, are you planning to bring up your own story?''

    It''s unbelievable. It''s not the right time to talk like that.

    isn''t it?

    I don''t know why he suddenly made up his mind like this. I didn''t understand why they were asking for my permission.

    But I respect his promise.

    He cheered for him inwardly and nodded his head earnestly.

    He smiled slightly sadly and nodded.

    Shion seems like a bright and cheerful person on the surface... but he feels very cramped and insecure if he is confined in a small space for a long time.

    Yes? me? This is the story of the beginning of the golden hour.

    Of course, staying in a small space for a long time is frustrating, but it was just the level that ordinary people felt. Moreover, I do not feel any anxiety at all.

    ''Why are you telling such endless lies... ?''

    Alas, the permission he just asked for meant, ''Can I sell you some?'' I made a mistake.

    Since the previous situation was such an atmosphere, of course, I thought it was a story about myself.

    Somehow I said it was too absurd... .

    I can help with divine power, but he says he wants to overcome it himself... But even so, it''s inevitable that he''s worried. So I guess I overreacted a bit without realizing it. Even if it seemed strange, I understand.

    No! It''s not strange to be worried about someone close to you. Would I have acted the same if it were me? Sion, I''ll cheer for you too! Now that the important conversation is over, would you like to open the window? You must have been very frustrated...

    How can such an excuse come on the spot?

    can you come out with

    After falling into this world, I am also living a life of improvisation, but I really think he can''t win.

    ''By the way, did I really have to release it that way?''

    Look at Eugene''s restless face because he''s worried, won''t his conscience prick him?

    In her head, I''d be a kidnapped and imprisoned person to be sacrificed to the devil.

    Since I, with no force, could not have escaped alone, wouldn''t it have been added to the setting that I was able to escape through someone''s sacrifice?

    ''With such a background story, not only claustrophobia, but also the existing setting of secretly fighting demon worshipers in the dark can be covered under the guise of revenge.

    It was very plausible.

    I struggled alone like that, and the person I saved in the process was an unknown escort.

    I give my life and allegiance that was saved to me, the lifesaver. If I say that I am participating in the great will that I have... .

    ''All stories are naturally connected.

    Why did such a capable person show so much loyalty to me, who had no special abilities? And why was I so sensitive to my own safety?

    There is no clich�� like this. A very typical and banal story.

    However, since this works well, it exists as a clich��. will be used over and over again.

    "Now , now I understand. Why did Zion-sama show such an oddly light-hearted attitude . It will be okay in the future. People who care about Zion and want to help are

    So many ", suck !

    Did I ring this, or did the Serpense ring? Or should we see it as a collaboration between the two of us?

    I don''t know anymore either.

    He was restless as to how to calm her crying, so he took out a handkerchief as if Serpence had expected it.

    handing it to Eugenes,

    ''Is that again?''

    Tried a divine power scan.

    Thanks to that, Eugene was able to quickly find stability and wipe away his tears.

    just.

    ''Are you sure you want to check that? hey, maybe it won''t be yes no

    I felt very confused.

    Not a dark elf, just an elf. Besides, you''re still going to help us thwart the demon cult''s plans, but you still have doubts?

    ''Where is that normal human way of thinking?''

    If there is such a person, it must be mentally exhausted, ill, and lonely.

    luck , are you a serpent?

    Serpence said he did it out of a serpent heart, but I have to understand it, what should I do?

    ''Well, if I believed it, there would be no way that one person would have played two roles in the first place.''

    He patted him on the back lightly. At that, Serpens smiled as if saying he was okay

    It''s okay if you just tell me to stay away.

    He got up from his seat and paved the way.

    I guess I''m in a hurry to go to the bathroom

    seems to have been mistaken Or an extension of the claustrophobic setting.

    Considering the current situation, is it the latter?

    Reluctantly, I had to go back and forth through the passage.

 CH 71

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 71

    17. The Duke and the Beginning of the Journey (4)

    The train came to a complete stop.

    It''s finally land!

    Rather than feeling cramped, I was more than happy with the sense of stability that came from an unshakable land.

    If I wanted to sit for even a little longer, Serpens pretended to be worried and forced me to walk the aisle.

    As I keep walking in the shaking train, of course, motion sickness comes up.

    My complexion gradually turned white, and Yujisu looked at me pathetic.

    It''s rude to keep throwing sympathetic glances at people who are trying to overcome them. All you have to do is cheer for them. But suck.

    Hearing her murmuring voice, I felt remorse in my conscience even though it wasn''t a setting I made up.

    When I return to the Empire, I pretend to have overcome my claustrophobia and feel the need to prove my healthy mentality to her.

    It''s late today, so take a break and tomorrow

    Start right away in the morning... .

    Is that right?

    Serpence sent my eyes to see if there was anything wrong with my question, and Eugenes sent a glance to see if there was any problem even if I cut off the boss''s words like that.

    You''ve come all the way out, don''t you like to watch?

    You don''t know how much time you''re going to spend at your destination, so it''s best to keep your schedule as short as possible.

    Serpence, conscious of the passersby around, answered in a low voice.

    ''I''m not saying that because I don''t know that .''

    I know well enough why you have to hurry.

    The reason why demon worshipers do not know the exact time when they started paying attention to the Black Knight is the second reason.

    The reason Serpens should not leave the Empire for a long time. Similar, but strictly wrong.

    ''So far, Serpens have been taking care of quite a few things on their own... .''

    You must not depend on others to the end, and you must take the lead and make sacrifices above anyone else.

    It was the compulsion to do it.

    In the first place, Serpens has no doubts that he will become the master of the Holy Sword himself.

    Of course, he would have put in place measures for when he was away for a long time.

    If I were to become the master of the Holy Sword, I would have to travel all over the continent, but it was only about visiting the neighboring country.

    As an added bonus, the recent administrators were also elected, so it shouldn''t be a problem any more.

    The most important reason".

    ''As always, his fucking sword is the problem.

    There are few days left to choose.

    And the Great Hall, where the ceremonies were held, was located in the capital of the empire.

    If the schedule suggested by Serpens is followed, would it take a month or a day or two more in terms of the round trip period?

    Assuming that you spend about a week in the Bastul Kingdom, you only have 1 or 2 weeks until the day of your choice.

    ''Humanus will get it anyway, but if you don''t attend . Can''t we?''

    Sometimes getting off the train to rest

    This is the purpose of a transfer for the shortest route.

    Literally, it was enough to get out of the cramped interior and breathe until the train to change to arrived.

    ''It''s not that I want to go out and play while procrastinating.''

    Don''t be too greedy

    Wouldn''t it be okay if the unit was ''hours'' rather than ''day'' units?

    ''After getting off the train, can''t we just visit one of the city''s most famous tourist attractions or restaurants?''

    I have to go back as soon as possible anyway

    The reason for this is to prepare for the battle immediately after Serpens received the selection of the Holy Sword.

    ''But you don''t need that kind of preparation, do you?''

    The meaning of the time attack that does not happen is only the day of choice.

    But since I know who the chosen one is, it doesn''t really touch me.

    I wanted to fully enjoy this peaceful time by filling the schedule so that I could arrive one day before the day of choice.

    Especially in a case like today... .

    It doesn''t matter if you leave tomorrow morning. But if you go right in and take a break... I heard that the night market here is famous.

    It had absolutely nothing to do with the schedule.

    This is where we got off the train. The Marquis of Forma is located on the border with the Pelo Kingdom.

    For this reason, although the military vigilance was severe, on the other hand, trade was also actively taking place.

    Naturally, commerce is developing, and a night market is held every night.

    "Can''t we go in after playing for a bit?"

    If that''s the case, I think it would be better after you find an inn and unpack your luggage.

    It was only when I realized that my purpose had no effect on the schedule that Serpens smiled benevolently and granted permission.

    In fact, if he had even once paid attention to the tourist guide I had been pushing hard on the train, I would have noticed it right away].

    That was the moment when I knew I didn''t really care.

    You promised?! No frills?

    But what can I do, since I''m in Eul''s position.

    I''ll be staying until tomorrow morning, so it doesn''t matter if I just know the location of the dormitory and play alone... .

    ''Then the fun is halved, and the safety is also a concern... . Do you also want to give Serpens a variety of experiences?''

    what , roughly for that reason.

    Every time we went down to the duchy, we spent half a day wandering around together under the pretext of espionage.

    ''Still, meeting and playing with friends in the neighborhood near my house is completely different from playing while traveling!''

    Is it because of anticipation in advance that makes my heart excited?

    Even if you eat the same rice, it tastes better, and if you see something similar, it looks new for nothing. Isn''t it?

    ''After all, no matter where you play, what you end up doing is there.''

    Do you go to a meat restaurant near your house to grill pork belly or go to a campsite to grill it? It''s the same meat anyway, but it just tastes better.

    Even if you do the same thing, only the place will change, but it will remain a much more enjoyable and clear memory.

    Have you decided on the inn in advance? Here, according to this booklet, the breakfast at this house is said to be so delicious.

    "Hmm . Looking at the map, it seems to be this area. If Lydia-sama is okay with it, it would not be a bad idea to choose this place."

    Yes, I''m fine.

    I feel like I''m being compensated for the hardship I''ve suffered on the train for several days.

    Yes, despite the annoyance of this taste

    I''m going to play far away.

    Arriving at the inn, I and Serpens shared a double room and Eugese shared a single room.

    "Then, will you put down your luggage and leave right away?"

    Yes?

    Yes?

    The double room was on the 3rd floor and the single room was on the 2nd floor. When I go up to the second floor and say that to her, the reaction is that it is the first door.

    Come to think of it, I only thought about taking permission from Serpens, but I forgot to invite her. Because we are together, nature

    I decided we were going to play together.

    Shion-nim, weren''t you playing alone?

    Yes? No.

    But Percent-sama...

    Serpens was really missing. Somehow, it seemed that his hands had become lighter, and Serpens carried my luggage up without even a mouse or a bird.

    How the hell did you do it? .

    ''No, it''s too much?!''

    If you were going to play alone, Serpence

    He didn''t even tell me about a promise.

    Even if he didn''t understand, he promised not to soften. Using that as an excuse, I''ll have to climb up and pull him out as soon as I finish the conversation with Yuji Su.

    "Of course, I "

    I thought Euges was going to go see him after looking around instead of talking.''

    ''Oh right. Was there any setting that the escort master was secretly following you?''

    I shook my head to mean it wasn''t me.

    Incidentally, let''s open our mouth to say that we don''t have any plans to meet him during this schedule. Eugene awkwardly shouted ''Big! Hmm!'' and coughed in vain.

    "Are you still talking?"

    Three Lucent!

    "Yes? Why are you calling me so happy?"

    I thought I''d have to go and take it down myself.

    Euges is watching you, and you can''t get it out of your mouth. just said nothing.

    Now that I see it, I didn''t go to rest alone, but it seems that Eugese and I had left our luggage while we were talking.

    Lydia-sama... It seems like she wants to rest, so I don''t think it''s good to force it.

    Looking at Eugene still holding the bag, Serpens spoke to me with a stern tone.

    Yes? What am I?

    That''s right, Shion-sama didn''t do anything like that.

    "It''s okay, if you feel burdened, you can decline. How about going out now?

    It''s private, and it''s not planned... . You don''t have to look out for it or care about it.

    Serpense says with an expression full of regret... . Something is strange.

    Did Euges say no? no. I just misunderstood.

    I haven''t properly advised her yet, and she hasn''t responded to it either.

    Oh, no. It''s a burden or something...

    1 one S 1 one

    I''m sorry. It''s because I''m too soft.

    Eh, often this way to others... . As for Shion, I''m a good Tyler, so I''ll make sure this doesn''t happen in the future. Thank you for caring me. Now you can go in and rest."

    Yes? Ah..., yes. Then I''ll stop...

    Then I''ll see you tomorrow morning.

    At the look and tone of Serpense''s reverent expression, Eugene nodded as if possessed.

    Perhaps it was because of the fading of sanctity because of the gray hair color, ''This is not it... ?''

    Eventually, she quietly entered the room she was assigned to.

    '' This, was it deliberately removed?''

    Even if he had gone upstairs to drop off his luggage, he couldn''t have heard our conversation.

    I don''t know if it would have been if we had lowered our vigilance and completely turned off our attention. And it is safe to say that there is no possibility that Serpens did that at all.

    ''but. If you''re playing with friends, and you think there''s one person with an odd relationship... . Yes, it''s awkward and uncomfortable.''

    It will be especially true for those who are just learning about friendship. You probably won''t be able to enjoy it properly because you''re looking at her.

    Even so, he did not know that he could hit the iron wall even with the peacock version.

    Even because of his external image, it is his usual pattern to skip today and talk to me later... .

    ''for a moment. Eugene... . Because of the words he said in the dark, Serpens has a hairy coat of hats on it, right?!''

    At the time, Serpens''s face was obscured, so he couldn''t see it properly, but he was trembling.

    there was.

    Even after meeting Eugenes again at the imperial banquet, he acted so casually that he didn''t even notice.

    And since they casually conspired together, I completely forgot about it.

    ''By the way, he was the one who left a yangban like Hans by his side, wasn''t he?''

    Public and private affairs could not be clearly distinguished, so it was cut off altogether.

    "Hey, Serpens?"

    "Be careful with your name and let''s go out first. Were you expecting a lot?"

    Er, I don''t know!

    Just thinking about it makes my hands sweat. It''s like this for me, but Serpence would do it more.

    ''She''s just shy and imaginative. I know she''s an innocent and kind elf. So in my heart, I will cheer for you so that we can become friends.''

    i can''t seem to help

    If I have to side with either of them, it''s definitely Serpens.

    ''Euges was wrong, he was completely wrong.''

    Whether it''s a human or an elf, a single mistake can determine many things.

 CH 72

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 72

    17. The beginning of the journey with the Duke (5)

    As we approached the street where the night market was held, it was crowded with people.

    Various convenience stores are lined up along the roadside. From food and souvenirs to other daily necessities. there is nothing

    Now that I''m out here, let''s eat and start!

    "Are you eating again?"

    The time is 10 o''clock at night. It is the time when humans crave late-night food the most.

    I''ve never heard of such a thing.

    When the drip was blown with a serious expression, did you think it was a real story? Serpence showed serious concern.

    Either way, I took him to the nearest yakitori shop. I bought one spicy and one sweet.

    I brought snacks on the train and ate them... Then I might gain weight.

    "Where did I alone eat? The three of us ate equally?"

    If you just spread it out and eat it, you can serpen

    I was afraid that Suga would not be able to eat it, so I cut it into three exactly and placed it in front of each of them.

    "Besides, thanks to whom did I move the most on the train?"

    I''m glad it became a sport.

    The way he talks and smiles mischievously is very ironic. He was stopped from trying to transfer the spicy seasoning while pretending to toast with skewers for revenge.

    Instead, I bought a bottle of soda and toasted it.

    "By the way, Lydia-sama earlier. Did you do that on purpose?"

    Did you get a lot of tea?

    A little? As usual, it''s best to listen to both sides first, isn''t she? Is she very uncomfortable?

    Serpens, who had hesitated a little, nodded slightly.

    "Do you have any dislikes too?"

    There was a slight hint of guilt on his face when he asked that question.

    Who would treat everyone in the world only with love and affection? There''s a lot to be sorry about.

    Even the wind that blows on the leaves

    I am inclined to do it with Law.

    "Of course there is. No, you already know one, right?"

    " Well?

    Hansmal. You clearly saw the fussing. What kind of question do you call such a question?

    "Ah that''s right. Even though I know it, I can''t quite imagine how reluctant you are and hate someone."

    If that''s possible, where would anyone be?

    Don''t say anything rude, and hit the bottle once again, meaning to drink or drink. A clear and ''clear'' sound is crying

    to spread

    ''It doesn''t taste good, but the bottle is pretty, isn''t it?''

    When I said that the amount was too expensive for a subject, it was like putting a drink in the bottle to prove that it does not leak while selling.

    It should be kept as a souvenir.

    One more thing, I have a question for you.

    Lots of questions today.

    Usually, there are a lot of things I don''t know, so I asked him about this and that, and he told me.

    Ask as much as you like. I can''t answer.

    I''ll answer everything except that.

    "Why did you do that on the train a few days ago?"

    If anything that happened on the train, Serpence would ask you about it. was it at that time?

    Occasionally I would look at him with pitying eyes. Seeing the questions asked like this, it seems that there is really no point to point out this time alone.

    "Is that also related to information that cannot be said right away?"

    No. I''m just being forced to fight something I don''t want.

    Looks like I do... Ha, that''s right.

    He was about to ask a question with a bewildered expression, but he stopped and blew himself up.

    You spit it out yourself, and you didn''t even know it was me. It''s really stupid.

    Will you please stop cursing my boss?

    You can''t take it off.

    Originally, subordinates are laws that exist in order to discredit the boss.

    He''s a guy who will dig down endlessly once he starts to get depressed, so ''Serpence Pre-Flight Syndrome'' will develop.

    I''ll have to pull it out first and start over.

    "Coming back to the point. Defining oneself is difficult for anyone. If you force it, you can pull it out, but it will be full of distorted or missing parts. It''s like asking for advice.

    It is not for nothing that the clich��s of experiencing one''s unconscious or traumatic ordeal and awakening through it in various novels are rampant.

    Humanus also in [Master of the Holy Sword]

    It happened to me, so I said it all.

    "You sometimes you wonder why you usually act like that.

    It''s said that if someone who doesn''t normally show an unexpected side from time to time, gets a much more positive evaluation, isn''t it? Everything is planned!

    Lies.

    That''s right. I''m just living impulsively from time to time. I got the answer right, so I got something... .

    Ah, that''s right! I promised to do it, but I forgot!

    "I have no memory of receiving such a promise!"

    He looks at me with contemptuous eyes. Also, it seems that the U-Ju-Ju was not delivered.

    But what I''m going to do is, can I buy you a box of candy and give it to you?

    Finally. Is there anything else I''ve been worried about since before, can I ask?

    You''ve already asked a lot of questions. Do whatever you want.

    " why are you holding my hair?"

    I ask too early. of another question

    Have you been pushed out of your priorities?

    Ever since he asked me who I didn''t like with a guilty expression, I''ve been holding on to it.

    Escape collar...? The grip is very good. Where do you sell these?

    "Are you crazy at last?"

    No, who the hell taught my child such radical language?!

    It seems that he has developed a bad language habit by constantly wandering around in the dark.

    Serpent asked anything he wanted to ask

    Well, he pulled his hair out of my hand.

    "Would you like to see more?"

    Are you just going to buy some snacks that you can eat as a snack? Since you have all three mouths to eat, it''s going to go down quickly.

    I said this, but I couldn''t do it my way.

    In the end, I put only this in my mouth, watched and played hard. It was only when the stores were closed one by one, that I returned to the inn with regrets behind.

    * * *

    I fell asleep late in the morning, but the departure time was not delayed. I woke up early in the morning, ate breakfast in the middle of the night, and got on a street carriage.

    "Did you have fun yesterday?"

    Of course! There''s a lot of excitement here and there, so I''m excited too.... Eating delicious food, watching. It was so much fun!

    You did. I guess I meant to go with you.

    We''ll have another chance later.

    ...Perhaps?

    I''m sorry for Eugene, who shows a slight regret, but I can''t give you a definitive answer.

    I believe that one day she will be able to work hard.

    Even after 10 years have passed, Humanus is still the same, but Euges knows the escort master''s side... . Wouldn''t that be a bit more advantageous?

    If you go out of town, you''ll be riding horses instead of horses. Are you two okay?

    Yeah, I''m fine.

    "Do you think it will be okay to some extent?"

    His gaze flew and focused on whether there were any such answers.

    ''But I don''t know if it''s really okay, what do I say!''

    In fact, Serpense''s question is nothing more than a courtesy. This is my next schedule, so I''m telling you to remember it.

    Eugene, the number of years we have lived is several times longer than ours, and since he was an elf, a friend of plants and animals, there is no need to ask.

    Shion, the second son of the noble family, is also

    He must have judged that he had learned horseback riding as an enemy.

    yes i learned Not me, but Zion.''

    There is no way an ordinary modern person can ride a horse. It was too vague to say that I couldn''t ride.

    The question of getting suspicious doesn''t make any sense anymore, so put it aside.

    ''There''s nothing wrong with talking, wouldn''t it be okay to ride a horse?''

    Of course, this was not what he meant

    Should I call it a memory left in my body?

    I wondered if the unconscious realm would react to it, and I put my hopes on Shion''s body.

    How much do you mean...?

    Isn''t it possible to walk enough?

    You don''t have a problem with your motor nerves, so why..., ah. You shouldn''t have sent anything else, but a horse...

    There are no horses in the Rivelon, so do you know that I didn''t learn to ride a horse properly? Although I have always said that I am a family member of a very small family, my name is the Countess of the Empire.

    It doesn''t make sense to say nothing... . Words

    Let''s stop joking around now.

    It''s not like that! It''s just that I''m not interested in horseback riding.

    "Ummm if you had told me beforehand, I would have taught you."

    I also thought that I would never be able to ride a horse myself, so I just left it alone.

    ''If you can''t ride a horse, you can ride a wagon, and if you can''t ride a wagon, you can ride a serpent, right?''

    Just like the day I went to the dark side, there was a way to get to him if I could, so I completely stopped thinking about learning.

    But after I get back to this, I''ll have to learn it properly from Serpens.

    I learned the truth of life that it is better to learn in advance and have nothing to write than to not be able to do anything when it comes to life.

    I can''t run a horse in the city anyway, so I''m riding a wagon. When I get out and ride a horse, I plan to mobilize my divine power.

    For some reason, I thought that the estimated consumption time indicated by Serpence was too small, based on the distance on the map.

    It was simply that the accumulation was wrong, or I did not understand the speed of the horse properly.

    I thought it was my fault

    But you will actually experience the madness of running with buffs on your horse.

    ''I''m in disguise, but now Serpens was the duke''s version, wasn''t it?''

    Naturally, he had to expect that he would overuse his divine power.

    "Your riding skills must have been so clumsy .

    Sa, please save me!

    It wasn''t enough to say it was serious, but Serpence was seriously thinking about it.

    was on the way.

    But when he asked me to spare my life, he reflexively burst out a low-pitched laugh and opened his mouth.

    I can''t let you die, can I?

    The answer has changed.

    ''Why am I killing my aide?'' was the sequence. I could even feel the former Yul.

    ''Is this the reward of raising a child!''

    I swam to my heart''s content in the unexpectedly unfolding sea of emotion.

    ''Everyone, look! This is my child!''

    An ugly (twenty) four-year-old kid who spent a lot of time on a fictitious day and pushed him away with only shouting, ''No!'' and ''Go away!''!

    When he grew up like this, he declared filial piety, saying, ''I will live with you from now on.''

    Then I''ll just buy two horses. You and I will ride together.... Can I leave our luggage with Lydia-sama''s horse?

    Yes, leave it to me!

    Euges replied willingly.

    After all, the load was very heavy. In [Master of the Holy Sword], Humanus and the group used something like a subspace pocket like a general store... .

    The problem is that this is a technology from several hundred years ago, but there was a setting that it was lost due to a problem inside the tower.

    Nevertheless, Humanus was able to obtain the subspace pocket.

    ''It''s a giyeon like a general store, well.''

    I found it by chance at a secret base in Daedo, which suddenly disappeared hundreds of years ago.

    I remember that it was full of all kinds of treasures other than the subspace pockets, and I sold them and used them as funds for activities.

    Thanks to this, there was no shortage of money even in a situation where there was no support.

    ''Isn''t that a no-no now?''

    As long as Serpens does not interfere, there is no way to spare financial support for Humanus, the prince and the owner of the Holy Sword in the Empire.

    I turned my gaze to Serpens sitting next to me, and he looked at me with an expression that asked if he had anything more to say.

    ''I have a debt to repay to this guy .''

    It''s not a psychological metaphor, it''s a real debt.

    It''s a place full of traps, so I don''t think I can go to sleep alone, so I''ll have to ask them to go to prison later on the condition of sharing the stake.

 CH 73

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 73

    The Duke and the Arena (1)

    Finally, we arrived at the final destination, Count Richard of the Kingdom of Bastul.

    "After all, train operation must be held no matter what!"

    At my endless words, as always, Serpens ignored them with a gentle smile.

    That''s what it looks like on the surface.

    Seeing a sharp gleam in his eyes,

    ''What does that mean? someday on the train

    Will there be a situation where the service is suspended?''

    You seem to be spinning your head while thinking the same thing as . I''ll have to be careful.

    On the other hand, Eugenes could not contain his regret.

    Perhaps because of the fear of closure, he thought I had lost my mind.

    I''m saying this because I think it''s much better to ride a train than to ride a horse, even though it''s completely blocked off. When I think about it that way, it doesn''t feel cramped even in a small place. It doesn''t seem like anything anymore.

    Ah..., you almost fell off the horse.

    I don''t think I''ll have to walk the aisle on the train when I go back.

    It was a ''burn'' to fall, not a real fall, so I was able to safely avoid setting up a new phobia.

    For reference, the reason he almost fell off the horse was because he lost his hand holding Serpence while hanging on the back of him.

    ''Did you fly in the air for a moment?''

    Just thinking about it was terrifying.

    It happened so quickly.

    When I woke up, Serpens had already grabbed my arm. And at about the same time, Eugenes summoned the spirit and lifted my body with the wind.

    In the end, Serpens pulled out his arm and sat me in front of him.

    ''Yeah, it''s safer for a serpent to catch me than it is for me!''

    Realizing the importance of seat belts, he gave him the nickname Serbelt in his heart.

    It was right after I almost fell, so at first I was nervous and stiff without realizing it.

    However, thanks to the reliable Servelt, I was able to restore my stability and surrender myself comfortably.

    Thanks to that, riding a horse was not scary or uncomfortable.

    ''It''s just that I don''t want to ride that long.''

    It''s only been a day or two like this time, I''m not sure.

    But it is very boring to just sit and do nothing for a long time.

    I wasn''t making fun of the two of them who drove their horses hard, and I couldn''t even try to talk freely.

    First of all, we''ll unpack today and figure out how to enter the arena.

    I know. Shall I go and buy a ticket?

    She knew even the win rate of a gladiator.

    It''s like how to buy an admission ticket, of course you''ve figured it out.

    But what does it mean to speak plainly as if you were going to buy a movie ticket?

    Um... I don''t know how long it will take, so I''d rather keep the ''that'' scroll, so I''ll go. Just tell me how.

    The ''that'' scroll that Serpens spoke of here means that it contains magic that can hide Eugene''s long ears.

    It''s a waste to spend it just to buy a ticket.

    As soon as he got to the inn, Serpens heard the method from Eugene and went out alone.

    It went well. Percent-nim continued to keep his seat, so what did I do?

    Yes?

    Shortly after he went out, Eugese came over and made an incomprehensible noise.

    "What is our plan?" Come to think of it, I didn''t talk about how to rob the Hakkigi.

    Destroy the arena itself, or bring it out.

    ''And first, we should listen to the past and check if the article is correct, right?''

    According to Eugenes, it seems it''s been months since he rolled in the arena.

    If he was the Black Knight, wouldn''t he be sharpening his teeth in a burning desire for revenge?

    ''They''re trying to kill So Young-joo and his fellow knight, who sold him... .''

    If you let it go, it seems like you''ll be hired by the demon worshipers again.

    Would the words make sense against him, who would have turned his eyes upside down in the face of evil? Attempts to persuade are possible only through dialogue.

    ''If you can bring him to our side, that would be the best.''

    If that is not possible, it would be nice if even the poison could be omitted so as not to fall into the devil worship forces.

    Serpens, he''s a careful guy, so he could have spent time roasting it, but... .

    Wait, Serpens?

    Serpens said, ''I forgive your sins.'' , and spurt out a divine brilliance! Wouldn''t he too be moved to repentance with tears in his eyes?

    I''m sorry, I didn''t quite understand what you were talking about.

    It''s like an artificial intelligence-like answer somewhere.

    As the time we spent together on the train increased, Eugenes, who was very accommodating to my nonsense at first, also changed like this.

    After saving him, Serpence will tell the reporter.

    "Doesn''t he know the exact circumstances?

    Will you try to convince me?"

    Don''t worry. You''re not the kind of person who just sees a sad and pitiful person and ignores them. When you hear the story, they will comfort you well. If you don''t feel any emotion at all, it''s even weirder!

    You must have respected him.

    No, did I say that I was disrespectful for that?

    They just treated him comfortably as a friend, but in this society, the walls of status are too high and thick.

    ''This is why Humanus must have entered the best friend mode alone with Serpens.''

    It is a bleak society to say that you have to make friends according to the conditions.

    I thought that when we stood in front and drew attention, Sion-nim''s escort secretly took him away. Oh, that''s right! As a reverse scout, I thought you were creating a force working in the shadows with us.

    Even today, it seems that the delusional circuit in Eugene''s head is working hard.

    If only I could get into her head, I''d disintegrate that secret society.

    It seems you wanted to make a reliable companion for the next holy sword owner.

    As if admiring my ability to look ahead a few numbers, Eugenes said with his eyes shining.

    Such respect was not appreciated at all.

    Beyond that, the words ''No, this is the devil!'' came out of nowhere.

    ''Why the hell is everyone so anxious that they can''t give our kids a fucking sword!''

    Let''s compare it to those who hand over everything to the master of the holy sword and let go of their hands.

    Her idea of secretly helping her by growing her power in the dark was very peculiar.

    ''Still, I can''t use the first sword.''

    Whether Serpens will join in the salvation of the continent or not. It is a matter of his own will, and he must not be driven by coercion and responsibility.

    Since it is a continent where we live together, the idea that we should all work together has not changed.

    Serpence deserves to choose it for himself. He has the right to be compensated for his past.

    ''Isn''t that going to change the selection result of the first sword?''

    Both of you hand over the sword to Serpens, so these doubts also rise.

    If you don''t hand over the first sword to him, the continent becomes a sea of blood, but just giving it to him makes his mental state unstable, so he''s worried about that.

    So the god Luxmea was planning to put me here and make him heal his mind, and then give him a spear sword.

    ''Eh, ah. no way .''

    If he had a conscience, he wouldn''t do such a thing.

    Even if such a plan was made, new looks

    Mea would be better off fixing it right away.

    If at least one of the first swords was handed to Serpens, I would .

    ''Yes. God Luxmea means trash, and I will call it New Luxmea!''

    It was a very timid rebellion, but there was nothing I could do about it.

    "The choice of the Holy Sword has not been made yet, so why is it that everyone thinks it is a final decision No, it is not."

    It seems that I made a mistake in my words again because I was crying without realizing it.

    If you hear something like this, you''ll find it strange to say something like that.

    " Ah. Come to think of it, I never doubted that."

    " Yes?

    Yes?

    With his eyes twitching, Eugenes expressed his doubts as if there was something wrong.

    Ah, no . If you were to say something like this, I knew you would say something so you shouldn''t say it for granted.

    "Isn''t that so? The choice of the Holy Sword is coming soon, so it''s a question you''re likely to have at least once.

    I think-

    uh ?"

    Hey, it''s not humans who choose, but God Luxmea, aren''t you? Trying to judge God''s will.

    Yeah, that''s right! It''s God''s will to make the choice, so we shouldn''t let the answers come our way!

    Is it because she''s an elf? I didn''t know that I would break the wall of prejudice so easily just by asking a small question.

    choice day.

    People in that place are narrow-minded

    Instead of blaming Serpense in this way, if they reflected on their mistakes like Eugenes now.

    If that was the case, Serpence would be caught in the fear derived from the past. Because of that, there was no need to point a sword at the continent.

    Sion-sama is a devout believer who truly believes in God Luxmea. Without some faith, he would not have had such a doubt. May God Luxmea-sama''s protection always be with Zion...

    Eugene said reverently in a prayerful posture.

    However, it was only a few minutes ago that the god Luxmea was called Luxrek''a. If I am a devout believer, then the demon worshipers are also followers of the god Luxmea.

    "Go, thank you ."

    It seems that Euges is an ardent follower of the god Luxmea.

    I''ll have to take special care not to accidentally put the word Luxrek''a in my mouth.

    You might hand me over to the Heretic Inquisitor right away.

    ''Come to think of it, is it a pointless statement to be mistaken for a demon worshiper?''

    What''s more, from [Master of the Holy Sword]

    Even the demon worshipers did not call the god Luxmea that way.

    Although the preceding ''god was often omitted, it was not called as Luxreek, or (etc.) God Luxmea.

    '' what is this? Am I the only one who is profane?'' I have no intention of swearing at other people''s religion, but I can''t help it. God Luxmea doesn''t feel like a ''god'' to me.

    What was the reaction in the comment window when they saw Serpens using divine power and slicing humans in [Master of the Holy Sword]?

    [Me Luxme a Trolling Gaeji Neck]

    =1 ��Ĥ�]

    [In front of the new Luxmea, the word ''back'' is silenced. It''s true, I hacked the writer''s computer and checked the original text!]

    The most memorable ones were roughly like this.

    But now, isn''t it more ridiculous to fear and admire the god Luxmea?

    It would have been the same if it was not me, but someone else possessed.

 CH 74

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 74

    18. The Duke and the Arena (2)

    The arena is held every three days, and the match was scheduled on the day of arrival.

    By the time Serpence got his ticket and arrived at the inn, there were already over two hours left until the game started.

    If we miss today, it''s like wasting three days without moving, so we headed to the arena in a hurry.

    ''Phew~. Fortunately, it''s not too late... :

    I narrowly entered the arena with 5 minutes left before entering the arena.

    We put on black masks on our faces and took our seats in the grandstand. This mask was provided by the arena and is not optional, but mandatory.

    Everywhere I looked, people in the same black mask were swarming.

    ''Even the darkest of the Empire did not seek anonymity so far. Well, it''s inexhaustible.''

    The smooth mask with no features covered the entire face.

    Thanks to this, we were able to naturally hide the bouncing faces of Serpens and Eugenes, so is this a good thing for us?

    "The signboard of the arena is ''Black Fighter''. He is wearing an iron helmet painted black with a large body that is about 2m tall, and his main weapon is a deformed sword with a saw blade-like shape ., ''

    Eugese, who hid his ears with the power of the scroll and dyed his hair with the dye he received from Serpens, smirked at me and continued his explanation.

    Secretly, our goal would be to inform the ''black fighter''.

    Even with the modifier ''black'', specific figures did not appear, but it was described that the height of the Black Knight was considerable.

    there was

    ''I think I''ve found it almost right?''

    If there is one problem, I remember that I used an ordinary greatsword, not this kind of bad weapon.

    '' A really crazy idea. Maybe he purposely gave me such a weapon to excite the audience.''

    Those who came to see that crazy scene.

    Even though the host has just appeared, the audience is already booing and shouting to fight and kill.

    Under these circumstances, there could be some kind of consideration for a gladiator to choose a weapon he has mastered.

    I think it''s going to be a more brutal scene than I thought. If you''re having a hard time, leave this to me.... You and Lydia-sama can investigate another place.

    Serpens spoke in a voice so low that even me standing right next to it could barely hear it.

    The horse is a research paper, the actual work will be infiltration.

    I''ll stay here. It seems like it''s only going to get in the way...

    It would be helpful to just stay here. No, would it have been better to wait at the inn at all?

    Even if I look at his appearance and fight, I can''t tell if he''s a black knight or not. I came out in a hurry, so I unintentionally followed and threw it away.

    Are you okay, Percent-sama?

    " it will be fine."

    To Eugene''s question, Serpence deliberately responded a bit late. If it wasn''t for the mask, it was faintly like it would break. With a bitter smile, it must have maximized the vagueness.

    Eusis pondered for a moment at his words, and remained seated without saying a word.

    - The first match was easy... If you start, many people will be disappointed, right? Heh heh heh! do not worry! Our arena is a high-level arena with many high-level players! I am confident that the entire game will not be lacking to satisfy the needs of the audience!

    Is it an amplification effect using magic?

    In order to see the arena wide

    Even though I was leaning against the wall behind me, I could hear the presenter''s voice clearly.

    As soon as his words were finished, the black fighters were chanting here and there. Oh no, he''s still a star with a winning streak. Liga to appear from the beginning... .

    - Oh my, everyone wants it like this! How could you not respond to it?

    I don''t know what it is in English, but I''m glad... are you?

    The one we need to check is ''There is only one black fighter.

    I didn''t want to stay long in a place like this, overflowing with strange aspirations and twisted madness.

    ''Should I go back after his battle is over? .''

    The moderator called.

    A large man who appeared to be a black fighter and a man who looked infinitely dwarf compared to him entered the arena.

    Fight!!

    Kill!!

    Leave the arena, a loud cry

    rang

    With him as a starting point, the black knight jumped out without the host announcing the start of the match.

    It''s not a lie that he''s been rolling in the arena for months, it''s like he''s going to cut off his head before his opponent can react.

    However, the opponent sprints to the side to avoid him.

    Whether the moderator''s remarks about high-level talents were nonsense, from my point of view, both sides seem to have considerable capabilities.

    ''The black projection is too large,

    Did he just look dwarfed?''

    It was the opposite of the physical appearance that was unfolded. The black fighter competed with skill, and the opposing gladiator pushed him with force.

    His power is so strong that whenever he collides with his weapon, the black warrior''s upper body staggers.

    Uuuuu-I''m cowardly!!

    Unlike the Black Knight, which was described as being subversive and using swordsmanship that relied on instinct, it was passive and thoroughly calculated. A black fighter with minimal movement.

    His actions were booed.

    all.

    If I''m not mistaken, now the author seems to be arranging stamina.

    That''s right. This arena is basically a five-game winning streak system, so it''s probably prepared for the rest of the battle.

    Somehow, when I said that the first edition was released, it seems that they were planning to eat the last sweet water.

    While listening to their conversation, I looked away for a moment, and a shout of "Wow!" erupted. He reflexively turned his gaze towards the arena.

    Victory and defeat were divided.

    The sword of the black warrior ripped the opponent''s neck, that one.

    For the moment, I am grateful that Zion is an ordinary human with no abilities.

    Unless you use an instrument such as a telescope, you cannot clearly see the stadium in the distance with the naked eye.

    Nevertheless, it was hard to see any more, so I turned my gaze to the side.

    I can only judge the approximate situation

    Contrary to this, the two next to each other must have witnessed the brutal scene raw.

    ''Serpence seems to be calm, and I don''t know about Yujisu... because of the mask;

    Unlike Serpense, who was able to grasp a little bit, Eugenes will have to wait a little longer to find out.

    ''Still, it won''t be the first time I''ve seen a person die, so I wouldn''t have been shocked... ?''

    The match continued.

    As the battle went on, the wounds on the body of the black warrior increased, and he gradually got tired.

    The more he did, the more desperate his sword grew. In the end, only evil remains, relying on instinct and barely getting through.

    In the end, the appearance of howling and howling was no different from that of a single beast.

    When the audience sees it, they go crazy, and they say kill it quickly. Or, die.

    spit out nasty remarks.

    ''Maybe ''a fighter is... . Didn''t you mean ''fighting and dying'', not ''fighting person (�^ʿ)''?''

    The black fighter struggles with the last opponent

    breathed out, and fell to the floor like a puppet whose thread had been cut.

    Perhaps he was feeling a sense of relief that he survived today, and he burst into madness.

    On the faces of those who watched it, a black mask with no emotion, which contradicted the clamor full of murderous intent, took the place of their expressions.

    ''That''s why I gave you the mask.''

    The significance of the mask was not to guarantee anonymity.

    To avoid seeing other people''s faces distorted by madness. As the audience projects themselves into it, their own ugly

    Prevent yourself from becoming aware of your appearance.

    It was to make them gradually addicted to madness.

    * * *

    Eugene and I, both were not feeling very well, so we had to return to the inn immediately.

    Serpence was making up a face of wretchedness, but inside, he seemed to have lost his mind.

    ''Is it because I refused the Serppens-approved tranquilizer?''

    His offer was rejected by Eugenes as well.

    She shook her head, saying that she was only surprised by the cruelty beyond imagination, and said that this was okay.

    '' Yes, this is normal.''

    I want to hold onto the serpents right now and give them some kind of admonition, but I don''t have the strength to do that right now.

    ''I''ll tell you later, when I can afford it.

    As soon as he left the arena, he vomited a few times.

    Even then, the appearance of the stadium properly

    Thanks to not seeing it, I was barely able to survive.

    In that space full of murderous intent and madness, if you could clearly see the scene where blood and flesh spattered.

    He must have cleared his stomach on the spot.

    ''This really isn''t where I used to live.''

    I realized again.

    How many times would an ordinary modern person be exposed to a lot of malice?

    Congrats on the table from exhaustion

    stretched out

    ''It''s not that I''ve been blindly believing in the sex theory, but... .''

    Basically, he believed that he was born with a certain amount of good heart.

    However, when I think of the scene I saw today, it was enough to put more weight on the vocal rumors.

    If the Black Warrior was the same person as the Black Knight, it would be worth turning his back on the humans of the continent.

    If humans and demons felt equally ''evil''. Being attached to a demon formation that can even take revenge is understandable.

    As soon as you saw someone die, I thought you''d run to the rescue right away.

    Eugese glanced at Serpens and opened the door.

    Come to think of it, she had a serpence talkin'' about not compromising with evil

    Is this a setting error?

    I could feel the energy of black magic from them. It was a very small amount, but it is certain.

    Well, if that''s the reason, even if you let them die... .

    No, really?

    He raised his upper body, which had been hanging on the table, to face Serpent directly.

    "Have you found any evidence that demon worshipers have already appeared !?"

    Serpens did not even know about the Black Knight, and only heard rumors that demon worshipers might be related to the arena.

    I couldn''t help but ask questions like, ''Isn''t the time to be here already?''

    He came to his senses and spoke quickly.

    Serpens nodded his head in the double meaning of affirming my words and telling us to be more careful in the future.

    ''There''s no way Serpens would talk like that in vain.''

    Already demon worshipers are black fighters. No, did you approach the Black Knight? Or have you just arrived for that?

    Yeah. They seem to be interested in something called the Black Fighter.

    "Then, has he already fallen to the demon cult?"

    To Eugenes who asked in an impatient voice, Serpens shook his head with a pitiful expression.

    I''ll have to check it a little closer to be sure...

    Serpens, who seemed to be contemplating whether or not to open his mouth again and again, spoke after a long deliberation.

    I wonder if the demon cult is deliberately pushing the black fighter to the limit...

    Serpent has since expressed his opinion.

    To support this, several cardiograms were presented.

    That the movements of the humans against the Black Warrior could never be seen in their physical condition, or that their technique was too low compared to their physical abilities.

    Did you lose control of your power and seemed to be swayed by it?

    Also, that there was no fear of death in them at all.

    "Above all it is impossible to save five gladiators every three days with such physical strength.

    all.

    In other words, it meant that all the people the black fighter faced were forcibly strengthened by black magic.

    Does that mean he''s deliberately growing him out of the devil worshipers...? ?

    In response to Eugene''s cautious question, Serpence nodded with a sad expression on his face.

    That''s what I mean.

    ''Are you saying that the real target of revenge for the Black Knight wasn''t the humans of the continent, but the demon worshipers?''

    They were waiting for the Black Knight to become even more desperate, succumb to evil, and lose his mind.

    At the same time, by forcing a battle between life and death so that he can transcend his physical limits. I was ''bringing'' him.

    ''They worshiped the devil .''

    What makes them different from the devil soon?

    The horse was an officer, after all he was nothing more than a puppet prepared by the demon worshipers.

    Without knowing such truth, the mother of the continent

    Show hostility to all mankind.

    Becoming a knight to protect those who deceived him, he raised his sword.

    It''s like the author of this damn [Master of the Holy Sword]!''

    Of course, the story behind all the villains cannot be included in the novel.

    Even the story of the final boss, Corruption Fence, was all he had left behind as he died.

    It is strange to assign more pages to the Black Knight, who is only one of the executives.

    ''Even so... .''

    If someone asks me what I would do if I could go back to my original world for just one day.

    I will definitely find the author of [Master of the Holy Sword] and answer that I will slap the Myungchi very hard.

 CH 75

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 75

    18. The Duke and the Arena (3)

    Serpens was in charge of tracking the energy of black magic, and Eugenes was in charge of infiltrating the arena and investigating the internal structure and documents.

    And I".

    Now what?

    He was left alone in the inn room.

    Serpence said that he had to pursue it before the power of black magic disappeared, and went out before dawn.

    And a little later in the evening

    As the sun went down, Eugenes came briefly before leaving.

    Would you like to make contact with the black fighter in advance?

    No, it happened yesterday. I don''t think we''ll be able to talk right now.

    This time, it seems that the black fighter will need the divine power of Serpens.

    ''Whether it''s a physical wound or a mental wound... .''

    The divine power has the ability to stabilize the mind. And that''s why it''s a high-level technology.

    Don''t overdo it, but maybe it wasn''t to strengthen the spirits of those who collapsed in an impossible way.

    Also, due to the presence of black magic, in fact, the ''black fighter = black knight'' became certain.

    After that, there was no need to meet until soon after I became a burden.

    As if understanding, Euges nodded and headed for the arena secretly.

    ''Would you like to go out for a little while to refresh yourself?''

    I''m only in the room, I''m so depressed

    feel like losing

    The guards are also roaming around, so I wondered if there was anything wrong, so I went out with only a bag and a wallet with a scroll.

    After not being pressed for time in a long time, going out alone and enjoying the breeze, the sight I saw yesterday felt like a terrible nightmare.

    Isn''t that very wrong?

    It seems that I suffered from nightmares all night last night.

    Yeah. My spirit, I have to take care of it...

    I don''t plan on completely burying it, but I''ll be depressed by it forever.

    couldn''t stay

    Don''t you already know the end of the guy who was caught and dragged by the ghosts of the past?

    ''It''s much more productive to think about the future at that time.''

    Serpens-ya, even while walking down the street, he''s the kind of guy who will be suspicious of anyone passing by.

    I can''t trust anyone else, I can''t trust myself either.

    For that reason, I will try to keep the possibility open until the end unless I scan the inside with divine power myself, but I think the Black Knight may have been eroded by black magic.

    I think there is no gender.

    Basically, he is a knight who can handle Aurors.

    It is said that he is binding the Auror with the restraint device now, but there was no way he could not have noticed that black magic was seeping into him.

    ''I have to limit the enemies to humans on the continent... .''

    He would not have written his hand directly to the Black Knight yet.

    I don''t know what choices he''ll make in the future, but even if he tells me that the devil worshipers have deceived him in the meantime.

    I will not fall for them and be swayed by them.

    ''It''s about saving itself, well... .''

    It wasn''t even a matter of taking one out right away.

    It''s just that the demon cult and the arena were linked, so they''d be careful not to cut off their tails and throw them out.

    Still, the solution must be resolved before the next match, so Serpence must have gone out alone since dawn.

    I''m sure Serpens and Eugenes will do well.

    ''Somehow, it seems that I left the job and passed the apprenticeship on to the two of us ?''

    But what to do with the low level of abilities you have?

    There''s nothing I can do differently. They''ll be hungry when they go back, so I''ll have tea and snacks ready while discussing it.

    ''Eussy, I went out in the evening, so it hurts. Serpence, this bastard left early in the morning, didn''t he?''

    He must have starved three full meals. If so, a sandwich that could be a meal replacement or .

    - Tuk-tuk-tuk-.

    Maybe it was because he was walking around thinking differently, he bumped into another passerby on the shoulder.

    Thinking I should apologize, I turned around and met the person I thought I had just bumped into.

    A very confused expression. With his eyes wide open, he rolled his eyes.

    I followed the direction of that gaze... .

    ''what? Does it look like my wallet?''

    A passerby looked at me and stood up with a wallet that had slowly fallen to the floor. Then he turned around and ran like crazy.

    It was too lax, so it was too late to understand the situation. This is one person .

    Hey, you pickpocket! Aren''t you standing there?!

    The whale whale screamed and followed him.

    It''s not as fast as I thought, so I think I''ll be able to catch it enough for the speed, but I''m going to die as if I''m about to get caught by a barrel that runs through the narrow alley.

    I even thought about the scroll in the bag I was carrying, but the price of one scroll was more than the money left in my wallet .

    '' But do you really need to follow along?''

    With that thought in mind, I stood up.

    A pickpocket was seen running around the corner.

    It''s money anyway, just borrow it from Serpens. Pouring one more gourd of water into the sea won''t change anything.

    Let''s count the lost money as good for the poor beggar.

    "Come on, wait ! Are you not chasing any more?"

    When you gasp for breath and turn around to get out of the alley. The pickpocket, who seemed to be disappearing beyond the corner, pointed out his head and asked.

    Oh, my pride! I got hit again! That''s it? Is that a trap?

    Somehow, he said that pickpocketing was too sloppy, and he kept his distance while running away. Is it attention-grabbing that you just called up?

    He quickly rolled his body in a diagonal direction and rummaged through the bag containing the scroll.

    The inside of the bag was divided into three stages, so it was used for attack, check, and other

    separated state.

    I roughly picked up one of the checks, and when I checked the tag, it was a kind of earth magic that grabbed the opponent''s feet.

    Naturally, I thought it was the right time to raid from behind, but I was only half right.

    Maybe it was because he stopped before he reached the scheduled location? Now I can see the figure of a man blocking the road I came from.

    ''Don''t take the form, I''ll just run and run.''

    The scroll he took out was bitten with one hand so that he could tear it at any time, checked them, and rummaged through the bag with the other hand to check the label.

    I found what I wanted Gear 1, I took my mouth off the scroll and fixed it.

    For what purpose did you lure me ugh!

    Waiting for them to rummage through their bags, I thought it was because of the scroll, but there was a third colleague.

    Whether the goal was to stun, or half-goal, he swung his blunt weapon at the back of my head. A threatening sound of ''heh-'' passed overhead.

    all.

    I was just out for a walk to relax! Did you attack me after telling me what I was doing wrong and the reason?

    The only reason I was able to dodge the attack was purely thanks to Serpens.

    ''Should I be prepared for a surprise attack at any time?''

    He said that he had to cultivate the sixth sense, and threw something similar to thinly diluted flesh.

    Not only during swordsmanship training, but at all times!

    In a way that gradually decreases from the minimum concentration at which I can react.

    Now, as long as it wasn''t intentional to capture the intention of an attack by a decent person, he was able to react quickly.

    ''Of course, whether it can be avoided is another matter.''

    Serpence was satisfied, saying that it was because he was weak, and that his survival instinct seemed to be excellent.

    But I still shudder at the joke he threw, and my heart plummets. The only subject in his curriculum he hated was

    But .

    '' Is it useful?''

    I was just surprised every time I tried, but I thought I would develop this kind of perceptual ability too.

    Thanks to you, we averted the crisis right now.

    But it''s a 3 to 1. It could bring more companions, so it was dangerous to put on a shield and hold on.

    ''After all, I can only hope that Serpens will notice by running away or making a riot.''

    I came out trusting the guards, but even if I ran screaming ''Pickpocket!''

    Seeing that they didn''t come, it seems like they are in the same vein.

    Was it because he didn''t tear the scroll right away and pulled his body back while making fun of his mouth?

    It seems that the magic built into the scroll I was holding was judged to be a type that could get me caught up when used at close range.

    The guy who attacked my back stubbornly approached me and swung my blunt weapon again, and I twisted my body to avoid it.

    Damn! Anyway, I was like, ''Because it''s there, it doesn''t matter to the bastard!

    Look how he looks! Who knew?

    uh?!

    I was worried about the sudden demeaning of my appearance, but it''s not a day or two that I''m treated like a hogu anyway. I''m more concerned about the previous one.

    ''If you say that, you have no choice but to choose the latter instead of running away... ?''

    Moreover, as he had just suffered two attacks, it was worth doing in his own way, contrary to what Serpens said that the actual battle was still far away.

    I just didn''t know because my opponent was a serpent, and among those who are nothing, I''m pretty good, right?

    ''There is also Solertia-sama''s blessing.

    Let me tell you, this is it!''

    She may not have foreseen this situation in advance, but the foresight that it would be useful if she bought it seems to have been true.

    ''By the way, looking at the good guys, these guys are also pretty good guys, don''t they?''

    It was not difficult to notice that they were targeting only the general public.

    The siege of the three gradually narrows. Of course, you should avoid being surrounded.

    The pickpocket guy who talked about what he looked like

    Running towards him, he shouted, tearing the scroll with an exaggerated motion.

    Go, fireball!!''''

    To avoid the fireball, he clenched his teeth and flew to the side.

    Sorry! The one I just ripped was the first scroll I ever pulled out!

    With his center of gravity shifted, the hand-shaped soil that rose from the ground grabbed his ankle, and he floundered and knelt on the floor.

    Leaving the siege by leisurely passing by him, he tore the scroll he had taken out the second time.

    This time, a fireball was created, soared high in the sky, and exploded in the air.

    instead of a signal shot.

    Damn, was that the bait?! Where did the story come from?

    As of today, I swore to the sky, and did not carry out any decoy operations.

    It seems that I knew their crimes in advance and decided that they had dug a trap.

    When I saw the flares, I thought my comrades would flock, so they poised to run away.

    If you do this well, you can do it alone

    place?

    Your fellows are here, so there''s no need to run away to find you. That''s it! So it''s better to just get caught!

    Screaming like that, I pointed my sword at the guy still holding his ankle... .

    " Huh? You didn''t bring your sword, did you?"

    In the meantime, as if the magic had ended, the pile of dirt that had held the pickpocket''s ankle firmly crumbled and scattered like sand.

    The other two seemed to have run away without looking back, ignoring my threats.

    As I was about to take the scroll out of my bag again, I saw him pulling out several daggers from his pocket and throwing them at me.

    He took out the defensive scroll that he had taken out and didn''t even have a chance to hear it.

    Three daggers in each hand, including six daggers, were scattered widely. It happened at a short distance, and since he threw the dagger widely, it was a difficult situation to evade.

    ''Let''s avoid instant death somehow!''

    Pain is long, but death is eternal.

    Crossing the river of no return

    It is better to live than to roll the dung field.

    I closed my eyes tightly and protected my head and heart with both arms, thinking that if I survived, Serpens would heal me.

    .

    I didn''t feel the pain I should have felt.

    Instead, there was a sound of sharp metal, followed by a dull pounding sound.

    I opened my eyes, wondering what was going on, and a translucent silver curtain was spread out in front of me.

    The pickpocket who threw the dagger fell at his feet and passed out.

    " Three, percent?"

    You really are...

    Perhaps they went to catch the ones who ran away in that short time, and Serpens grabbed them one by one in each hand and dragged them along.

    "Are you suffering from insecurity?"

    "Isn''t it? It''s a style that you have a lot of fear and worry about, isn''t it?"

    Puck.

    Beyond disbelief, he stared at me coldly with a very tired expression.

    ''I don''t think I''ve ever done anything dangerous before, so why are you reacting like that?'' Just today.

    Even though I wander around alone in the evening, leave my sword behind, chase strangers, seize the opportunity to escape... .

    These guys were making strange noises earlier. Shall we wake up and interrogate him?

    I decided to turn around.

 CH 76

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 76

    18. The Duke and the Arena (4)

    Before waking them up, I scoured their arms, retrieved the cutlery, and tied them tightly with ropes.

    Of course, the rope was not brought by me or Serpens, but they already had.

    I wonder if the mouth of the guy who said ''it'' would be the lightest, that... .

    For convenience, let''s call it Beomsam because it''s ''Criminal 3'' in the order of appearance.

    He squatted down in front of Beomsam and slapped him on the cheek to wake him up.

    1 O O O ... --,--

    did you sleep well?

    Uh, how?!

    How and what? You already noticed? It was a bait operation. My colleague who was in an ambush came to see the signal and beat you up.

    As we made eye contact and smiled, he hardened his face.

    We already know everything, but let''s give it a chance to confess our sins with a kind heart. Next time you''re next to me

    I''m going to wake up the fallen ones and ask the same question, but things are different. Or if you say something different from what we already know, you''re going to get in trouble.

    La, Serpens told me to speak.

    And he is actually taking a step back and trembling.

    Because of this guy, his acting skills are unintentionally improving. Bae''s role was always ''although it was limited to a clever guy.

    While keeping a smile on his face, he spoke as he was told, and Beomsam swallowed his saliva heavily.

    You should be careful, right?

    this is my adlib. As if it worked well, a little cold sweat formed on Beomsam''s face.

    Well, we''re the last, so...

    What did ''it'' mean earlier? Where is the kidnapper so naive?

    I am not doing this for fun right now.

    Yesterday, when I heard from Serpens that they could feel black magic from those who came out as opponents of the Black Knight.

    simply the naboo of the demon worshipers

    I thought it was this

    In the novel [Master of the Holy Sword], among those who worshiped the devil, there were also ordinary people.

    When the continent was completely under the control of demons and turned into hell.

    Will the demons resurrect the souls of those who sacrificed for them, giving them eternal life, freedom and desire?

    It''s all bullshit.''

    How can you revive a soul that has already been eaten deliciously yum yum yum yum?

    but they foolishly

    believed in bullshit.

    Not knowing that their soul was going into the belly of the devil, they committed suicide by throwing themselves as a sacrifice.

    ''I thought I would have used them again this time].''

    Now that the slave issue became a big issue across the continent, it was difficult to supply any more. In the meantime, if five people go missing in each hall in one city, they will soon be found out.

    ''So I thought I might have gotten some resources from them... .''

    But now I know for sure. That I was too naive.

    The arena side filled the gladiator''s head with strangers.

    ''Even if it suddenly disappears, so that even a report is not established... .''

    came traveling alone. No, maybe two or three people were kidnapped at once.

    Did he go missing while traveling, or did he meet a robber or thief on the way?

    It was possible because it was very difficult to confirm it in this world.

    I, we don''t know when we''ll be abandoned

    It''s like an oatmeal! Hired map... Has it been about 5 months now? ''I learned about it and saw these guys, who used to be nothing, suddenly became strong and ran rampant in the arena! That''s why I don''t know!

    Everyone covered their faces with helmets, so how do you know it''s him?

    I don''t know why, all five of them have the same physique as the ones we caught. Not once or twice, every time!

    I guess he wanted to appeal to me that somehow he didn''t know anything and just followed what he was told.

    Seeing him speak out with an urgent voice, it''s even more disgusting.

    "Ha You mean you knew that? The end of the people you kidnapped?"

    " that, that!"

    "This bastard is one!!"

    He jumped up and kicked him.

    Now that I know that those who have been reduced to mere entertainment in the arena and died in ridicule are ordinary people who have done nothing wrong.

    I turn my head to see them dying just because they are cruel

    I think I''m going crazy because I''m still sorry... !

    How dare you use them as an excuse?!

    "Sin, sorry ! I was just doing what I was told!"

    Don''t be bullshit! After all, it''s your choice to take on that job, isn''t it?

    As the voices rose, the people who had fallen next to them opened their eyes.

    You are all the same!!

    They kicked as well.

    If I tell someone else like this

    I never imagined that unilateral violence would happen.

    Even so, it was not resolved at all.

    The guys who had been kicked before they could even understand the situation had expressions that showed that they were unfair, but that expression seemed to arouse anger even more.

    You''re so excited.

    I couldn''t control my anger and was shivering, so Serpens was embarrassed and grabbed my shoulder.

    I know! But you saw yesterday! What was going on in the arena!

    It''s fine. Now that you''re safe, you don''t have to worry anymore.

    What are you doing?

    This guy didn''t understand anything now.

    The heat that had been rising to the point of dizzy dissipated in an instant, and I felt a chill enough to give me a headache.

    I thought I became a human to some extent, but I still have a long way to go.

    "I have a lot to say, but thanks to you, my head has cooled down I have an urgent business right now, so let''s talk about it later."

    On the other hand, I could see Serpens sighing in relief, thinking that his comfort had been paid off.

    Rather than blindly injecting divine power, the fact that he attempted such an attempt is a bit daunting though.

    "So. What is ''it''? Also, where did you get it?"

    That, just. Raising potential..., something? I''m not sure where it came from...

    "Aren''t you going to speak straight?"

    I really don''t know! I''m curious too

    I asked him, and he said he didn''t know anything about it! He threatened to put me in the arena instead of them if I asked any more, so I didn''t even try to find out.

    All three of them really don''t know. As Beomsam-i said, it was really one of the Kenapurs... .

    A magic reagent prepared with black magic.

    Yes?

    "It is to burn all of your life force at once, so that you can unleash the ability to go beyond your physical limits.

    It is a method of triggering at once by administering the two drugs, which infiltrated and boiled the vitality in advance, and the two drugs just before the start of the game."

    Yes?

    It is cumbersome and has the disadvantage of having to feel pain before taking the second agent. Since it takes quite a while after the black magic penetrates, the advantage is that there are few traces of it when the effect appears...

    For some reason, Serpens recites information about ''That''s it''. It''s also not enough to be reckless.

    Now, wait a minute? That kind of information is

    sifter .

    Everywhere in the estate, something like this was hidden.

    Serpens pulled back the hem of his coat-shaped robe. I opened the room with the bag that was moved inside it, so I could see the inside.

    Inside it, something like a test tube the length of a middle finger was tightly packed. It''s so full that it''s hard to take it out because there are hardly any gaps.

    If you look closely, you can see the number T and 2 on the cap... .

    "Per ? Do you have an empty bottle of this?"

    I thought I should check the efficacy, so I tried it. But it left space in the bag...

    That''s not to say that he caught and forcibly injected a person walking down the street. That''s right.

    It''s not a question of why are you carrying an empty bottle! Why are you drinking something you don''t know about! Didn''t you learn not to pick up anything that fell on the roadside?!

    Anyway, this amount of black magic disappears as soon as it enters my body, so it doesn''t matter.

    "Then how did you find out about it?

    yo. This?

    If you use your inner divine power in moderation and make a way...

    Before you say anything to me, take care of yourself, man!!

    I yelled at him out of curiosity, and he grunted, ''Where are you and me?''

    It''s true, but it would be absurd to deliberately let black magic run wild inside your body.

    ''Self-torture is enough!''

    Serpence is too strong to hit, but if he were a normal person, his back

    It''s rude to slap and lament.

    I think that person knows better than us, so we can stop releasing them now...

    Shut up!

    By the way, what do you do with these guys?

    If we hand it over to the guards right now, the information that we are stalking you will leak out and try to destroy the evidence.

    But if you let them go and let them run away, it would be impossible to release these kinds of people back into society.

    I will live a really good life from now on!

    "I will live without being related to crime again "

    I''m sorry, I''m really sorry...!! Beom-sam, who was awake from the beginning, as well as Beom-il and Beom-dul, finished understanding the situation and apologized.

    He looked at Serpens wondering what to do with these guys, and he looked like he was saying, ''If you can''t kill me, will you kill me too?''

    No, for now. Let''s lock him up somewhere... we''ll think about it later.

    Get my hands dirty with these bastards

    He didn''t want to pray, and he didn''t want to pass that karma on to Serpens.

    ''Besides, I ended up trying to the end, so it''s more about me to judge the life or death of these guys:''

    * * *

    As soon as I finished telling them to lock them in, Serpens stunned them back.

    Hitting the back of the head so hard I thought Serpens was trying to give them a stunned death.

    all.

    ''If that''s enough, how many hours would you just stretch out as if you were dead?!''

    As I entered the inn with the three fainting men, I thought about how to make an excuse, but it was futile.

    I went up to the room first and opened the window, so Serpens took it in secret and moved it.

    Lydia-sama doesn''t seem to have come yet.

    ...Ummm...

    Roughly crumple the three stunned people in the corner

    The serpens that had been placed glanced at me and glanced at me.

    Why? Are you hungry?

    It''s not like that...

    If you''re not full by filling your stomach with strange things, would you like some of this?

    I couldn''t buy a meal replacement in the end, so I had no choice but to take the chocolate out of my suitcase and throw it at him. Even if I''m not full, I''ll fill you up with sugar and calories

    Serpens, who took the chocolate with a shaky expression on his face, misunderstood it, and looked at it again.

    ''That''s not ''Pre-Serppens-Flight Syndrome'', it just seems to have something to say... .''

    If left alone, Eugenes is likely to return before he even opens his mouth.

    Anything we can''t say between us? Just say it comfortably, take it easy!

    Yeah. Just thinking about the words you said today . Seriously, I don''t think there''s anything that can''t be said.

    So that I wouldn''t say such a thing, you should have done well!''

    closed

    Why did you reject the Divine Power? As long as you suffer from nightmares, is there any reason to do so?

 CH 77

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 77

    18. The Duke and the Arena (5)

    As you said before, as always, I thought it was one of your peculiar esoteric actions.

    I thought I''d have a little bit of doubt, but I guess I''ll just pass on it without thinking.

    Maybe I still have the strange misconception that I enjoy pain?

    ''a~. It wouldn''t be that though. At that time, Serpence was deliberately trying to turn away... Oh?''

    Right?

    If it''s not the same situation now, I want to grab him by the neck and ask him why he said that.

    Given the situation, I''m also concerned about the guys who are squashed in the corner of the room... .

    ''Well, if there are any signs of waking up, Serpens will take care of stopping me, right?''

    It was this guy who got lucky in the first place.

    ...Zion?

    It''s nothing! So, ji

    Are you saying you have changed your mind?"

    Yes. Right now, it feels like there is some meaning to that action. But no matter how much I think about it, I can''t find the answer within me...

    If it was only me, I don''t know, because Eugenes had a similar reaction.

    I don''t know what exactly is wrong, but it seems that I vaguely guessed that the strange thing was me, not me.

    I know it''s an inappropriate time to talk like this, but I can''t...

    It''s fine. No, it''s a good idea. There''s no time for learning,

    Isn''t it a bigger problem not to know than to ask?

    Is there no word here? Serpence''s expression changed slightly subtly.

    Ahhh! If it''s an irresistible shock, relying on divine power may be one way. However, overdosing is poison, so it should be left as a last resort.

    I couldn''t just say it was bad.

    To put it bluntly, with a dry feeling and an unstable mental state. that he has been able to maintain his reason so far

    is thanks to that

    ''But now it''s time to break free from that dependence.

    The reason Serpens had no choice but to run away in that way was that everyone turned away from him.

    For that reason he also himself. Because he only knew how to turn away from the pain.

    Whatever emotions are, aren''t they part of you? Just because you''re sick or in pain, you shouldn''t ignore them and cover them up.

    why?

    Serpens. Your current state is not

    If it were you, I would have noticed too late.

    What do you mean?

    It''s an expression I don''t understand at all.

    In the name of saving the world, forcing him to learn many things.

    Why did no one really teach him to live a human life? Did it make me lose even my innate feelings?

    I let it go and buried it like that. In the end, I lost it, and I even forgot how to express it.

    Again... Is it about revealing yourself?''''

    You can think of it as an extension of that.

    It was a problem I had been conscious of for a long time, so I think I can summarize it well enough.

    Instead of pushing him as impulsively and passionately as before, let him explain it calmly and slowly so that he can understand it.

    Even if it is painful, it is also one''s own emotions. When we accept and overcome them, we can only become mature.

    Even negative emotions are a part of you, so take care of them and nurture them. Take care of yourself, have compassion, and love yourself. I hope that will be so.

    " I, that is."

    The first words of the words, unable to continue the proper sentence, squeezed his throat and flowed out intermittently.

    Please don''t kill yourself anymore.

    When he said that he was going to kill him, he looked startled.

    It wasn''t the extremeness of his words, but his own

    actions to protect themselves. Did he feel that strangling his own neck was not enough?

    Serpence slapped her neck, which would have tightened her cravat to such an extent that it would have been cramped if it wasn''t for her disguise.

    Aren''t you saying that you''ve been wrong in the past? �[] . Thanks to you, you have been able to hold on until now? If you affirm him, you affirm it, there is no reason to deny it. It''s about taking care of yourself as well.

    However.

    It deserves praise. It must have been very difficult on your own, but you persevered.

    NS. It''s amazing. You did really well. My compliment score is 95. With a little effort, you''ll get a perfect score.

    That, what

    But it''s okay now. You don''t have to cut out a part of yourself anymore. He will too, you won''t have to stand alone from now on, will you?

    Even if there is no such artificial restraint now. If you reach out your hand, there is someone who will hold you back.

    His green eyes widened widely. It started with a rhyme and ended with a tune.

    Serpens carefully raises her hand and slowly stretches it toward me.

    ''why. How many people ignored this hand and threw it away... .''

    The movement, which is insignificant to most people, is so heavy for him that he must be so nervous and fearful.

    He grabbed his trembling hand.

    ''Is this the second time since I first met this guy?''

    no. The act, which was nothing more than a lie and hypocrisy, had no meaning.

    So, ''This is the first time I''ve held the hand of a real Serpence.

    With calmness, the first hand we held together. It turned white from nervousness and was cold.

    If you shake, I will support you, and if you fall, I will lift you up. You don''t have to run away anymore, you''ll be fine.

    " ."

    Tears were dripping down his cheeks, drenched in his eyes. The eyelids gently fall over them, and then they fade and finally flow down.

    Now you''re crying.

    He raised his other hand and grabbed it with both hands. patted the back of his hand.

    Serpence, who burst into tears that he had to endure and suppress over and over without counting, wept very well.

    Sadness and joy were mixed.

    There are hands that turn away from you, but there are also hands that hold you like this. Don''t forget.

    Now you have taken the right step.

    But he still lacked a lot and was immature.

    someday. There was a time when I thought that he could not face his own feelings, and he quickly recognized the feelings of others.

    ''Is that possible?''

    It must have been that he was analyzing with his head, not with his heart.

    Paradoxically, the words he uttered to comfort me with genuine concern for me. This became evidence that he had never truly empathized with others.

    ''But if you think positively, the fact that he was trying to understand someone is enough... .''

    Finally, he turned around and reached the starting line.

    face yourself compassionate Only after loving will you be able to afford to give your heart to others.

    But let''s not ask for too much today.

    It''s okay to cry out loud today.

    As I squeezed the clasped hands tightly, warmth began to circulate in his cold hands.

    Even wiping the tears away, wouldn''t it be accepted as saying not to cry? All he could do was pat him on the back of his hand.

    So 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour... , 2 hours ?

    ''What is it, boy? Doesn''t it stop?!''

    It seems like today is not a proper day to unravel all the cores.

    It''s been quite a while since Eugez left, so it''s time to come back right now.

    ''Even the three who are stuck in the corner don''t know when they''ll wake up... .''

    In my heart, I wanted to leave Serpens until he stopped crying because he was exhausted, but he doesn''t show any signs of exhaustion.

    For him to fall asleep from crying, it seems that it will not be enough even if he stays up all day.

    Serpence?

    whoops... .

    I, Lydia-sama, it''s time to come soon...

    ...Suck.

    Ugh, this is going to make you dehydrated. What kind of bastard has tears coming out constantly?

    let''s cry Yes?

    Sometimes, black. He cried out loud.

    Serpens said sarcastically. It''s still the same as the sniffling, but looking at his face, the tears seem to have barely stopped.

    Then I pushed him into the bathroom.

    There was no tea, so I poured a full glass of cold water and made Serpens drink it after washing.

    Looking at her face, her red, bloodshot eyes seemed to have calmed down with divine power.

    No one could see the face of a person who had been down for nearly two hours.

    ''You still look like you''re about to cry.''

    It seems that the mind has not been touched.

    My eyes are teary-eyed, and if I touch it, it looks like tears will fall again.

    It seems you still haven''t calmed down.

    Do you drink a lot of tea?

    It''s a feeling I''ve endured for over 20 years. The sorrows of the past must have continued with their tails on their tails, so it was worth it.

    There were plenty of reasons to keep crying.

    I knew I was going to suppress it by force, but Serpens never tried to push it myself. So, of course, it''s out of control.

    If he was fine, he had to suspect that he was secretly using his divine power.

    - again

    As expected, Eugene''s arrival was faster than Serpence''s emotions.

    ''Isn''t that better than coming when you''re still crying?''

    In the corner of the room, three strangers are lying around, stunned, tied up, Serpens holding my hand and crying profusely. .

    ''What is that, I''m scared!''

    Now, when I calmly imagined the third person''s point of view and drew it, it was chaos and fear itself.

    By the way, was it true that these three criminals were still alive? How come there is no movement... .

    "Pe, Percent-nim?! Why are you crying? Are you trying to cry?"

    While I was lost in thought for a moment, Serpens must have opened the door.

    In the past, you were still trying to get me to do something, but I gave up.

    It was not long before the day when the hierarchical relationship was wrapped up in dog food and called out to each other.

    ''But it''s a little bit in the present situation''.''

    It''s my fault for being dumbfounded thinking about something else, but if that guy opens the door while crying, I become a very strange person.

    It''s like I''m harassing you, don''t you?

    Hey, those guys did it! I

    They are the culprits! They are our kids... I rang the serpents! I''ve seen it all!

    I shouted, pointing at the stunned, gagged, speechless bastards.

    Yeah?! What is that?

    They are really bad guys!

    We had to exchange information anyway, so I organized and delivered what I and Serpens found to Euges.

    Hey, such a celestial wrath...!

    Did she also remember yesterday''s horrific scene? bursting in anger, rain

    He was drenched in burns and his eyes were red.

    Ah... how painful and how hard it must have been! We can''t increase the number of victims like this anymore.

    " Yes, that''s right. Never."

    Serpense, who could not sympathize with them at all, agreed with an expression that seemed to shed tears at any moment.

    ''No, this scene is a little strange, isn''t it?''

    Since I had already burst into anger once and calmed down, it seemed that I was the only one with a lack of emotion.

    But now, I feel too pretentious to join in and cry.

    got stuck

    You cannot be immersed in sentiment forever. If you truly care about the victims, now is the time for punishment rather than mourning.

    Again, it''s a cool and accurate decision.

    Let''s just say so.

 CH 78

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 78

    18. The Duke and the Arena (6)

    Eugene took a deep breath to control his mind, and wiped the tears from his eyes with his fingers.

    There''s something to point out about that black magic reagent. A note will arrive tomorrow indicating its location, and make sure you don''t miss out on all fever. I''ve heard of such conversations. But...

    Looking into the bag on the table, she blurted out her words.

    It looked a little more spacious than before, when it was completely filled with no gaps, but it was still full of test tube-shaped vials.

    When the bag was lightly touched, the bottles clashed and rattled.

    The only thing I''ve found in ''one place'' is fever.

    This is a fact I already knew. Serpence didn''t say it himself, but that''s the situation.

    ''He showed me the inside of the bag and said that he found it all over the estate... .''

    Before returning to the inn, when I told him that it was better to hide that I had administered it to his body.

    He contained two empty bottles. I even watched him take out a total of ten bottles, purify them with divine power, and then throw them away.

    That leads to one conclusion.

    "You mean you''re talking about spreading black magic reagents here and there in the estate in advance, and announcing one place every three days?"

    Euges seems to have noticed that too.

    am. Still, just in case, I asked Serpence a question to get an answer.

    Yes, I can only see that.

    Serpens affirmed.

    This meant that there was no direct link from the arena to the demon worshipers.

    I can''t say it''s not related at all, but it can be cut off at any time on the part of the demon worshipers.

    It''s a very one-sided relationship.

    "Did you find the whereabouts of the person sending the memo?"

    I searched through the documents and found information about him, but I think it''s just an intermediate contact''''

    It seems that the arena side has already dug behind it.

    Due to the limited number of reagents, the number of matches was also limited.

    From a demon worshiper''s point of view, it''s overpaid, so it''s impossible to destroy the Black Knight, so it''s probably a moderate adjustment.

    The arena side, unaware of their plans, is dissatisfied and pays more.

    You would have wanted to open more matches to win.

    ''But let''s play an ordinary game... .''

    It reminds me of how the host said that his arena was of high quality.

    For those who are already accustomed to the big stimulus, the general game just feels boring.

    So, the Arena side probably wanted to find an anonymous fan and put it in their hands.

    He must have been trying to figure out how to make reagents, or make as many as needed.

    But the sender was just an intermediate contact. It would be like cutting the belly of the goose that lays golden eggs, or just watching.

    ''Did you understand that they are already hidden all over the estate?''

    But if you''re just watching it, you''re probably aiming for after the pre-prepared amount runs out.

    The black fighter''s fan, an anonymous entity, must be aiming to make contact again.

    It''s past midnight, so the location where the reagent was hidden will be delivered today.

    All of them are currently being recovered by Serpens. If there is nothing in the designated location, I will immediately suspect it.

    But I couldn''t even bring it back.

    In the first place, what could be the reason for Serpens to retrieve them while meticulously sprinting through the counties.

    If left as it is, while cleaning up the arena, someone might take a moment of confusion and run away with them.

    Until now, I left it alone for fear that the supply of reagents would be cut off, but since the business itself is on the verge of closing, I don''t care about that.

    If even part of it was stolen, the victim would have no choice but to come out.

    ''Of course, we have to make an effort to prevent that from happening, but... .''

    Since there are only two people in the actual operation, it is difficult to pay attention to the pyramids.

    Besides, according to Serpens... .

    ''From the moment the first drug is administered, the body of an ordinary person without any ability will begin to break down?''

    I said life force, but to be more precise, it should be called the innate keeper. Such things seep, damage

    will become

    It was impossible for an ordinary person''s body to withstand it. Even if they stopped taking the second drug, it was already too late to survive.

    Even if the arena was not reopened, it was just right to sell it at a high price in many ways, as the first drug alone was nothing short of a great poison that could cause people to die in pain.

    ''This guy was so good at that... .''

    In the future, before picking up something and eating it, I will have to ask myself to check it and eat it.

    And, of course, I''d say, ''Don''t eat it because you lose!''

    it will

    I''m going to have to go see him right now.

    Yes? Now?

    "Will Lydia-sama stay here and watch over them?"

    Serpens said, pointing to the three crumpled in the corner.

    He still looked like he had fainted, but had been awake for a few minutes. It was clear from the fact that he began to procrastinate little by little because his posture was uncomfortable.

    Eugese, who looked at the three of them alternately with me, nodded saying he understood.

    What does that gaze just mean?''

    No matter how weak I am, can''t I even watch over those who are locked up and not equipped to come?

    "Anyway, what are you going to do?"

    If you find a connection between the sender and the demon worshipers, are you planning to pursue it alone? I asked Serpence.

    If you notice that his information has leaked to the arena, you will try to use someone else as a medium after all the supplies you have prepared are exhausted.

    It''s just a matter of passing notes. Many people are willing to do it without asking for anything if given a huge sum of money.

    If there was suspense, not serpence, to intimidate him, there would be no evidence without it. You will get no income in relation to the devil worshipers.

    "Then you missed that one?!"

    I''ll have to check it, but it seems like it should be. I wondered if there was anyone monitoring the hidden reagent, but I looked carefully...

    No one presumed to be a catcher was found.

    The Serpence scouting process of the demon cult was too coincidental, so I thought Corrupted Pence would carry a group that was deprived of luck and stats... .

    It must have been a group with some intelligence.

    That''s why you can''t just sit back and watch the arena.

    Saying that, Serpens took out five bottles of each of the first and second drugs from the bag.

    Divine energy emanated from his hand, purifying the contents of the bottle.

    all.

    The kidnappings don''t come back, so there might be some suspicion. If there''s nothing in the delivered location, that''s for sure. In the worst case, many innocent people may lose their lives, including the Black Fighter. .

    Meet the sender, check where they are, and tell them that they will bring the reagent that has lost its efficacy to that place.

    You can attack right now, but you should rest and be fully prepared.

    To do that, you''ll need to put the time down, and you''ll have to ask the sender who made it, even for the sake of it.

    Are you contemplative?

    Then I''ll go...

    If that''s the case, then Ser, ...Sen doesn''t need to go, right?

    Yes?

    You haven''t been able to eat since dawn, and you''ve been traveling all over the Countess.

    And then we cried for two hours in a row.

    Serpence is only for objects in designated locations.

    He''s never a guy who hides and comes back right away. It is clear that he will come to check whether the memo has been properly sent or not.

    Maybe the arena will even check if it is well retrieved.

    You should get some sleep and eat breakfast in the morning. Where else are you going?

    It''s enough for me to go and sleep for an hour or two. Moreover, Lidy or not can ask the spirits to warn you while sleeping, so in terms of efficiency...

    "Isn''t that the same for Se s too?

    If you work hard, you can notice it and get up right away, right?''''

    Haha... You''re the only person in the world who cares about me. It''s only for a day or two...

    At least, how much do you eat and sleep...

    Wait! You two, stop!

    As Serpense and I were having a conversation, Eugene suddenly intervened and cut it off.

    Okay. Now that I know what to do, I''ll go.

    You just came back, so you''re not tired.

    are you? You don''t have to rush.

    Still, I don''t think I''ll be as tired as Mr. Percent. Besides, there are people who worry like that, so just rest.

    ...Ummm...

    I''m doing this because I''m afraid that I''ll hear any resentment after staying here, so please leave this task to me, thinking you''re making a concession for me.

    thank you.

    Serpence hesitantly expressed his gratitude with an expression of apology, and Eugess smiled and took the bottles from his hand as if they were stolen.

    Then I''ll go.

    Bye!

    Go with caution.

    Eugenes threw himself out the window.

    Now the window just feels like a doorway made in a high position due to an architectural mistake.

    Uh... Then shall we just sleep?

    When he took his eyes off the window and turned around, Serpence was standing in front of the kidnappers with their eyes closed, pretending to have fainted.

    And three hits followed.

    Why are they...

    Isn''t this side safe?

    I couldn''t find anything to object to.

    Only after making sure they are completely stunned does Serpens prepare well.

    I think he had something to say to him... .

    Oh, oh! I should have told you this. I forgot to tell you because Serpens cried so long earlier.

    He flirted with luck with a little teasing, but Serpens stopped moving and stared at him with disgusted eyes.

    Come to think of it, crying is now complete

    Looks like you''ve gone

    Black knight, no. Please take care of conciliating the black fighter. When I came to see it in person, it is a much more serious condition than I thought... Please take care of it.

    Conciliation... What does that mean?

    Literally speaking. You said I''d definitely scout, didn''t you?

    He looked like he didn''t know he was going to take on that role.

    "Why do I have to do that?"

    Are you a professional?

    Isn''t that your specialty?

    We looked at each other with expressions of not knowing what the other was talking about.

    "What is your intention to leave me with what you want to do?"

    Talking like a very rude one.

    ''Do I look like a person who only does what I do and leaves it to others?''

    Huh, that''s right! I''m not funny... That''s right. got it right

    I don''t have any abilities, and I have an all-purpose fence right next to me. Even if it''s not intentional, it happens naturally from time to time

    there was

 CH 79

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 79

    19. The Duke and the Black Warrior (1)

    No, think about it. I''ve been through all sorts of hardships with humans, so where do I, as a human being, have to talk to myself to listen?''''

    There is a point, but the elves have a lot of money, so why do I...

    "No, don''t stop listening?

    Think about giving it to me!

    What a dog , no. Go on.

    For a moment, it seems that a dog-dog sound came out of Serpense''s sweet mouth that only spoke soft and gentle words. Am I wrong?

    These days, my body feels empty, so it sounds like nonsense.

    "Anyway, if an angel appears and understands with a benevolent face, saying that it must have been very difficult, if you console him by saying it''s okay now with a heavenly voice!

    huh?"

    Ummm. Well, I''ll skip the details. But, given the current dimensional orbit, it''s unreasonable for me to summon an angel no matter what.

    "You look like an angel instead, don''t you?"

    This was not my personal opinion.

    [Master of the Holy Sword] This is the official setting of the author.

    The people of the duke''s house also described him as ''the only angel who descended on the present continent'', so Serpens himself must be well aware of it.

    I looked at him proudly with an expression that asked me where I was wrong, and Serpens put his forehead on his forehead with an expression that said, ''What nonsense was it, it was just bullshit.''

    Anyway, I can''t.

    Why!

    Haha... All I can do is deceive to the end.

    He let out a sigh that was close to a sigh, and muttered with a bitter smile.

    I opened my ax''s eyes to the sudden self-deprecation of Serpens, and looked at him again.

    I opened my mouth.

    "If it was before. If necessary, I would have acted that way. It hurts a lot, I understand, it will be all right. A mouth-watering story that anyone can tell. It won''t make sense. Opening someone''s heart and changing it...

    His clear green eyes looked straight at me.

    You''re better suited than me. That way would be better.

    However .

    "At first, I was wondering what you were thinking.

    I don''t even know why I''m trying to save him. perhaps . Perhaps, someone who might become a great enemy of the continent. Why do you want to hug me?"

    As he said that, there was an unfamiliar longing on his face.

    Beyond the determination to listen to the answer no matter what. The wind for something blows at first glance.

    That doesn''t mean we can''t keep you in pain. You can still be happy, but how can I just watch you walk into the abyss of despair without knowing it?

    .That''s all?

    "Isn''t that the only thing?"

    It can''t be.

    It looks like you got the answer you were hoping for. As if he had received words of consolation for himself, he had a smile of relief.

    ''It must have been my misunderstanding that I felt that way... .''

    His question, which was obviously referring to the Black Knight, perfectly matched Serpens''s position. Because that answer also refers to both.

    I just felt that way myself.

    And one thing, you seem to be mistaken. He''s a knight to the bone.

    It was the same in the novel [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Even after making a pact with the devil and accepting its power. The only time he ever used that power privately was to take revenge.

    Raging mad with rage, slaughtering the arena''s spectators and those involved.

    It was all about killing the lord''s family and knights who were once loyal and protected.

    Since then, the devil has constantly

    whispered in his ear, but he didn''t listen.

    Only thing that makes him move.

    ''Demon worshipers.''

    What they worship is the devil, and they do not even listen to the devil''s words, they only follow their words.

    because .

    What he needs is a master he can trust and follow. He can be loyal.

    Get him out of the arena. You helped make a pact with the devil and gave him the power to take revenge.

    He regarded them as masters.

    Although he did not make any vows, he followed them deeply. Protecting them, they threw themselves to obey orders.

    After all, what the angels were talking about was just bullshit.''''

    "Dog but half the truth."

    Serpens snorted, as if telling him to stop talking nonsense.

    No, really! I should make the dog bark a little bit, no.

    So the conclusion is. To me, his master

    Become an army, is this it?

    That''s it!

    "Why not you?"

    Where did you hear me? He doesn''t need a friend or a nanny.

    If you say that, I...! No, that''s fine. Don''t answer me.

    I knew what the answer would be without having to say it, and I knew Serpens.

    "Anyway, I am neither in a position to be someone''s master nor a vessel."

    "Isn''t it possible to follow the setting of that imaginative elf?"

    "I''m still thinking about when and how to break that delusion, so can you please stop raising it?"

    In the end, Serpens and I had no choice but to compromise on the right line, and the conclusion was as follows.

    [Screenplay: Shion / Campus: Serpence / Starring: Serpence, Black Knight H Black Knight) ]

    It was decided to cover other unexpected situations with an ad-lib by Serpens, who also served as the lead actor.

    "Isn''t this really deception?"

    "Are you saying that because you handed it over to me?"

    It is, but...

    It''s like that because I feel like I''ve become a black curtain that moves the final boss from behind.

    If you''re that reluctant, don''t use this kind of thing and do it yourself.

    "No, that''s a bit "

    The script was written by Serpens after memorizing it and burning it in a fireplace to completely ashes.

    The two put their heads together and open the script

    As I was writing this, it was already morning.

    Finally, the innkeeper woke up and was able to order a meal, so I delayed my sleep a little more and ordered food first.

    Ugh, it''s a pity that Lydia-sama went out instead. If it wasn''t for that, I probably didn''t have time to sleep, or I couldn''t make a plan.

    Is that so? I only thought you were aiming.

    Aiming, what the hell does that mean?

    If Serpense and I are arguing, I will make sure that Eugene is pushed out even if he notices in the middle.

    I mean, I was even induced... .

    is not it?

    It wasn''t, but I think it''s true.

    I have to take this opportunity to apologize to her.

    If it was her, she would have listened if she had just asked politely, but it seems like she did something terrible.

    And one thing. Stop pretending to be wrong and trying to sneak up on you by a nickname.

    ,,Oh!,,

    Damn, I got it.

    The sight of Serpens tearing up the bread that came with his meal and talking was just creepy because it sounded like he would tear you apart like that.

    ''I didn''t mean to do that from the beginning... .''

    The beginning was a mistake. However, he said that he was resting while he was lying down, so he was looking at it as an opportunity.

    After all, this way of spinning round and round doesn''t seem right for me.

    "So, what do you like the most?"

    Haha... that''s shameless.

    Serpens with a frown on his forehead

    He took a deep breath and let out a long, deep sigh.

    I just like your name, so please call me by your first name.

    Serpens?

    Yes, that''s it.

    Even if I die, I don''t think it''s that I don''t want to be called by a nickname. There is really no need for anything else, and the tone seems to suffice with the ''name''.

    ''The name came to mind, but it''s already been a while since I last called ''name''... .''

    For the first few months, everything was unfamiliar.

    There was a time when I was afraid that people would disappear like this, and before I went to bed, I repeated my name alone in my head.

    ''But since when?''

    Suspicious or not, is it from when I was convinced that it would be okay to express myself and act comfortably in front of this guy?

    Not by the physical name of ''Lord Ribelon'', but by being called ''You. Do you feel like you were able to face him as a mere existence?

    '' Sometimes when I call your name, I get excited, but

    Come to think of it, the only name that can fully express one''s existence is the name. Why is there such a thing as a proper noun?

    '' If the person calling by a nickname makes them feel special, isn''t the name the only thing that makes the person called?''

    Not something of someone else, just of itself. As a person with a unique existence.

    Perhaps he was hoping for it unconsciously.

    ''The master of the Holy Sword, the Sephi, or the Duke of Prasidus .,

    Rather than being bound by a bridle that someone made. ''Maybe he wanted to exist as a single person named Serpens.

    ''It''s just a personal opinion and speculation that just came to mind.''

    You want it too, so I think it would be best to call the name as it is without forcing it to change.

    My thoughts were short. After all, don''t you forget nicknames? You can just call me Serpens, Serpense?

    Yeah. But until you return to the Empire, don''t play around and call me by a pseudonym.

    Yes!

    "Even when I go back, I call in front of others.

    not.

    There are too many restrictions. dirty class society.

    When I woke up again, it was around 6pm.

    ''I slept perfectly... .''

    Lack of sleep from nightmares last night

    In the state, running after pickpockets. Besides, I stayed awake until morning to write a script, so I had no choice but to sleep for more than 10 hours.

    On the other hand, Serpence seems to have happened a long time ago.

    He was dressed in all his clothes so that he could go out at any time and read a book leisurely.

    The three crumpled in the corner were already awake.

    It was as if he was looking at Serpens'' eyes when he rolled his eyes.

    ''No, is it normal to see?''

    He was the one who knocked them out in one shot, so I have to be concerned.

    "What about Lydia?"

    Instead of answering, Serpence handed him a card smaller than the palm of his hand.

    [Mission Complete]

    What is written is a short letter with only two words.

    Next to it, three cute citrons were drawn.

    "Do you know when you came back?"

    About five hours ago?

    You still need to sleep a little more.

    " Judging from the signs in the room, it seems that it has already happened."

    Serpens seemed to be concentrating on something for a moment, and then answered.

    [Master of the Holy Sword] Seeing the two of them competing for first and second place of official beauty, it is clear that the saying that beautiful women are sleepers does not exist in this world.

    Wash up and come out with such nonsensical thoughts; Come on, you''ve already finished getting ready to go out.

    Eugese seemed to have come to the room.

    "Are you going to eat first?"

    I placed an order while you were washing.

    With a look that seemed to know how to say that, Serpens answered right away. How is it that Euges has a strange look?

    It''s time to get used to it, but isn''t it?

    But is it really okay for us all to leave? Those people .

    Eugene asked, glancing at the trio in the corner of the room.

    "Anyway, I''m out of power, so can''t I just stay and watch?"

    The script has already been handed over to Serpens.

    So I didn''t feel the need to follow up, so I said that, but it seems that I have already lost my credibility.

    This time, he looked at me with eyes that knew what kind of accident he would cause and whether he was going to leave.

    Of course, unlike his gaze, the expression on his face is still merciful today.

    "The authors would be fine. They are deeply reflecting on their sins.

    I have repented, saying that I will accept all judgments I receive."

    What happened while I was sleeping?

 CH 80

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 80

    19. The Duke and the Black Warrior (2)

    Serpence, who remembered a spoonful of red stew, suddenly came to mind. He opened his mouth with a look of regret.

    " Lydia-sama. When you infiltrated, did you ever see something like a large incinerator or incinerator?"

    Yes? No, I haven''t seen anything like that.

    "Then were there any data on how the bodies of the dead were disposed of?"

    I don''t know what kind of bloody talk this is without suddenly eating. And what the hell did this guy think of?

    The taste of rice goes down.

    With an expression of not understanding English at his question, Euges shook his head, and was startled as if he had suddenly realized something.

    No, what is it that only you guys know?''

    You will be reunited here with the feelings you felt when you watched a mystery manga.

    Serpens, who noticed that there was no data in her reaction, this time

    He turned his gaze to the three men in the corner of the room.

    All three shook their heads side by side.

    When I glared at him asking me to tell him too, Serpens hardened his face and carefully opened his mouth.

    A sacrifice for summoning demons. Or, to use it as a medium related to black magic, I think we should consider the possibility that the corpses were stolen from the cult of Eu].

    ...Oh!

    Why didn''t I think of that?

    The scene I saw that day was so shocking, I don''t have the spirit to think about it calmly

    it was you

    ''As he said... .''

    He was kidnapped without knowing the English language, was forcibly administered an unknown drug, and struggled in pain.

    It became a place of entertainment for many people and died in play.

    The corpses of the dead with grudges are the best material for demon worshipers.

    When I infiltrated, there was no such thing as a corpse.

    "It must have been moved right after the match."

    Serpens let out a long sigh and put the spoon down.

    There is no solid evidence, but the heart attack is so clear that there is no doubt about it.

    It''s all my fault. You must have felt the energy of black magic], I should have followed you right away... but I didn''t get to that point.

    He bit his lower lip as if he was genuinely angry.

    Not acting, seriously. He was troubled by his own mistakes.

    ''Originally, what else? .''

    In the past, seeing people dying and thinking, ''Who is taking that body and where?''

    There is no need for perfection that can only be achieved when emotions are so dry.

    But he is not used to making mistakes and looks at me with a fearful expression on his face.

    Green eyes fluttered unsteadily.

    No, there''s no way you''ll let go of making one mistake... ?''

    It was something neither I nor Euges noticed.

    It was only after Serpens mentioned it that I barely remembered. By what qualification do you have to criticize him?

    It''s okay, he opened his mouth, giving him a look to be relieved.

    Why is that your only fault? And what if you make some mistakes? Where in the world is there a person who doesn''t make a single mistake?

    Is it really okay? You look like you''re asking if you''re disappointed

    He nodded his head slightly.

    I can see the emotions that had been fluctuating in an unstable way have subsided a little.

    That''s right! I''ve only noticed it now. If it wasn''t for Percent-nim, I wouldn''t have thought of it forever.

    Oh.

    Euges helped with a word.

    Serpence, who only then began to see his surroundings, straightened his expression, as if nothing had happened.

    However, it was impossible to hide the melancholy that was reflected in it.

    Not only for me, but for Yuji Suga as well.

    I didn''t mean to hear that, but , thank you. Rather, I think we need to revise the plan.

    As if embarrassed, he hurriedly turned around. Looking at it, it seems that he has regained his composure to some extent.

    We continued eating and exchanging opinions.

    *

    If it was the original way, he was going to destroy the arena and take out only the black fighters and open the Bastul Kingdom.

    ''But if the demon worshipers came out like this, it would be a different story.''

    We had to drastically revise our plans. There was a need to publicize it.

    As Serpens said earlier, the whereabouts of the body are unknown. We cannot increase the number of victims by opening another match to pursue it.

    There must have been a person involved in the arena who helped get the body out of the way.

    However, whether it is intentional or not, you may be called a devil worshiper.

    ''If you do that, you won''t be able to die gracefully .''

    I''ll catch you right away even if you don''t die.

    I didn''t have time to investigate them one by one.

    ''Maybe something similar is happening in other arenas... .''

    All continents must be vigilant by publicizing this fact.

    The more you do things in public, the less likely you are to catch them, but he said that he did it secretly for nothing.

    may shudder and be covered.

    ''Take them to the surface, at least to prevent them from collecting sacrifices.''

    But there was one problem. This place is not an empire.

    Apart from being in another country, we are currently hiding our identity and smuggled into the country.

    ''Rather than getting help, would you be in trouble if you found out?''

    You also found evidence related to demon worshipers and got a cause, but keeping it a secret is outright disrespectful to your royal family.

    It''s like advertising that you can''t believe it.

    Is it true that I came here secretly because I couldn''t believe it? ?

    In any case, it should not be done against the Bastul Kingdom, which would be the first thing to betray if it was wrong.

    To solve this problem, we decided to change the order of the operation and its subject slightly.

    ''A person who will superficially act on behalf of you. Someone who can naturally speak up on this issue.''

    The first goal was to meet the Black Fighter and ask him to cooperate.

    It was completely different from the original plan of going to him after finishing all the work and trying to persuade him in a relaxed way, but there was nothing he could do.

    Me and Serpens infiltrated the arena to convince the black fighters, and Eugess is working outside to prepare in advance to block the escape route.

    This wasn''t about shunning her, it was an arrangement that considered the right place.

    The stealth action I was thinking of wasn''t like this...

    why are you there

    Every time you turn a corner, you snuggle up against the wall, sticking out your eyes, and wary.

    It is attached to the corner of the ceiling, and when a guard passes by, it falls and hits the nape of the neck to stun it. Etc.

    ''It feels like driving on an open highway without a car.''

    As if a navigation system guides you through an uncongested section and informs you of a speed bump ahead.

    Serpens, who have grasped the surroundings, go back to the other way on their own, or those who are on the path they must pass, jump out first and clean up.

    ''Today, the service of Serbus is solid.

    loguna

    I just walked leisurely, as if I had just taken a walk, until I arrived at the gladiator camp underground.

    The Black Fighter is also locked in a containment chamber located deep there.

    "Do you think?"

    Standing in front of the cold, thick iron gate, I asked Serpens.

    He nodded slightly, extracted divine energy, and condensed it to a thickness as thin as a cutter knife.

    Slide it into the door gap and down

    As I descended, the lock was cut without any resistance.

    - Giggiggi-gi. Bang one.

    The heavy iron door opened with an unpleasant sound of iron, and closed again with a terrifyingly heavy sound before we entered.

    ''Aren''t you going to be locked up?''

    I swung it open and it opened fine.

    There was no light to be found in the containment chamber, so Serpens shined

    levitated a sphere of divine power into the air.

    Only then, the figure of the black fighter was revealed, leaning against the wall with his limbs bound.

    "It''s ; 3 It

    A rough breath blew through the gagged teeth.

    The sight of them holding their breath as they looked at us did not seem exhausted, but rather excited by the exaltation of murder.

    In the dark, golden eyes blazed mercilessly.

    ''It''s brutal... .''

    I feel like I''m out of breath. Only after reflexively hiding behind Serpens'' back was he able to escape the pressure.

    Calm down. We''re here to save you.

    The chains rumbled and made a harsh friction sound.

    Glancing over Serpens'' shoulder, the black fighter didn''t seem to believe it. Again, he was taking a vigilant posture.

    thick chains rooted in the wall

    If he hadn''t restrained his limbs, he might have rushed right away, telling him not to gossip.

    ''Every time this iron gate was opened, I expected that someone would come to the rescue, and that expectation must have been broken every time... .''

    Where did you just break?

    My life was threatened and I had to take the lives of others.

    I would rather have wished that this iron gate would not be opened forever. So it is understandable that he is so vigilant.

    Then we came to rescue him

    If you make me believe that you''re only human, the boundaries will loosen a bit... ?

    "Ah , Sir Rivelon?"

    I grabbed Serpens'' hood from behind and pulled him down, and he looked back at me and made a face of what he was doing.

    I took off the eyeglasses that were hanging from his nose.

    ''now~! Come on, let''s start introducing ourselves!''

    It''s impossible to say things like that in front of the Black Knight, so I tried to convey my intentions through actions instead of words.

    noticed what i was trying to say

    After all, Serpens let out a small sigh and evoked divine power.

    A silvery brilliance close to pure white flowed from his body, forcing the magic reagent that had soaked into his hair.

    As the light faded, there was a bluish-silver hair that I had not seen in a long time.

    My name is Serpens A. Prasidus of the Holy Lumen Empire. And this is my assistant, Sir Zion Rivelon.

    You can rest assured now! Our Duke will take care of everything!

    Sir Rivelon. You seem to have forgotten for a moment, but we need help.

    Intoxicated by Serbus'' driving ability, he forgot about it for a moment. It was the sword warrior who had to act superficially to the last, and the existence of Serpens and Eugenes had to be kept a secret.

    For that reason, we as the Illuminati, a secret society to protect the peace of the continent .

    ''Oh, can''t you change the name of this?''

    While making the plan, he said, Wouldn''t it be better to make a specific decision if Eugene is the best?

    Of course, rejecting our request doesn''t change anything. Whichever option you choose, we will destroy this arena and rescue those who are still alive, including that one.

    First of all, can I come closer?

    Serpens asked cautiously.

    I couldn''t see his expression because he was standing behind his back, but he was definitely gentle and warm. He must be wearing such a smile that brings relief.

    Serpence one step, one step. I approached him slowly with narrow strides.

    that much. Serpence, who had been protecting me from the death of the black fighter, gradually moved away from me, but I did not feel the same pressure as before.

    ''It''s not that I returned to the Fallen Fence, but even looking at that sacred figure, I have no intention of killing.

    When it boils over, that''s weird, cancer!''

    Seeing the Serpence, whose appearance is nothing like an identification card, would not even dare to think of impersonation.

    I looked at the black warrior''s face.

    He has only lived for us, and he still has anger and resentment, pessimism and bitterness. It is a contorted expression full of negative emotions.

    But a new emotion of bewilderment rose in his eyes.

    ''Don''t even do that... .''

    It''s time for a few days left to choose. Serpence is in a foreign country

    Who would have ever doubted that

    In such a situation, Serpens appeared to rescue him.

    Also, everything that says you need your help.

    He seemed to be suspicious and confused as to whether it was a dream or a fantasy he had made up by his exhausted self.

 CH 81

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 81

    19. The Duke and the Black Warrior (3)

    Serpence, who came right in front of the black fighter, knelt down on one knee and made eye level with him.

    I''ll unlock the gag first.

    Serpens carefully released the gag from his mouth.

    When the foreign body feeling in his mouth disappeared, he said, ''Uh, ah... .'' He let out a sound and tried to move his mouth awkwardly.

    split as it splits. very dry

    It was a dry sound.

    "Can you speak?"

    "Uh, uh me, really , you this?"

    The handcuffs that suppressed his hands were neatly cut by Serpence with divine power, and the water bottle he had brought in advance was held in his hands.

    Although he must have been feeling very thirsty, the black fighter didn''t open it right away and drink it.

    I just stared at him with blank eyes.

    ''As if nothing in his hand

    Like someone who doesn''t know what it is... .''

    Is it because for a long time all he had in his hands was a weapon that killed people?

    It seems very unfamiliar to me that something else is being held in my hand.

    ha .

    A sigh of relief comes out of nowhere.

    Serpens turned to me. Rather than looking at me aloud, the expression seemed to ask for an opinion.

    Black fighter still dazed the water bottle

    was looking at you

    '' I can''t help it.''

    I nodded slightly, and Serpens responded with a small wink.

    Again, his gaze turned to the black fighter. Divine power shone on Serpens'' delicate, white fingertips, and it touched the black fighter''s crude copper-colored forehead.

    Overall, I was not in good shape.

    The divine power did not stay only on his forehead, but warmly embraced his whole body.

    "Do you remember who you are?"

    The light faded.

    Serpens, who had removed his hand from his forehead, opened the water bottle by hand, held it in his hand again, and asked a question.

    The eyes, which had been dazed without focus, regained their luminosity.

    He looked at the bottle of water and the serpence in his hand, then took a sip and opened his mouth.

    "I was Winston Redford I was a knight in the Kingdom of Bastul, Count Malum , uh

    He was able to temporarily calm himself down by the divine power, but his anger seems to have risen again due to the recollected memories.

    Heat flared up in his eyes again.

    - Bang-!

    black fighter... Winston, who was a former student, uttered a swear word, Damn -!!

    There was a loud roar, the tiles on the floor shattered, and pieces of stone scattered. Some dogs had red blood on them.

    ''No matter how much you train, it''s a human hand .''

    His hands were firm, but he hit the stone floor with his bare hands, which were not even wrapped around him, and there was no way he could survive.

    torn, torn apart. Red blood leaked out.

    It''s fine, Sir Redford. If you''re having trouble speaking, you don''t have to.

    Serpence, who judged that his past and the past of the Black Knight I had informed him coincided with his words and reactions, cut off his words.

    After a brief hesitancy, he placed his hand on Winston''s fist and again infused with divine power to heal him.

    As I did to him, Serpens patted Winston''s hand.

    ''Are you doing this out of sympathy and sympathy, or are you just following me?''

    It was difficult to judge.

    I read his thoughts specifically

    What can be deduced is, in fact, close to inference.

    Looking at the subtle changes in his expression, I can only infer that if it was his personality in such a situation, he would think like this.

    ''Even this is possible because the emotions felt by Serpens are limited and simple... .''

    So, it was difficult to read when people were turning their backs like they are now, or when their emotions were a bit complicated.

    But whether Serpence is serious or not. Winston can''t figure it out

    there will be no

    It is not " for." The person who sold me here is the master''s son. Of course, the master must have noticed that too. Yet, I am still here ! Can you do it!

    So shouting, Winston bit his teeth.

    With anger and hatred towards those who sold themselves and stood by him. He burned his hostility to the point where his body trembled less.

    my skin a few steps away

    It felt sharp enough to sting.

    A knight is a person who protects the chivalry. You do not have to serve a master to become a knight. Does your chivalry become nothing without the approval of others?

    This is not a line I wrote.

    I didn''t know that the Black Knight would deny that he was a knight, and I did not know in detail about the same thing as a knight before that.

    Serpence''s improvisation.

    that case !

    Lord Redford''s chivalry.

    Is it just a cry of pretense?"

    I can''t do that! But, but... But... hehehe.

    seems to be speechless. He continued muttering, ''But, and shed tears.

    As a result of carrying out his chivalry. Thinking that he has reached where he is now, is he regretting himself for being honest?

    Maybe it was because he was unfair and resentful that he had sacrificed his allegiance, but that he came back like this as a result.

    It was difficult to define it with certainty

    all.

    If not, it doesn''t matter. Even if there is no lord to serve, Sir is still a knight. It is not Sir Redford who has lost his qualifications.

    The benevolent and warm voice of Serpens spread through the gloomy and cold containment room.

    ''Didn''t you need a script from the beginning?''

    On the subject of whining that he could only make sounds with his mouth... .

    As Serpens said, what he says is routine and obvious. The clich�� was right.

    A very ''normal'' story.

    ''But it''s natural. It would be easier to accept.''

    It is natural for anyone to hear it.

    It''s the fault of those who betrayed first, isn''t it the fault of the person who was betrayed? It''s really natural.

    for example .

    ''If there is a wounded child in front of you,

    Is it natural for you to be saved?''

    In the first place, it is easy for such a classic story to penetrate people''s hearts.

    ''I didn''t make any such calculations, I just said it with my sincerity... .''

    If you teach one, you don''t know the tenth, but you sit down after analyzing all the processes from one to ten.

    ''But is there something cheap?''

    Swallowing saliva in a sense of tension, the moment I checked Winston''s face.

    I was able to figure out its identity.

    ''Serpence was suspenseful... !''

    Still, Winston had a deep murderous and vindictive attitude towards them.

    To such a person, ''You did nothing wrong, the bad guys betrayed you! Those bastards are absolutely bad guys!''

    Winston''s eyes blazed with hatred and revenge towards them.

    ''It''s not about fanning a house on fire... .''

    ''The disqualification is... The back part of '' should not have come out of the mouth.

    The angel''s comfort became the devil''s whisper.

    The flow is so smooth that it doesn''t feel like a mistranslation even if it is translated because they are not qualified to be masters, but are not qualified to live.

    ''I know I didn''t mean it that way, but... .''

    Will Winston accept it that way?

    It could have been taken as an impulsive urge to cut their heads off right away and implement justice.

    ''Who is not the final boss of the original?

    look !''

    I tried to rescue them before they fell, but they are pushing me down into a deeper abyss.

    ''Please, a little... ! Let''s repent and find the light!!''

    If I had the telepathic ability, I would have cried out in Serpens'' mind, ''Duke, please do as the script''s been made!''

    If I had... the power... ...strength, I need it. The power for revenge!

    When someone hears, a demon appears and says in his ear, ''Do you want power... ?''

    I know that even the question has been whispered.

    There is still a long way to a time when demons can send their own thoughts and try to make a pact without the rituals of the worshipers.

    Even if it was possible, Serpence would have noticed it right away.

    That''s all I can tell Sir Redford.

    It can''t be. Isn''t there a script I wrote?

    As soon as he finds his freedom when finished here, he invades the Count of Mallum and slaughters as in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    will commit

    No, the situation was different back then.

    He didn''t even make a contract with the devil, and was far ahead in time. It''s still growing.

    Before he could take revenge, he was vainly suppressed, and he might end his life as it is.

    ''What the hell, someone changed the serpent into a corrupted fence... ?''

    I don''t know how to deal with this situation.

    Please don''t do this, I stared at Serpens in the back with all my might

    all.

    Maybe the god Luxmea recognized my sincerity, and Serpens turned to me. When we make eye contact, he sees a mischievous smile.

    ''. What is that smile?

    Somehow, I felt like I was playing with him to the fullest.

    Rather than me. Sir Rivellon standing over there must have more to say to Sir Redford.

    Why am I suddenly mentioned here?!

    As soon as Serpense finished speaking,

    Winston''s ferocious eyes turned to me.

    Surprised and frowning without realizing it, I frowned as if I had seen something insignificant and moved my gaze to Serpens again.

    Although he''s not a knight, I think he''s as good as him. Not only that, but in some ways he''s even more upright.

    Once again, Winston''s eyes turned to me. Their eyes were full of disbelief.

    No, I, the... Duke! I don''t know why you suddenly said that!

    I don''t know why he suddenly deviated from the script and acted in an abrupt manner.

    At least he didn''t seem impulsive.

    I feel like I have some kind of plan.

    Because I knew that you understood Sir Redford better than I did, and decided that you could give for it.

    The duke rather than me...

    You say you want to help, you want to save

    Did you write it?

    Serpens got up from his seat and came to me.

    I know you have a lot of things you want to say. And because of that, you know for yourself that you often make mistakes when you open your mouth driven by emotions. I also know that you are wary of them.

    Are you saying that you should not say anything to the feast, think and speak carefully?

    If that''s what you''re worried about, do it yourself. Are you really going to pass it on to me like this?

    I couldn''t sleep all night. Anguished and worried. Did you not organize your thoughts? That''s why I think what you say is more relatable and helpful than mine.

    Was it the script for that? ?

    He said he didn''t know what to say and asked me for help.

    This was to prevent me from spitting out suspicious stories again and again while gibbling.

    It meant to refine and organize what you were going to say while writing.

    I believe.

    Serpens smiled.

    Just as a superior encourages subordinates, he taps me on the shoulder and pats me on the back.

    ''no wonder .''

    While Winston''s wrist cuffs were released, I wondered why he left the ankle shackles or restraints that restrain Aurora... .

    In case they run into me, it looks like it was left as a minimum safety device.

    I am grateful for such consideration, but the current situation is not at all grateful.

 CH 82

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 82

    19. The Duke and the Black Warrior (4)

    There were prepared words, but I don''t know where to start.

    for now..

    Duke, please release all of Sir Redford''s restraints.

    " are you okay?"

    What else wouldn''t be okay? And talking to someone who is tied up is a bit...

    After all, Serpens is by my side,

    Safety was not enough, it was secured in abundance.

    Even if you look at him, you won''t be able to run away, and even if that were the case, it could be stopped enough.

    Keeping him tied up is the same as not trusting him.

    Those who show distrust and spit out only good things with their mouths, who will listen?

    "I thought you would."

    As if I was imaginary, Serpens smiled kindly and said,

    come.

    Of course, that''s not the point.

    ''I thought it was me. Where the hell did you throw your liver away, so you don''t have any horns, are you doing it without fear?''

    I read these thoughts in his eyes.

    ''I left my liver with Serpens, so will you take good care of me?''

    When I looked at him with the thought of , Serpens glanced at me reluctantly once, and then awakened divine power.

    A deity made of pure silver

    The blade cuts through the iron.

    Not only the shackles, but also the restraint ball that suppressed the Auror was cut off, and Winston exhaled a deep breath at the feeling of openness rushing in.

    ...Did you say Lord Ribelon?

    Ah, yes...!

    He didn''t expect me to talk to him first, so I was stunned by my answer.

    Did he feel relieved that his detained power was released and that he was now able to protect himself?

    A little harsh and aggressive voice

    fell heavily.

    You''re the lucky one.

    Winston''s eyes were stained with a deep sense of defeat, jealousy, and envy.

    He looks at me with those eyes.

    Why is he suddenly doing this?

    He looked at Serpence in embarrassment, and his gaze was fixed on Winston. If you are in a hurry, you will be able to suppress it immediately.

    Sir Redford...?

    "You have met a master who acknowledges you and listens to your voice.

    You''ll never understand me for the rest of your life.

    Feeling the relative bluntness, he grinded his teeth ''greatly''.

    Putting aside whether Serpence is my lord or not, from an objective point of view, he was right.

    Serpence is a great boss no matter how you look at it, a person who sets a good example for everyone, and has enough skills to become someone''s master.

    ''It''s not all outwardly known, but it''s true that I''m genuinely trusted by Serpens... .''

    He was lucky, he said.

    I tried hard too, but he also listened to me and worked hard. Otherwise, I wouldn''t be of this world anymore.

    In contrast... .''

    Winston''s master did not. It''s not that I didn''t, I didn''t.

    Knowing his son''s evil, he fixed it and put Winston on it.

    He didn''t care what kind of unfair treatment he received, and he turned away from him because he couldn''t fulfill his role.

    So, Sir Redford. You uh

    do you want to fuck? go find them... . Are you even going to kill me?"

    If only I could. No, even if I couldn''t.

    The desire to kill them without fail was firmly attached to his face.

    A look closer to a yacht than a human.

    Adding to that, his big body puts a heavy pressure on him even though he is holding his seat.

    That''s not okay.

    why?

    Because regardless of whether the outcome is successful or not, you''re going to die.

    Even so, it doesn''t matter. If I can get my revenge on them even by burning my body! It doesn''t matter!

    Why doesn''t it matter! You''ve endured hard times. You''ve survived far and wide...

    He fought fiercely and won, and as a reward, he extended his life.

    What was his behavior after the last match?

    I was so exhausted that I couldn''t control my body, but I survived today

    With the relief that I was able to, and the joy of being able to live tomorrow.

    Didn''t you burst out laughing like crazy?

    Even in a hellish place full of pain, he struggled to survive.

    "You have to survive to get revenge. That''s why I was able to survive."

    "If you say that, who will be defeated by you? To protect your life that you would throw away so easily !"

    I know he doesn''t have Joe.

    Faced with death, if there is a way to live, there is no choice but to choose it.

    Moreover, he also knows that if he hadn''t died at his hands, he would have died because of the reagent.

    But that doesn''t mean he can easily throw his life away.

    No. I won''t even say that I should live for others, even their share. But isn''t it worth it?

    There''s no way that''s possible... Inside, there''s a fire that doesn''t go out...! The traitor of the Ungong Daecheon is this heart.

    Hold on! while suppressing! There is no way you can be happy!"

    As if frustrated, he pounded his chest with his fists.

    my heart is pounding

    What are you going to say to me, to forgive them? Do you think the prince of the empire there too? Do I have to forgive them? Do you think that you have to live with the traitors in your heart?

    Is it painful just to hold that bitterness in his heart, he tears of bitterness

    He said as if pleading with tears.

    Because I couldn''t find a way to get rid of those overwhelming feelings. He only knew how to set himself on fire.

    " whoah."

    Serpens let out a small sigh.

    His gaze shifted from Winston to me. It means that you will leave it entirely to me.

    I didn''t say a word to forgive me. I''m not going to tell you to keep it and suppress it.

    Weeping with bloodshot eyes, Winn

    I see Stone staring at me. No, it seemed.

    Suddenly, Serpens stopped in front of me.

    Take a life. You knew at a glance that Lord Ribelon was a common man.

    Ugh-. Do you mean to just listen to such nonsensical bullshit ! ?!

    He clenched his teeth and pressed down every word.

    ��!һ! I''m really envious! I will meet a master who cares deeply for my people

    can you... . To believe in him and run wild like this in a thunderous roar is abhorrent!

    "Once again I warn you. Take your life."

    After Serpence finished saying that, he stood in front of me for not a short time.

    As he turned to the side, Winston''s face, which had been bleeding with a vicious force, was pale with blood. It had turned into a sad expression.

    Those eyes looking at me were so unfair that they seemed to be brimming with tantrums.

    all.

    '' Is this okay?''

    Judging by that state of affairs, it seems that Serpence responded to it by living.

    I was concerned about the chaos, but it wouldn''t be a problem if I said that I felt anger at the person who threatened him because he was terrified of his subordinates.

    The real problem is not the sound of Serpence''s setting, but Winston.

    "They have broken their course. It is of course not right to leave such people as they are. The desire for revenge is understandable. But the consequences are not.

    if it hurts If you have to give up your life. That''s the wrong way.

    I''m telling you not to throw away the life you''ve worked so hard to protect just because of those people! Are you a knight? I''m not a knight, and I don''t know anything about knights.

    "Whether it be a nation, a lord, a belief. You do other people.

    Did you take the sword to do it? Didn''t he become a knight to protect him?

    Guarding. Now, what do you mean?

    You. It means to protect yourself.

    It''s an expression I don''t understand.

    Your head must be paralyzed with anger, so the words I say can''t make sense right now.

    But someday. It won''t be long after that, and you''ll be able to accept it. He will surely meet it earlier than Serpense.

    The sword you wield with a grudge will eventually come back to you. If you cut off their heads and succeed in escaping, then what are you left with? Kill the traitor and get revenge. The exhilaration that he succeeded in the sequel? That is only for a moment. He becomes a fugitive who has to be chased for the rest of his life for the crime of killing a nobleman. He only gets the disgrace of killing his master.

    "You mean to say give up instead of forgive?"

    That bastard''s jerk.

    Did I tell you. It''s the wrong way. There is not only one way in this world. Did I envy you earlier? If that''s the case, then you can still serve your lord whom you can be loyal to. You can truly trust and follow your master. right?

    "It is not surprising that such a person suddenly appears.

    Did you appear? It''s not that far away. Someone who wants to envy me, who isn''t even a knight. You''re right next to me, right?

    His gaze shifted to my side.

    seems to be There, Serpens crossed his arms and looked at us with a calm expression.

    " So, instead of paying allegiance, are you asking me to ask for revenge?

    No. I was just telling you, in the hope that Sir Redford would not give up on life, first of all, the opportunity and merits that come with it as you go on living.

    "As for how they deal with it the transfer of prior knowledge is slow.

    Gold is getting longer?"

    Perhaps now, he is playing with a train with countless questions and doubts in his head.

    ''From here on... .''

    He shifted his gaze to Serpens.

    When our eyes met, it was as if Serpence was saying that he was doing well. With a faint smile and friendly eyes, he nodded his head.

    ��! That''s not it. ��, this person. !''

    This guy is going to leave it all to me until the end.

    After that, it didn''t matter what anyone said. Aside from that, there was no reason for me to explain it, since it was originally built by Serpence.

    ''Is it because of what I was trying to pass on? So are you getting revenge now?!''

    It''s not a bet of any kind, but what does shouting ''take, more!'' mean?

    Looking at his face, I don''t think he''ll even budge no matter what I say.

    When Winston just blew his life away. Serpence came and gave it to me, so let''s play with it.

    it was

    Actually, we''ve known about Sir Redford from the very beginning. From the very beginning, at this point in time when the day of our choice is not far off, the fact that he sneaks into a foreign country is related to you.

 CH 83

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 83

    19. The Duke and the Black Warrior (5)

    Confusion filled Winston''s face.

    If you listen up to this point, you will feel as if Serpence has come all the way here for the sole purpose of saving yourself.

    '' Is that right?''

    The biggest thing was to deal with the future demon camp executive in advance, but instead of the murder contract, he came to scout himself.

    nee

    Looking at it this way, it was true that I came to see only one thing to save him.

    But there''s no need to even talk about it.

    Didn''t you feel any doubts while watching the opponents you''ve fought in this arena? No, you must have felt it. It''s blatantly full of strange things.

    " there was. The strength and reaction speed are those of an expert, but if you look at the movements themselves, they are no different from ordinary people "

    "Because I am a public person."

    " what did you say now?"

    can''t seem to believe it. His eyes widened slightly.

    The demon cult... If you say they were intertwined. Can you explain everything?

    Hmm

    If you tell me that they care about you and have been working for him. You''ll understand.

    . .Not at all.

    Yes?

    I don''t know.

    I lost my words for a moment and just rolled my eyes.

    Why don''t you know?''

    If it was a Serpence, before he could even say one thing, he would climb up all the chains related to it and come up with a solution.

    If it''s Euges, if it''s just fortune-telling, you''ll understand perfectly well what I''m trying to say.

    Going with those two, of course

    Hehe, I thought that just saying this would be enough.

    '' Yeah, you might not know.''

    Putting geniuses and ordinary people on the same line is absurd.

    Not knowing is not a sin, and learning what you do not know is enough.

    So .

    I told Winston that a demon worshiper had corrupted him and tried to exploit him.

    and what did you do for him

    With each explanation, he burst into anger, frustration, and rage.

    If only I could get out of this place. If only I could take revenge on the people who mocked and ridiculed me and those who betrayed me...! If I could even borrow the power of the devil to accomplish that, I promised myself that I would do it.

    One, even that was planted by someone else... Not only this body, but also the mind and spirit! My everything was not mine...

    Sir Redford...

    Knowing everything, he was confused and grieved.

    It''s like believing that if you do that, your unresolved, stale feelings in your heart will be crushed, crushed, and blown away by the wind to make them lighter.

    He continued to pound his chest.

    ''I''m going to bruise... .''

    He clasped his rough, rough fists to tell him to stop.

    He couldn''t stop it by force, but he stopped mistreating himself if the meaning was conveyed.

    But being cramped was unavoidable, so he grabbed the front of his head.

    It''s okay now. You won''t be playing with their will anymore, and you won''t be oppressed by anyone else.

    He patted his shoulder to calm him down, hoping that something that had been hardened on him would melt a little.

    " So. What is the right path you said?"

    Winston, who had barely calmed down, asked helplessly.

    Rather than the right path, I want you to see it as one of many paths. Among them, I can suggest. A path that benefits both us and Sir Redford.... I hope you think of it as such.

    It''s difficult. So what am I supposed to do?

    I don''t understand, said Winston, frowned.

    They asked what to do, not how to do it.

    ''It would be great for us if he helps, but... .''

    If you ask if it''s necessary, no.

    The ripple effect will be a little less, but other methods can be squeezed out.

    If possible, I would like him to choose the two that he listened to to the end.

    It''s not a coercion or an order. What you must do is...

    Sir Rivelon.

    Yes?

    Serpens, who had left everything to me and remained silent, abruptly stopped talking.

    It''s good to take good care of Sir Redford, but I hope you''ll also take care of those who have been waiting outside for a while.

    Oh. That''s right, Eugenes!

    I''m very sorry for her, but... . blinked forgot

    Now is the time to complete all the preparations in advance. She will be standing on a high place to get a sweeping view of the entire arena building.

    ''Besides, considering it''s late at night and the current season .''

    Even if I see her shivering in the cold, I have to finish it quickly with an explanation.

    Anyway, we hope to bring the work of this arena to the public.

    After briefly explaining why we should and why we can''t come to the surface, we talk about the plan.

    Now, there are still civilians in this arena who have been kidnapped for tomorrow''s game. You rescue them.

    Please escape safely. Of course we''ll have to help from behind, but... . As I said before, I can''t come out on the surface, so I''m just stating that a mysterious group that opposes the demon worshipers helped.

    Well.

    Then, please inform the Luxmea Church and ask for help. It is related to the demon worshipers, so it is more certain to inform the Church rather than the Kingdom. Temples of the Luxmea Church exist everywhere on the continent.

    The god Luxmea is the only god of the continent.

    Therefore, it was able to exert a great influence on all countries on the continent.

    ''Especially, there is a problem that it can be used as a sacrifice for summoning demons... .''

    You can just scour the country and around the world, and you can smash everything illegal, legal, and arena!

    Those who do not help or try to stop it are enough to drive them into heresy.

    ''As in the original work, if there are divided sects, it can be argued that they believe in different sects.''

    now united as one

    And in the future... I have to. Will you be okay?

    And. Here''s the story of Lord Redford''s revenge.

    * * *

    Since Serpens had been asking with a voice without confidence, he was in the middle of writing down the words he had to say instead.

    Your hand has stopped.

    Like a cat that just got hit by the rain

    When you ask me to write a script, at least, with an innocent expression... .

    Right now, I''m supervising. I glared at him with a wretched heart.

    "Hmm, hmmm ! Is there something blocking something?"

    As if there was something piercing Serpens in that gaze, he coughed and pretended to be interested.

    "It must have stopped."

    What can you say for the black fighter? what he wants

    Even if I think over and over again, I can''t

    There were sections that could not be resolved.

    He will not give up his revenge.

    Serpence looked at me with eyes wondering what the problem was.

    I. No, how can we tell him to give up revenge? For that betrayal, he fell to this hell. I can''t ask him to bury his grudge knowing that. And forsaking him. The family is also a wicked person who deserves judgment."

    Hmm... .

    But yes, he''s a moron.

    Can''t you just watch Rum throw himself into the flames of revenge? . ha .

    It was cramped and heavy, as if a stone was on my chest, and I let out a long sigh.

    It didn''t get any lighter.

    Then, isn''t it enough to get rid of the target of revenge? We''ll have to detour a bit, but we can get back in time.

    On the way back to the Empire, I''m going to stop by and say it.

    A truly suspenseful idea.

    "No, it would be futile as it is. It wasn''t revenge, it was something to be resentful of.

    It''s just that the opponent has disappeared.

    "Hmm it didn''t seem like he had a knack for infiltrating."

    it would be

    If that was possible, I wouldn''t worry so much.

    If I carry it and hide... 2m seems to be enough, but I don''t think the window is big enough to be able to carry something like that. Should I look for a secret passageway...

    " are you serious?"

    Of course I''m joking. It''s not impossible, I, I''m such a joke for him.

    You can''t do anything stupid.

    I imagined Serpens running around with a giant 2m tall on his shoulders.

    It would have been much nicer to see a dubious duo with their faces wrapped around their faces, and the black hooded duo fussing around.

    Then is there any other way?

    Of course it is. Long-term, but... I would have used this method.

    So the method Serpens strongly recommended".

    * *

    Originally after cleaning up the arena.

    He was going to free Winston and show him how if he wanted revenge.

    ''But the order of the plans has changed, and the scale has grown... .''

    The larger the scale, the more certain the results will be.

    The general context was similar, but a slight dialogue correction was necessary to match the larger scale.

    After hiding in the arena, it was all finished before coming here.

    ''Somehow, it sounds like you''re still listening, muttering a leader.''

    Normally, I would have only thought of it in my mind... .

    If I go there again in the future, I will have to be vigilant in advance. I thought you were just nervous about getting others to repent

    If you act with the Cult while things are going on, even if you know that Sir Redford has escaped the arena. Even if you reveal that you have been sold into slavery by the son of your former lord.

    You won''t be able to touch it.

    Black magic reagents and arena-related documents will also be handed over to the denomination through him.

    I will be an important witness and accuser of this incident, so I will protect you from external threats.

    And even more so when there is a legend that he even rescued a kidnapped civilian in the process of escaping.

    While publicizing the arena events, all you have to do is shed light on the police officers who were caught in the arena.

    " Is that enough?"

    Yes, it''s simple? Sir Redford. You were betrayed by your lord''s family, but you still have the honor and pride of a knight in your heart. You love humanity and become a hero who uncovered the conspiracy of demon worshipers for the continent. .

    I don''t expect that kind of honor.

    I know. It''s just a process of revenge. It''s a lot better than the yoke of killing my former master, though it may be burdensome, isn''t it?

    It''s revenge to show that you''re eating well and living well - I don''t mean to be bullshit like that.

    Being happy is just a basic right that everyone should enjoy.

    ''I don''t think Serpens even thought of that.''

    It would have been purely focused on bringing down their clan.

    "That what did you say? Horse , what do you say?"

    Mallum.

    "Oh, yes. Mallum. Count Mallum

    Beyond the extent of betraying the loyalty of such a righteous knight, he sold his loyal knights as slaves. The fact that they are a very dirty and mean noble family is spreading throughout the Kingdom of Bastul... , no. It will become known throughout the continent.

    But what kind of expression should you make when you say something like this?

    Suddenly, before she opened her heart with Serpence. The expression on his face he had seen on the train came to mind.

    The family who played tricks on chivalry will be hostile to all knights in this land. If that happens, the royal family and other nobles who should be loyal and trusted by the knights.

    The families have no choice but to abandon them. Inside, appeals from the nobles that the title of Count Malum should be stripped will pour in every day. There will be strong criticism from the outside."

    Her eyes were half-folded and her lips curled up, and there was a soft smile on her lips.

    Then the royal family has no choice but to make a judgment. According to the internal opinions, the titles will be removed. The status of the state has been lowered due to external criticism, so we will expel them abroad. However, no country on the continent is willing to accept them. There will be no place for them to set foot anywhere on this continent.

    will be.

    His voice is soft and subtly... .

    So wretched. Wandering aimlessly across the borders, being caught by thieves, and ending up with ... or crafted like that, Lord Redford can handle it himself. No one cares about their deaths anyway.

    Am I doing well right now?

    "This is much more than going into the territory right now , huh? Why is everyone making such a face?"

    There is something strange about the atmosphere.

    Winston is completely ignorant, and Serpens has a very troubled expression.

    Sometimes... I feel relieved that you are on the continent''s side.

    Saying that, Serpens had a bitter smile on the outside. But I know that on the inside there is a smile of contentment.

    '' I guess I was just trying to keep my own settings, so you passed it all on to me?!''

    Such a tactical fence! Suspense!!

    I often . This guy is still on the continent

    I feel a crazed relief at the fact that I am on your side.

 CH 84

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 84

    20. The Duke and the Secret Society (1)

    A sword to harm someone and a sword to protect. Even if the sword is raised in the same way, the result changes is the difference in the attitude of the person holding it...

    With an expression on his face that had escaped, Winston muttered a little.

    The "sword" he spoke of was probably referring to himself as a knight.

    ''It means that you want to use it correctly for the right person.''

    For a knight who regards absolute obedience to his master''s orders as an honor, it must be very important.

    I know that well, but .

    ''Why are you taking turns looking at me and Serpens while saying that?''

    Doesn''t it seem like they say that if I hadn''t been picked up by Serpens, I would have become a rare villain?

    ''How can you do this to me?

    how much i cared for him

    How should I comfort him, what should I say so he can open his heart and accept him? I''ve been thinking about it all night long.

    In the end, it seems that all he can remember is how I parroted the ruse Serpence had laid out.

    It was very sad, but there was no place to complain.

    It must have been because he was so blind to revenge, he comforted himself.

    One day he will look back on the words I said and understand the meaning

    I guess... ?

    I made a mistake earlier. I was the one who ran like a thunderbolt when there was nothing... I''m really sorry.

    No, that''s fine! I would have thought the same thing if I were in the same situation.

    ...indeed. Duke Prasidus was right. He''s not a knight, but he seems to have more than that.

    It seems that he did not understand anything else, but he seemed to have realized that throwing himself at him was not the only skill.

    Even if a similar situation arises in the future, it will not be as reckless as before.

    I will follow your plan. My brain is dull and I don''t know much about tricks, but I can''t seem to find a more effective method.

    You''ve thought well. Cherish yourself.

    In his eyes, who were emotionally driven by resentment and revenge, reason gradually enters, and it is seen that he calmly subsides.

    I know that I don''t care

    But, as the bookkeeper said earlier .

    Winston turned and looked at Serpens with eyes full of anticipation and longing.

    He must have wanted to get a clear answer to the ''Promise of Lord Serpence'', which I put forward as a chance when he survived.

    ''Since you''ve seen a fence called a strong Ser fence, of course you''ll want to enter it too!''

    This is a desirable phenomenon.

    Thinking of the days to live after revenge

    If not, I wouldn''t do something like that. It was proof that they turned their eyes to the future, not the past.

    ''But why am I a librarian?''

    I feel like I was suddenly forced to move to a department.

    Sir Rivelon is an assistant, not a sergeant.

    Serpence corrected it with a very resolute voice.

    He smiles kindly, but on the inside,

    ''If you entrusted a bookkeeper to that kind of thing, is there anything else that we''re all going to ruin together...? ?''

    It was clear that he was thinking something like that.

    And don''t impulsively choose a master. If it''s a vague idea that you want to repay your favor, I hope you don''t do that.

    It seems that Serpens also understood what Winston was trying to say.

    Before he swore allegiance, he gave me a chance to think again.

    I said I would like to convince him if I could. Not saying no, just pretending to be considerate

    take it

    ''Think again, but the result will be the same.''

    It''s probably going to feel like this.

    I know that this kindness will not be enough to repay me for the rest of my life. But apart from that, I sincerely want to follow the Duke. I know I am lacking and stupid. But if it''s okay with this or that...

    In front of him, Winston knelt down on one knee and bowed his head.

    I will be your sword, with your will, protecting your people,

    I would like to. Please accept me!

    At one time, I was worried that Serpens might swear allegiance to me because it was all over me.

    It''s too burdensome... .''

    After seeing that figure, I was relieved.

    ''I realized the importance of the master''s character and learned the importance of tactics.''

    An ideal master who trusts and supports the abilities of his subordinates and reliably protects them from external threats.

    A book that knows how to give a helping hand to the victim and a cruel judgment to the wicked

    buy.

    The two of them are tied together on a set menu, and they are flirting in front of him as if seducing.

    ''If you miss it now, it will never happen again, an unconventional composition.''

    The thought, ''Oh, you must buy this!'' must have been running strong in his mind.

    So I have to be so desperate.

    ''Of course the reality is... .''

    Further detailed description will be omitted.

    If that''s what Sir Redford really intends... come to me after you''ve done all you have to do. If you haven''t changed your mind by then, I''ll be happy to accept it.

    Serpens smiled softly and lifted him up.

    I will definitely see you!

    Winston answered with a determined look in his eyes, as if he was destined to make him his lord.

    After revenge, he will follow us straight to the Empire.

    * * *

    As Winston rescues the people, fights the guards, and escapes, the riots will begin.

    Meanwhile, Serpence plans to collect the documents from the arena and block the secret passages to block the hidden escape route.

    Even if they tried to escape through the normal entrance, Eugenes was guarding them outside.

    ''If you do well, you won''t miss even a single one, can you catch them all?''

    The variable is Winston''s current ability.

    I don''t know how much, or since there are serpenses left inside, I''ll help you secretly.

    For that reason, Serpens could not keep carrying a cumbersome load, so I was entrusted to Eugenes.

    ''It''s not about taking turns and co-parenting... .''

    He put me on top of the arena building where Euges was, and went back down to do his job.

    Then he''ll be like, ''Are you going to be part of our Illuminati?

    Yes?

    It was boring to sit quietly next to me and meditate on it, and I also briefly explained what had happened, and then I got an answer like that.

    No, I''m just becoming Serpence''s vassal! And the Illuminati are only temporarily for this work...

    - Shh Ik!

    In the empty space where nothing could be seen, there was the sound of something flying through the wind.

    At about the same time, there was a small commotion at the entrance to the arena.

    Now it seems to be starting slowly.

    Ah, maybe it''s like a secret society, is it a system that even members don''t know they''re a member of?

    There was a voice that seemed to be blaming himself, saying that the conclusion he had made was plausible.

    No, nothing like that!

    - Shh Ik!

    Once again the piercing wind was heard, and a small flame exploded with a roaring sound from one side of the building.

    ''This time, there must have been a guy running away through the window.''

    If you look closely through the telescope, you can see the shadow of a person through the light that briefly shone.

    It came out and, startled by the magic that exploded in front of him, he could see a glimpse of it rushing into the building.

    "Then I don''t deserve it?"

    Eugene asked with a very sullen voice.

    It was said that there was literally no such organization1, but it seems that they just accepted that there was no such system.

    Inside her, a secret society called the Illuminati already had a distinct reality.

    You don''t deserve it? If there really was such an organization, you would have scouted Lydia-sama first. Really!

    It wasn''t flattering, it actually did.

    All she does is watch the nets and catch those who run away.

    ''What makes us look like a mysterious [group].''

    We hid our existence by using the Solertia ticket I brought for him and the Stealth Scroll.

    - Shh Ik!

    Eusis, who had melted into darkness under the influence of stealth magic, blew an intangible arrow made of pure spirit power.

    The shapeless arrow is her dictionary

    By tearing the scroll buried in the wall, and expressing magic, it did its job and dispersed in the air.

    After all the torn scroll pieces are finished, she will retrieve it through the Spirit of Earth to destroy the evidence.

    "The key to this operation is Lydia-sama, isn''t it?"

    Again, the sound of the wind breaking is heard.

    Electric sparks spread widely, and flames rose in the middle. Like dominoes, the scrolls are arranged for a chain effect.

    Several wizards were secretly lurking here and there, creating an appearance.

    It doesn''t have enough lethal force, but it''s noisy. It can be held firmly. You''ve been preparing mainly for these things. Did you come up with such a plan from the beginning?

    I just fell for Solertia''s tactics.

    If there is any hidden contributor to this operation, it is her.

    Both of you are so thorough, to miss out on that... Maybe the two of you are the same.

    Was it your initiation task to reveal that you were a person?"

    Yes?!

    it''s the same person Who and who are you talking to?

    Only Serpens and the escort master could refer to that.

    "Percent no. Duchess Prasidus and your escort knight. They are the same person."

    I wonder if I asked if Winston was going to be a member of the Illumina Tea earlier... .

    ''what . How did you notice that?''

    Serpens played the other person thoroughly.

    Not only did he deliberately scratch his neck to create a dull and husky voice, but he also lowered the tone itself a lot.

    ''Where is that?''

    Not to mention the way he spoke, even his accent was different.

    Without elevation, cold, blunt, and monotonous.

    It''s with the serpens in the acting that crafts kindness and tenderness, and me and

    The usual Serpence and Doo that you can easily talk to.

    It wasn''t like anything. a completely different person

    ''By the way, did you find out?''

    Other than that, gait and gestures. atmosphere. All of that was different.

    I did it like that], how can you say they are the same person?

    It is not a patient with a terminal disease, and it is a sound that is not too early.

    ''Calm down, I guess I''ll just think about it.''

    She writes this and that novel by herself

    As I went down, I guess I liked the home I used unintentionally and settled as a setting.

    ''Yeah, there''s no other possibility, right?''

    It''s like watching TV so much that you confuse drama with reality.

    He is a poor soul who has come to believe that the contents of the novel he wrote are real without realizing it.

    "Hey, what nonsense is that?"

    It''s no use taking them off. I''m not talking about it, I''m saying it with certainty.

    An unmistakable voice.

    The effect of stealth magic is still being applied, so I can''t check it directly.

    Now, her eyes will be shining like that of a detective who knows the criminal, the trick, and everything.

    Any other answer seems to be in denial.

 CH 85

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 85

    20. The Duke and the Secret Society (2)

    The conversation was interrupted for a while.

    In the meantime, shapeless arrows were shot here and there, and various magics popped up here and there.

    ''On what basis do you speak so proudly?''

    There is nothing to guess at all.

    I have no idea what you''re talking about. Rather, I''m curious as to why you think that way.

    "The first thing I thought was strange was Sion''s attitude."

    This happened.

    If it''s really because of me, then Serpence will be really pissed off this time.

    ''But how do you get scolded?''

    In the past, I was terrified by thinking of the corrupted fence that appeared in [Master of the Holy Sword], but now I can''t imagine it.

    this doesn''t go

    He always seemed like he was going to be scolded, but in the end, it came down to ''I''ll pass it on just this time.''

    ''Why can''t I just think of adolescents grumbling and rebelling that doesn''t even seem like rebellion?''

    He deliberately gave out an angry tee and slammed the door ''bang-!'' After closing it, I remembered Serpens, who was terrified that he might have closed it too tightly.

    '' Isn''t this a little bit?''

    But this time, it was not an issue that could be easily overcome.

    What did he do in front of Yujis as the escort master''s version?

    I will try my best to cover everything else, but what the contract murder request did, it just can''t be covered.

    "Aren''t you too arrogant?"

    only? We''re just close friends! A hierarchical relationship like friends!

    But sometimes it looks upside down?

    This is probably because Serpens listened to me too well... .

    Aren''t you going to call me hyung, tuk-tuk?

    Won''t you hit me and ask me to leave... . Besides that, isn''t it the first time you''ve been rude to the point of wanting to be like that?

    "Well, that''s it''s because the Duke is Hogu!"

    - Ting... . Shh profit!

    Judging by the faint sound of the moment, it seems that he missed the bow once.

    Fortunately, he immediately came to his senses and shot him back. I did well and went all the way to the end, I almost missed a few people

    did.

    No, even if it''s rude. Sometimes looking at someone who needs to be looked after...

    Because I''m busy with work, I don''t want to take care of myself, so I''m taking care of myself as an assistant.

    What about the night market? You seem like a person who doesn''t care about such a place... It must be some secret mission...!

    Because of his position as a duke, he''s just enduring. After all, he''s just an ordinary 24-year-old young man. Originally, human males of this age like to play.

    NS.

    In fact, regardless of age, there is no person who doesn''t like to play.

    I like to play

    Everything was Wilydia-sama''s misunderstanding. The truth is, even the Illuminati, a secret society, is a fantasy group that doesn''t exist.

    Well, good. It''s just a poor answer, but I''ll move on to that. There''s another really decisive clue.

    I guess that''s the last question.

    I don''t know what''s going to come out, but if I just look around it, it''ll be alright.

    After that, I have no choice but to discuss with Serpence and come up with a proper countermeasure.

    ''It looks like the arena is almost finished... .''

    No one seems to run away anymore.

    The stealth magic is slowly dissolving, so can I sneak down now?

    Why did Sion-nim say, ''The pseudonym of Percent is awkward, and ''You call your real name Serpens so familiar? Besides, he didn''t even point out anything about it.

    "Well, that''s because the Duke is a Hogu!

    Sometimes I''m the worst, no, as a joke... .

    "Then why does he use the title of "only you, only you" interchangeably?"

    ...Yes?

    What is that?

    I''ve never been called that before. Coincidentally, the same goes for ''that'' escort knight.

    What, how do you know that... .

    Whether or not to mix specific pronoun expressions when calling others. what do you know about that

    ''You hide everything else well, so why are you like that... . no way ?

    Clearly, it means that it was an unconscious action that Serpens himself did not even notice.

    Incidentally, it''s not just that Eugenes is banished, but I''m the only one who''s been pointed and treated as special.

    because .

    It''s like you don''t treat anyone as a person other than Zion-nim...

    She would be right. accurately

    pointed out

    ''You''re calling your interlocutor you, what? .''

    As long as it''s not gossip or gossip, it''s normal.

    That''s why I overlooked it and went over it... .

    ''There was none other than me.''

    What brought out the real serpents and brought out conversations, not acting.

    Looking at the reaction, it seems you didn''t notice.

    "So, is your real personality closer to that of an escort?"

    I did my best.

    There was no way this could be covered.

    ''How can you refute such clear evidence?!''

    This is Serpens'' fault.

    No, despite knowing how immature a child he is... . It''s my fault too.

    As a guardian, I should have paid more attention and paid attention to interpersonal relationships.

    place.

    ''I knew you were treating other people as burdens, but I didn''t know you weren''t even treating them as people... .''

    Fortunately, the first person to notice was Eugenes.

    ''She was the one who had a crush on the escort master... .''

    I won''t mind him coming now.

    She offered to find out his name on her own, and she succumbed to it.

    Instead of listening directly to the

    as a way to discover the identity.

    I''m telling you in case you misunderstand me, but he was just lonely. To look down on other people or something like that...

    "I know. I felt pity for those who suffered in the arena, and I saw them grieving so much. Of course, there is no way that would be the case."

    It wasn''t, but let''s say it is.

    "He was praised as the master of the holy sword and forced to be perfect He must have been living a difficult and lonely life. Because of that, he was forced to take responsibility, and everyone took responsibility for himself.

    It must have been accepted."

    This was correct.

    Then one day. Seeing the dark side of the humans to be protected, he must have felt sick and tired. Nevertheless, he felt the responsibility to protect even such people. He must have suffered from the sense of separation. That''s probably why it''s the cold side of it when it was wet. I can understand it.

    She was the one who talked about controlling evil by dominating the dark district.

    Of course you will understand.

    Of course, Serpens did not show coldness for that reason, but it is true that he suffered from a sense of separation from something.

    I can only exist as my true self when I cover my face and hide myself. It''s so sad!

    I would like you to tell Serpence himself, not me, about this.

    I must have met Shion-sama after continuing the lonely fight like that.

    Yes, that''s right.

    At that time, Zion-nim was also the devil worshiping alone.

    He was mentally exhausted from chasing the bastards.

    Yeah, that''s right...?

    At the same time, I happened to see the Duke from a distance. Because he was in a similar situation, Zion-nim must have been able to recognize his loneliness that others had not seen.

    Somehow it went well.

    Today, she wrote a novel.

    r

    At first, there were those who followed him.

    He had an agile brain, cool judgment, and warm tolerance, but was physically too weak.

    As the fight continued, one by one, they lost their lives to protect him.

    Shion vowed not to make any more colleagues.

    A lonely battle ensued.

    With a body that is so weak, alone

    Fighting is very far away.

    Even today, with a body full of scars, he hid in a shady alley in the capital.

    There was no one to support him as he staggered precariously.

    Instead, he leaned his back against the cold wall.

    Then it was discovered.

    A person who continued a lonely battle just like himself.

    Unlike himself, while surrounded by many people.

    In the end, he was alone.

    There was only one hand pushing him into the rough battlefield, but no one holding him back... .

    But he took it for granted and smiled at them.

    Serpence was overcome with loneliness, but did not know that the feeling was loneliness.

    But Zion knew.

    Although he had strong power, he was mentally driven and lacking.

    And I thought.

    ''If it were me, I wouldn''t put all the burden on him like they did.''

    thought over and over again.

    ''If that''s the case, I wouldn''t lose my life as easily as ''them'' while protecting me.''

    finally realized

    The two were completely different, as if they were similar to each other, and that''s why they could support each other.

    ��S.

    + + +

    Zion became his assistant and succeeded in approaching Serpence.

    He was not used to receiving help from anyone, so he continued to push Zion away.

    The people the Duke has ever met are wrong.

    "What do you mean ?"

    I''m the only one who wants to help you.

    Zion''s judgment was correct.

    Serpence''s force was strong, and he was not shaken by any hardships.

    I no longer felt the sadness and loneliness of losing a friend.

    But Serpens still looked lonely.

    ''why?''

    It was then that I realized

    What he needs is not a subordinate to support him, but together in an equal position

    that he was a forward-looking colleague.

    Shall we make a group? There''s nothing grandiose even if it''s a group, but we''ll just leave it as it is now. Still, if there''s a plausible name to put forward, it''s cool, isn''t it?

    Do whatever you want.

    Then I''ll make myself the chief, and the duke will be my aide.

    ...Yes?

    Serpens didn''t understand what Shion was saying for a moment.

    It''s already decided, so I can''t back down!

    After seeing Shion''s mischievous expression on her playful face, she realized that it was for me, and Serpens laughed.

    "Then what would you like to name your organization?"

    ILLUMINATI. We will become a ray of light that will dispel the darkness of the continent.

    Isn''t that too grandiose?

    So that''s more cool, isn''t it?

    The two looked at each other and smiled.

    A small candle placed between them drove away the darkness in the room.

    "That''s how the two of them have come to where they are now. Sometimes as the duke and his assistant. Sometimes as the head of a secret organization that fights evil and his aide. Standing ! That must have been how we were supporting each other!"

    While she recites her epic epic, Serpens has already done her job.

    finished and was up

    After gathering the stunned arena officials in one place, and handing over the data to Winston.

    " What the hell is this?"

    I heard it from the middle, so I don''t seem to understand it well.

    He asked why he was my aide and looked at me with eyes urging for an explanation.

    ''Do you understand... .''

    In unnecessary detail, I even inserted the probability of not wanting to increase the number of members.

    What was it that led her to such a creative world?

    ''[Euges from Master of the Holy Sword didn''t do this... .''

    no.

    When there were signs of an incident even in the original.

    It was always Eugenes who was keenly aware of the first and suggested various possibilities.

    ''...Is it me?

    As I put my actions in line with the common sense of this world, the creative path

    The thought of walking crossed my mind.

    Last time... I''m sorry I said that in the dark. You''re not that kind of person, but I didn''t know you well back then, so I made a mistake. The Duke..., you''re not doing anything wrong!

    Yes? What do you mean by that...

    The eyes of Serpens who created an innocent expression as if he didn''t know the hermitage of the dark district turned to me.

    The eyes are telling him to confess immediately to what he has done and his true identity has been revealed.

    It''s okay, I know everything. You don''t have to hide anymore!

    As I said before, I didn''t catch you because of me. Serpens made a mistake.

    I don''t know what kind of conversation was going on, but Serpens touched his forehead, realizing that no more acting was going on.

 CH 86

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 86

    20. The Duke and the Secret Society (3)

    It''s late today, so let''s go back to bed and talk tomorrow.

    Serpens said with a very awkward expression.

    A look of embarrassment was evident to anyone looking at it.

    If that''s what it looks like on the outside, it means you''re actually more confused than that.

    ''Are you sleeping in a situation like this, your personality?

    I will sleep very quietly.''

    Maybe he wasn''t even listening to what Euges had to say?

    I''m sorry, I''m not wrong, or I''m fine.

    He will repudiate all such stories, and only the thought that a side he has been hiding has been found out will fill his mind.

    what happened.

    How, why, and to what extent did you get caught? hold me and dig

    And to match it, I''ll play the setting game again.

    ''If possible, I would have helped too, but... .''

    This time is an exception.

    It''s Eugene''s who got caught, what if it was someone else?

    ''As in [Master of the Holy Sword], we might follow the same train.''

    You may be exposed to further criticism and contempt.

    At that time, it started with suspicion that he had not been chosen by the Holy Sword, but this time there was clear evidence that he had made a mistake.

    ''If you tell me why you were found out, I''ll be more concerned about my name in front of others in the future, but... .''

    All that was revealed right now was the name.

    If the current state continues, other problems will arise, and eventually they will be found out.

    ''Now that I''ve been able to see myself to some extent, shouldn''t I be able to take a look outside?''

    It was still dangerous, but if it was Eugenes, he could trust it.

    She finds out that Serpens doesn''t treat others as human beings.

    Godot, instead of rejecting him, he tried to understand.

    That conclusion . There are some discrepancies, but it is close to the correct answer.

    ''If there is only one human relationship... .''

    What he can experience is also limited to a very small part.

    You have to work with many people to find yourself you don''t even know you are.

    It would be good to take this opportunity to gradually widen the friendship.

    "Sion ?"

    As I stood silently to organize my thoughts, Serpens called me.

    In his eyes that I met for a while, will you help me?'' I read the meaning of saying.

    ''Of course I need help.

    But it won''t be the way he wants it.

    hand!

    With his palms facing upward, he extended his arms to Serpens.

    Indeed, he needed something to sustain him.

    Reflexively, he placed his hand on the palm of my hand and grabbed it.

    " What are you doing now?"

    You should have asked before you caught that.

    He looked down at me with a look on his face, wondering if he woke up late or what the hell is Serpence doing.

    When she slowly rolled her eyes and looked at Eugenes, her expression was not formidable either.

    But, how about

    ''How long can we not just play with settings?''

    To put it bluntly, even the escort master''s side could not be seen as 100% Serpence''s original form.

    You keep relying on the settings and hide behind the false roles you''ve created.

    A human named Serpens will not be able to grow.

    Do you believe me?

    ...Yes.

    "Then eh, eh-!"

    Eugene was blocking the wind with the power of the spirit, but he couldn''t help it with the cold night air that was below freezing.

    than me.

    Even though I was wearing tight clothes, the cold was creeping in.

    ''Eugese, who has been outside all the time, is fine!''

    Even his clothes are lighter than mine.

    The plight of ordinary people among the superhumans is so sad.

    It''s too cold here, so let''s go inside and talk together!

    All right.

    You''re done, you don''t have to hang out in the cold outside.

    ''All together,'' Serpens showed a terrifying look, but he glanced at my hand and nodded.

    We moved to the inn we had set aside as our accommodation.

    There was still a trio of criminals in the room that Serpens and I were sharing, so we decided to just chat in Eugene''s room.

    ''Sometimes I''m stunned once or twice.''

    Soiya Eugene was able to stop it by adjusting the range appropriately, but there were still strangers stuck in the corner of the room.

    Of course you have to be concerned.

    What happened? My mistake is...

    Serpence asked in a calm voice.

    Of course, I have no intention of saying to his face, ''You don''t even treat me as a person?''

    "Serpens, what have you called me all this time?"

    Zion ?

    Not that.

    Lord Rivelon.

    Not a name.

    He answers well, with an expression that he doesn''t know what the hell this question and answer has to do with it.

    Serpens, who seemed to have been thinking for a moment, opened his mouth again.

    " a suspicious guy?"

    No, nothing like that, man!

    "What do you want to hear from me?"

    it!

    you?

    I got the answer right in the blink of an eye, but still

    He tilted his head as if he didn''t notice.

    Eugess looked at us both from the side with curious eyes.

    ''Yes. As soon as they arrive, they''re playing the speed quiz all of a sudden, so it''s amazing.''

    However, since Serpens is such a delicate and delicate child, she should know that if she gets hooked at once, she will run away by surprise.

    That way you don''t make the same mistakes you made in the dark.

    Yes, that''s right! Note that multiple answers

    There is ''you''.

    Am I the only one who was calling you that?

    The unconscious is scary.

    He doesn''t seem to understand why he made such a rudimentary mistake. Serpens frowned and saw him slowly recalling his memories.

    Hmmm.

    "Why do you think you did that?"

    ...Previously.

    Yes?

    I think the reason you''re talking round and round like this is because there''s a good reason for that. But...

    As if asking why he was sitting there, his gaze turned to Yujisu.

    That''s a valid question.

    I hope Serpens didn''t hide himself. I want you to have a place to breathe besides me?

    " һ; Matsuu 9

    Don''t be polite to everyone in the yard where everyone is caught...

    "Are you planning on leaving?"

    What does this mean?!

    There is no news on the way back, and your condition is still bad, but where am I going from where I left?

    Looking at him with a surprised expression on his face, he coughs in vain as if he''s sullen.

    And Wilydia-sama?

    Yes?''''

    "As you can see, our teeth are delicate and feminine.

    Since you''re a Lynn child, would you mind saying something before you say something?

    ...Yes?

    There were no words that shouldn''t have come out of my mouth, but Euges blinked his eyes wide in disbelief.

    Didn''t you say the last time you were rough and ruthless in the dark?

    Well, that''s... just powerful and cool, well, that''s what it meant.

    "If there is a pure expression, could you use it?"

    " Some of the elves are that type of person.

    Since there is no such thing, I stop without knowing .

    To interpret, roughly .

    Eugenes likes that type of man, but he wasn''t among the gentle elves, is it?

    So, he didn''t know what his ideal type was, but because he suddenly met him, he seemed to be having a big party.

    ''no wonder .''

    No matter how good-looking the elves are, even if you consider that, it is ideal that they never show any kind of humiliation to the external version of Serpens.

    did it

    I just didn''t like it.

    ''Isn''t it because the last thing I fell in love with Humanus in [Master of the Holy Sword] was that he was so bright in the beginning?''

    Today, I learned a secret that was not mentioned in the original.

    It''s kind of irrelevant.

    I, but...

    Eugene slowly raised his hand.

    He nodded as if he could ask a question.

    "Is there a reason why Hogu works and this doesn''t work?"

    "It was made up to look like that on purpose, so there could be a problem."

    Once upon a time, Solertia proved this fact by using it without realizing that it was a Serpens in front of her.

    He looked away from Eugene and looked at Serpens again.

    With a heavy, subdued expression, he was twitching his fingers as if anxiously.

    During my conversation with Eugene

    It looks like the angle is finished.

    "Will you hold my hand?"

    Fine.

    He must have turned it down because of Eugene''s.

    Now that I''ve been paying attention to my image, I''ve been ruined since the moment I held my hand.

    He quickly reached out and grabbed his hand.

    " I would have said it was okay."

    "Would you have promised to watch over and help out if you seem in need of help?"

    that he stares at my face

    He leans over and looks at his hand held by me.

    "It''s creepy isn''t it?"

    It won''t happen, I told you a long time ago. Don''t you remember?

    Do you believe me?

    As if he felt relieved at my words, he moved his fingers and took my hand.

    It was trembling slightly.

    It seems that the problem is clearly understood.

    ''Until now, he had not treated them equally as human beings, so he probably didn''t even notice.''

    Since there was no comparison target, I may not have known.

    The fact that he has secretly dealt with the evildoers is nothing more or less than just cutting out the rotten parts to save the continent.

    For Serpens, the only difference between them is that.

    ''Isn''t that creepy?''

    It is not that nothing is felt.

    However, it was Serpens himself who was more wary of him and feared him more than anyone else in this place.

    ''It''s going to give you goosebumps.''

    What''s really creepy is... .

    Obstacles are constantly hitting the feet.

    The owner of this place is probably an ornament and brought it, but for Serpens, it was nothing more or less an obstacle.

    You''re getting in the way.

    Serpens never understood the tastes of the demon worshipers.

    ''Do you think it''s enough just to put a lot of things on it?''

    It was only then that I wondered what would be different from those who flashily decorated the inside and outside of the Imperial Palace with gold and jewels.

    They were equally useless, but at least they kept the right line of not getting in the way.

    For him, who had a question about the utility of ornaments in the first place, ornaments were nothing more than miscellaneous things.

    all.

    - Sticky

    I expected it to some extent by the smell that came from earlier.

    It seems that the owner of the house has just recently put in the new ornaments.

    If you accidentally touch it, your clothes will get dirty.

    ttt.

    I didn''t like it, but I couldn''t help it.

    Serpence is not thrown away even if he wants to throw it away for some reason.

    He pulled out the disgusting thing and floated it in the air.

    Brilliant silver light pushed away the pitch black darkness.

    It was indeed as he expected.

    ''It is enough to absorb it immediately and replace it with black magic.''

    Had that been the case, it would have been a hindrance like the previous kicks, but it wouldn''t have dampened the clothes and made them unpleasant if they bumped into them.

    ''At the risk of the loss of black magic that could be absorbed, arranging them like this... .''

    After all, ornaments are just useless objects with no utility value.

    Serpens thought so as he walked away from the blood pooled on the floor and half-rotted corpses.

    What''s really creepy isn''t just the failure to treat other people as proper human beings.

    that are not recognized as living beings.

    And while being aware of it, it does not find any problems.

    ''At least the owner of the house knew that it was cruel and put it on display, right?''

    If you compare it to the one in the original, which was completely ruined... .

    ''That''s it, it''s just cute.''

    The look Serpens feared will not be far from the original.

    What Euges imagines is that he

    It will be less than what counts.

    Even so, Serpens was terribly surprised and feeling guilty.

    There is ample room for improvement.

    ''Before it becomes the light that illuminates the continent, you must first find the light inside... .''

    Seriously, I got the name wrong once.

 CH 87

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 87

    20. The Duke and the Secret Society (4)

    But that doesn''t mean it''s okay to be like this. You know?

    Serpense''s fingers twitched slightly.

    That''s right...

    He lowered his eyes, half-closed, and smiled bitterly.

    It was covered by long eyelashes, and dark shadows were spread around the eyes.

    "But don''t be too hard on yourself."

    That''s right! Persene... No, it''s not just the Duke''s fault.

    He didn''t think that Eugenes would support him, so his gaze, who had been staring blankly at the table all the time, turned to her.

    "Why is U] Lydia speaking like that?"

    It probably means why you can say it''s okay even if you are treated as impersonal.

    Also, I don''t know anything about myself

    He also asked if he could say that.

    At the same time, it was a question of why not blame himself for having been deceived with hypocrisy and pretense.

    I don''t know much about you, but I know that you are a person who suffers so much just by realizing it, and that there is no way you can make other people feel insensitive for no reason.

    These were the words I couldn''t say even when I was dead and awake.

    '' Because I know everything.''

    You are such a good person right now, but there must be a reason why you acted like that.

    It''s happened in the past, so I understand how you act. Saying you''re not bad is obviously different.

    ''From the listener''s point of view and from the speaker''s point of view.''

    It is easy to understand and sympathize with the situation, but it is difficult to try to understand it without knowing it.

    ''It''s just a vaguely serpent, a person who can deal with comfortably without acting.

    I just wished it would increase... .''

    She was a being who could shine on her own.

    Even if I didn''t have to create a place like this, she would have been able to get the same result by herself.

    '' Because of this, it makes me feel even more sorry for nothing.''

    If in the original flow.

    If he had revealed his identity when he first rescued Euges.

    or. When imprisoned, instead of following the demon worshipers, Humanus, who came after the dark side, came.

    If I had waited for

    no matter who the opponent is.

    If only he had had the opportunity or opportunity to ask for help to be honest about himself... .

    ''The original Serpence had the potential to be happy enough... .''

    I had been neglected for so long that I did not even realize that such a possibility existed.

    I closed my wounded heart so that no one could see it, and I even covered my eyes for fear of other people''s eyes.

    Is that gaze good or evil?

    I couldn''t see anything, I couldn''t feel anything.

    I don''t understand.

    What?

    "What do you mean?"

    He looked at me and Eugenes alternately.

    Why are you two... no, how...

    is it kind are you friendly friendly

    Unlike other people, do you not turn away? Reach out to someone like me

    do you give

    Not knowing what to ask first, several words lingered in his mouth, unable to come out.

    He licked his lips silently.

    "Did I tell you, Serpens. There are people who will turn away from you, but there will be many people who want to help you.

    I remember.

    "If you dare to find the reason, is it because you showed the truth?"

    Yes?

    If it had been a different topic, I would have noticed it right away, but in this part, I feel that I am nothing like a child.

    Since Serpens revealed himself, he could do that. At least in part, he showed who he was. He seems to know who he is, so he can try to understand him. You can even think about it."

    " you weren''t different?"

    Yes?

    All I have to show you is

    Well, you''ve been trying to help me.

    No way. I''m not some kind of adult gentleman.

    No, even if you are an adult, you cannot help if you do not know if your partner is in need of help.

    He clearly revealed himself. He revealed the scars of the past that had been hidden.

    ''Through the last memories I left behind... .''

    If it wasn''t for that, I wouldn''t have understood him.

    I wouldn''t have even tried that.

    In [Master of the Sacred Sword], he was born with a lack of emotions and was seen as a complete ''evil''.

    ''Rather than trying to get to know him, he must have tried to find another way... .''

    But he was pierced by the holy sword, the last moment.

    He recalled the most painful moments of his life.

    Just before he drove the world that had made his troubles to ruin, he was too blunt to be bitter about what ended in failure.

    In the first place, revenge or resentment, something like that

    There was not a single line of description that was filled with a single emotion.

    ''I was just in endless pain...

    When I read that part in [Master of the Holy Sword], I was like, ''Why did you have to tell me this at the end !, was the first thought.

    Now it seems vaguely known.

    It was a desperate cry.

    I like anyone, so I want you to understand me. In the hope that you will save yourself.

    I had no choice but to give up, resign, and hide it from myself.

    Dunn.

    It must have been his last true intention.

    ''It''s good just once, so I want to receive someone''s warmth.''

    Wasn''t that the last regret?

    Me too, Serpens. I saw your sincerity, so I wanted to help you.

    that''s .

    "You know what I''m going to say?"

    As if he understood, Serpens jig

    I blinked my eyes.

    choice day. Not much left now.

    So, it''s going to be difficult for everyone right now... but I hope you at least show yourself to people you can trust.

    Yes.

    Not for anyone else, but for you.

    He nodded with a relaxed expression.

    "Well then ! Why don''t you call us by our first name in that sense?"

    As our conversation seemed to be over, he watched silently.

    Yoo Jis, who could not be called by name by himself, secretly raised his hand and suggested.

    I am welcome! May I call you Master Yuji?

    It''s okay if you just call me by my first name.

    Eugene answered with a soft smile.

    Anyway, Wilydia-sama felt too far away, but it worked out well.

    I just need Zion!

    "Shion, please take good care of me in the future. And "

    Me and Euges looked at Serpens.

    He received our eyes full of anticipation and opened his mouth with a faint smile.

    I don''t like it.

    The atmosphere that was supposed to be warm and gloomy suddenly became chilly.

    Our duke is a little shy... Yes, he hides his face a lot.

    Somehow, it sounds like a dreadful word.

    It''s been a while since I started calling each other by names. It took about 7 months?

    When I heard that it took me 7 months, her face shuddered.

    I know this shouldn''t be the case, but... .

    '' Somehow proud?''

    She also figured out the name problem first.

    I haven''t been cheating like myself, and I can only use pure observation and prediction to serpent.

    figured out

    ''What should I say about this... ? Do you feel like you have been pushed back from the analysis?''

    Anyway, for that reason, it was a car that made me feel resentful.

    In the meantime, if Serpens had called her name right away, I would have been really upset.

    ''No matter how accustomed to me, even if I become a domestic cat! It took me seven months!''

    To give an analogy... .

    A little dang-nyang who sometimes only showed affection when she was bored, very rarely come to my house to play.

    He suddenly cried and ran to his friend Dunn.

    And it doesn''t end there, and when you see him rubbing his head on his friend''s leg and marking the territory as his own, how sad is it?

    ''No, thinking like this is not disappointing, it''s sad!''

    Every relationship has stages.

    Even if you eat something that is good for your body in a hurry, you will get sick.

    Even more so when it comes to interpersonal relationships.

    Little by little, we have to get to know each other and get to know each other, and then we can become a truly long-lasting relationship.

    "Seeing your decisive refusal like that, it seems that you are starting to open your heart."

    The front and back of the words seem to contradict each other...?

    It''s not that you''re hiding your identity, didn''t you tell me honestly without acting? It''s a very positive response.

    Well, is that so?

    Eugez''s eyes are whether those words are true

    looked at Serpens.

    Then he turned his head to avoid the gaze.

    You''re avoiding your eyes...

    It''s a matter of method. In a calmer and more relaxed atmosphere, carefully make eye contact and blink gently.

    That''s how you treat people, right...?

    Surprisingly it is.

    * * *

    The three of them in the corner of the room were taken away early in the morning by Winston.

    ''No, should I say I took it with me?''

    When I woke up from a sudden cold wind blowing in from my sleep, I saw Serpens throwing them out the window.

    Startled, I kicked out the bed and looked out to see that Winston was catching them.

    ''I''m not crazy... .''

    I rubbed my eyes knowing that I had seen something wrong in my sleep. But nothing changed.

    Winston stacked two on one side

    It was lifted up on top of the sesame seeds, and the other one was worn on the opposite side.

    When our eyes met, he nodded at me and disappeared.

    " What was it?"

    Taking over.

    I stopped thinking.

    I just pretended I didn''t see anything and decided to get the rest of my sleep.

    A few hours later, when I opened my eyes again, the sun was shining.

    We each bring our luggage

    I booked a train ticket.

    For the rest of the time, we went to the famous restaurant mentioned in my travel guidebook to order a meal to hear about last night''s work.

    Have you been noisy since morning today?

    "Hey, haven''t you heard the news?"

    We quietly pretended to concentrate on our meal, listening to the voices around us.

    Concentrating on the voices that were talking here and there, I was really scolded by what happened last night.

    ''The magic exploded, and the denomination

    Priests of the city came and captured the arena-related personnel who had been suppressed .''

    And even now, the announcements from the shrine side continued in the square.

    "The demon worshipers are already sneaking among us, leading people down the path of corruption! We keep abstaining from evil, guarding against sin ."]

    If you combine the stories you hear, they seem to be talking roughly like this.

    ''It''s not an announcement, it''s a pseudo-religious group

    It sounds like the missionary work of... ?''

    However, it was a world where the existence of gods and demons was certain.

    Everyone took it seriously, and talked about it in fear of the demon cult.

    And Winston seemed to be there too.

    Attended as a witness and made known the cowardice of Count Chuck Mallum by revealing his identity.

    Talks about him were seldom heard.

    ''And one more... .''

    Illuminati.

    The name was also mentioned often.

    A secret society that has been secretly pursuing demon worshipers for a long time and praying for the well-being of the continent.

    ''That''s what brought it to the surface because of this... like this.''

    In the end, the thing that existed only in Eugene''s delusion came to have a distinct reality.

 CH 88

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 88

    21. Duke''s Birthday (1)

    We set foot in the imperial capital ten days before the Day of Choice.

    Although I finished the arena work earlier than planned, it was because I had a more relaxed schedule when I came compared to when I was going.

    Thanks to this, I enjoyed the feeling of traveling, stopping by shops a little far from the station and eating snacks.

    It''s a bit sad that we''re breaking up like this.

    I''m the only one in a different direction... .

    As much as the trip was enjoyable, it leaves a lasting impression.

    As soon as we get off the train, Eugene looks at us with a look full of regrets.

    It''s a pity! It''s always good, so come visit the Duke''s house!

    "Is that really okay?"

    Of course! There are a lot of vacant rooms, so you can come in and buy it .

    ...Zion?,,

    I feel like serpens are absurd

    called

    He didn''t hide his eyes as if he was saying, ''Is the duke''s house your house?''

    Come just to play, just to play...

    Yes, I''ll definitely go play.

    I slowly lowered my tail and spoke.] Well, Eugene answered with a smirk.

    Then I''ll just leave. Shion and ''Serpens''. See you later.

    Perhaps recognizing her surroundings, she lowered Serpence''s name in a very low voice.

    At her greeting, Serpens is grave.

    nodded his head.

    on the return journey.

    She barely got permission to even call him ''Sir Serpens''.

    Serpens was still calling her ''Wyridiani'', but Euges was overjoyed at that.

    It''s a pity that it''s still like this, so let''s shake hands before we part!

    " What else do you mean?"

    Serpense narrowed her eyes at my sudden suggestion, judging my heart.

    If you do, you will only think of me as trying to ''hold hands''.

    If you don''t like it? I don''t force it.

    There was a hint of hesitation, but it seems that he was not yet mentally prepared.

    He grabbed the suitcase he was holding lightly with one hand, and secretly fixed it with both hands and made a fuss about it.

    I thought I''d just cut it off and say no... .''

    As the three of us ate and played together all the way, it seems that her values were re-established within Serpence.

    It didn''t seem like he had opened his heart completely, seeing that he was still calling me ''Wyridia-sama'', but this is quite a feat.

    ''I have a different purpose, doesn''t it matter?''

    I reached out to Eugene, held her hand, and waved it lightly.

    Then I''ll just leave.

    See you again soon!

    Me and Euges waved, Serpence greeted with a wink.

    all.

    Before we boarded the last train, we boarded the duke''s wagon, which had been waiting for us because we had put the message in the duke''s house.

    "So, what was that just now?"

    Yes? What?

    It looks like you''re handing me something.

    I was trying to secretly hand you a note, but I guess I got caught.

    Even if I hide it from view, I was trying to make contact under the guise of a handshake, in case you would notice because of the presence... .

    If I had known that it would take me no matter what, I wouldn''t bother with my head, I would have just given it to you.

    "If you see something you''re doing secretly, why don''t you just pretend you don''t know?"

    Hmmm.

    It''s nothing, you don''t have to worry about it.

    Then it doesn''t matter if I tell you?

    Serpence also talked about secrets with Xeon.

    As if there was nothing to say, Serpens said, ''

    He sighed and turned his head out the window.

    ''Win!''

    I thought.

    Until I reached the duke''s mansion and got off the wagon.

    More precisely, until I see Xeon standing next to Hans, who had already met him.

    He was wearing a butler''s attire.

    "Xeon? How did you get here , besides, what''s with that outfit?"

    This is Xeon Rivelon, who was appointed as the deputy deacon of the Duchess of Prasidus from three weeks ago. Please be formal, aide.

    There was an implicit rule that the Duchess of Pracidus respected each other by speaking respectfully to each other.

    It wasn''t there from the beginning, it was created after Serpence became a Duke.

    ''Isn''t it weird if Serpens uses respectful words and slurps out half-talks next to him?''

    He didn''t force it, it was something everyone started voluntarily.

    For that reason, it is not absolutely obligatory, but when the boss manages his direct subordinates, he sometimes has to use slang for leadership.

    ''Of course, in front of Serpence, in any case, you have to use respectful words.''

    Anyway, since I use respectful words, I become more polite to those below me, and my work efficiency increases. Such a virtuous cycle was made.

    How could such a job exist in a class-based society with a fantasy background?

    It was amazing.

    What''s even more surprising is that Serpence, who is their head and created such an environment, treats others as human beings... .

    no! Isn''t this what''s important?!''

    Unbeknownst to the unbelievable scene unfolding in front of my eyes, I escaped reality without realizing it.

    I quickly blinked at Serpens.

    Desperately, why is he here?''

    he doesn''t care what it is

    Are you going? he replied.

    You must be tired, so go in and rest.

    Now I don''t mind taking a break. Rather, what the hell is this... .

    No, I think I know roughly.''

    When you separated me and talked to Xeon.

    It was probably not just a conversation, but something similar to a brief interview.

    ''Before that, I looked around the peacock''s residence carefully... .''

    What is the management status of the peasant?

    What things could be improved to make it better? What did you see as positive?

    And if you join the duke''s butler, how will you manage it, etc... .

    Maybe that''s how I did self-PR?

    After that conclusion, you must have passed.

    ''Besides, when I think about the way Hans looked at me with pathetic eyes... .''

    Your brother seems competent, but why are you like that? I guess that''s what it meant

    ''no wonder .''

    I should have noticed it when I was keeping an eye on the cleaning status or the maids.

    Or, after hearing that my future dream is to be a butler, I should have kept the possibility of this in mind.

    ''Clearly, ''She must have acted like this because she was worried about Sion... .''

    According to his memory, Xeon loved and cared for his family very much.

    Among the brothers, he seems to have been very worried about Zion, who was especially timid.

    But it made me think I was exposed to dangerous situations to the point where I had to cut off contact with my family.

    I did... .

    ''Anyway, are you suddenly asking your boss to hire you?''

    According to Shion''s memory, Xeon was in a position to solve the accident, and it was always Charon who caused the accident.

    By the way, Shion was dragged by Charon, and he was the one who got involved in the accident.

    ''It''s because he''s busy taking care of other people''s affairs, so he''s got a bit of a reckless side... .''

    If you think about it, Zion also said that he would become an aide to the capital aristocrats, and he was all alone.

    Didn''t he come to the capital?

    This is just hereditary.

    In my head, a new formula was established: Rivelon Street = Mudepora.

    ''No, but isn''t this a parachute?''

    No matter how talented he was, he suddenly submitted an application to a field he had not been formally recruited for, and went through an interview like roasting beans in a lightning bolt.

    And I passed

    If this is enough, wouldn''t Administrator Guberno stick his tongue out too?

    At least when he was recruiting an administrator, he

    brought his grandson to

    In contrast... .

    ''Won''t it look like I''ve created a replacement for a butler that I''m not even looking for, and put my younger brother in there?!''

    There is nothing to say about being branded as a hidden power of the Prasidus family or a rare rogue who blinded Serpence with all kinds of cowardice.

    " Lord Rivelon?"

    Thinking that my head hurt, I put my hand on my temple, and Serpens called me in a worried voice.

    Either way, I was worried that I would run into Xeon every day in the future, and ''there is the encroachment of the Prasidus of the Rivel Ron family'' ] floating around in my head.

    Are you okay?

    it''s not good for you

    No matter how much he wanted to get a job, if Serpens refused, that was it.

    ''Or did you say something beforehand! Why hide, why!''

    This is no surprise, there''s nothing to hide!

    It''s been 3 weeks already, so come

    It''s also weird that it''s soft... .

    My head is all throbbing.

    Little brother, no. Aide! Are you okay?

    Lord Rivelon, if you''re not feeling well...

    No, no! I''m fine! It''s just that I''m a little tired.

    He calmed the two people who were worried, and lifted the luggage that had been left on the floor for a while.

    I''m going to have to go back and rest. Duke, let''s go inside too!

    But you don''t look very good...

    It''s really good.

    As I spoke firmly, I let out a small sigh as if I had no choice but to do it.

    If you don''t feel better in the future, be sure to tell me.

    Knowing that I could not go in and rest if he stood still, Serpence hurried into the mansion''s main building, leaving only those words.

    It seems you''re not feeling well, but I...

    As Xeon said so, he glanced at Hans.

    Hans nodded his head to signify that it was okay, and Xeon quickly took the suitcase I was holding.

    I''ll drive you to your room!

    It was useless consideration.

    ''Ah, if I had known this would be the case, I would have just followed Serpence... !''

    After all, the work had piled up, so Serpens must have headed to the office again.

    In fact, regardless of whether I work or not, I wouldn''t have been able to follow Xeon to the office.

    I don''t know why better ideas come only after things have passed.

    Eventually, I headed to the room alongside Xeon.

    "It''s okay now, so you can go to work. It''s been three weeks now? Don''t be taken for nothing because of me.

    He took off his coat, hung it on a hanger, and sat down on the bed.

    I will rest from now on, so I appealed with my whole body not to disturb you.

    " why are you staring at me like that?"

    Instead of going out, Xeon with the suitcase properly put down, for some reason comes towards me.

    It seems that his face, which has hardened somewhere, is still concerned.

    Even if you say it''s okay? Oh, are you worried about your long business trip?

    Nothing happened. There was nothing difficult. No, I would rather be in the duke''s residence.

    Was it more comfortable than before? So I''m going back... .

    " you, are you my brother?"

    Suddenly, I felt my heart pounding on the floor.

    No, why? You didn''t have any doubts when we broke up last time, right?

    "Uh, uh ? Of course right! What the hell is that?"

    He spoke with a trembling expression on his face as if he was making a nonsensical sound, but his heart was still beating.

    if so .

    Xeon slowly came closer one step at a time.

    ''Zeon, you... ! Why are you creating a suspenseful atmosphere on a topic that is not even serpent?!''

    He slowly reached out and headed towards me.

    I closed my eyes reflexively.

    In my head, he grabbed my collar and shouted, ''Where did my little brother go?!'' I remembered.

    What the hell are these flesh? This, this

    thing! What is it all?!

    Contrary to my imagination, Xeon grabbed my side and chin instead of my collar and shook it wildly.

    Yes. i got fat

    Your little brother is hidden in 5 kg of fat!

    What nonsense?

    Xeon looked at me with cold eyes.

 CH 89

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 89

    21. The Duke''s Birthday (2)

    "Why did the person who went on a business trip come back after gaining weight?"

    Is that what happened...?

    Most of the itinerary during the trip was made in the train, so it is natural to have a lack of activity.

    Even when I got off the train, I went to eat or buy snacks to eat on the train.

    Serpense when traveling on horseback

    Since he had completely surrendered himself to him, he could not get any effect of exercise through horseback riding.

    It is a strange environment to not be steamed.

    The Duke is the same... How did you feel comfortable playing alone?

    It was just as Xeon had said.

    While I was steaming, Serpens and Eugenes remained the same without any changes.

    ''Is this the difference in basal metabolic rate? .''

    overlooked it

    In addition to that, Euges must have received the Elf race correction, and Serpens must have received the Serpens correction.

    As I continued to watch the two of them as usual, I also did not feel any sense of crisis.

    When I woke up, it was already too late.

    "Still, isn''t this enough to be a problem?"

    Why doesn''t it matter? The clothes I''m wearing right now are comfortable and spacious, so I''ll be fine...

    The clothes that Serpens had bought me last time were tailor-made, so I didn''t have much room to spare.

    ''Should I take out old clothes for a while and wear them... ?''

    Bona Mana Hans will once again look up to her face as a duke''s assistant.

    ...Go ahead and subtract.

    O uh " ~~9 O

    I gained weight in a hurry, so if I practice with Serpence, I won''t lose it quickly... I''m hoping for a little bit of hope.

    Come to think of it, before, my younger brother was born

    Didn''t I say I''ll get a job later?

    I did. But when that time comes, I think it will be too late...

    I couldn''t keep talking about living, so I asked him to change the topic.

    Did you say you''ll be late with your choice day in mind?

    ''So while Serpens was still attached to the duke''s mansion, I was about to start working... .''

    After all, after Xeon went to the duke''s residence, I talked about Winston.

    Because of that, when Xeon came

    Me and Serpens had to leave their seats side by side.

    ''Anyway, Humanus will receive the Holy Sword, so whether it is now or after April, Serpens will be in the duke''s residence Are you here?''

    Why did you think it would?

    Even if he didn''t receive the Holy Sword, why did he rule out the possibility of becoming his companion?

    ''Yeah [because it was like that in the master of the holy sword.''

    Until now, Humanus had been chosen by the Holy Sword. Then Serpence said he would be able to shake off the burden.

    I was just concentrating on my thoughts.

    earlier than that.

    When I just entered Zion''s body, I thought that if I persuaded him to repent, he would figure it out and do well.

    '' Huh?''

    How come there is no back

    Of course, it is not completely absent, and there was a goal of finally welcoming a peaceful continent, but there was no intermediate process.

    ''I don''t know if Serpens put everything down, even threw a resignation letter to the emperor and then retired... .''

    I''m going to entrust you with something.

    If that''s my job as a duke, of course, I can stay by his side like I do now.

    ''What if I go to the Holy Sword Party?''

    The person in [Master of the Holy Sword] and the person he is now are clearly different.

    That possibility cannot be ruled out.

    If he becomes an ally of Humanus, it will be of great strength.

    ''Then what should I do?''

    I say to myself, ''Hell I''m down there

    It was useless enough to make you wonder, ''What are you going to do?''

    But it took too much to send Serpence alone.

    Even if he said he would send Eugenes next to him, he was still uneasy.

    '' Prior to that. Why didn''t he become an early member of the Sacred Swords party in the original story?''

    He was strong enough to be wary of demon worshipers.

    And Humanus regarded him as a friend.

    ''Of course I was offered to join you.

    Ji.''

    It was right that he started to be crooked based on the day of his choice.

    However, as soon as the Holy Sword was held in Humanus'' hand, it was probably not the case that he shouted ''If I don''t have it, I''ll destroy it all!''

    ''Is it true that Serpens rejected it?''

    Serpence ramen I saw with my own two eyes.

    He must have struggled to get his usefulness recognized somehow and not to be abandoned.

    For that, do it yourself

    Seorao should have tried to enter as a colleague.

    Come to think of it, it was really strange.

    ''Why?''

    Two possibilities come to mind right now.

    Due to the fact that he was not chosen, he received many suspicions, so the people around him objected to going as a colleague.

    Or, in order to establish Humanus'' position as the master of the Holy Sword, he was deliberately rejected by those around him.

    ''If Serpens was caught up in a personality controversy, Humanus was caught up in a skill controversy.

    Do I have to... ?''

    Serpens was too strong.

    Among the candidates with the qualifications as the master of the Holy Sword, it was too overwhelmingly outstanding.

    I pushed him away and was chosen, so it was impossible not to talk about it.

    ''It''s a shame because it is impossible for humans to intervene in the selection of the god Luxmea.''

    If it weren''t for that, it would have been Humanus, not Serpence, who was swept away by all kinds of scandals beyond the controversy over his skills.

    In the novel [Master of the Holy Sword], Humanus

    About a year after Ga was chosen by the Holy Sword and returned to the Empire because of the demons of the dark district.

    The only way Serpense has been revealed in the meantime is that he is plotting a scheme to devour the Empire.

    Even in the memories he left behind as he died, the only content was that he was betrayed by people and his humanity was questioned.

    ''Does that make sense? How many people respect Serpens?''

    It is not a matter of whether Serpens recognizes it or not.

    Even Count Pgnuto was the only one who had Serpence.

    How much did you respect Didn''t he not only admire his personality but also his swordsmanship?

    Not only that.

    There must not have been one or two people who had been helped by Serpens during that time... .

    ''By the way, isn''t there anyone who can stop that?''

    strange.

    No matter how much choice I made, it was so.

    What are you], cursing our noble, beautiful, and strong duke?!'' and grabbing their hair.

    No one was there?

    It was strange.

    Compared to Serpence''s ability, how burdened, worried, and anxious was Humanus because of those who doubted its qualities.

    ''But in the end, there must be a reason why he was chosen, so he believed in himself and moved forward.''

    The development unfolds like this, and Hugh Manus'' mental growth is described in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''Not all human beings on the continent are the big brother, but both of them are the same.

    Isn''t that strange?''

    there is someone there is something

    It could be someone on the continent side to strengthen the position of Humanus, who was unstable as the master of the holy sword.

    It could be someone on the demon worship side who tried to shake and slash the serpenes and bring them down.

    ''Maybe both.''

    It was the feeling of being betrayed by those who simply tried to protect them, or the fact that the memories of the past were brought out and suffered serious psychological trauma.

    I thought that was all.

    ''Damn [Master of the Holy Sword], it keeps coming out no matter what?!''

    I don''t know what happened, but I do know one thing for sure.

    In such a situation, Humanus had a colleague who believed in him, encouraged him, and would move forward with him.

    Serpence was more isolated than it had been before. There was no one to support him even when he was lying.

    ''But I don''t think it would be possible without even that... .One

    By putting them in danger from behind and relying on them to pretend to help them from the front.

    He wondered if he was holding the empire in his hands.

    '' I''m not in a position to say anything to Eugene.''

    Is this a correct guess, or is it just that I am also writing a novel like Yujisu? .

    I don''t know which one.

    ''I thought only demon worshipers should be on the lookout.''

    What if my guess is correct?

    Then it''s not really a joke, you really should take him and hide in a secluded place.

    ''Or was it made so that the word itself did not come out in the first place... .''

    There must be a seed to germinate. You don''t have to create the seeds of doubt itself. I don''t even dare to do anything like handicrafts.

    But how easy is that?

    Suddenly, the god Luxmea came down,

    (My child is not like that! Take it out baby liquid!}

    Unless you say the same thing, there is no choice but to talk to some extent.

    ''For now, let''s do what I can.''

    It''s speculation anyway.

    It was not mentioned at all in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    I don''t know if it''s for sure, and even so, I can''t keep holding on to something I can''t stop.

    Because of that, what you can do right now is

    I don''t want to miss it.

    Oh, Xeon. It was so sudden I forgot to say it.

    Huh? What do you mean?

    Congratulations on your job.

    Uh, yes. Thank you.

    Xeon replied with a trembling expression.

    Then I''ll be off to work, so get some rest.

    Before you go, write this one down while you''re here.

    I stopped him as he was about to leave.

    He''s just entered the duke''s house, but first of all, he''s the duke''s family.

    ''At least it''s better than Hans.''

    I got up from my seat and walked towards the desk.

    I opened the drawer, took out two sheets of paper, and wrote a brief description on one of them.

    In fact, there was nothing to call it an explanatory text, but Serpens and Hans... .

    ''Whatever happened in this peacock''s house,

    It''s no longer a secret the moment you step out.''

    If you''re going to keep it a secret, it''s better to write it down and show it.

    He asked me to write something, and when he was writing something hard, Xeon came and snooped around, wondering if he was curious about the content.

    " Little brother?"

    why?

    I thought hyung was all over the duke''s family...? He, yes. Of course, the duke is a good person. But... it''s nothing.

    Xeon looked at the contents and looked shocked

    As a result, he murmured, ''Will I ever become like that too?''

    ''Ah, come to think of it, in the third week, the duke''s signature ceremony is being received, or it must be after that.''

    I write it as a declaration ceremony, and read it as an idol business.

    Moreover, since I received it so well, I think my younger brother, Zeon, would certainly do the same, and I would have pushed for it more aggressively.

    You haven''t received your paycheck yet.

    You give me that much?

    It''s not like I''m spending 250 every month except for the first month for nothing.

    "Is there something like that you have to write more than a few lines?"

    In fact, if it wasn''t for debt, I could have sent more.

    But I wonder if that alone was harsh, Jeon''s expression changed suddenly, and I asked while taking the pen and blank paper I was holding.

    I''m just coming out of my heart... No. Can you write it down on one page, complying with the standard paper size?

    That, yes.

    Originally, it was basic to write just a few lines of rolling paper, but for the people of the author, it seemed that it would be impossible to do that.

    Even if it''s second to the fact that the people of the duke''s house do serpents... .

    ''Isn''t this the first birthday Serpens has been celebrating at the Duke''s Residence since he became a Duke?''

    The last week of every month always goes down to the duchy, so it has to be.

    However, this time, the Great War, which oversees the selection of the Holy Sword, was in the capital.

    would have stayed in the house.

    ''Isn''t it the perfect festive atmosphere?''

    Since becoming a duke, I''ve never held a birthday party and refused to hold a birthday party, so this will be the same.

    Still, there is a big difference between being able to say a word of congratulations or not.

    ''First of all, what should I do with the other side of the peacock... .''

    The problem was humanus.

    No one can deny that he considers Serpense his friend, even though he calls himself.

    ''Even if I knew the true nature of Serpence, I would have apologized and reflected on it .''

    I don''t have the temper to hate him.

    Also, considering the future, building a trusting relationship between the two is not an option but a necessity.

    But yes, he was the Crown Prince, so I couldn''t ask for a meeting.

    ''But if we sell the name of Serpence and meet him, it becomes a main audience... .''

    For that reason, on the paper handed to Euges, along with this plan 1, to Humanus

    The crab also wrote down a request to pick up a rolling paper.

    "Come to think of it was I when I was 15? At that time, I lost the cufflinks my younger brother bought for me as a birthday present . I''m sorry."

    what?

    That''s... When I came up to the capital, I wore it to say I was going to make up my mind. It was gone because I was nice too, I''m really sorry!

    Xeon said as he handed me a piece of paper that had a neat handwriting but still had the beauty of a blank space.

    Down the jacket to raise your arms

    Something shimmered on the cuffs of his shirt, which was revealed.

    Obviously it''s the first time I''ve seen it, but I''m used to it.

    birthday present. cufflinks.

    There were also clear visual clues, so it was easy to recall the memories.

    " you got it as a birthday present when you were 18. Wasn''t Karon hyung bought it for you as an adult? And what''s that on your sleeve now?"

    Ah, this? You secretly bought the same thing after losing it. But still

    I was pierced by my conscience, so I said it because I thought it would be better to tell the truth... . Wasn''t he the big brother instead of the little one?"

    Having said that, he left behind a message to Charon, asking him to keep it a secret, as he would tell him.

    He said in a tone that it was insignificant, but Zeon''s expression was that of a relieved person.

    ''What is he... . Are you testing me now?''

    I must have been suspicious after hearing stories about me at the duke''s house for the past three weeks.

    Maybe he even asked me if I was his older brother".

    ''But when you see the last expression on your face, is it okay to think that you passed it right away?''

    Since Zion has never been to his hometown since he came to the capital, it would be good if he thought that there was a change in his personality during that time... .

 CH 90

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 90

    21. The Duke''s Birthday (3)

    The day after returning was just Sunday, so I left the duke''s residence early in the morning.

    I almost used up the magic scroll I had purchased, so I had to refill it.

    '' I told Serpens.''

    Of course, you''ll have to buy a scroll. But getting a rolling paper from Solertia is the real highlight of this visit.

    purpose.

    The cake was bought by Eugene on the day of his birthday, so the most important thing is a birthday present... .

    ''No matter how much you think, there''s nothing to give Serpence?!''

    Serppens must already have everything money can buy.

    I wanted to throw away the holy sword and buy him a three sword that fits him well, but... .

    ''Considering your Serpence skills, you should use a sword made to order in the Terrarum Kingdom, the land of dwarves.

    Maybe?''

    Regardless of the time it takes, to buy a sword made by a proper craftsman, at least ''billion'' was required.

    ''After all, sincerity is the best value for gifts!''

    I quickly compromised with reality.

    Yes, of course, Serpens would prefer simple things with sincerity rather than expensive ones. You can buy expensive things with your own money, well.

    But the question is, what is that heartfelt gift?

    His birthday is the day after tomorrow. Not figuratively speaking, it''s literally the day after tomorrow. You don''t have the talent to create something, and you don''t have the time to do so.

    I slowly walked down the street and fell into my thoughts.

    Then suddenly... .

    ''If you don''t have time to spend right now, why don''t you just pass it on to the future me?''

    There was no law that required you to pay only money in installments.

    Paying attention and time in installments

    you can do it It''s even better if you put a commemorative or memory in it!

    The gift must have been decided, and I went to Solertia''s shop with a light footstep.

    Welcome! What scroll are you looking for?

    As soon as the door opened, a small bell rang and a roaring voice broke through.

    It was Ella, an employee of Solertia''s scroll shop.

    Ah, the boss''s sister''s friend! Are you right?

    Yes, it''s been a while. Are you busy, Solertia?

    "Can I call you?"

    If yes, I would be grateful.

    With a bright smile, she left a message asking her to wait a moment, and climbed the stairs behind the counter.

    Has it been about two or three minutes?

    The boss said that it''s okay if you come up..., ah-cha-cha! Are you going to buy a scroll today? If you need it, I''ll prepare it while we talk!

    "I want to buy only the ones I missed out of the ones I bought last time . Do you have a list of past purchases?"

    Sure!

    I handed her my scroll bag and then climbed the stairs.

    Just in time, Solertia was opening the door that was supposed to be the lab and was on the way out.

    "It''s been a while, Sion! Did you come back after a long business trip?"

    Yeah, I just came back yesterday. Wasn''t Miss Solerti okay?

    Sure!''''

    She answered bluntly, and opened one of the doors on the second floor.

    The floor was covered with colorful carpets, and there were sofas and tables. The decorations were sparse as they were still being filled.

    It is not comparable to the peacock family, but the drawing room has a not bad assortment.

    Among those who want to make custom scrolls, there are a lot of people who want it to be a secret which scroll they are buying. So I decorated one of the empty rooms as a living room, how about it?

    It''s great! The sofa is also soft, so it''s comfortable!

    Is that right? This is the most expensive thing here!

    Solertia smiled triumphantly.

    When decorating the living room, he looked very happy that the sofa was the one he paid the most attention to.

    So, what''s going on today?

    Yes?

    You probably wouldn''t have come to report that you''ve been on a business trip...

    Ahaha... I''ll come visit often on my days off.

    After all, coming only when something happened, I thought it was too crude.

    "Did you know that the day after tomorrow is your birthday?"

    Yeah, I know... I know that very well. Are you here to promote it?''''

    Judging from the expression on her expression, which is somewhat salty, it seems that she heard from the people of the duke''s residence when she was staying at the duke''s residence.

    "It''s not like publicity "

    I explained the rolling paper to her, and her expression was

    Everything has become more salty.

    I believed that Mr. Shion wouldn''t be that far... Anyway, well, it''s good! There''s nothing wrong with looking good to investors too.

    She happily filled the paper.

    I can''t give you anything worth giving as a present... Are you still buying scrolls today? I''ll give you a 5% discount to celebrate your birthday.

    Is there a marketing lecture or something like that at the matop?

    * *

    On the day of your birthday.

    You must have noticed that I was coming anyway, so I will skip the knock today.

    I slammed the office door open and shouted.

    Duke, Mary Tanshin!!

    ...Yes?

    The eyes met with Serpens, who was making an expression as if it was some kind of bizarre sound.

    Even with that expression, the station beyond the window

    Wearing the light like a halo looks needlessly holy today.

    I closed the door and entered1, and once again greeted them properly.

    Serpence, happy birthday.

    "It''s not a birthday, it''s a birthday , no. That''s it."

    He let out a small sigh, with an expression of what more he could say.

    I expected that you were decorating something, but...

    As if he did not know that neglecting it would lead to such a result, even his head

    shook wildly.

    "Shall we go around the peacock one lap?"

    -! No.

    He was taken aback by my words, and immediately refused.

    Just don''t do it.''

    Considering his usual schedule, he wakes up early in the morning to practice alone in his private gymnasium, then goes back to his room, washes, and eats breakfast in the dining room. After that, I would have gone to work in the office.

    Of course, I''ve met a lot of people. I can understand your reaction like that.

    there is.

    "Is this your first time receiving a happy birthday greeting?"

    It''s not like that, but it''s overkill.

    thanks and respect, etc. He would have congratulated him on his birthday with several greetings.

    "Even if everything else is over, thank you for coming to this earth . What did you make them do?"

    That must be what Jack said. no doubt

    Chocolate that Euges is going to buy today

    You can bet on the chocolate inside the lit cake.

    Should I do it? I''m just saying that I''ll take responsibility, so I can say what I''ve always wanted to say or say congratulations with sincerity.

    What''s on your face?

    It is like a cat that is very wary of a stranger coming.

    Happy birthday to the people who used to live in your house... . Yes, even if I received it very harshly.

    "What are you so vigilant about?"

    Hmmm.

    Isn''t there anything I want to ask you? At least I don''t know what they really know, don''t you want to talk about something?

    it was obvious

    In the first place, he said, ''What is the reason for acting what other people want?

    "As a child, Serpens did not receive even a single word of affection from her parents."

    ''I just didn''t realize it. After all, you wanted to be loved by others, so you were trying to meet their expectations, didn''t you?''

    Still, I think that the kindness I received through acting is not something that I really give to myself. Decreasing the real self as an existence that cannot be accepted by others without acting.

    He was unable to accept the favors he had received at the best, so he was throwing them away.

    "But what about that? How about a fake?

    It does not become a thing and disappear. I''m just pretending to be nice on the outside, and it''s not like I''m ashamed of my back.

    Even so:

    Even so! The help, consideration, and respect that Serpens has given them doesn''t go away, right? Whether it''s a pretense or a pure favor, something to be grateful for is something to be grateful for, and that''s why they''re only expressing their sincere heart. .

    When Eugess came later, she and Hugh Manus''s were combined to hand them over.

    But even if it''s just the rolling paper I have, I have to hand it over in advance, I can''t do it like this.

    With such thoughts in mind, their congratulations will never reach him.

    "I don''t know anyone else, but Serpense do you know. It''s okay to be hypocritical or fake, so I hope that anyone can help.

    There is no man without pretense in this world

    Where are you? What if there is some calculation behind the favor? If it gave someone hope and made them happy. That doesn''t really matter.

    It was a good idea to put it inside the jacket in advance just in case.

    Approaching Serpens, he placed them on the papers he was looking at.

    What is this?

    Their sincerity.

    His whole body stiffened.

    I was nervous and swallowed even dry saliva

    His cheekbones, which were peeking through the collar, went up and down slightly.

    "I, later .

    Would you like to write more than 1,000 characters of what you read and feel later, or do you want to just read it in front of me now?

    If you''re sorry that you treated them with pretense, you just have to accept their sincerity and treat them with sincerity from now on.

    His gaze, looking up at me as I stood, turned downward.

    His white hands picked up the once white papers covered in black ink.

    The office was filled with silence.

    The sound of flipping the paper sometimes cuts through it.

    Finally, after he had read all the way to the last page, he covered it up again and pushed it carefully.

    "How do you feel? Do you have any thoughts or thoughts?"

    " I don''t know."

    he said, closing his eyes.

    Contrary to the answer that I don''t know, it is a voice that is young and watery. The sound conveyed instead that there was something filling up in his chest.

    It wasn''t that I didn''t know because I didn''t feel anything, it was that I didn''t know how to express it.

    You don''t have to rush to answer, you can think slowly.

    After a few breaths had passed, his eyes were opened.

    When he opened his eyes, he was the first to tell me

    stretched out his hand

    ''boy .''

    For nothing, I was so moved that I grabbed his hand.

    "Who asked for a hand?"

    ...Yes?

    Your thing wasn''t here. You''re not saying you forgot what you wrote?

    " I wrote it, I wrote it. I thought it would be embarrassing to read it in front of my eyes."

    Okay, give it to me.

    You can''t give it to me before work later.

    peel?

    Serpens, who was frowned, pulled the hand he was holding, and found the folded paper in the jacket pocket inside the gear nose.

    Oh, I think I''m going to be really embarrassed...!

    Serpens snorted at my words and unfolded the paper.

    And then he hardened his expression, and tucked it under the roll of paper.

    Where is that?! If you open it, you should read it to the end!

    " ah, no, this this "

    Did I tell you, it would be embarrassing. Serpence.

    He took out the paper he had put underneath and put it back on top.

    ''You should have listened when I warned you like that.

    When I picked up the pen to write on the rolling paper, I didn''t know what to write.

    It was a vague thought that there was something empty to write only a short happy birthday message, and that I should not be pushed by others.

    I just wrote it step by step, organizing things that have happened since the first time we met.

    Nee, from some point on, his growth and parenting diaries had become something like that.

    ''But in case anyone can''t see it... .''

    I started the article by saying that I had no choice but to run into a stray cat.

    "You you didn''t say the subject on purpose, did you?"

    Come on, come on! Come on, read it! If you''re having a hard time reading, can I read it aloud?

    Can you figure out what''s referring to what or who in the flow?

    Arthur, you can replace it and read it.

    He glanced at my face with a disgusted expression, and put his gaze on the paper as if he had given up.

    He frowns in the middle, and sometimes looks at the paper with me as if it''s absurd.

    I laughed out loud without realizing it, but I was also sulking.

    ''You are reading hard.''

 CH 91

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 91

    21. The Duke''s Birthday (4)

    There was no need to tour the duke''s residence.

    During the morning, the administrators came and went to collect payments, carrying simple reports that were not too big a deal.

    In the afternoon, the knight commander asked me to watch the training for a while, so I stopped by the barracks for a while.

    Other users wait in turn at every route Serpens goes.

    took a chance

    They are not like the nominees for the master of the holy sword.

    Celebrating the birth of ''Serpence A. Prasidus'', they were happy.

    With every step he took, thanks and congratulations mixed with praises bursting out from here and there, even Serpent must have had no choice but to make his face turn red even when he tried to act casually.

    Since I no longer control my emotions with divine power, even more so.

    "Hey, are you really shy?"

    "That shut up."

    As soon as he returned to the office from the barracks, he saw him lying on the desk with his head down, and when he made fun of him, Serpens responded with a creeping voice.

    Shut up, shut up. It''s disgusting.

    It was pointed out by quoting an expression he once made.

    Serpens raised his head slightly and stared at him with terrifying eyes, but that gaze, whether alive or not, is actually not scary at all.

    With a good impression on the corners of his drooping eyes, he slapped his eyes with an expression of embarrassment and death.

    turns on

    ''You can''t be scared, can you?''

    Realizing that he himself was not a threat, he buried his face in the desk again.

    - Knock, Knock, Knock.

    Three regular knocks were heard.

    I looked at the clock and it was almost an hour since Euges was supposed to come.

    Taking a deep breath, Serpens, who managed to change his expression, said it was okay to come in.

    Euges Yulydia of Arche Kingdom has come to visit.

    Please guide me to the reception room.

    "And hehehe-!"

    Hans, who would normally go out right away, stood there, cringing.

    It is only natural that Serpens, who got up from his seat to go to the drawing room, wondered about it.

    "Do you have anything more to say?"

    "Happy birthday. And this ."

    What he pulled out was probably Rowling

    it was paper I think the delay was because of that, not congratulations.

    I guess I misunderstood the rules, so I put it in an envelope.

    What''s wrong with the butler? Are you meddling in my design?

    Uhhhhhhhhh!

    For others, though, considering that the users were outside of my jurisdiction, it seems that he deliberately pretended not to know.

    He snatched the letter from Hans coughing and snatched the envelope right away.

    "Why is the aide looking at it?"

    It''s not that I put it in a separate envelope, but it makes sense when everyone''s writings are put together... Uh, well. I didn''t write anything strange.

    He quickly skimmed through the contents before trying to argue further. After confirming that there was no problem, I handed it to Serpens.

    Then we''ll be waiting in the living room next door, so please guide us there!

    Not long after moving to the drawing room, Eugenes arrived.

    A box of cakes was held in one hand and a gift box, presumably a birthday present, in the other.

    Serpens-sama, happy birthday!

    thank you.

    Serpence was relieved by the normal congratulations.

    Let''s sit down! We went to pick up the car, so when we arrive, let''s take out the cake and give us presents.

    Wasn''t that bundle of letters a gift?

    Not a bunch of letters, but a rolling paper

    is saying.

    It was the first time he had heard of such a thing, but there was no problem.

    Serpence just stopped questioning my suspicious behavior until the day of my choice, and Eugene... .

    The Empire has a very good culture. I haven''t heard of it before, is this something new?

    Yeah, it''s been a while, isn''t it okay?

    I want to make sure to inform the Kingdom of Arche!

    You have interpreted it well.

    all.

    The maid came in, made tea and poured their own glasses, and then quietly went outside. When I was heading to the dance hall earlier, I was like, ''You''re the maid who ran away after shouting, ''Wood-colored Duke.

    ''No matter how much I said I was responsible, I was just throwing words out.''

    I never imagined that I would hear such a comment in a fantasy world.

    In front of a customer on such a subject, he is very good at making up a rather rude expression and attitude. Neither the owner of the house nor his subordinates were very high-ranking.

    When I told Humanus about the rolling paper, he said he would like to come and hand it to me, so I''ll give it to you first.

    For some reason, it''s because I''ve already handed over all the things I''ve collected. You can hand it over to Serpens right away.

    i See.

    Eugene handed Serpens a piece of paper.

    I was curious about the content, but it is not polite to read it. Oh, of course, Hans was an exception.

    Oh, don''t read it yet! It''s a bit embarrassing, so I''ll read it later when I''m gone

    Can you please?"

    She stopped Serpense''s behavior as if she was about to read it right away.

    He was taken aback by me, who had been burned once. ''Maybe you too... ?'' He looked at her with eyes that said, and took it carefully without reading it.

    She put on a look on her shoulder that she didn''t know if he was looking at her like that.

    By the way, when did you and Jeon become friends?

    She asked a question as she put candles on the cake she brought.

    It''s the first time we''ve met in person, but they say that a friend''s friend is a friend? So, you can call me comfortably.

    Ah, yes...

    I had no choice but to answer shaky, and Serpens kept his mouth shut as if he didn''t hear anything.

    "Then why did you tell him to let me know the time of my appointment an hour late?"

    Hey, if you tell a rolling paper baby, somehow he''ll come to the duke''s house

    ''cause I know

    In fact, even if he hadn''t said that, he would have somehow cleared up the time since Serpens was celebrating his birthday in the capital.

    ''It''s good to have a lot of people. But it''s Serpens'' birthday, and he''s uncomfortable... .''

    So, in the note I handed to Euges, I wrote that if he thought he would come, I would let him know by delaying the appointment.

    Eugene, unaware of such circumstances, tilted his head.

    That''s... you''ll find out later.

    Bona Mana Humanus called Serpens Sephi in front of her, and it was obvious that she had always talked about being a close friend since childhood.

    Wouldn''t it be in her head that Humanus and I were fighting for Serpens'' best friend by now?

    ''In reality, there is no comparison, I am the winner.''

    With a proud smile, he got up from his seat and turned off the lights in the room.

    Eugenes lit the candle on the cake.

    And Serpens blew it out.

    "No, why are you turning it off right away?"

    " Is something wrong?"

    "Where did the wish go?! If not, you should give it a little appreciation.

    In this world, it was really sad to sing and play with an orchestra instead of singing a happy birthday song.

    It is limited to the nobles to sing the band, and the common people do not know how to do it.

    ''But should I try singing once next year?''

    Eugenes lit the candle again, and I returned to my seat and sat down.

    In front of the flickering candle, Serpens looked at it blankly, as if he did not know what to wish.

    After one.

    It wasn''t until about halfway through the candle that he blew out the candle as if he had made a wish.

    He got up from his seat again and turned on the magic lamp, illuminating the room.

    Then there will be a gift-giving ceremony! Cheers and applause!

    Wow, wow...!

    Yeah, I thought you wouldn''t.

    I and Euges took out the gifts they had each prepared and handed them to him.

    While he unwrapped the present, I skimmed the melted wax from the cake, cut it up and put it on each plate.

    " What are these?"

    A glass jar with candy. Oh! Note.

    Since this is a refillable type and I count the pieces, are you only eating one a day?"

    While thinking about what to give as a gift, he accidentally saw a candy store on the street and thought of it.

    ''The more I see him, the more he likes sweets, but he doesn''t eat unless it''s time for me to take care of him... .''

    Besides snack time, it is a gift that one can pull out and eat voluntarily.

    For your information, this bottle is the bottle that I used to have drinks in when I went to the night market.

    " Recycling?"

    It''s a memory!

    Serpence was going to throw it away as trash, so I kept his stuff too.

    The bottle itself was more of a souvenir than a drink, so the design was good and the entrance was wide, so it was perfect for storing things.

    If you let it go, it''s all useful, but why would you throw it away?

    I am a carved wooden sculpture! The cat, the symbol of our Illuminati!

    The original Illuminati symbol is the owl of Minerva.

    However, in this world where Luxmea was the only god, she could not say what the goddess of wisdom had to say.

    So, to a question she asked while traveling, I answered '' A cat?''. Without realizing it, I stared at Serpens.

    As a result .

    " why is the cat wearing glasses?"

    Looking at the statue of a cat wearing round glasses similar to himself,

    he asked sullenly.

    Euges didn''t answer, but he looked at me with a look of understanding.

    ''I didn''t say anything... !''

    It was very embarrassing.

    Before you say anything to me, wouldn''t it be right to take issue with your feline behavior?

    Let''s eat! It''s not polite to leave food in front of you!

    With that said, I pulled out my fork, and Serpens took my plate and put it on top of it.

    He put half of the cake on his plate.

    If you want a lot of cake, you can eat less! Why are you taking mine away?

    "Didn''t you tell me yesterday that you think you need to lose weight?"

    He said as he looked up and down at me, taking out the clothes Zion originally had and putting them back on.

    Judging from the expression on his face, that was just an excuse, and he was obviously grumpy because of the cat with glasses.

    However, there is one more cake prepared to pretend that nothing happened after Humanus came anyway.

    A fresh cream cake made by the kitchen maids of the duke''s house.

    Because of the image of an external serpent, you should be able to eat as much as you do with the least amount of sugar.

    ''Can''t Serpens take my cake in front of Humanus?''

    I tried to comfort myself.

    However, seeing him eating the cake with a smile on his face, he could not help but take revenge.

    Hey, Eugese! Do you know what happened at the duke''s residence today?

    - Dalgrak-.

    Looking at the direction of the sound, Serpens had her mouth open and her eyes wide open.

    Wouldn''t this be the first time he made the sound of clattering dishes after he started learning etiquette? It doesn''t seem like he''s usually upset.

    His eyes were like, ''Aren''t you talking?

    Aren''t you going to do it?

    You know what the maid who went out earlier saw Serpence and said...

    Serpens shoved the cake into my mouth to stop me from speaking.

    When the dark chocolate flavor gradually took over, it was time for Humanus to come, so we exchanged plates and cakes and sat down pretending not to know.

    In the meantime, Serpens took the gift we had been given and hid it somewhere in the office.

    Are you ashamed of our present? Why hide it!

    One is a symbol of that secret group of courtesy, and the other is.... Yes, it''s a shame.

    From today on, the symbol of the Illuminati is candy.

    No one responded to my words.

    Sefi-! Happy birthday!!

    Humanus slammed the door open without knocking, and hugged Serpens, who had been standing on his way to the office.

    ''I tried to avoid it reflexively, I endured it.''

    I could clearly see him pulling back about half a step and then stopping.

    Serpence, who made an awkward but kind expression on his face, pushed him away.

    Iya-shi, how long has it been since you said this on time? Actually, your birthday is in the last week... If you had held a birthday banquet at the very least, you would have gone downstairs and celebrated it as an excuse.

    Smiling brightly with a very happy expression, he patted Serpens on the back with his palm.

    Even so, Serpens didn''t show his body or expression.

    By the way, what kind of missions Euges and Sir Sion went on?

    Your Majesty must protect the Empire.

    "It''s me or you. Besides, considering that Lord Sion followed, I don''t think it was that dangerous."

    Sit down first.

    Among the seats where the serpenes were arranged in the shape of a "�[", he sat

    there was He recommended Hugh Manus to the one-seater sofa at the top.

    At the same time, Hugh Manus suddenly opened the door and pushed me to the side, who had been awake.

    To secure a place to sit.

    Even though it''s my birthday, shouldn''t Sepie have to sit here? And, as I always say, to me, I can do it comfortably without being formal.

    I''m already comfortable. Thank you for always taking care of me.

    With a soft smile on his face, Serpens made up a friendly voice and said.

    We took our seats.

    Euges, who watched them all the time, opened his mouth while looking at Humanus with somewhat dry eyes.

    Yes, you look very comfortable.

    Rather than sarcastic about Serpens'' acting, it is clear what he said to Humanus when he looked in the direction of his gaze.

    However, Humanus, unable to grasp the direction of her gaze and her heart, smiled brightly.

    Hahaha! Eugene will also be able to get to know Serpens someday.

    Thank you, someday... yes.

    The corners of her mouth were curled up nicely, but her eyes were still cold.

    Wouldn''t you be thinking, ''What in the world do you believe in and show off your friendship that doesn''t even exist?''

    Perhaps in my head, I am arranging the order of my acquaintance with Serpens.

    Now let''s get started!

    I was too lazy to turn off the lights in the room, so I just lit a candle. Serpense also pretended to make a wish for a moment and then blow it out right away.

    What''s so urgent?

    "The Duke must have been very curious about the gift of His Majesty."

    Then let''s talk!

    Somehow I feel like I''m about to cry.

    just . It''s a pity that Humanus, who doesn''t know anything about it, is so flawlessly clear.

    Seppy, happy birthday once again.

    Thank you for the congratulations.

    With a perfect external smile, Hugh Manus handed him a box of rolling papers and birthday presents.

    The gift inside the box was a sword sling.

    You''re going to get a new sword soon? So I prepared it.

    I thought it would give me something very useless, but it wasn''t as bad as I thought.

    Isn''t there a law that requires only wearing a holy sword?

    Later, he made a stylish sword

    I think I should buy it and hang it around.

    Why don''t we talk while holding a cake?

    Whether he was paying attention to Humanus or the present he brought, Eugese cut the cake and gave it to him.

    Serpens-sama said that it''s her birthday, so you eat a lot, and Shion is on a diet, right?

    Yes?! Oh, no. This one has less sugar...

    Despite her long ears, my words could not be heard in her ears.

    She squinted one eye at Serpense, and Serpense''s head moved up and down slightly as she received that gaze.

    ''2 to 1 is cowardly!''

    I groaned inside.

 CH 92

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 92

    22. The Duke and the Day of Choice (1)

    After lunch, I went to my office.

    Ugh, I thought you''d be here again.

    I don''t have work this afternoon, so I should have said I could take a break.

    "Aren''t you here to work?"

    Serpens looked at me with an expression of what the hell was he doing?

    In the subject that I was told to rest, the person who had to participate in the ''conscious word of choice''

    was working

    ''Didn''t you finish all the things you pushed back anyway?''

    Except for those that must be approved by the duke, there were fewer delays than expected because the administrators handled their work as much as possible.

    Thanks to you, after recovering a spacious schedule from the day before yesterday.

    "Are you nervous?"

    Isn''t it strange to do something I have to do anyway, when I have free time?

    "I have to leave soon, but I have to do it how much. Don''t make excuses.

    all.

    I wasn''t nervous...la...

    Blurring the tip of his words, he quietly put down the pen Serpens was holding.

    "Isn''t that the same for you?"

    As he said, I was also nervous.

    Wasn''t it a Serpence who lived her whole life looking at only one holy sword?

    The disappointment he felt when he didn''t receive it. The eyes of criticism towards him like that.

    ''Are you okay?''

    Now, little by little, my feelings

    just started to face each other. That''s not to say that I can stand the negative gaze of others.

    I can''t be a guy who can casually ignore what other people think and move on.

    " Shall we go together?"

    The number of people who can attend the ceremony of selection are those who have the qualifications to be candidates for the master of the holy sword. And there are only a few priests in charge of the ceremony, including the pope.

    This means that entry is prohibited except for the so-called official.

    The place where the selection ceremony takes place is the main hall of the great shrine. Noble and holy.

    It is a sacred ceremony.

    No spectators were allowed.

    There was not a single exception, even the emperor of the empire did not dare to participate.

    It''s like dirty discrimination...

    what?

    "No. Still, can we go to the temple together?

    You don''t have to do that right away.

    I do it because I''m anxious

    You don''t know my speed like this

    see.

    ''How am I supposed to express this?''

    On a fictional day, I feel like I am seeing off my child who is always taking exams to go to the SAT, even though he is pouring out his nosebleeds and working hard on his studies.

    I can see clearly in my eyes that I will come back crying after taking the exam.

    ''It would be nice if you came back right away, didn''t you come back from wandering the streets crying alone?''

    But that doesn''t mean I can''t hold you back. It was such a feeling.

    "Are you here to talk about that?"

    " promise. Remember?"

    On the day of our choice, there was only one thing we could call a promise.

    In a positive sense, he slowly closed and opened his eyes.

    I''ll tell you when you go.

    ...Oh.

    I just didn''t give it a tee, and I must have been paying attention to it in my heart.

    Today is a day of choice, but at the same time. It will be a day of answers that can answer questions about me.

    One side of the head, the other side of the heart.

    I kept it all the time, but after receiving the confirmation from my mouth again, it seems to have touched me more clearly.

    Anticipation and anxiety were clearly set in his eyes.

    "So, you have to come back right away without leaking?"

    Yes.

    I''m not going anywhere either, so I''ll be stuck here waiting for you. Really?

    Yes.

    I promised him over and over again

    has received

    Then I''ll just leave.

    Serpens ran out of the office. I stayed in it.

    If only Shion was one year younger and possessed divine power. I couldn''t help thinking like that.

    There is no such thing as a suitable condition.

    ''The day of choice... . What happened?''

    Humanus, who was chosen by the Holy Sword, was perplexed. I can''t believe the results

    denied it

    Regardless of his will, he looked down at the holy sword in his hand.

    The eyes of other people gathered in the hall also turned to it.

    It was a moment when the gaze towards the holy sword shifted to the humanus holding it.

    A stinging gaze fell on you as if you were receiving it.

    It wasn''t the warm gaze he had always received.

    The cold eyes that seemed to blame him made him terrified.

    Hey, this is... force majeure!

    I couldn''t resist.

    He was chosen, but he was not able to choose.

    Suddenly, a heavy responsibility was placed on my shoulders, and I didn''t know what to do.

    And before he left the empire as the master of the holy sword.

    His fiancee, Rainier, embraced him, who was confused, and whispered in his ear in a soft voice.

    r It is his will, and there must be a reason. Others were just as puzzled as you were. I trust you, Humanus. Humanus can prove himself. J

    As she said.

    There were still people who were arguing about him, but only to a certain extent. Not everyone was like that.

    There were far more people who loved and supported him.

    So Humanus is moving forward

    could go

    Believe in yourself and protect those you love].

    choice day.

    It corresponds to the prologue of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''For that reason, the description was thoroughly centered on Humanus only for that day.

    The focus is only on the confusion of Humanus at the time and the adversity he will overcome in the future.

    ''In the meantime, what about Serpens?''

    When he received the Holy Sword, Serpens

    what expression he was making

    The ceremony is over]. What thoughts came to mind as you left the temple, where and what you did.

    No such thing came out.

    . It''s really too much.

    Behind the seat where Serpens was always sitting. I went to the window and looked out.

    The snow that started to fall early in the morning covered the three statues in white.

    It is a noble color suitable for a holy day with the choice of the holy sword.

    ''In [Master of the Holy Sword], it eventually turns gray.

    It was dirty with... .''

    This time, I followed the carriage leaving the duke''s house with my eyes, hoping that it would be able to maintain its pure brilliance until the end.

    Even after it was completely out of sight, it wasn''t until a long time later that I turned around and looked back into the office.

    No sound was heard.

    The sound of the pen scraping the paper and the sound of the paper rattling over.

    Come to think of it, I''m alone in this office

    Is this your first time there?"

    Serpens always arrived first.

    Whether you go to work in the morning or when you come home after lunch.

    It was really the first time he went to work in the magistrate''s office when he was away from the Duke for the Volta Mountains subjugation.

    [Master of the Holy Sword]...

    In the flow of the original story, he killed both of his aides with his own hands.

    Until that day, about a year after the demon appears in the dark.

    Have you endured this silence alone?

    serene and lonely. helpless loneliness.

    Feeling those feelings without realizing them.

    You fell down like that...

    I don''t know how many times I opened and closed the lid of the pocket watch in an anxious mind.

    Time went by so slowly that Holler voluntarily went through the documents. It''s a natural thing to say, but things can''t be done

    It wasn''t, I was just rummaging around.

    Still, whether it is worth it, the time has come for Serpence to return soon.

    - Click.

    I jumped up from my seat at the sound of the doorknob turning.

    The sound was not from the hallway, but from the door leading to the drawing room.

    Uh, how have you been ?

    Through the half-open door, his expression looked very complicated.

    Face the unknown

    smashed face.

    Let''s talk from this side.

    He looked and drank, covered the documents he had been rummaging through, and headed to the drawing room.

    Serpense''s hands and waist dancing as usual, sitting on the sofa in an upright posture. I didn''t see anything resembling a holy sword anywhere.

    ''Yes! I''ve lived under such a burden of responsibility until now, but I can''t give the Holy Sword away just because it''s worth taking a little breather.''

    If you really did that, use Nox for darkness instead of Lux for light, noxmeara

    It wouldn''t hurt to call.

    ''That''s what I did... .''

    Humanus was scarce, so it became an advantage and he was able to get help from others.

    Although he possessed divine power, he was very immature in his control.

    He must have been using it as a substitute for an aura for self-defense as a prince

    Delicate tasks such as healing were only at the level of first aid.

    Also, the majority of demon worshipers were warlocks.

    In order to get a clue to pursue them, they had to have some level of magical knowledge.

    Therefore, with the skills and potential to assist the master of the holy sword. At the same time, the stamina is supported enough to withstand the arduous journey.

    Two young talents were rushed out and assigned as his colleagues.

    ''On the other hand, Serpens... .''

    Having met those conditions by himself, he would have left him alone to endure all adversity if he had been chosen.

    I sat down on the sofa, feeling relieved that such a situation had not come.

    "Did you know?"

    As soon as I sat down, Serpens opened his mouth.

    I have imagined this situation several times.

    In my head, he cried, got angry, and stretched helplessly in vain.

    But in reality, he asked the question in a calm, calm voice.

    The one whom the Holy Sword chooses is not me.

    Yes.

    "Who will be chosen. Did you know that too?"

    His Majesty the Crown Prince... right?

    Hearing my answer, he quietly nodded his head.

    too calm

    I didn''t see any emotional fluctuations, but rather, I became anxious.

    I... are you okay? Even if you hear harsh words, don''t take them too seriously. It''s just that they don''t know Serpens well. You can just ignore the other comments.

    all!

    "And that, Shi , Holy Sword! Even without that, Serpence is strong enough? Even if you are not the master of the Holy Sword, Serpence, you are a worthy person!"

    Hmm... .

    How is the reaction weird?

    A reaction like saying, ''Let''s keep talking about it, let''s hear what you''re talking about.''

    " what happened?"

    Rather than that, as promised, now

    please do about you.

    Looking straight into my eyes and speaking is an attitude that I don''t really care about holy swords.

    My story is a bit long, but Serpence came first...

    Didn''t you tell me when you go? How much longer do I have to wait?

    He furrowed his brow furrowed.

    As he spoke impatiently, he swallowed the back words he was about to say.

    I''ll tell you right away, so calm down. So...

    I tried to organize it over and over in my head and run the simulation, but when I tried to get it out of my mouth, the words didn''t come out well.

    My hands were sweaty for nothing, so I rubbed them on my thighs, cleared my breath, and opened my mouth again.

    "I read the book."

    Books? Is it like a prophetic book?

    "Rather than a prophetic book No, I think we can see it that way. A prophetic book that borrows the form of a novel .

    One word from him, suddenly his mind was twisted.

    ''A prophecy is foreseeing things that haven''t happened yet, isn''t it?''

    Were the things that happened in [Master of the Holy Sword] truly unprecedented?

    Did it happen at all, or did I go back in time and come back to the past after everything was over?

    In the former case, it does not matter, but in the latter case, it was ambiguous to call what I read a prophecy.

    "I read it as if it were a novel, but now that I have come to realize that it is a real world like this, I no longer see it as a novel.

    Also... .

    " it has become a genre of books. Rather, ''what does the real world mean?"

    As my words started to get complicated, Serpens cut it off and pinpointed the exact key sentence.

    "I am from another world, but I entered the world of the book I read as a novel."

 CH 93

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 93

    22. The Duke and the Day of Choice (2)

    Is it a fantasy novel, possessiveness in a book or something? It is an expression that is difficult to understand in this world.

    So, after thinking over and over again, I thought about how to say it so it would be easy for him to understand.

    Since it is a word that no one should ever hear, I finally brought out the words that had been circling around in my head.

    After I said it, I thought my tone of voice sounded too light. so that

    To the extent that I was worried that he might have been more shocked.

    These were the words I uttered with great determination.

    However .

    Right.

    Yes?

    "What was the reaction?"

    I really want to ask What the hell is that reaction?

    You can''t believe it, you''re trying to deceive yourself by saying nonsense again, or how could such a thing be possible?

    He didn''t ask any questions, he just accepted it casually.

    "How do you take it so easily?"

    Because there were so many differences in your actions that I had been observing until now. It seems to be understood that you are from another world.

    "No, it wasn''t like that, was it?!"

    What you call a non-dimensional world isn''t the heavenly, demonic, or spirit realm. Are you saying that you came from a completely separate world?

    Was I that weird?

    I took it for granted, analyzed it and sat down.

    "That''s right it''s a long one. Aren''t you in a bad mood?"

    That''s right. ''It came in'' means that you didn''t have your will for it.

    Isn''t that the point?!

    "Then what is more important?"

    That guy''s analysis fence... !

    You''re talking serious things about yourself, so why do you keep analyzing me?

    Isn''t it a novel? Beyond his past and future, his existence itself is different.

    I found out that it was written by someone''s hand. How can you be so casual? Aren''t you confused?"

    If I were in Serpence''s position, I would have turned away because I was so angry and unfair, but he looked so rude... .

    You seem more confused than me.

    So you''re making me even more crazy! Why are you so blunt?

    It''s really crazy and running around.

    A little while ago. Didn''t you say it with your own mouth? Knowing that it is a real world,

    It can no longer be called a novel.

    "But even I, didn''t I think of serpens as just a part of the game? Do you have no resentment or betrayal? Did you cheat and play with yourself while knowing everything?

    Why is that your fault?

    " Yes?"

    His and mine gazes intertwined in the air for a few seconds. It was Serpens who closed his eyes first.

    ha .

    Taking a deep breath, Serpens took off his glasses and wiped my face with one hand.

    I glanced at the glasses in my other hand for a moment, then put them on the table and looked at me again.

    Not beyond the glass in the glasses. That doesn''t mean that the shadows were cast by turning the hood over.

    Crystal clear, jewel-like eyes were staring straight at me.

    You still think of me as simply a novel

    Do you think of it as a character in the story?"

    no.

    Those thoughts were blown away by the wind when he jumped out of the window on the train.

    I thought I was pushed back from the interpretation of the story, but if I really treated him as a character in a simple novel, I would have thought that such a thing would be good.

    ''Because it''s not like that.''

    Because he was a real person, I wanted to understand him more deeply.

    It was not a guess based on the knowledge in the book, but I wanted to see him now and fully understand him.

    "It can''t be , there''s no way."

    I believe it will, so it''s fine.

    Because you''re that kind of person I''ve been watching.

    This situation was completely unexpected.

    Because of his really unexpected reaction, something inside seems to come up and cry. itchy eyes

    all.

    uh , are you comforting me now?"

    "I was just stating the truth."

    With the table in between, he reached out his hand.

    I don''t have the ability to say things like that myself, so if you need comfort, grab it Iһ�[�[K

    I was full of thoughts of comforting him when he returned from the ceremony, but I didn''t know that I would be comforted again.

    " Why did you move?"

    "If you keep stretching your arms out, your arms will hurt.

    oh I''m not as strong as anyone else.

    It was just the two of us anyway, so we sat facing each other with a table in between. As a result, the sofa for the upper seat was empty.

    And now I sat there and reached out to him.

    "But it''s hard to talk face-to-face if you sit next to me, isn''t it?"

    Because you keep doing this, you have no choice but to believe that you are from another world. Isn''t there an identity system there?

    With a troubled expression, he hands

    caught the

    Could it be that he was able to safely shed the tears he had been holding for his whole life on his shoulder? Why was it possible to hold my hand when I was anxious and regain my composure?

    touched me clearly.

    Really, it''s not my fault that I cheated on you. Are you saying that?

    What do you mean deceiving? Did you not confess that you recognized it because you liked the eyes of people, or that it was a lie?

    " not that."

    "Anything else?"

    ...that I''m not Zion Rivelon?

    His expression hardened.

    It''s not that I didn''t notice, did I only realize it after hearing it with my own mouth?

    The illusion you saw on Semita Street...

    "It wasn''t Zion, it was ''my'' family. To be more specific, it was my older sister. So I could tell it was a fantasy."

    His fingers holding each other move a little

    I felt stabbed. His eyes fluttered slightly and his expression darkened.

    " that, I''m sorry "

    Yes?

    I think you miss your family a lot... Ummm... Shall I cut you off?

    yes i was wrong

    Thinking about it again, whether I was Zion Ribel Ron or something that stole that body and sat down. It has nothing to do with him.

    ''Because I am the only Zion he knows in the first place.''

    Just the fact that I''m not Zion

    I was obsessed with it, and I was just concerned about it.

    No, let''s not make an innocent child unemployed. If my older brother is an aide and gets cut after a month, there''s something wrong with that.

    I guess I hired him because he seemed to miss my family. As well as sending a present to the Rivelon family. It would be a real surprise gift.

    but. No matter how good Xeon was, there was no need to hire him because Serpens was out of shape... . uh?

    "Wait a minute. Did you just apologize to me?"

    That''s not what''s important right now. You have a lot to ask.

    This child speaks scornfully.

    Besides, it was difficult to argue and listen when he spoke that way with a desperate expression.

    What did you read in that book? Why did you suddenly change your attitude on a topic you were so afraid of at first? Why did you say that you had only read the article, and that I had shown your sincerity in the first place? . And .

    He stared at me and slowly opened his eyes. As a result, the clear green eyes disappeared and appeared.

    repeated.

    Even if you don''t ask yourself, I want you to tell me.

    I usually use your name, but... . Before, I felt that I was consciously trying not to call myself Zion.

    Can I say that last? If I say it first, I don''t think I''ll be able to talk about anything else.

    Do whatever you feel comfortable with.

    He had a sad expression on his face, but he thought he was just delaying the order, so he gave in.

    I also wanted to tell you right now.

    But when I spit it out of my mouth. And if it comes back through his mouth.

    ''I might really cry... .''

    I thought it would be difficult to have any more conversations, so I had no choice but to do it.

    "So, first of all, what was the content of the book?"

    He responded by nodding his head.

    The question I was most worried about]. He felt betrayed by me and avoided losing my trust.

    However, that does not mean that all problems have been solved.

    ''The serpens in the novel should normally have been suspenseful... .''

    Still, I was tormented even in my dreams, contemplating how to explain it so that he would receive the least amount of shock.

    A Demon King Fence with gray hair appeared, held out his hand, and said, ''Zion, will you fall for it?''

    It''s a book titled [Master of the Holy Sword]... that''s what it is .

    "The prince must be the main character, and I am evil.

    station?

    It saved me the trouble of explaining. As I hesitated, he spoke first.

    ''Since when did you notice?''

    Whatever it is, are you going to put it out of my mouth?

    I shot him with a lot of absurd feelings.

    You''ve been leaking clues for a long time, aren''t you?

    Yes, it''s all my fault.

    It wasn''t what I was aiming for, but thanks to that, I think it was a buffering effect.

    "That''s right, to be more specific Maybe someone is listening to the conversation here, right?"

    It''s not. If I had, I''d have noticed.

    If it''s Serpence, then that''s it. Then you can safely say it.

    It was the final boss, the biggest villain in the work.

    " final? It''s not the Demon Lord . Will I be summoning the Demon Lord?"

    It''s not that much... It steals the power of the Demon King and becomes something like the Demon Lord.

    ... O Uh ---9 - ��

    It seems he didn''t even expect this.

    At best, he must have thought of him as an executive of a demon worshiping faction, similar to Winston, who would think that he would become the demon lord after striking the demon lord in the back?

    For the content beyond imagination, he pointed this forehead.

    "Why why would you do that"."

    I don''t know.

    why?

    In the play, Serpens doesn''t speak.

    Because it wasn''t.

    As time goes on, his expression becomes more and more bizarre.

    If there is a corrupt fence in front of him, grab him by the collar and shout, ''What the hell are you doing?!''

    "Serpence in [Master of the Holy Sword] was always like that. He didn''t say anything . He didn''t show his sincerity to anyone."

    That Mo Huo, who laughed happily while tormenting others, was not really enjoyable.

    It is true that his mind is getting more and more exhausted and drenched in madness... .

    ''Even so, ''Serpens is never a person who enjoys slaughter.''

    you can be sure

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], he is also for everyone on the continent. to readers outside the novel.

    He hid himself so thoroughly that

    About absorbing the power of the Demon King.

    I told Serpens that I didn''t know, but in fact, I guessed it.

    He just .

    ''I just wanted to destroy myself.''

    The reason for accepting the power of the Demon King was to throw away the divine power.

    ''Did he believe that if he completely erased the image that people had imposed on him, he would even be freed... .''

    There were few people who gave up their innate divine power, but there were quite a few.

    But for some reason, Serpens couldn''t do that.

    ''The divine power is so strong, I could not even dream of making a contract with the devil.''

    It''s okay to make others suffer

    No, the purpose is to destroy oneself through it.

    He was delighted to feel that he was breaking down.

    That was the source of the madness he felt in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''How the hell am I supposed to talk like this!''

    I didn''t know anything else, but this was the only thing I couldn''t talk about even if I died.

    But for just one moment. The last moment when he was dying, almost the recollection of his past.... The first and last true feelings he showed. It was an opportunity for me to try to understand you.

    " that''s why I said that."

    He frowned and smiled bitterly.

    And the overall story and development is very long...

    Now that the question is solved, let''s talk about it slowly later.

    "Then, um ah, the sudden change of attitude

    Before talking, I looked again at Serpence''s eyes.

    "It''s okay, so please tell me."

    A very savvy bastard.

 CH 94

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 94

    22. The Duke and the Day of Choice (3)

    I took a deep breath.

    Holding his hand like a lifeline, he opened his mouth with a feeling of confession.

    At first, I didn''t realize it. I don''t even know why I''m here, what I''m supposed to do... No, I noticed it because it''s so blatant.

    Well .''''

    "First of all, I thought that we should live.

    Because there is no safe place anywhere on the continent. therefore . I was going to persuade Serpence to stand on the side of the continent.

    "With that ridiculous snack barrage?"

    If you say that, you''ll be making fun of each other, will you stop?

    Who was the one who came up with the scheme because of that non-funny thing? I don''t think it was like this before... .

    At my point, he quietly shut his mouth.

    Anyway, before that day comes

    Until then, I was just afraid of you. Even looking at that last recollection, the thought of fear outweighed the thought that you were pitiful. Actually, that''s the case, killing Shion in [Master of the Holy Sword]... One

    " Is it me?"

    Even when he found out that Zion and I were different people, he must have imagined killing me without realizing it.

    A little force entered his hand, which he was holding carefully, close to what was on my hand.

    Serpens, you said you weren''t deceiving, but I''m sure you

    only did You know how painful your past is, but you put it in your mouth so easily.

    That would have been best in that situation. I put you in a corner.

    Even so. I only saw you in the book, and I didn''t know that you would be so scared even if you were agitated... No, I didn''t even think about it.

    Without any consideration for him, it was as if he was drunk with his own sympathy and shed tears and pricked his wounds.

    No matter what anyone says, this is my thread

    It was a number, and it was a deception.

    It was only after he threw himself out the window on a moving train that he realized later that he wasn''t just a piece of fiction.

    Thousands of thoughts ran through my head as I waited for him.

    when he came back And he said that he would watch, and he expressed that he could watch.

    I am truly relieved, thank you, and I am not sorry.

    really .

    Don''t apologize.

    I was about to apologize, but Serpens stopped me. Looking at his face, he looks like he''s about to cry again.

    Actually, he only had tears in my eyes once, but after watching it for two hours, I felt like crying over and over again.

    You know what that day means to me. But if you apologize for it.

    I hadn''t thought of that.

    I just thought I should apologize. That day for me and for him. Since it was an important day, the thought that I had to confess the lies I uttered at that time preceded me.

    Sorry , ah! This isn''t about that day, it''s just an apology for what I was trying to apologize for.

    That was apologetic.

    "Since I''m a human too, I think Serpens was acting like an adult for some reason, so I must have been selfishly complaining without my knowledge."

    What the hell...

    He looked at me as if there was no point in my words.

    Then, as if he had ever acted like a child, his disgruntled face was like a kid who complained not to be treated like a child.

    "No, why did you become young again? Why did you degenerate?"

    " what other nonsense is that?"

    Contrary to his disgusting tone, his expression is that of a playful boy himself.

    I usually joke around with my friends and take it back. such an ordinary boy

    That is.

    In the world I lived in, there was a word like this.

    Perhaps Serpens was interested in the word "the world I lived in", so he opened his eyes and blinked a few times as if he was indifferent, pretending not to.

    That''s more Tina... .''

    They only feel repulsive to the act of being forced to learn, but they seem to have a lot of curiosity itself.

    You are always forced to have only the necessary knowledge, so it makes you more interested in other things.

    Come to think of it, on the way to the Kingdom of Bastul, when I stopped at the night market for the first time, I didn''t even pick up my luggage and move it.

    As if trying to get a little more time to play.

    Wasn''t the reason you asked me if I didn''t expect it because I expected it in the end?

    A good and kind friend is called ''Seon-Woo (����)''

    " do you want to say that you are a good and kind friend now?"

    Yes, it is!

    The expression on his face was so delightful that he wondered if he had all these brazen children, and he giggled and laughed.

    I''ll have to consider the word smart, but the others seem to be right. Seo Seonu?

    Pronunciation is a little leaky, but well. About right.

    As he spoke with a single smile, his face hardened.

    And then, ''Sun, ooh. line right . Seo Eon-moo .'' and uttered the word lowly several times.

    It felt like an unfamiliar thrill.

    Sunwoo. Is this your real name?

    "Yes, that''s right. To be precise, ''Yoo Seon-woo (�� ����), for reference, the first is the last name and the second is the first name."

    "Really from one to ten they belong to another world."

    Because I''m from another world.

    He grabbed my hand again.

    Even if you hold on tight, it won''t go anywhere.

    Yoo Seon-woo.

    " Yes.

    Sunwoo...

    "Why do you keep calling me?"

    Even so, the real name I haven''t heard in a long time is already awkward, but I''m very moved that it clearly refers to me... .

    The figure of Serpens in the immediate vicinity began to shake violently and look blurry.

    Sunwoo. You can cry out loud. I don''t talk like anyone else.

    Like anyone else..., crying for two hours

    Only then do I exist as myself

    min heard.

    What used to float alone in this world seems to have settled down now. At last, it seems that ''a country exists'' completely here.

    ''It was lonely.''

    Feeling lonely and not knowing it was loneliness, I guess it was the same for me.

    Another hand was placed over the back of the hand that was holding each other. He grabbed my hand tightly with both hands.

    He waited quietly, not saying anything, as I had done to him.

    I also thought it was a good idea to bring up other things first.

    How much time has passed

    Are you over already?

    I cried for two hours and it wasn''t enough, so I guess I expected to cry for at least an hour.

    After I had stopped crying, Serpens handed me a handkerchief, and made an expression asking if I could just take it.

    Seeing that there was a guy who had been crying for two hours in a row in front of me, I didn''t feel any shame and just cried and shook it off.

    "Huh that''s what I said, right?"

    When he answered by holding his breath and wiping his eyes, he put on a look of embarrassment.

    "My eyes are red, can I heal them?"

    What the hell...

    Sunwoo, I''m not worried about you. I''m just doing this because I think I''m going to look weird.

    While talking alone in the drawing room, when one comes out crying, it can only be assumed that the other is crying.

    It was me who always ran into a situation where I was being called a strange person... .

    It''s very tempting, no. No.''''

    He frowned and I laughed again.

    The things that kept pushing me down are gone, it''s just everything. Everything in the world was fun.

    ''Is Serpense like that too?''

    It also cleared my doubts about me, and the holy sword...

    What happened to the holy sword?!

    I chose the prince.

    It''s not that important, it''s what happens after that!

    Usually it doesn''t matter who gets it, doesn''t it?

    He trembled in vain, knowing that I was curious and worried.

    I''ve told you everything, so let''s talk about you too!

    Why did he show an attitude that he had nothing to do with the subject word], the holy sword, that appeared with such a strange expression.

    From the circumstances mentioned in [Master of the Holy Sword], I had no idea at all.

    "Before that, there is one more important thing.

    It is."

    "What else?"

    much? Do you still have that?

    As he answered, revealing his blushing face, he smiled brightly.

    Isn''t it dinner time? Let''s talk after eating. What should I do tomorrow...

    Since when did you start taking care of your meals?

    That''s just procrastinating.

    Rather than procrastinate because it is difficult to say,

    It was a little revenge for me for making him wait months.

    Since I cried so much, I''m starting to feel hungry, isn''t it? Besides, Seonwoo, you''re very sensitive to food, aren''t you?

    as he said Besides, I skipped the 3 o''clock snack time today... .

    "Then I''ll come back after eating, so here . No, Serpens will eat quickly and then come back here again?"

    The momentum to ask for overtime pay.

    Then it''s better for me!

    No chin sound.

    It''s natural not to give it, but it feels like I gave and took it because I mentioned it first. Whether I stared at him or not, he calmly put his glasses back on.

    I''ll just have to eat and go quickly.

    Then delicious rice!

    No, before that.

    As I was about to let go of his hand, he pulled me back and sat me back, and before I could ask a question, he covered my eyes with his palm.

    I could feel the warm energy calming down my young, stinging eyes.

    Adore.

    Suddenly, Serpens spit out a random word.

    Yes? What is that... Oh, let it go!

    This Jas], it bounced again.

    I was afraid to put my hands away and it flew out like the wind. After all, we decided to eat and see again.

    Aren''t you ashamed of that?

    Is it your baptismal name?

    family or lover. friend or colleague. what

    Whatever it is, it is a sacred and dignified name known only to those who are truly precious and trustworthy.

    Before, I felt like I was a friend, but with a sense of repulsion, I was pretending not to know.

    The meaning of Ador is clearly...

    When I heard his baptismal name, I was convinced. It was also the god Luxmea who sent me here.

    I thought that Serpense''s meal would be over after sitting here all alone, so I walked to the dining room and continued my thoughts.

    ''Maybe God Luxmea wanted to tell him, ''I cherish, like, and love you very much.''

    To 10-year-old Serpens who must have been ignored by everyone and lonely alone. I wondered if that was what I was trying to convey.

    I carefully speculate that he might have given his name in the hope that he would be truly loved by Sir John and loved by others.

    ''Nevertheless, just watching his growth as well as his degeneration... .''

    Do you think there is a limit to what God can directly intervene?

    ''This might be something to think about... .''

    As soon as we arrived at the restaurant, we quickly finished drinking rather than eating, and returned to the drawing room on the 4th floor of the main building.

    Unlike usual, where I had a full hour of meal time, I ate and took a break, maybe it was because I only ate rice today.

    Although it departed much later than Serpence, it arrived similarly.

    When I saw him in the hallway, I ran to him and opened the living room door first.

    How are you? I was early today?

    " don''t run in the hallway."

    At this age, in this world, you''ll hear something you''ve only heard in middle and high school, from Serpence.

    While I was trying to find the lost fool, he slipped through the door I had opened first.

    _ Tak.

    I followed him in and closed the door.

    "Well then, Serpens Ador Prasi.

    Thes?"

    " I''ll tell you even if I don''t see you. Seon-woo Yoo, please take a seat too."

    Yep!

    And that''s not something I usually just told you to call.

    I know that to some extent. The baptismal name is so precious and precious in this world, so keeping it has a great meaning.

    ''Even with [Master of the Holy Sword], there was no case where Humanus was directly called ''Bright''.''

    But still:

    Do I know what that is? Calling is a name, and if you keep it as if you are serving it as a shrine, what does it mean? Isn''t it, Ador?

    Absolutely not. Seonwoo, I know you are from another world, but I hope you will pretend to keep common sense here.

    Seeing him feel uncomfortable and ticklish, as if disgusted, made me want to tease him even more.

    ''But will the effect be halved once you get used to it?''

    I have to use it for joking around sometimes.

 CH 95

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 95

    23. Duke''s Choice Day (1)

    Everything is education to correct the wrong mindset.

    If you feel pain in the process, it is your fault.

    To lean on someone is laziness.

    If it looks like you need help, it''s because you''re not good enough.

    ''It must be so... .''

    Why can ''he'' call it a wound and say help is taken for granted?

    If that''s true.

    What is the meaning of his past when he was not even allowed to reach out his hand?

    A small question spread in waves.

    But there was no reverberation. It was then that I realized

    ''I'' didn''t have an answer for that.

    To find the answer, I decided to watch him.

    * * *

    Today, all of a sudden, thoughts of the past lifted my head.

    According to his words, I had killed myself until that day came, so that day was a day of rebirth for me.

    And it came with such a great shock that I forgot for a moment even the use of divine power, which was close to the habit.

    It''s the first time I''ve never had any thoughts come to mind even though my head is full.

    It was.

    Something seemed to rise above the water surface, and then it repeatedly fell into the depths of the road.

    After a while, I decided to watch him, and after normal thinking became possible.

    ''Isn''t that... .''

    Still I was confused and not at all rational.

    It was such an impulsive and emotional act that he could not even understand.

    However, it has produced far more positive results.

    pushed back according to the movement of the wagon

    As I was looking out the window at the scenery, I fell in love with it for nothing.

    He looked away from there and turned his head to the front. His seat, where he was restless and rustling, was empty.

    '' Are you nervous?''

    Even though I thought that I had already prepared enough, my heart pounded unsteadily as if that was not enough.

    Today, once the master of the holy sword is decided, many things will change.

    To become the master of the holy sword.

    [ If the Holy Sword chooses someone else? What will you do then! ]

    it won''t be me

    Zion knew my past, which he should not have known.

    For some reason, it is presumed that he has fragmentary knowledge of the future.

    That''s what he said.

    It was also part of the subconscious that burst out with excitement, so that must be true.

    Sion''s face, which could not hide the signs of anxiety and concern, comes to mind.

    He knew that I would not be chosen by the Holy Sword, and he was worried that he might be shocked.

    Worried about losing your only purpose in life and wandering.

    Using the story that I had put off so much because it was difficult to bring it up as a bait, I got confirmation over and over as if trying to lead me to myself.

    I was afraid of what the hell was waiting for him, that he was so restless.

    My life was to become the master of the holy sword.

    The moment it was denied, everything it had built up would have collapsed.

    ''If it hadn''t changed.''

    I was wary of that, and didn''t lead me so that I could have my own life, not as the master of the holy sword.

    I didn''t have it fully yet, but I could see some blurry outlines.

    nevertheless he still

    was anxious

    That means that''s not all.

    All of the continent''s people expected that I would become the master of the Holy Sword, and they waited for it.

    But I will not be chosen.

    The main hall of the Great Hall.

    Those gathered for the ceremony will not be able to prove their qualifications and will doubt and rebuke me for not being chosen.

    ''Would I have been able to withstand their accusations?''

    [ He hasn''t done anything bad yet, but rather a victim of good will. ]

    [ You can''t just kill a person who hasn''t done anything wrong! He''s basically an upright man. Right now, because of the wounds he''s been betrayed, he''ll take revenge on the world for a while... ]

    It is for me that he pours out stories of unknown origin without paying attention to the gaze of those around him.

    to change my mind.

    ''In the future he knows... . Did I end up choosing ''evil''?''

    That''s probably why he''s so desperately wrapped up in someone who might become a demon cult leader.

    If only I could kill him with that possibility.

    After the ceremony of choice is over, after facing the truth he knows.

    I was afraid that even I myself would think I deserved to die, so that I would feel guilty and suffer for the contradiction of living after killing someone in a similar situation.

    I wonder if he was trying to convince me without even having time to look around with such worries.

    The reason he delayed his story beyond the day of his choice was probably because he felt he was not prepared to face the evils I might commit in the future.

    I don''t know how he got to know the future. However.

    ''A lot will change.''

    In previous countries, it was impossible to even calmly carry on such thoughts.

    Instead of becoming the master of the holy sword and saving the continent, only with the possibility that it might become an evil that leads to ruin on the continent.

    You would have denied yourself, demeaned yourself, and suffered.

    [ That doesn''t mean we can''t keep you in pain. You can still be happy, but you don''t know that, so how can I just watch you walk on your own feet into the abyss of despair? ]

    what happiness is he is talking about

    It is not yet clear.

    The thing that fluttered in front of my eyes as if it was about to be caught, even if I stretched out my hand to catch it, it kept slipping away and I couldn''t catch it.

    However, it is different from the past when we were vain in the air.

    Instead of the stinging cold that made me give up even reaching out, the warmth that envelops my hands remains.

    Just trying to catch it, I felt satisfied.

    He has already changed a lot.

    The future he knows will not come. will not let

    The carriage moving toward the Great Hall came to a stop. The heart is still beating with tension.

    Whew...

    I got out of the carriage, trying to catch my breath and calm my heart.

    The white snow piled up on the floor was trampled on, making a ''pop'' sound. Concentrating on the sound, he moved slowly.

    One breath at a time.

    As each footstep increased one by one, I felt the pulsation gradually subside.

    Enter the building and put it on your shoulders and head

    As I was wiping my droopy eyes, I heard the rustling sound of mending footsteps.

    Look at that sign and the energy you feel .

    Sep-!

    was the prince

    I should have arrived a little earlier, but I ran into it because I was late because I had promised to return immediately.

    Although it has not been long since we last met, the Crown Prince seems to be very happy today as always.

    His face was full of smiles. In response, he looked at the person with a fake smile that had gone beyond his habit and had grown accustomed to it.

    It''s finally the day of choice. How are you feeling today?

    That bright expression that didn''t even feel the slightest shade made me always uncomfortable.

    I''m very nervous.

    "It''s like everything has been decided anyway, so what are you nervous about?"

    The Crown Prince smiled skillfully, and without hesitation stabbed me in the side with his elbow

    come.

    This kind of behavior of interest is always embarrassing.

    friend.

    Iza kept me in that position. And I wanted myself to be in that position for me.

    The Crown Prince formed a sense of unity at will, but I only got a sense of heterogeneity.

    So I was always embarrassed.

    I couldn''t figure out what the hell I was looking at and thinking like that. I know you don''t understand

    there was.

    Not knowing each other, not understanding each other.

    ''Is it really okay to call this relationship that way?''

    Until now, he didn''t know what it was like to be a close friend. I thought it was just another name for such a human relationship.

    But what changed my mind... .

    Three blood?

    " Oh, nothing."

    Are you really nervous? I can''t wait to see you all tense in life.

    Hey...

    Is it that surprising?

    Even if he denied it, Zion took it for granted.

    Is it the interest of interest that I cannot accept it immediately even if I tell the truth, or is it my fault that I deceived and hid it so that I had no choice but to see it that way?

    I get nervous too.

    It''s okay, if it''s Sepi, you''ll be fine.

    I think I will be able to do well. Those words I''ve heard countless times over the years are not as funny as this one.

    ''What if it wasn''t me?''

    It is tragic that there is not even such an assumption. What kind of mess will happen when the Holy Sword chooses someone other than me... .

    I am also born, but the one who will be chosen as the master of the holy sword will also not see good things.

    ''Who is the one who is chosen by the Holy Sword? .''

    Does Zion know?

    I knew it wasn''t me, but I had no clue as to who it was.

    can''t get the feel

    By the way, it''s been a long time. After today, I can finally get married!

    Congratulations in advance.

    Thank you, Sepi! I hope Sepi can attend somehow...

    Thank you for your concern.

    Anyway, I''m probably the only one in the history of the Empire who couldn''t get married at this age... I''d be born a month or maybe a full full moon earlier!

    The Crown Prince burst out in anger as if he was embarrassed.

    '' At least it won''t be interest.''

    Even with a fiancee, rumors abounded that the relationship with a woman was complicated. He didn''t seem to want to hide it either.

    Basic qualifications were not met.

    Slowly the time is running out.

    Yeah, let''s go in!

    While moving from the entrance to the main hall, the Crown Prince acted more like a spectator rather than a participant in the ceremony.

    There doesn''t seem to be any tension or worry. He just seemed to have no idea.

    Renny-!

    As soon as they reached the main hall, the prince called his fiancee, who had already arrived.

    Count Young-ae, who had been called, tugged on the hem of her dress, approached with a quick pace, and stepped on the foot of my fianc��e.

    I''m sorry, Duke Prasidus. Somehow, he didn''t arrive until the time was almost running out, so I was wondering what was going on...

    No, it''s just that the departure has been delayed because there are documents that need to be dealt with urgently.

    I''m glad you did. I wondered if your Majesty had caused trouble again.

    Seeing his fianc��e relieved as he wiped his chest, the Crown Prince looked dissatisfied.

    It''s too much, who would think I''ve caused any trouble to Sepi every day?

    "Not every day, but not every day or two."

    I took my eyes off the two who were joking and laughing and joking around and looked around.

    Everyone is so arrogant, I want to be exceptional

    The silver one did not stand out.

    ''I don''t care who''s chosen.

    It is not the human will to make a choice.

    It is purely the crystal of the god Luxmea and the Holy Sword. It may have been a mistake and a mistake to have expected it and tried to estimate it arbitrarily.

 CH 96

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 96

    23. Duke''s Choice Day (2)

    The ceremony began.

    Based on the central platform on which the holy sword was placed, the candidates surrounded and formed a circle at a certain distance.

    The Pope was the first to approach me. Next to it, a priest holding a transparent glass bowl filled with holy water followed.

    I lowered my posture slowly according to the set ceremony. Place both knees on the floor and bow your head slightly.

    Put the ring finger of your left hand on your lips while crossing your hands.

    This is a reverent prayer with respect to the god Luxmea, and a kiss of an oath with love.

    I closed both eyes.

    The Pope recited a prayer.

    With a sense of presence, he could tell that the pope was dipping the tip of his finger into a bowl of holy water and pulling it out.

    A finger soaked in holy water touched his forehead, and through it the divine power of the Pope flowed into his body.

    After a while, the feeling on my forehead fades away.

    gone I opened my eyes and got up

    The Pope went on to bless each candidate.

    Finally, a small bead of sweat formed on the forehead of the Pope who finished it.

    In the meantime, the castle sword placed on the pedestal began to glow gradually.

    The Pope and other priests escaped out of the circle, and the holy sword flew into the air, scattering a brighter light.

    It is a moment of choice.

    The holy sword began to move slowly.

    At first glance, it looked like it was flying straight towards me, but I could tell that the angle was very slightly skewed.

    And whoever stands in that position .

    Without realizing it, I almost turned my head to see if it was Hwang Tae-ji standing next to me.

    '' Is something wrong?''

    When the Crown Prince was still the Crown Prince.

    He came into the office at will, and said in a sarcastic tone about the relationship between the opposite sex and the progress.

    ''Is it too far for you?'' he said with a teasing tone and stabbed me in the cheek... .

    I wondered if I had calculated the angle wrong.

    It may not have been him that the Holy Sword had chosen, but the Count Young Ae standing next to him.

    "Uh, uh ?! Why is it this way ."

    In the end, the Holy Sword chose the Crown Prince.

    The man panicked and pulled back, but the holy sword clenched into his grasp.

    "Hey, this is "

    The prince''s eyes met. His pupils seemed to waver, and he saw his eyes shut tight.

    Only the owner of the holy sword can hold the holy sword in his hand.

    Other beings are pushed away by a strong repulsive force. In return for being greedy for things that should not be touched, you have to carry scars that cannot be healed for the rest of your life.

    There was no doubt about it.

    But obviously, the conditions for becoming the master of the holy sword are:

    ''''That''s right, Your Majesty

    now ?

    ...is force majeure!

    If it was the original country, I would never have put it in my mouth. It wasn''t that much, but words that would not have been able to make this kind of thinking per se were flowing out of my mouth.

    ''Shion, did I pass it on to him without my knowledge... ?''

    Even though he spit it out, he seems to have popped out and asked a question and disappeared. I quickly covered my mouth with my hand, but it was already too late.

    The Crown Prince also opened his closed eyes, and looked at me with a questioning eye as to whether the question I just asked was really me.

    looked at

    And .

    "By the way, the conditions for becoming the master of the holy sword are "."

    "Then you mean the Crown Prince is still a virgin?"

    But it''s force majeure...!

    The surroundings began to roar.

    Under the circumstances, the Crown Prince''s cry would not have been the answer to my question. One, it seems oddly fitting.

    His eyes fluttered even louder than when he was chosen by the Holy Sword.

    "Do you have a fiancee who is confirmed to be married? At that age?"

    Even so, it''s irresistible...

    I looked at the holy sword in the prince''s hand.

    From Zion''s words and actions, I had already anticipated and prepared myself, but seeing it in the hands of another, I realized it only now.

    It felt like something that was always full had gone out in an instant.

    ''nothingness Did you?''

    It wasn''t bad for that. Rather than being useless, it was easy.

    "Have you not met many young girls before?"

    ''''But it''s force majeure!

    A buzzing sound echoes from all over the place. The place of ceremonies, which should be solemn, began to become noisy.

    ''How long do I have to be here?''

    The denominations who need to silence the turmoil have been blinking their eyes with expressions that seem to deny reality since the time the Holy Sword chose the Crown Prince. The prince seems to have completely lost his mind.

    Last month, dear Marilyn, and My Majesty,

    During the banquet, I saw clearly with my own two eyes the two of us sneaking out... .

    ''''It''s just that I got dating counseling! It''s not my taste!

    I don''t know how to describe this situation. It was very crazy and crazy.

    However, even this expression did not feel appropriate, and I felt that something was lacking.

    If you have to express yourself somehow.

    ''The atmosphere is Zion... ?''

    I don''t think anyone could find a more appropriate expression than this.

    Somehow, they only fluttered at me and only saw the liver...

    Oh, did you do that to Young-ae? I thought it was only me .

    "But it was force majeure "

    The chaotic atmosphere showed no sign of calming down. Even if they leave the temple now, no one seems to be stopping them.

    ''It would have been better if the color of my hair wasn''t conspicuous... .''

    to stay in this place right now

    I don''t know what that means.

    "Are you sure , you''re incapacitated?"

    "No, what blasphemy is that?"

    But don''t you mean force majeure!

    I can assure you that the situation that Zion was worried about as she sent me here alone was not such a terrible thing.

    ''''Your Majesty... , anyway. If that''s the case, you''ll be able to beat Duke Prasidus and become the master of the holy sword.

    "Yeah, the conditions for the owner of the Holy Sword are a bit that''s right."

    It''s better than a healthy man... It''s probably better to keep a holy sword like that...

    I wanted to get out of this noisy place and go back to the duke''s house.

    '' You want to go back to the duke''s house?''

    I never thought the day would come when those words would form a sentence.

    That place was the center of the cold world that always weighed on me, oppressed me, and turned me away.

    [Their sincerity. ]

    One by one, the sentences written on the bundles of papers that Zion delivered along with those words came to mind.

    Unbeknownst to me, it had become a warm world that I wanted to return to.

    Okay, you''ll be fine! Surely, after the disaster is resolved, the god Luxmea will grant you the grace to revitalize your place!

    Uh...uh..., uh, huh?!

    "That''s right, maybe with the power of the Holy Sword a new power might be awakened in it, right?"

    Ah, no... Wait, I think everyone has misunderstood something...!

    The rumors about the impossibility of the Crown Prince, which had emerged from a certain moment, spread in an instant, and now they have been disguised as confirmed truths.

    He woke up to the sound of his comforting voice and did his best to make excuses.

    Hey, this is Rainier! Rainier has to follow the set rules . So, that he has to keep until the day of his choice ! That''s right, Renie?

    Okay. Yes, that''s right. That''s what we do.

    What?

    No matter what happens... But your Majesty. Humanus, because I love you. I can accept everything.

    This opportunity seems to be enough to take down competitors. The prince''s fianc��e expressed my will.

    The hall fell into a solemn atmosphere at the confession of love that was heartbreaking to hear without knowing the circumstances.

    Doesn''t Humanus love me?

    "Ha, don''t love and not "

    not doing the right thing on a regular basis

    Is it in your own words?

    Shion, he should have seen this mess. Maybe I''ll run out of breath and laugh and fall out?

    * * *

    Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, really...!

    It''s so funny that it makes it hard to breathe. As much as tears flowed out.

    I don''t know what kind of dog mess this is. Even if you release the three major demon dogs in one place, it''s not going to be this messy.

    I won''t.

    '' That line in [Master of the Holy Sword] would have such a meaning! Where did the original go, the original!''

    This is nothing more than a fake copy of which the original has been lost.

    He couldn''t even make a sound of laughter, and he giggled and laughed as he slammed the armrest of the sofa.

    " Sunwoo? Is that so funny?"

    It''s funny! Of course it''s funny, heck, heck, heck...! Oh, sorry..., heck!

    Someday after the day of choice, I was meant to laugh at Humanus, but it was too hot

    I can''t do it in pairs.

    ''No, it must have been an impossible dream because of your status anyway?''

    Anyway, in the [Master of the Holy Sword] epilogue, there was a mention of the child of Humanus, so that must be a simple misunderstanding.

    By the way, the holy sword that finished its role abandoned its form and returned to Luxmea.

    "No, but what was Serpence thinking about asking such a question?"

    ... now that you''ve all laughed, can we continue talking?

    Yes, do it. Everyone laugh, pu-heop-

    Seeing me snuggle up to the armrest of the sofa, he let out a small sigh and shook his head from side to side.

    Ummm... I''m sorry, because I made a mistake...

    "Ah, no. As long as the Holy Sword came to me anyway , this would have happened anyway.

    While making a vain expression as if he had lost his mind, the Crown Prince didn''t care.

    He raised the corners of his lips laboriously, creating a strange smile.

    It''s only a misunderstanding, it''s okay to solve it gradually. It''s a misunderstanding, will it be resolved? Yes, it will be resolved.

    I don''t understand why everyone is so mad about it.

    Of course, it is important to succeed in the imperial family as the Crown Prince, but the emperor''s child was not the only one.

    ''Is that what makes it more fatal?''

    Whether this is a misunderstanding or not.

    As long as he became the master of the holy sword, it would be impossible to prove it until the disaster was completely defeated.

    In addition, if you think about leaving the Empire and traveling around the continent in the future... .

    ''Should we be on the lookout for the second prince?''

    got in trouble

    There should be no fight for power over the achievements of the continent, but there have always been fools blinded by greed.

    Even if it wasn''t, you wouldn''t be missing out on a great opportunity like this in a demon cult.

    there was no

    The Crown Prince was uncomfortable and awkward, but as long as he became the master of the holy sword, his foundation should not be shaken.

    Sephi, are you okay?

    Yes?

    It''s a bit strange for me to say things like this... You''ve been working hard all this time, right? To protect the continent as the master of the Holy Sword.

    He was a person who always acted shamelessly, even when he showed a hint of discomfort.

    As if such a prince was looking at me for the first time, he couldn''t make eye contact.

    speaks with caution

    ''What are you thinking?''

    It was as if he had unintentionally stolen what was mine.

    He was holding the holy sword in his hand, neither handing it to me nor hiding it behind his back.

    It doesn''t matter.

    It''s been a long time since I finished preparing my heart. That doesn''t mean anything to me.

    [ One perfect superman doesn''t have to sacrifice everything. ]

    ''''The master of the holy sword alone does not have to bear everything.

    [ We should all work together. It''s a world they live in, but to leave everything to one person. Isn''t that too irresponsible? ]

    ''''Everyone has to work hard. To hand over the fate of the continent they live in to just one person... . Aren''t you too irresponsible?"

    [ The continent will surely be saved.

    But I will not hand it over to the Duke. ]

    So, in my position. I will do my best to protect the continent. I have no intention of letting go, leaving everything to the master of the Holy Sword.

    [ I''ll do it anyway! That''s why I''m here. ]

    "Even if the Holy Sword is not in my hands, there are many things I can do for the continent.

    It cannot be the reason for my existence.

    Immediately after saying that... .

    "Suddenly, a light burst from Serpens?"

    Its meaning was one. And I know it.

    ''It''s a gigantic event!!''

    [It was also mentioned in The Master of the Holy Sword.

    Gaining enlightenment through inner growth, leaping through several stages at once and becoming stronger.

    enough to be sure. It is an event full of clich��s that appear more than once in a growing mass market.

    No, why are you holding such an important event when I can''t see it?!

    In the middle of the main story of the game, if you accidentally press the skip button and the replay function is not supported, what would it feel like?

    Even in a very important climax scene.

    ''Not at that level!''

    If I had been looking forward to the sound of a shooting star all day and just staring at the sky for a few hours, suddenly sneezing came and I closed my eyes and it had passed.

    It can be compared to its emptiness.

    It had nothing to do with my will.

    He answered with a puzzled face. It is the strange expression that he first saw after returning from the ceremony.

    When I asked why, it was because of the awakening, not the holy sword.

    ''''Anyway, it''s still amazing. where

    These are the words that you seem to have heard before, but they know how to say positive things, and even each gender .

    Originally, children grow up without their parents knowing if they take their eyes off of them for a while, but I want them to show them growing up where they can see them.

    There was a mix of emotion and sadness.

    "Sunwoo, I just copied what you said with a little change. It''s natural to hear that."

    " I mean. You mean that you have accepted those words and reached a level where they can be applied?"

    Serpens shook his head.

    "I just followed."

    "No, then what is awakening? Yes! Wasn''t it because there was some kind of inner growth?"

    Again he shook his head. What the hell?!

    There was a sense of outside intervention.

    Yes?

    There was a change of heart, but it wasn''t to the level of going beyond the wall. It could be said that it was a situation where only the foundation was laid.... The place I''m standing now is not the end, only the fact that there is something beyond it.

    I just realized it.

    I just laid the foundation stone, and in the blink of an eye, the building was erected.

    Is it okay to just accept it that way?

    ''''If there is any outside intervention... , Shin Lux Smea?"

    Perhaps?''

    I thought they were all dumped on me and went on a submarine, but I think they are doing something.

    With this level of directing, even people will try to criticize Serpence''s personality.

    I can''t.

    ''On the day of choice, the continent got two heroes.''

    Wouldn''t the shrine and the imperial family work hard to spread propaganda like ?

    We must cover up the scandal of Humanus, and we must spread it with great enthusiasm.

 CH 97

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 97

    24. The Duke and the Master of the Holy Sword (1)

    next day.

    The scheduled banquet for the appearance of the ''Master of the Holy Sword'' was canceled, and an advisory meeting was held instead.

    ''Because a banquet is a schedule with the proposition that serpens are selected to the end.''

    He couldn''t send Humanus without any preparation. It also has problems such as packing for a journey, but it is an incidental

    Work.

    After the ceremony of choice yesterday, he hadtily put in a request to the denomination and matop to send talents to help him.

    The priest Liena was in the Empire, so there was no problem, but the tower with the anima was in a foreign country.

    ''At least there is a unique talent, so there is less time to argue over who to send.''

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], it was said that the launch ceremony was held a fortnight after the day of choice, so it is likely to arrive around that time.

    Humanus stayed in the Empire until then.

    will fade

    ''It''s not that I''m playing... .''

    I heard that from today onwards, he was staying at the Great Hall and training to properly handle the Holy Sword, and I read it again.

    I''m glad things went well!

    after the advisory meeting.

    Seeing the Serpens handling the paperwork in the office with the same appearance as before, I felt a sense of relief that the day had really passed.

    " does that work out well?"

    Did you remember what happened yesterday in the main hall of the Great Hall? he was stunned

    made a face

    "At least there was no one who looked at Serpens in a bad way, right?"

    Just by looking at the reactions of lawmakers who attended today''s advisory meeting, it was clear that people were still in favor of Serpens.

    It cannot be said that they represent everyone on the continent, but at least not all of them are enemies.

    ''Humanus'' situation is sympathetic as a man, but .''

    There are functional problems anyway, but there is one thing that can''t be used. just

    Wouldn''t it be more comfortable for me to count myself?

    Of course, it''s easy to talk about.

    ''If it were me, uh... .''

    My eyes get dark

    "Your Majesty suffered a psychological blow, but did you prove that you were the master of the Holy Sword?"

    Seeing me smiling brightly as I spoke, Serpense''s expression darkened on the contrary.

    Oh, really! It''s better to explain the important events in [Master of the Holy Sword]...

    Sunwoo.

    Yes?

    looked at him blankly.

    It is a very pitiful expression to cry while raising the eyebrows.

    "Uh did you find out?"

    He nodded his head slightly.

    The day of choice passed without any problems, regardless of what I had been worried about so far.

    It must have seemed like a problem for Humanus, but compared to the [Master of the Holy Sword] situation, it was just pleasant.

    ''Instead of the cold, subdued gaze, I did not receive a warm, consoling gaze all at once.

    Was it!''

    Do you think I''m making fun of you when I say this?

    Also, even though I told the truth, Serpence still believed in me. I came into this world as myself.

    Serpence declared that he would protect the continent with his own will, regardless of the expectations or responsibilities that others passed on.

    Besides, artificially.

    ''No, should I say that it is a deity?''

    Serpence, who still looks like an angel, reveals a noble intention,

    As if there were no lies in his words, he appeared to be awakening with a divine brilliance.

    It is not that I intend to carry the burden alone, nor am I going to hand it over to the owner of the holy sword.

    It made everyone in the room aware that everyone should work together.

    ''Can things turn out more positively than this?''

    That''s what I was thinking.

    The most encouraging of these is the intervention of the god Luxmea.

    Just watch in [Master of the Holy Sword]

    If he recalled the deception, even that indirect help was appreciated.

    However .

    ''If you leave a message or something after listening to it for a while, where will it go?''

    I asked Serpens if there was any message left for me when I heard that God had intervened.

    However, contrary to expectations, the answer that came back was ''I didn''t hear anything.''

    It was very unfair to throw me into a lonely world and to take care of my own children, as if they didn''t care.

    Sunwoo...

    After being silently depressed, Serpence made an apologetic expression as if it was her fault.

    Why is Serpence making that face?

    In retrospect, it''s not like you came here because of my fall...

    Why is that Serppens''s fault?

    Even if the reason I was forced to come here was for the sole purpose of Serpence, I have no intention of blaming him.

    The drowning person is in a hurry

    It''s only natural to try to grab hold of something.

    Moreover, he didn''t summon me, and a third person inserted it and pasted it at will.

    It''s just a moment... I was expecting it just in case, and then I was disappointed.

    I wondered if I could give him a clue that he could go back to. I only remembered it for a moment.

    I didn''t mean to rush back just because I knew a way. I was just thinking of using it as a resting place for my mind that I could return to someday.

    If I had received the confirmation that I couldn''t go back, I would have been able to completely cut off the lingering feelings and give up.

    Leaving aside the documents he was processing, Serpence looked at me with worried eyes.

    Wow, Serpens is now able to truly care about others. You''ve grown so much!

    ...do you really have to drop the water line like that?

    Of course.

    He must have received only praise closer to praise than praise.

    Rather than being regarded as extraordinary and ostentatious, he would have only received respect and awe.

    At first glance they may seem similar, but they are clearly different.

    More than that, God, who had never intervened in [Master of the Holy Sword], might have helped him this time. I''m a little concerned about that.

    Even when I change the topic, he still remains silent with a gloomy expression on his face.

    I don''t know who''s feeling more depressed right now.

    I can''t pinpoint who I am

    But unlike some people who use the Prasidus surname, he knows how to ask for help because he can''t overcome it alone, right? It''s really good.

    Really?

    Of course. It''s just a short-lived nostalgia, and I have a friend to lean on whenever I get a car, so what''s the problem?

    Sunwoo, you"."

    "Why, you are so respectful that you want to have him as your older brother?"

    In the end, he picked-up and laughed.

    "By the way, Seonwoo is older than me is it true?"

    "No, anyone can see that I am older? I am the same age as Shion, and in terms of mental age, Serpence is at the level of a child. Physically and mentally, I am an adult!''''

    You can leave out unnecessary comments.

    It''s a look on the face of asking for a loss.

    With a reluctant look on his face, he put aside his worries and brought up the topic I had raised earlier.

    "Didn''t I say that there was never a single divine intervention in the future you read about?"

    Yes. I cared enough to give Serpens the name Ador, so I can''t understand why they neglected him so much.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], the god Luxmea didn''t do anything other than put down the Holy Sword, so it was useless for anything.

    To the extent that readers were divided over the existence of the god Luxmea.

    In such a situation, I was neglected after possessing it, and that is why I felt skeptical about returning.

    Ummm... I need some condition.

    is it?"

    Serpence muttered a little and fell into trouble.

    It''s a condition... . Maybe it is.

    If God can rule the world as he pleases at any time, he is not a god but a dictator.

    "Sunwoo, the future and present you know. What is the difference other than your existence?"

    Needless to say, it''s in a serpent state.

    The influence that I myself can have on this world is very insignificant.

    There was nothing I could do about it other than serpentine mental care.

    In the end, it was Serpens who created the present situation. I changed him, and through him the world changed.

    After all, the fact that I am here is one of the evidence that God intervened.

    Therefore, it cannot be seen as a condition for God to intervene.

    ''This is a forced awakening, even if it''s the difference between whether or not there is a foundation for Serpence to support it''.''

    Why did Luxmea, the god in [Master of the Holy Sword], just watch until the moment when the child he loved so much was pierced by the sword he made of his soul?

    After joining the demon cult, couldn''t you have sent someone to guide him on the right path?

    ''The reason that I was able to send me at this point was because some conditions were met Maybe?''

    So, why was it fulfilled now and not then?

    [Master of the Holy Sword] is simply to inform the future if there is no outside intervention.

    Was it even written for?

    If that''s the case, then why did you put Serpence''s memories of the past at the end?

    ''Before that, I just wish I had written the main character as a serpent!''

    It would be quite a hardcore scum, but nothing could have been better to get the reader to understand and sympathize with him.

    Why did [Master of the Holy Sword] set Humanus as the main character, drive Serpens into the worst villain, and describe the god Lux Smea as a bystander .

    ''My sister is better at this than me.

    you know... !''

    It''s just getting complicated and there''s no answer that comes out.

    Can''t you guess what Serpence is?

    I think we should do some research.

    Serpens said with a wretched expression, enough to believe that what he was trying to do was not just an investigation, but a background investigation.

    Is this an investigationable issue?

    "In what way?"

    "About the new Luxmea. A secret that can only be accessed by major denominations in the Great Temple.

    There is a wheat library. Hide there... .

    No, it''s really a background investigation, isn''t it?!

    Even if it''s a serpent, I think it might be a bit dangerous, but is it okay? ?

    First of all, it''s not urgent and it''s only a matter of curiosity, so let''s not overdo it. Our enemies are demons, not the god Luxmea, are they?

    I know that much.

    I hope curiosity doesn''t hurt our cat.

    The conversation was cut off, and Serpense''s eyes turned to the papers again. And did less than an hour pass?

    - Smart.

    Someone knocked on the office door.

    Without any confirmation, I thought it was Hans, but the door opened and the one that was revealed was Xeon.

    I wondered if my eyes met as if passing by, and then I fixed my gaze on Serpens and delivered the task.

    Eugese Yulydia of Arche Kingdom has arrived. The butler is guiding you to the drawing room now.

    This morning she had sent a message expressing her intention to visit. It must be because of the selection result of the Holy Sword.

    He got up quickly, opened the door to the drawing room, and stepped aside so Serpens could enter.

    ''Is this okay?''

    As I tried to look into Zeon''s eyes, their eyes met. It''s the expression of what you''re looking at

 CH 98

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 98

    24. The Duke and the Master of the Holy Sword (2)

    "Is Zion perhaps the messenger of the god Luxmea?"

    What kind of ghosts are you talking about?

    As soon as the maids served tea and refreshments and left the drawing room, Eugene asked a question.

    Suddenly, what are you talking about .

    You said it before? How can you guess at Luxmea-sama''s noble judgment on a mere human subject?

    I can''t stand it, it''s so stupid that I can''t stand it.

    At her words, Serpens looked at me with a look of disbelief. I''m going to ask you if that statement is true, or did you really say that?

    I swear to heaven, I never said anything so arrogant.

    ''It''s not that there''s no point at all, but...

    I don''t know why everyone is saying that receiving the Holy Sword is a sure thing.

    Each of those words in Eugez''s memory

    It''s definitely colored.

    "Did you expect this to happen? Did you receive any revelation?

    It was as expected, but he is in a state of exhaustion because he has not received any revelations.

    According to the rumors that those who participated in the ceremony are possessed, I heard that Serpens-sama declared that he would protect the continent without any embarrassment even though he was not chosen.

    It must have been the information that was slightly refined by the temple and the imperial family.

    So should he, Serpens is Huma

    I was taken aback by the fact that Nus had been chosen, and I didn''t ask him such a question.

    Even if one day has passed since then, you look quite confident even now. Did you not know in advance that you would not be chosen by the Holy Sword?

    Pointing her legs here and there, the key is to stick her tongue out when she sees her stabbing accurately. Is this fiction based on reality or reality based on fiction?

    That boundary is very vague.

    I don''t know for sure, but I know that even if I pick up a pen instead of a bow and start writing a novel right away, I know that it''s a talent that will make a big difference.

    Serpens took a sip of the tea elegantly, and I shoved a cookie into my mouth.

    To put it intuitively, we chewed on her words.

    Did you accept silence as a positive? She nodded with a look of full understanding.

    "That black fighter . Was it Sir Winston Redford?

    You must have known.

    In her eyes as if hoping for a definite answer, I reflexively looked at Serpens. If so, would there be some way to solve it?

    After receiving my gaze, he blinked lightly with an expression of understanding, then turned his head to answer Eugene.

    "It is correct."

    In response to his answer, which was not very cool, he even forgot to chew the cookie he had in his mouth and looked at Serpens.

    ''No, one. What are you talking about, peacock! I, I buy! i am god

    The lion of the !''

    At my swaying gaze, he tilted his head with a ''Isn''t this? I don''t know what the hell it was and how it came to such a conclusion.

    But already spilled water. The story had to end.

    "Anyway, that''s it."

    It was difficult to tell because Zion is a swindler or heresy because of the hardships he suffers from instead of the divine power... I''m glad you noticed it first.

    Serpens secretly joked

    I think it is, but the story behind it is so eerie that I can''t even laugh at it.

    ''And the name... ''

    It''s been so long since I''ve been called by my real name, I''m sad for nothing. However, it was impossible to call the unfamiliar name Seonwoo in front of others, so the external name was decided to be Zion.

    That is, even in places other than in front of Eugene.

    It was still someone else''s name, but it was relatively less repulsive because it was similar to the original name than Rivelon.

    At the same time, Xeon Rivelon also got a job at the Duchess House.

    So, that would be a good excuse.

    How did you find out, even though the middle process was omitted, in the end it was right? Such strange information is probably only a revelation from God or information possessed by the demon worshipers.

    Even while talking like that, Eugenes sent me a gentle gaze as if to be relieved. Looking at them, I don''t think I''m their spy at all.

    Serpence, who is not anyone else, believes and relies on Idaji, and

    Considering that you were aware of the outcome of the sword''s choice, it would be right to look at the revelation. Oh, of course, I believe in the appearance of Zion that I have seen so far!

    To this day, it feels like Eugenes is surrounded by a bright and divine light.

    When looking at Serpens with a light smile at 100,000 lux, the current Euges would be about 75,000 ... No, wouldn''t it be around 82,000 lux?

    More than that, it''s even more surprising that it''s more accurate and clearer than any revelation ever made on the continent.

    The replacement god Luxmea has never revealed

    How did it get down, ''Gladiator Slave! Scout from the Demon Worship Forces! I don''t know any other details, but anyways!'' Can I say something clearly?

    ''Even a lack of accuracy?''

    You said it wasn''t clear, so I must have misinterpreted it because of a vague revelation. Or, all you are is a swindler and a swindler with only plausible words... There''s no point, right?

    Luxmea, calm down and get things straight.

    "Thank you for believing in me and telling me this."

    Ah... no. I''m really thankful that you believed in me, yes. Not like that...?

    It was Serpens who spoke, but somehow, thanks for telling me, thank you was delivered to me.

    No one would believe me if I had to say, ''I''m a messenger of the gods!'' I don''t have any divine power, so I guess he guessed that he said it with my permission.

    ''uh? Then Serpens decided that I had asked him for a guarantee, and accepted it without hesitation.''

    Guarantee is not something that even family members stand by recklessly. When should I give it a sharp scolding?

    ''And about Eugene... ''

    I think it''s a positive thing that this has happened, well.

    From now on, as long as I could express my suspicions freely in front of Euges and possess the contents of [Master of the Holy Sword], there would be no problem.

    "So what are the guidelines for the future? Are you traveling with Humanus and helping yourself, or will you act separately?"

    After the selection of the Holy Sword was finished, Serpens'' reaction had already been heard through rumors. That is a secondary purpose, and it seems that her ultimate goal today is to confirm who I am and what to do next.

    ''What do you think of Serpence?''

    As soon as the results come out, it''s a question I thought I should ask him.

    But on the day of choice.

    Humanus''... A sad story that is hard to put into words, the Serpens awakening event and Luxmea''s intervention.

    There were a lot of extravagant things going on, and it flew to the back of the consciousness.

    ''Even if I forgot, what will happen if you tell me in advance?''

    With such an opinion, I shot Serpens to the fullest. After receiving the gaze, he replied with a look of ''What, what?''

    It''s just what Serpence wanted to do.

    "If that''s the case, have you already told me?"

    I haven''t heard anything, but what did he say to whom?

    Seeing me bewildered, he shook his head with pitiful eyes.

    Didn''t I say clearly that I would do my best to protect the continent from my position?

    The ''position'' he was talking about seemed to mean that he would remain in the country.

    Humanus has no intention of becoming your companion, so don''t even dream about it.''

    Before making a proper invitation, let''s take a brief moment of silence for Humanus, who is the speed of light.

    ''Is it lucky for me .''

    Although Serpens has awakened and seems to have found a lot of mental stability.

    But, in my opinion, it was just a child or anything that had been put on the shore.

    Even if they were moved from the edge of the cliff to the water, it is still not a safe place for children to play.

    How do you know what that means? I thought it was just saying that I was going to do my best as a continental citizen called Serpens.

    " Hmmm. that it is.

    "Your Majesty didn''t even notice that you were being exposed, so wouldn''t you come to see me openly in front of you?"

    No one else noticed, even me, the master of Serpentine.

    How much more will Humanus be worse.

    Perhaps it is possible that he interpreted it as saying that he would travel with him and become a reliable companion.

    Anyway, then we''ll be acting separately from the master of the Holy Sword, right?

    Yes, I think it would be better to do it in an efficient way.

    When Euges raised his long ears and asked a question in an excited voice, Serpens answered with a calm voice.

    After all, she wants to work as an Illuminati, not as a companion of the Holy Sword.

    ...what?

    Even though Serpens, who was the final boss position, was still in the group, up to Eugenes.

    It''s about falling out.

    ''Sacred sword party, is this okay?''

    In analogy to an MMORPG, Humanus is a secondary tank and melee dealer. A few strong enemies. Especially when dealing with demons, he took on the role of the main dealer.

    Depending on the situation, Humanus alone faced a demon while the rest of the party blocked other enemies.

    Puror always stood at the forefront of his party, protecting them as the main tank.

    Liena can receive buffs using divine power and

    He supported his companions through healing.

    Anima served as the main dealer in place of Humanus when dealing with multiple or aerial enemies as a long-distance dealer.

    And Eugenes filled the void while the anima was preparing for magic as a secondary one. In addition, he defended the ranks by blocking attacks that the vanguard had failed to defend.

    ''Still, it''s not the main role, so are you going to roll around somehow?''

    There is also a scene where Liena hastily deployed a barrier to block the attack missed by the vanguard before Eugenes joined the party.

    was

    When I saw the signs of an incident, the first thing I noticed was the little thing that she was There was a problem I wish I had, but I''ll figure it out on my own.

    If that doesn''t work, I''ll have to consider a way to give advice in advance here.

    " Zion? Is there any problem?"

    No? Not sure?

    As if what kind of reply was that, Serpence frowned.

    However, as it seemed that I had no intention of answering, I continued what I had been saying with an uneasy expression.

    "The first thing to be on the lookout for is, ironically, the inside of the Empire."

    Yes? Inside the Empire?

    Right now, it''s a difficult time for demon worshipers to use force. That''s why they''re trying to incite people''s desires to cause strife and conflict.

    Serpence explained to Eugene, who was puzzled, with a look between cold-hearted and cold-hearted.

    He only mentions demon worshipers, but he is well aware that they could be quite off-putting if they weren''t.

    maybe I''m more wary of it

    also don''t know

    ''Until now, I would have believed that a non-human-class Munchkin character named Serpens would be chosen by the Holy Sword and become stronger and solve everything."

    Out of nowhere, an ordinary human-level humanus was suddenly chosen.

    Could that bastard be able to do it well, maybe God made a mistake, we''re all ruined, etc.

    They babbled like that, and they formed a band of thieves like what they did by obeying the law anyway.

    ''In my view, they are trying to justify their actions.

    I couldn''t see it outside.''

    From the beginning, there were descriptions of people like the gangsters. They are traitors who are blinded by their own greed before they even reach the mouths of demon worshipers.

    They plunder small villages without armed forces, taking advantage of the world''s chaos to satisfy their greed.

    ''Fortunately, Humanus found it early and suppressed it .''

    The demon worshipers began to spread the word about whether they were impressed with the sound of a dog.

    Touching people''s anxiety and instigating

    did.

    At some point, it was impossible to tell whether this was the voice of the demon worshipers or the voice of mankind on the continent.

    It was after the fall of the empire and the division of the denominations that pseudo-religions began to spread in earnest, but from this point on, there were signs of a start.

 CH 99

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 99

    24. The Duke and the Master of the Holy Sword (3)

    That''s right. The Holy Empire and the Luxmea Church are the most supportive of the master of the Holy Sword.

    Yes. Even for that reason, the first thing to do is to solidify the internal solidarity. I am concerned about the external situation, but if the foundation collapses, the tower built on it will inevitably collapse.

    Seeing Serpens seriously discussing for peace on the continent, I was very pleased.

    It is reminiscent of a child who has just entered daycare, hanging on her mother''s leg as soon as she returns home and arranging the things she learned today.

    "The person chosen by the Holy Sword is the Crown Prince, so it seems unlikely that he will be able to touch it, but in reality, the opposite is true. If his position is shaken, he can use it as a weakness and destroy it more simply. If you think you''ll have to leave, even that is very easy.

    Serpense''s two eyes saying that

    He was submerged to the point of being cold, and unlike his cold eyes, only his lips were habitually drawing arcs.

    It''s a suspense I haven''t seen in a long time.

    ''What about a child who has just entered daycare?''

    Are you making a plan to protect the status of Humanus, or are you plotting a ploy to destroy it? It''s indistinguishable lines and expressions.

    ''habit is this? I''ve lived with a forcible smile for over 20 years, so maybe it is... Ji?''

    But in the eyes of others

    am I not there?

    I quickly looked into Eugene''s face and realized that it was just a rainstorm. She seems to like that expression very much.

    The easiest way is to kill the emperor, but if you want to take control of the empire itself and control the dominion of the continent... .

    Huh!?

    " Is there any problem?"

    Oh, no. Nothing. That

    Come to think of it, I don''t really know who the second prince is... . Are you greedy for power enough to hold hands with those who want to take advantage of you, or do you have a bad relationship with the Crown Prince?"

    They smiled awkwardly and looked around, but it didn''t seem to work for the two of them. Beyond that, it seems to have given me certainty.

    Did the revelation just come?!

    Direct mention is limited, so it is better to wait until Shion speaks directly.

    Ah, I get it!

    Again, the settings have increased. his response

    Euges clenched his fists and nodded his head.

    Avoiding her gaze, the serpence would pass right away, but he sent a glance that he would ask in detail later.

    At this point, I thought for a moment whether it would be better to just tell Eugenes that I am a foreigner.

    However, it was difficult to say that he was a character in the book or that he became Humanus'' lover in it.

    ''Euges take it as easy as Serpence

    There''s no guarantee that you''ll understand... .''

    There was vaguely no expectation that she would be okay, but the problem is the existence of a fall fence.

    Even if he blames the demon worshipers for his deeds, there is no way to explain where and what Serpens did.

    ''As for the second prince... .''

    No matter how much the Corruption Fence took control of the Empire, it was still adorning the appearance of a good man.

    Then he took the lead and made Humanus

    The second prince could not be disturbed, and it was the second prince who set up a puppet for it.

    ''The main character of [Master of the Holy Sword] is Humanus, and the detailed process has been omitted.''

    Afterwards, Serpens passed over to the demon-worship forces] and the second prince was exiled and I remember there being a slight mention that he died along with the fall of the empire.

    ''Things are going like this, if you ask what Serpence did .''

    really run out of things to say. At least for this one, keep your mouth shut

    After that, it seems like it will have to pass through the serpence filtering once.

    If we had to put off the story of revelation and answer the question, the second prince himself would not have such greed. From the outside, it seems that he also maintains an amicable relationship with the prince.

    " How is your tone of voice subjunctive?"

    There''s no law that says that the outside and inside must match. Regardless of that, the second prince will inevitably get along, so it doesn''t matter what kind of person he is. Isn''t it?

    Serpens looked me in the eye and asked.

    From my previous reaction, it seems that I was convinced that the second prince''s actions would have a big impact on the well-being of the empire.

    And in [Master of the Holy Sword] it bounced in the wrong direction.

    ''Oh, didn''t I just have to stay up all night to explain the big story?''

    Seeing that the second prince was mentioned first before even talking about it, it seems that the corrupted fence in [Master of the Holy Sword] and the serpent in front of him were the same person.

    "No, why doesn''t it matter who he is?"

    "If you have the same opinion, ask for cooperation, and if you have a different opinion, isn''t it enough to convince them?"

    Serpense''s distrust of humans is always a thing, and if you ignore it, it comes to the conclusion that the second prince is not a villain.

    Still, being stretched like the limbs of a Corruption fence . Now, Serpens said it was conciliatory, but at the time, did they even threaten you?

    ''Then he blocks his brother''s path regardless of his will and contributes to the ruins of the empire... .''

    It was very sad.

    In the past, he would have shot Serpence once for nothing, but now he is walking in the opposite direction from his steps in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''Instead of staring at me, wouldn''t it be better to cheer me up with a unique look?''

    At my warm gaze, Serpens turned his head to ignore it as if he had seen nothing.

    In an unstable situation with only demon worshipers, you have to worry about infighting...

    quietly listen to our conversation

    Eugene, who had been dying, said with a genuinely regretful expression.

    But since I read something in [Master of the Holy Sword], it seemed to me that they were only talking as if they were talking to others.

    ''Should I just shut up right now?''

    If I say something wrong too early, the situation may get worse, so I''ll have to discuss it with Serpens first.

    * * *

    As we were having a conversation,

    When it was time for a new dinner, Euges returned from dinner with Serpens as a guest.

    "What did you talk about during dinner?"

    " Sunwoo, why are you curious about that?"

    Are you worried about Serpence''s friendship?

    It''s useless meddling.

    He urged me with his eyes to stop talking nonsense and get the point out.

    I''m here to tell you about [Master of the Holy Sword]. Let''s talk about it.

    If you don''t, you''re just playing the game of noticing for nothing, right?

    " I agree with you, but why are you doing it here?"

    He asked, looking at me as I sat neatly in an upright posture in front of the desk and buried myself in an armchair on one side of the room.

    "Coming to think of it, it seems a bit strange that the boss and subordinate are still having a conversation in the drawing room after work hours are over, even though there''s nothing to do, right?"

    " But isn''t it strange to share stories in my personal library?"

    But you can''t talk like this in my room, can you?

    What secret conversation would you have in a room with a passageway connected to someone else''s room?

    I must have talked to him in my room before], and that''s probably why he used the magic scroll.

    ''Standing in the aisle, you can hear all kinds of sounds!''

    I heard that it is a building that is set up to provide accommodation for guests and a butler and aide to help their convenience... .

    It was a building optimized for surveillance and eavesdropping.

    On the other hand, what about the main building?

    Even the living room was equipped with excellent soundproofing, and the 5th floor, the Duke''s personal space, was upgraded to limit the number of people entering and leaving to a minimum.

    It seems that they only come up at a set time for the management and cleaning of the mansion, and finish the work later.

    ''There must be a secret passage in the main building, but... .''

    The main passages only know serpens

    I guess

    As for the security on the 5th floor, I could tell just by looking at the statue of a cat wearing glasses that was placed on the desk where he was sitting.

    In the meantime, it is not visible where all the candy bottles are hidden. I haven''t seen him eat while working.

    By the way, the candy I gave you...

    - Tak

    "Sunwoo, if you''ve finished watching, please tell me now."

    He deliberately closed the book he had opened and said loudly. Seeing that he stopped talking to me as soon as he was lucky enough, he seems to be eating well.

    It''s probably because he''s embarrassed by himself, and he''s trying to hide it.

    "First, let''s talk about the Empire it''s ruined."

    " I think so."

    With an expression that he knew it would happen, he blinked as if to tell him the process.

    I think the main character is traveling around the continent, so the detailed situation is not mentioned...

    His eyebrows narrowed slightly when he said that he wasn''t detailed.

    And as it continued with the content that he brought in the 2nd prince and made him a scarecrow, the gap between his eyes deepened. It seems that my pride was hurt that I had the same idea as him in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''Should this be viewed as homophobia or self-hatred?''

    Looking into his eyes, after talking about the demon that appeared in the dark area, he was defeated by Humanus. being imprisoned. Enter the demon cult, my

    Even talking about destroying the country.

    cautiously confided.

    ...Ummm.

    He rested his elbows on the desk and salivated as he rested his forehead on his forehead.

    If I hadn''t come to this world, I would have gone through the same process, but it was a look on my face that I didn''t really understand why he acted like that.

    ''It would be nice if I could think calmly without being too impulsive... .''

    When you face a situation in your head, you will collapse. Thinking of the worst numbers and substituting yourself into them

    do you even do it?

    His expression gradually darkened. It seems that the light is gradually disappearing in the green eyes."

    Serpens!?

    Oh.

    His mouth moved earlier than he thought due to the unfamiliar coolness, and he called out his name. With the exclamation of a low sigh, Serpens also woke up from his thoughts.

    "Your expression is very dark, are you okay?"

    Yes, it''s fine. Why is me] like that?

    What did you do, and what was the situation around you? I''ve been thinking about this... .

    I don''t know what you''re imagining, but don''t go too deep, right? It didn''t happen, it won''t happen.

    I don''t know how the heck did you assume the worst that your expression could be so dark.

    Maybe he even imagined the process of how he was going to take control of the empire.

    "Described in that book . What kind of person did Seonwoo see?"

    "Yes? Suddenly?"

    It will be easier for the other side to judge the situation.

    Isn''t it the serpenes we have to deal with? For now, wouldn''t it be better to just look at the case itself and find a solution that fits the current situation?

    There''s no way that Serpens didn''t know that, and it must have been just an excuse. he avoided his gaze.

    "The reason I talked about the book was that I didn''t want to deceive Serpence anymore, but it was also that we could work together in the future.

    I don''t mean to fall into it.

    . Know.

    Afterwards, when the world becomes more peaceful and you can move on with relief and say, ''If it had happened then, it would have been a disaster!'' I''ll tell you in detail, so stop digging in the ground by yourself.

    I asked him to face his feelings, but I never meant to feel the same way that Corruption felt.

 CH 100

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 100

    24. The Duke and the Master of the Holy Sword (4)

    About a week has passed since the day of the choice.

    Serpense''s main job these days is to reply to letters. I''m not one of those guys who usually brings things like that to work, but I''ve been busy rejecting proposals every day.

    It seems like a number left over from the noble families of the empire...

    I can''t eat persimmons, and I have an unmarried daughter. If not, I mobilized my nephew

    Proposals came from noble families.

    I''ve dealt with all of that, and what I''m writing now is the replies to those arriving from abroad.

    Serpence said angrily, with a look of not knowing why he should waste his time on this.

    It''s annoying to pretend, but it''s too much of a headache for writing the same thing over and over again.

    Bewildered, I approached it and looked at its contents.

    In this world, when a letter of refusal to a marriage proposal comes, it is returned among black people.

    Do you have a culture of reading?"

    It started with a greeting expressing interest in the family, and was written with different expressions so that the sentences did not overlap with other answers as much as possible.

    There really is no such thing as polarity.

    Still, it came down to one conclusion. The current situation on the continent (���) is unstable, so the content of wanting to postpone the marriage after that.

    ''But it''s all excuses.''

    Wasn''t even Humanus excited about getting married as soon as the selection of the holy sword was finished?

    It was absurd that the only two dukes of the Empire were single and had no heirs.

    It''s just that Serpence grew up with all kinds of abuse from loveless parents.

    It must be because of the extreme rejection and fear of being someone''s husband and being someone''s father.

    It''s not like that outright, but there are cases where they implicitly compare the contents and criticize them.

    What are all these guys like?"

    There''s no such thing as any fuss. Honey, all I have to do is send you a letter, but the recipient has a lot to reply to.

    In this day and age, there is no copy-and-paste, and even if the content is the same, shouldn''t it be understood?

    "Haha Seonwoo, was this the case in what you read?"

    A marriage proposal baptism? First of all, it wasn''t in the text...

    It was difficult to give a definite answer.

    There was no one on his side, so simply thinking about it, he saw the proposal.

    It seems like no one is paying... .

    ''Was anyone trying to use him?''

    Even though he was not the master of the holy sword and was engulfed in various doubts and controversies, Serpence was still the Duke of the Holy Lumen Empire.

    On the contrary, there must have been people who looked at him lightly, who was devalued, and tried to approach him to wield him.

    I] As the 2nd prince was used... .''

    The proposals that have come now may not even think that they can wield him at will, but they must have been sent because they wanted to borrow and use his power.

    There are also marriage proposals sent by young girls who are purely in love with Serpens, but when will a noble girl living in a foreign country fall in love after seeing Serpens?

    It''s not a question I was hoping for an answer. It''s just lamentation.

    I guess it was just a rant.

    As he repeatedly read the letter and wrote down the reply, he came to a single letter, and instead of writing down the reply, he could see that he had put it on a separate page.

    What is that, are you taking it apart?

    Among the envelopes lavishly decorated with gold leaf, it was a new black envelope without any decorations. In response to my question, Serpens focused on writing a reply by pointing at it with a chin, as if if she was curious, take it and read it.

    " Oh, was this from Sir Redford?"

    After reading the contents, it seems that this was not the first time, but the progress of work was conveyed in the form of periodic reports.

    Now that you''ve reached the borders of the Empire, your revenge must have been over, considering that you''ll be arriving in the capital soon.

    Considering the time it takes for the letter to be delivered, it seems that it will arrive approximately before or after Humanus''s campaign.

    Seonwoo. Give it to me, and go back to your seat immediately.

    "Yes? Why all of a sudden?"

    As I was about to fold the letter I had read and put it in the envelope, Serpens said abruptly.

    The Crown Prince is coming.

    I threw the letter I was holding onto Serpens''s desk, and quickly returned to my seat and grabbed the pen.

    Almost at the same time... .

    - Bumping one.

    Seppy!!

    Humanus slammed the door open without knocking and entered the office.

    Your Majesty, what are you doing here?

    "Is this between us? Sadly, Sri ."

    "It''s not like that, I heard that you were training at the temple. But you suddenly came to me, so I was wondering if something had happened.

    NS.

    Seeing Humanus talking mischievously, Serpence pretended to be restless with an expression of trouble as he was seriously misunderstood.

    Ah, that''s... They really are. How can you roll people around without even giving them a break...

    You can exchange swords with a paladin, learn how to handle divine power from priests, listen to the attitude you should have as a master of a holy sword, etc... .

    It''s not a boarding school, it''s a continuous learning all day.

    The full period he stayed in the temple

    The days of '' were lightly omitted from [Master of the Holy Sword], but Humanus often remembered that time and took off his crane.

    "The reason I came out like this today was that I was sent out because I was going to meet Sepy and discuss my future schedule.

    As if happy to have escaped the stuffy temple, Humanus smiled brightly.

    He seems to be talking about his future schedule, as expected, he didn''t seem to understand Serpence''s refusal.

    I couldn''t help but look at his brightly smiling face. i with the palm of my hand

    He closed his eyes and turned his head.

    My lord, I''m sorry, but... .

    "We''re going to have to travel around the continent together in the future, but wouldn''t that name stand out too much?"

    " you seem to have misunderstood something."

    "Are you mistaken?"

    With an expression that he did not understand the English language, Humanus asked.

    I''m not going to follow His Majesty.

    Huh? What does that mean?

    Serpens lowered his eyebrows and created a bitter smile on his lips. After seeing his expression like that, Humanus erased a smile from his face as if he had grasped the situation.

    Why...? You said you''d help...

    The way he looked at Serpens with a bewildered expression was unbelievable.

    Seeing that, Serpens made an expression that he had no choice but to stand up with a small sigh.

    "Can I move around for a moment and explain?"

    Huh? Uh, huh?

    I wondered if it was something I shouldn''t be doing in my place, so looking at Serpens''s eyes, it seems like it doesn''t really matter.

    If that''s the case, it''s reasonable to follow along. I was curious as to what kind of story I had to move to the place.

    The place where Serpence arrived was the gymnasium.

    It was originally dedicated to craftsmanship, but it is also a place where I have been working hard on the floor since a few months ago.

    On one side was a replenishment iron sword that I used for practice. Serpens picked it up.

    Sepi?

    Your Majesty, draw your sword.

    I followed him because he said he would explain it clearly, but the sword conversation?

    Me and Humanus didn''t know what the situation was, so we looked at Serpens with a blank expression on his face with his sword drawn.

    "Sir Zion, would you mind stepping outside for a moment?"

    I don''t know for sure, but it was certain that I was going to cut it. I quickly moved away from Humanus.

    Huh? I think I was called Lord Rivelon before...!

    As soon as I stepped out of the arena, without a moment''s notice for him to question, Serpens ran up to him and swung his sword.

    Humanus drew out his holy sword in time and managed to block it.

    ''I can''t listen to it with words, so I will subdue it with force and drive it out... It''s probably not.''

    Considering that he deliberately held a practice sword instead of his own sword, it seems to be to make Humanus aware of the difference in skill.

    Come on, wait! I''m a holy sword...

    It doesn''t matter.

    When I heard it, it was nothing more than a cheap iron sword, but when it was held in Serpens''s hand and possessed of divine power, it looks like an unparalleled sword in the world.

    It collided with the holy sword, leaving a silver trail.

    No matter how much Humanus raised the Holy Sword, it was not enough to even say that the skill difference between the users with the sword was so clear.

    Humanus was even seen being swung by the Holy Sword, staggering at the difference between the divine power he had pushed in and the actual output amplified through the Holy Sword.

    '' Is it better to use a regular sword?''

    I''ve been practicing for a week, and I still don''t know why I''m still like that.

    Of course, a week is not enough time to fully handle the Holy Sword. However, even compared to the first battle scene played by Humanus in [Master of the Holy Sword], it was too shabby.

    It was difficult to see the difference between reading and actually seeing. I would understand if [Master of the Holy Sword] was a first-person point of view, but since it was a novel from the point of view of an omniscient writer.

    If it was such a mess, then

    There should have been at least one line of description.

    ''Are there any rapid growth for the rest of the time?''

    It''s a matter of skill.

    A sudden awakening does not mean that you can improve your skills. So, one conclusion.

    ''Humanus, please... .''

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], on the day of his choice, Humanus received a cold gaze from many and heard gossip about his abilities and qualities.

    Even for that reason, he is the master of the holy sword.

    I had no choice but to work desperately to acquire the skills worthy of this.

    In addition to the set curriculum, he must have practiced alone every night.

    In contrast... .

    ''Did this child play?!''

    That''s what I mean, he must have worked hard in his own way. But it just wasn''t the best.

    It was the same with Serpens who noticed it.

    With an expression that he didn''t expect it to be this messed up, he overused his divine power and killed the fallen Humanus from exhaustion.

    I looked down with no eyes.

    " I believe that you did not skimp on training with me in mind."

    Huh, that''s absolutely not!

    Humanus swallowed the rough breath and hurriedly denied it.

    Even so. Under the current state, Your Majesty will only depend on me and will not be able to grow.

    As if this story could not be denied, Hugh Manus suppressed his breath without saying a word with a shocked expression.

    If you want to be with me, write

    Please recommend me again after you have acquired similar skills."

    Serpens forced Humanus, who had fallen to the floor, to stand up, and looked into their eyes and said.

    It''s very new to see him always squirming and then pressuring others down like that.

    ''If Eugene finds out later, he''ll be very sorry... ?''

    His charisma can be seen from the way he speaks firmly. No one else would be able to look like this.

    Humanus, who was overwhelmed by him, served

    He put on a sassy look.

    Sorry. I was short on my thoughts.

    Fine.

    Afterwards, when you have acquired the skills you are not ashamed of as your colleague, will you accept me then?

    It''s a confusing sound who is the owner of the holy sword. Serpens smiled at him without saying a word.

    Although he had not given any confirmation before, Humanus seems to have taken it as a positive meaning again.

    He made up his mind and left the duke''s residence.

    We returned to the office as if nothing had happened, and Serpens continued to write the letter.

    Wow, I didn''t expect Serpens to act like that. I just thought he''d be nice to me with words...

    "I couldn''t seem to understand it with words, so I had no choice but to do it."

    It is a very understandable reason.

    Even so, it seems that it is not just the intention to drop Humanus because it is annoying.

    If that were the case, there would have been no need for cumbersome division of the sword. in the empire

    It was enough just to talk about the things to be done.

    Serpens sincerely hoped that the master of the Holy Sword would grow. The way he could grow, this hashed him out.

    "Why do you see it that way?"

    It''s just weird.

    It was not done with a noble and grand intention to do something for everyone or to save the continent.

    Where did the dignified figure I saw earlier go, the usual timid fence answered.

    of course?

    It''s just... I just wanted the little daily life I''ve been through over the past few months to continue... I just found a better way to do it.

    "It''s not just that it''s extraordinary, it''s that it''s incredibly extraordinary, isn''t it?!"

    He clearly knew what he wanted and worked hard to achieve it. I started to value my life.

    That alone is marvelous enough, but it was moving in the right direction.

    I couldn''t have had a happy heart.

    I feel like I want to stroke my head with a prize!

    " Who the hell is that award for?"

    For me who raised serpens well!

    Serpens had a look on his face, asking what the hell are these guys all about.

 CH 101

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 101

    24. The Duke and the Master of the Holy Sword (5)

    '' thing true. It''s very shiny.''

    Before Humanus, the master of the Holy Sword, set out on a journey. In addition to the launch ceremony, a place was prepared to introduce two talented people who will become his colleagues.

    Today''s banquet was attended by not only aristocrats but also church officials.

    Is it because of that? It was held much more grand and splendid than the monthly banquet.

    But my review of the glitter is not about that.

    Not physically, but mentally. An invisible brilliance lit up in my heart.

    And I was in the middle of that light.

    Is Xion still on a diet? You don''t eat much these days.

    You''ve always been talking about that, but I think you''re going to start seriously now.

    Eugene and Serpence are between me

    having a conversation about How can this dodge shine even while talking about such nonsense?

    I thought I''d gotten used to it now, but when the two of them came out, they''re busy catching the soul of their escape.

    Just like when I first met Serpence, I keep staring at her beauty in silence.

    '' Calm down.''

    Even if others don''t know, don''t you know that this twinkle is calculated now?

    "I''m working out, so I''m going to fall out soon."

    In response to my answer, Serpens smiled brightly, resembling the gentle sunshine of a spring day.

    It''s because I couldn''t get it out of my mouth, so there was a change in weight?''

    This is not my paranoia.

    What made it worthwhile was that the clothes he bought him before still didn''t fit, so he had no choice but to adjust the clothes for today.

    I heard that diet is more important than exercise to lose weight.

    I''ve never been on a diet once in my life.

    Obviously never done.

    With a smile as fresh as the fresh sunlight in midsummer, Eugenes, an elf, threw out the words of rustic murder.

    ''Because I said that I was losing weight for nothing... .One

    I shouldn''t have spoken about losing weight by being stimulated by Zeon''s words. Who knew I would be teased like this!

    With a fresh smile, it flew like a dagger and pierced it.

    ''It''s not that I''m not eating because of that, but... .''

    You can lose weight at any time, but

    The only thing you can do is at that moment.

    Normally, they would bring a full set of banquet food to eat, but there is a reason why they can''t.

    There are a few reasons why the two people in front of me are so dazzling that they are not in the mood to eat, but the biggest reason is .

    ''As soon as I fall alone, there are a lot of people running around here ?''

    He came out of the two without thinking, and returned to his original position, startled by the crowd approaching with bright eyes.

    ''If everyone had a car, I would give up neatly... .''

    Whatever the purpose of today''s banquet, it was the first banquet to attend after the marriage restrictions were lifted for Serpence.

    After all, the master of the holy sword and his companions will be leaving soon. And Serpence will remain in the Empire.

    ''Even at the monthly banquet, it was crowded to talk to Serpens, but .''

    Instead of commenting now, I will try to persuade him to marry him.

    For that reason, Serpence had to block their approach, creating a friendly atmosphere with Yuji.

    Let someone else intervene, and the conversation continued, creating topics that did not exist.

    The plan was a success, and no one was able to get close to the two who radiated this inaccessible aura.

    Their appearance seemed as if they were saying, ''How dare an earthly human intervene in a conversation between a heavenly being.''

    Each shines with a brightness exceeding 500,000 lux.

    Let''s put out the fire slowly. Your Majesty the Crown Prince is hesitating over there.

    The supremely bright smile returned to normal mode, and then Humanus came along with my colleagues.

    I, like the other aides, fell behind Serpens.

    "Sefi, you look so bright today, don''t you?"

    To Humanus, who spoke dazedly, Serpens made an innocent expression as if he did not know what he was talking about.

    You must have heard about these two before...

    As he said, Anima and Liena

    As Euges had done before, it was after he got up on the podium and gave a brief self-introduction.

    So, Humanus ended the introduction by explaining the three of us to them.

    Huh... I''m the one who turned down the offer of a co-worker...?

    With a sullen expression on her face, Anima muttered with a pouting mouth.

    It looked like he was talking to himself, but his voice was a little loud for that.

    "I explained why yesterday.

    you gave Sepi had no choice but to... .

    "Who said what?"

    Humanus tried to persuade the Anima, but she kept her mouth shut. Even the hostility was felt in her pink eyes looking at Serpens.

    Sorry, Sepi. I talked to him yesterday, but Anima said he didn''t want to come, but he had to come. So...

    I''m fine, Your Majesty, you don''t have to apologize.

    [Master of the Holy Sword] In the beginning, the Anima is me

    He is a character who ate a lot of swear words for his uncooperative attitude.

    Over time, they gradually opened their hearts to Humanus and Liena and began to cooperate, and as the reason for her behavior was revealed, the readers'' perceptions changed little by little.

    ''And after the death of her only ''comer, she leaned completely towards sympathy.

    Anima calls her her older sister, and says that she stuck with her like a piece of gum.

    She was the only support for Anima, who was rejected by other wizards, and naturally had a strong attachment to her.

    got to have

    That is why the anima who lost her was dangerously shaken.

    Humanus was the one that the anima relied on anew. It was also after he had completely lost his country.

    The two supported each other with a spirit of communion, and from a certain moment they began to feel more than colleagues.

    To that extent, to Anima, the existence of her older sister was nothing but her everything.

    Her world has expanded a bit by making friends through the journey, but even so, it is a big part for her.

    things don''t change

    ''But the trip hasn''t even started yet, so of course my mind is closed.

    The only thing I could rely on was forcibly separated, so I was inevitably dissatisfied.

    That''s probably why he''s showing his hostility to Serpens now.

    Without checking, you must be thinking, ''I was forcibly separated from my sister, who is she to be able to veto?''

    ''Even if you keep refusing, you''ll have no choice but to send her in place of Anima.

    I heard... .''

    I can only be more dissatisfied.

    Whichever one he chose, he had no choice but to separate from her. Unable to put her in danger, Anima chose to become a companion of the Holy Sword, crying and eating mustard.

    ''To lose such a precious and unique existence... .''

    If you can stop it... . No, it can be prevented.

    However, it is the same as saying that she will break several barriers at once and lose the opportunity to grow rapidly.

    If you make it impossible, the power of the Holy Sword Party will be greatly reduced.

    ''But this time, Serpence is also on the continent''s side, and I''ve reduced the number of executives by one more, so it won''t be okay... peel?''

    I wanted to reduce the damage on the continent, but somehow it felt like it was going downhill. However, leaving it alone is also uncomfortable.

    However, Serpense''s help was essential to rescue her. No matter how much I knew the future, I had no power to change it.

    ''What will Serpence think?''

    Instead of losing the only stakeholder who supported her for a long time. If only I could go one step further to peace on the continent just by letting it go.

    In the past, it was said that it is a necessary evil and may have been ignored.

    ''But now... .''

    I looked at Serpens.

    Priests Liena and Eugenes. While talking to them about theology, I looked around to see if he felt my gaze.

    "Do you have anything to say to me?"

    No, just what...

    There is, but that''s not what I''m talking about right now. Serpens had noticed it too, and sent a glance to ask if he would come back later.

    ''There is no other barley sack that I borrowed.''

    Humanus was called by Rainier and was absent for a while.

    Considering the contents of [Master of the Holy Sword], they were exchanging christening names while exchanging sad conversations on a quiet terrace.

    And Anima... .

    The world isn''t out of my mind, I''m out of the world!''

    As if he wanted to say something, he was pouting alone with his arms folded and his head turned.

    But when he saw his eyes staring at the three of them who were having a conversation, it didn''t seem comfortable at all.

    Serpens, pretending not to notice it, paying attention to her.

    The other two tried to look at Anima or talk to her from time to time, but every time she did, she snorted and raised her chin.

    ''I understand the situation well, but is that unnie coming too much?

    you cried... !''

    No matter how pitiful the child was, I wondered if he was living too sloppy.

    On the other hand, what about our children?

    Even though it''s just acting, isn''t it an example of manners in itself? It''s because you don''t treat people as human beings on the inside, but on the outside, you have great social skills... .

    I was only together for half a year and a few months, but Anima''s guardian lived with her for several years and looked after her.

    You can''t compare it just by looking at the time.

    You, what have you been staring at me for since before?

    Yes?!

    Did I take a step back and stand alone, thinking that I was in the same situation as myself, or did I simply judge that I was comfortable?

    she spoke bluntly.

    No, nothing!

    huh !

    She turned towards me for a moment and then turned her head. If that''s the case, why

    Did you say... .

    Originally, she wasn''t that ticklish. Now, I''m just pretending to be strong because of the fear of being unfamiliar1, and the anxiety of being separated from myself in an unfamiliar place.

    There was a character setting called '' .''

    In fact, when I started to open my heart, I was relieved quite often, and I was often seen showing affection towards my companions.

    ''When is Humanus coming?''

    Hurry up, he''ll come back and pick up his comrades, we''ll either go back or not. I looked around the banquet hall for nothing.

    Buried among the people, I found the color of a goldfish.

    It seems that Humanus is still spending time with my fianc��e on the terrace, whose owner must be someone else.

    ''It must be the second prince.''

    There was no other hair color that popped out like that.

    In the past banquets, he always seemed to be quietly alone or hanging out with some of his age, but today he has been busy with people around him.

    ''If you look at it that way, you''re still single over there... ?''

    His older brother, Humanus, was still unmarried, and up to the second prince remained unmarried. In order to prevent an unexpected accident in advance, he did not have a fiancee, so it was Muju Gongsan itself.

    ''In this situation, the theory that Crown Prince Humanus was ''it'' came to mind... .''

    Using that as a justification, it became possible to claim to move the crown prince to the second prince.

    If you make a relationship with the second prince in advance, there is no better condition to use him.

    Even if he fails to take over the throne, it is certain that he will at least become the emperor''s outcast in the future if he uses the second prince''s child... It would look like

    ''Who is not the sword that is the starting point of the problem... .''

    It really ruined many lives.

    Bona Mana, the second prince must also have been baptized with a proposal no less than Serpens.

    I couldn''t even see my face because I was buried in people, but I don''t need to check. It was obvious that his complexion had turned white from being tormented by them.

    If Serpens had not hit the iron wall of light, the personnel would have been dispersed, but what can we do?

    First of all, you have to live here.

 CH 102

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 102

    24. The Duke and the Master of the Holy Sword (6)

    Normally, after a certain amount of time had passed, he noticed that he would have escaped in moderation. However, today''s banquet was a place to let the master of the holy sword leave.

    After Humanus returned to the banquet hall. The banquet was over only after the emperor had finished his closing remarks, and we were able to return to the mansion.

    "Didn''t you have something to say to me?"

    When I got off the wagon and greeted Serpense like I''ll see you at work tomorrow, he asked me a question instead of going into the main building.

    Oh, right? It''s not urgent right now, so you can do it after work tomorrow.

    But why...

    Yes?

    He looked into my face and made eye contact.

    After blinking a few times, Serpens smiled artificially and entered the mansion''s main building, saying it was nothing.

    ''Is this because I can''t control my expression, is he sharp?''

    I''ll have to be careful in the future. As a guardian, if I show anxiety .

    no. Do you want to be sadder if you hide it halfway and find out?

    As soon as I got to work, I immediately moved to the drawing room.

    "So what the hell were you thinking yesterday, so you had that kind of expression on your face?"

    What''s wrong with my expression?

    peel?

    "Something as if forced to make a difficult choice. It was that kind of expression."

    needlessly accurate

    Based on the big data that analyzed people''s facial expressions, it is certain that the Yoo Seon-woo patch was also applied.

    If you''ve noticed that far, you''d better just tell me right away.

    As if to talk quickly, Serpens nodded slightly.

    Let''s say that someone has a precious existence.

    "How important is it?

    Ji?

    Being rejected by everyone and drenched in loneliness, L was the only one who approached me, comforted me, affirmed me, and tried to stand on the same level. I''m so grateful, and it''s hard to even imagine a life without him.

    Recalling the expression from [Master of the Holy Sword], he answered slowly.

    The two who opened their hearts to Humanus and Liena]. I used to say so about her shyly and cautiously

    Then, ''I want to introduce my sister to the two of us later .''Called

    He added a little bit like he was talking to himself.

    It turned out that it was a double line of similar death flags, so I went back and checked it again.

    "And again .

    "Ah, I see Let''s move on to the next one."

    When I tried to explain further, I waved my hand as if to get to the point, saying that Serpence is now complete.

    Let''s say that if you let someone''s precious being die, you''ll gain the power to save more people.

    what?

    And if you choose to save that existence, you won''t be able to save a lot of people. Furthermore, the continent may be at risk.

    The more he spoke, the more blood drained from his face.

    What would you do if you were a Serpence?

    I''ll save you.

    With a hardened expression on his face, he answered firmly without any hesitation.

    Huh? Really?

    Didn''t you tell me not to make any sacrifices?

    Yes?

    No, what kind of nonsense is this?

    It was as if they had heard that I would sacrifice this one body for the continent as a sacrifice.

    His expression was very desperate and urgent. I prayed that something seemed angry.

    It is not right to seek salvation by sacrificing someone. So it was you, Seonwoo, who said that we should all work together.

    Yes?

    How are you? Now, my eyes are starting to get wet.

    If I try harder... how can that not work...?

    Uh, um...

    He was weeping and pleading.

    ''This bastard, did you really understand that I was going to die?!''

    When I quickly looked back on the expressions I had made, there was really no self-introduction.

    When he is alone and hugging his loneliness, approach him and give him comfort and positivity.

    speaks... .

    I seriously pursued the same eye level... Ji?''

    At the level I was talking about, I meant that I worked hard while honing my magic skills in order to see the world the anima sees together.

    Somehow, it seems that I have corrupted her holy will.

    No, this isn''t mine! I won''t die, I won''t sacrifice!

    " Really?"

    Yes, really.

    He stared at my face.

    If there is physical power in the gaze, it has the momentum to pierce through me as it is.

    It wasn''t a lie, so I faced that gaze with confidence.

    " well, it looks like it."

    It seems inconvenient that he misunderstood and made a fuss by himself. He coughed and cleared his watery voice.

    I''m just glad it ended with a misunderstanding. If you follow the context before and after, you have declared with your own mouth that I am precious to you.

    He tried to disguise his calmness, but his face, which was heated with embarrassment and shame,

    The oysters hardly ever subsided.

    Aww, that''s it~! Was I so precious? Enough to bring tears to my eyes?

    "

    I giggled and teased him, and he made a sick sound with a look of anger.

    Well, then who was that talking about?!

    Anima and her close sister whom I met at the banquet yesterday.

    As if it would have been better if it had been revealed and started from the beginning, Serpens

    He looked at me with an extremely sad face.

    I feel like crying if I keep playing like this, so now I have to be careful.

    ''Furthermore, what I''m going to say from now on is by no means a light thing... .''

    I calmed the laughter, set the mood again, and returned to the original subject.

    "Anyway Anima had a different level of understanding than other wizards due to her genius for magic.

    There was an explanation that I had stopped trying to grow."

    This guy seems to be completely screwed. As if in a poem, they didn''t even make eye contact and kept their mouths shut.

    And later. Demon cults summoned a demon within the body of that one being, and in the end... the Anima killed her with her own hands.

    Hearing that it wasn''t Ma who killed that precious being, Serpens widened his eyes in amazement. The head that had been turned in the other direction again

    turned to me

    There are two main ways demons are summoned to the continent.

    The first method is a summons using a vessel, and the second method is to pass over to the body of the devil.

    The advantage of summoning using a vessel is that it does not summon a body, so the burden of materials and sacrifices is small.

    And one more thing.

    This is both an advantage and a disadvantage, and it has the characteristic that the power that the devil can exert varies greatly depending on who the vessel is.

    If you find a suitable vessel, you can get much greater power than a normal summon with a small sacrifice.

    Conversely, if the vessel is insignificant, one Summon is required.

    Being summoned with a body, being free from these constraints would be an advantage.

    Other than that, there are examples where only power is transmitted through a contract, as in Winston''s case, but it is vague to see it as a summons, so let''s move on.

    "Why did you kill me? How how were you able to kill me?"

    "Because I wanted her to, and she suffered."

    The demon noticed that his vessel had a close bond with Anima, the companion of the Holy Sword, and deliberately left her ego. He showed it little by little as if mockingly, and shook the Anima''s mind.

    But because of that, Anima was able to let her go. I had no choice but to kill her for her sake.

    "With that as a stepping stone, the Anima''s skills have jumped several stages, and even after that, she''s been seeking revenge. I''ve let go of the past indolent and nurtured my strength.

    With her magic, I was able to save many people and defeat enemies.

    It''s like the damn [Master of the Holy Sword]... .

    Are you okay, Serpens?

    It was more shocking than I expected.

    When he heard that he was a character in a novel, he was calm, but stiff enough that he couldn''t even blink his eyes properly.

    "Serpens? There, Ador!

    He twitched loudly like a broken cat, then blinked quickly.

    it went

    "Ah yes. It''s fine."

    It doesn''t look good at all.

    Without realizing it, he smiled according to his habit. But even that isn''t perfect, so it''s awkward.

    He didn''t even seem aware that I had called his baptismal name.

    Calm down, calm down. Say something.

    After hesitating for a while, Serpens opened her mouth carefully.

    "Maybe ..is that also ''Is it me?"

    To kill this one and only moat with my own hands. The question is, did you come up with such a plan?

    If it was him in [Master of the Holy Sword], where there was no one precious, he thought it was possible.

    It''s not like that. It has nothing to do with Serpens.

    The lies you say to comfort me

    If that''s the case, the final boss in the first place

    You didn''t pray? Someone who knows who I am... .

    Then, as if it were true, he breathed a sigh of relief without realizing it, and was startled.

    It''s a little early to be relieved. As you may have noticed, that''s

    It''s as if what''s going to happen again this time has been confirmed.

    got it right

    Looking at his appearance, I don''t think it''s necessary to check it right away, but it''d be better to make sure if possible.

    "Are you going to save me?"

    " it should be."

    I said earlier that I would make up for the lack of power myself... . For some reason, it feels like a fraudulent contract was made by deceiving an innocent child.

    "So when does that happen?"

    Once the demons start to be summoned, it''s about a year later, so it''s still a long way off.

    Serpens stared at me with his eyes, wondering why he had already said that and made people fussy.

    What did I come up with because I wanted to remember right away?

    So you said that it''s not urgent right now, did you?

    What the hell are you...

    He relaxed his body and leaned his back against the backrest as if dangling on the sofa. He looked very tired as he put his elbow on the armrest and his forehead.

    ''Don''t even get tired.''

    Emotions fluctuate in various ways, and my body stiffens and then twitches. oh very busy

    "By the way, I still have work today.

    Isn''t it before we even start?

    "Do you still have something left to write a reply to?"

    ��]

    Oh.

    With a distant expression on his face, he let out a mournful sigh.

    It''s the first time I feel like I want to rest as intensely as today.

    That''s a big deal. It''s human nature to want to rest a little more vigorously even if you''re usually resting.

    " Isn''t that just for the people of that world?"

    He looks like he wants to hear all sorts of strange things.

    Could it be that Serpence has the experience of doing nothing and just hanging around?

    I can''t! It''s because Serpens can''t rest properly!

    If it''s a hobby, aren''t you doing well?

    We still have a long way to go. There is a lot to teach Serpence. He''s not doing anything, but he has to learn the feeling of wanting to do nothing more violently.

    The question of whether it was really the right thing to learn such a thing appeared on Serpence''s face.

    It''s like replying to a marriage proposal! Are you just going to take a break today? No, it''s easy!

    In such a case, the answer is ''I do!'']] It''s common sense to give.

    " that''s right."

 CH 103

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 103

    25. Duke''s Knight (1)

    Unlike me, who was lying comfortably on a long sofa, Serpens was restless in an upright posture and could not hide his impatience.

    With that, lunch time came.

    Serpence took one leg out slightly to the side, like a middle school high school student 10 minutes before the end of the fourth period, ready to jump out at any moment.

    ''After finishing the paperwork I usually see, I got up slowly... .''

    Perhaps today is the first day in Serpense''s 25-year life that he has been eagerly waiting for a meal?

    As soon as it was on time, he jumped up and left, saying, ''Let''s eat!''

    " Isn''t this running away again?"

    At this point, it is not inferior to calling him an escape fence. Even if he called it face to face, Serpens had no right to deny it.

    As he came up from dinner, he was sitting at the desk in the office.

    Didn''t you decide to do nothing today? You even answered it.

    As if he hadn''t heard anything, Serpens''s mouth didn''t open.

    Standing in front of his desk, placing his hands on his waist, he looked down at him, his head gradually lowered down as if he was noticing.

    Before long, just before his head dug into the stationery, he heard a knock on the office door.

    Hans announced the arrival of Winston, and Serpens was very pleased.

    ''Isn''t it that hard to do nothing and be idly? ?''

    Serpens told Hans to call him in, and ordered him to bring a sword for ceremonial use to become a knight.

    A few minutes later, Hans returned first with a ceremonial sword. At about the same time, Winston, guided by Xeon, also arrived at the office.

    Since it was a sword with a family seal, it seems that he took it himself and instructed Zeon to guide it.

    Welcome, Sir Redford. I was waiting.

    As Winston entered the office, Serpence greeted him with a supremely bright smile. It''s not acting and calculations, it''s that smile that I''m really happy with!

    It was more natural and radiant than the calculated smile I saw at the banquet hall yesterday.

    ''The origin of that radiant smile is that it is uncomfortable to procrastinate and hang without meaning... . I am the only one who knows this here.''

    If Serpens were from the world I lived in, wouldn''t he have been a diligent student who finished the assignments on the day they came out?

    ''I guess it''s because I''m from fantasy, like this

    Even if you just enter the university, the sense of reality disappears... .''

    The original task was [and] a task because I had to procrastinate as much as possible to the point that I almost resent myself and then finish it within [second] an hour.

    Anyway, Winston was unaware of this.

    The appearance of Serpens welcoming him, he did not know where to put himself with an expression of sadness and emotion.

    He was at a loss as to how to react, and eventually knelt down and lowered his posture.

    You Winston Redford! Remnants of the past!

    I broke the bridle and arrived at this place! Now I hope to be your sword, and I want to offer my allegiance!

    It''s a very sad voice. Serpence, who had been shining too much, changed his expression seriously and stretched out his hand to the side.

    Hans handed him the ceremonial sword he was holding.

    Sir, do you swear to take up your sword for the Duke of Prasidus, according to the will of me, Serpens A. Prasidus?

    Yes! I swear.

    Also, the well-being of the Holy Lumen Empire.

    for. Furthermore, do you swear that you will raise your sword to defend our land, Canaan?"

    Yes! I swear.

    In a majestic atmosphere, Serpens and Winston exchanged questions and answers.

    Then, as of today, Sir Redford has become my knight, under the name of the god Luxmea.

    Serpens lightly tapped Winston''s shoulders with the back of the sword he was holding.

    I would be able to see with my own two eyes the ceremony of writing a knight that I had only read in novels. Falling into a fantasy world is something to see.

    ''Yeah, that''s what the award ceremony is supposed to be like!''

    It was crooked, but it had an old-fashioned taste.

    On the other hand, how was my appointment ceremony? It was the first quasi-baron title I received. It was a temporary job, so I was just handed a letter of appointment, but when I was given the title of Viscount:

    ''This child of Humanus... ?!''

    I didn''t have any thoughts at the time, but seeing this now makes me feel uneasy.

    ''I want to try something like that too, so should I try to poke Serpens later?''

    Such a thought came to mind for a moment, but after self-reflection on whether I would be able to get a serious mood, I quickly gave up.

    You''ll be busy laughing anyway.

    Sir Redford may rise now.

    I obey my lord''s orders!

    Serpens handed him a ceremonial sword engraved with the Prasidus seal, and Winston took it carefully and stood upright in a modest motion.

    As much as it is for formal use, it is real

    It won''t be used in battle, but receiving it would have a great meaning in itself.

    The butler and the deputy deacon are free to leave.

    Serpens bit them out.

    Hans went out the door silently, as always, and Xeon made a small sound of footsteps .

    ''What''s that just now? Hans, how did you do that]?!''

    Until now, it was so natural that I didn''t notice it, but when I had a comparison object, I could see a sense of heterogeneity.

    ''That yangban, what the hell are you doing?''

    He looked at the door and Serpence through which he had exited, and pursed his lips, but only his eyes returned to him as to what the problem was.

    Without answering the question about Hans like that, we moved to the drawing room.

    I think you''re a little later than I thought, but I guess you''ve been working too long?

    I forgot that there is a document review period after applying for asylum.... I should have applied for it in advance, but that''s because I didn''t think about it.

    He smiled shyly at my question and said. Looking back, it was unimaginable.

    Now, looking at him, he could see that a clear image was formed in his eyes, which had been clouded by resentment and revenge.

    And .

    "Have you not spoken to me like that before?"

    I heard from the deputy deacon when I came up that those belonging to the Duke of Prasidus should use respect for each other.

    I was told to bring a sword to become a knight, so it means that Prasidus

    It was the same as saying that they would accept it as a member of Inquiry.

    Zeon, who noticed this, must have taught him some of the rules of the Fra Cedars.

    "But there''s no need to use a supreme title, right?"

    Is that so?

    The way he spoke to me in the first place was also a kind of honorific.

    Isn''t it important that we respect each other? Besides, let''s say Lord Redford is talking nonsense. You''re not the kind of person who puts you down, right?

    I am only thankful that you looked after me that way.

    Now that I see, Winston seems to have a low threshold for emotion.

    Even though I said it just because I wanted to be comfortable, he had an expression on his face that was moved.

    "Books No, the more I see you, the more considerate and considerate you are. How blind I was at the time that I could not recognize such a person even in front of him !"

    The corner of Serpens''s lips twitched slightly at the sight of him speaking with a sigh.

    Maybe it''s because I say I''m very caring and considerate.

    ''Even if no one else knows, shouldn''t Serpens laugh at that statement?''

    He''s like a bad boy who doesn''t even know the grace he took care of. After letting him go a little, he turned his gaze back to Winston.

    "We will see each other more often in the future, so it''s just because I want to be comfortable."

    It''s not like that.

    Winston shook his head.

    Release those held in the arena

    When I got out, guarded them, and when they thanked me. I remembered what you said to me.

    His golden eyes looked at me.

    "These were the people I would have killed if they and that secret society had not come. I felt really shameless when I got my thanks from them. I''m sorry to them, and I also I''m sorry...the past self, who had a genuine enemy and murdered innocent victims

    How stupid it felt.

    He smiled bitterly, but there was no feeling of being weighed down by guilt.

    Rather, I felt a will to reflect on the past and move forward.

    ''When will my child grow up to that much?''

    It is the difference between an adult who has only deviated for a while and a child who has not yet grown up.

    "For any knight, rather than aiming a sword at the enemy with murderous intent, it is important to take priority over the beings to protect.

    Thanks to the two assistants.

    I didn''t mean to say it with such a grand meaning, it was just to cherish myself... .

    No, Lord Redford felt it and realized it.

    Isn''t it! The reason I was able to realize this late is all because of what the aide had told me, oh!

    He waved his hand, wondering if he was valuing me too highly, but Winston flatly denied it.

    I am lacquering my face very much.

    "If the person you want to serve as your lord is Duke Fra Sidus, then your aide you want to serve as a mentor to your heart and a senior in your life."

    Yes?!

    I''ve come to serve the same master like this, and the aide comes before me... Can I call him senior...so?

    Winston said loudly, coughing and embarrassed. What the hell is this?

    ''A teacher of the heart and a senior in life?''

    If the Duke''s family heard it, it''s a sound that could upset the Duke''s house. maybe Xeon

    Wouldn''t it be more confusing than when I said I was timid?

    It''s nice to have a good junior, Sir Sion.

    Yes?!

    After being stunned for a while, Serpence said with a smile on her face.

    ''Why are you doing this?!'' comes up to my throat.

    If the person in front of him was Eugenes and not Winston, he might have uttered those words straight away without filtering.

    "I received a brief report by letter.

    But, may I ask for more details?"

    Before I even say anything, I turn the conversation around so that I can''t even bring up the topic.

    When was the last time you secretly laughed at me, and is it fun to be in trouble?

    Of course. First of all, the count''s treatment proceeded just as the seniors had said.

    As if it had nothing to do with him, he doesn''t even mention his family name anymore. And the title by which I am called is going to be straight forward.

 CH 104

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 104

    25. Duke''s Knight (2)

    With the explanation that follows, it can be seen that the people Winston rescued returned safely to their hometowns under the guidance of the Order.

    It is said that he had not heard of other details because he was not affiliated with the church.

    Still, from what I''ve heard, it seems that the bodies of the victims have not been found.

    It''s a pity, but evil in [Master of the Holy Sword]

    Compared to the number recovered by the demon worshipers, it would be significantly less, so I have no choice but to use it as a consolation.

    after that.

    It is said that Winston expressed his disappointment with his country and applied for asylum in the Holy Lumen Empire.

    The side of the Bastul Kingdom could not sanction it, and the Lumen Empire gladly accepted him.

    And as the person he would like to have as his lord, he chose the Duke of Prasi Dus, whom he had always admired... .

    ''Serpens heard his story and said that he wanted to meet him first.

    What are you talking about?''

    Along the way, he heard about the selection result of the Holy Sword, but also heard about the awakening of Serpens.

    Your own philosophy and firm beliefs! You can also be called a model for knights and an example for the people of the continent! To be able to have such a person as your lord...!

    No, you''re exaggerating.

    As if truly moved, Winston admired.

    Although he was not chosen by the Holy Sword, the position of Serpens was firmly defended due to Hugh Manus'' dazzling sacrifice.

    all.

    by the way. What did Serpens have of their own?

    ''Chulhaak~? A bitter poetic thought~?,

    Seeing Serpens pretending to be humble, he gently raised the corners of his lips. When he saw it, his eyes trembled.

    As if he had caught the strange air current, Winston looked at the two of us in turn, showing a puzzled look.

    "Did I say something strange?"

    No, no! I just thought again that our duke is amazing....

    With a happy heart, I can''t help but laugh out loud! haha!

    Serpens smiled at Winston''s question, and I made fun of him for an answer.

    It was a Serpence who was making an unfamiliar expression on the excessive praise, but he must have been grinding his teeth internally, saying let''s see.

    In the original life, how to give and receive in words. It''s revenge for what he ridiculed earlier.

    "Besides, is this the end of the report?"

    I think I should leave this place soon

    Serpens asked Winston if he had done it.

    This is Serpensian, and it can be interpreted as meaning ''Come on, say it''s over!''

    Yes, the report is over. And .

    The report is over, but the conversation doesn''t seem to end. The escape fence did not get a chance to appear.

    Thank you for accepting my family as Young Ji-min.

    No. If it''s a vassal''s family, it''s like a member of the Prasidus family.

    family? The question first ran through my head.

    ''Yeah, maybe... .''

    There was no mention of his family in [Master of the Holy Sword], so I hadn''t thought about it.

    No matter how crazy he was for revenge, his family wouldn''t have died or not, and he would have looked for them... .

    ''There''s no way the demon worshipers would have cared about such welfare. I killed Winston before I let him go... Do you want to?''

    As I was making a complicated expression at that thought, Serpens secretly opened my eyes.

    see the chi It doesn''t seem like I''m thinking of ''my'' family.

    Even though I just made fun of you, you care so much. I built one child farm properly.

    I looked at him with a hint that it was okay.

    Anyway, to listen to Winston''s story, they moved to the Empire together, but after that they split up and the family moved to the Duchy. It is said that Winston went to the capital.

    You could wait in the estate with your family...

    No! As a vassal, it is right for me to visit the lord first!

    Wasn''t that before he became a vassal?

    Still, Winston''s attitude was dignified and full of loyalty. It''s just before the inauguration ceremony, it''s like accepting him in reality, so let''s just say that.

    ''But I would have wanted to be with my family more, but I left it behind.''

    I must have missed the family I hadn''t seen for a long time. They thought they were dead too, but it must have been nice to have a son who came back alive.

    Loyalty comes before the joy of that reunion, so it seems that chivalry is just romantic.

    If Sir... And Sir Redford will be known to the outside world not as a member of the Knights Templar, but as my personal escort knight. So, you must prove it with your abilities.

    Yes! I''ll do my best to never disappoint you!

    My ears lit up at the word personal escort .

    In terms of power itself, it is weaker than the knight leader, but similar to the knight leader. A position that can be said to be a close aide more or less is the duke''s personal escort.

    ''The word of being known is yet to be acknowledged

    Does that mean you won''t?''

    It was not an easy place to give up. It left room for me to prove it with my abilities, but in the end it was neither this nor me.

    In the midst of this, Serpence said, ''I have no choice but to make this choice, I''m really sorry... .'' as if to say. She has a cute expression on her face.

    ''This guy''s acting fence is real... !''

    In any case, there was a reason for keeping Winston as a personal escort for the sake of justification, even while acting like that.

    The knights are one by one

    is a group that has gathered However, the Knights on the battlefield must act as a single entity.

    That is why], they were people who had been accustomed to each other for many years.

    As they have been with them since the days of the seedlings, if a new person intervenes, they will face a decline, not an increase in power.

    Decomposing the already organically connected formations again, forming a new frame, and adapting to it consumes considerable time.

    There is no guarantee that the relationship thus created will be better than the existing one.

    nah

    ''Unless there is a vacancy in the Knights Templar all of a sudden, they will not accept new hires from outside.

    For that reason, knights scouted from outside usually become escort knights for individuals, or new knights are formed around him.

    However, it was not possible to create a new Knights Templar by favoring one Winston in the Duke''s House.

    Even if I didn''t say it, I was able to infer what kind of position I would get from an average person''s head.

    How will Winston take this?

    I want to, I looked at his face.

    It''s a look that you''ve already made up for.

    It is the escort of Serpens who is no one else. I can''t say I''m not happy, but I can''t be happy either.

    It was fortunate that he was not a burden, let alone an escort, with any skill, and Winston''s two fists were clenched tightly due to tension.

    ''Still, he''s an executive pick from a demon cult... .''

    Even long-term projects were prepared and nurtured with great care. At least as far as potential is, it''s definitely guaranteed.

    The reason he has not yet had enough skills to gain fame and was swayed by such a counting family is probably due to his environment.

    ''Since I''ve been left behind by a guy like Gachaban, I''m going to grow really well.''

    I must have been busy chasing after people who were involved in various accidents and playing around, so I couldn''t secure proper training time.

    Perhaps one of the reasons the demon worshipers continued to roll him in the arena was to bring his skills to the max.

    However.

    Rather than rolling in the arena, my environment is the duke.

    Rather than fighting for life and death with ordinary people who have lost their intelligence due to drugs and drugs with their Aurors sealed, it''s better to show off your skills to your heart''s content and fight against the knights of the Duchess.

    It would be perfect for unleashing his potential.

    ''And if Serpens pays a little more attention to him... .''

    It may not be as good as the Black Knight in [Master of the Holy Sword], who gained power through a contract with the devil and was reborn as a demon, but far better than the human Winston Redford.

    could be stronger

    "In that sense for the time being, I wonder what it would be like to live with other knights in the barracks and live with them."

    My name, I''ll take it!

    Looking at Winston who was making up his mind, Serpens said that he believed in him, and smiled brightly.

    Accommodation and other details will be provided by the butler. And, if you ever need anything during your life as a duke, please tell me at any time.

    Huh, no! That''s fine, that''s enough already!

    At the thoughtful talk he spoke while looking at him with warm eyes, Winston could not hide his disappointment as he inhaled the wind.

    If I were Winston, I would have asked him to watch swordsmanship whenever he had time.

    ''To just turn down such a genius Il-woo''s chance... ?

    Even if it''s not, it''s a right that can be demanded from Serpens and not from anyone else. At least there should have been room left.

    ''I would have used it very usefully . Huh?''

    Come to think of it, Serpense''s last words were somehow familiar. As I pondered, it was the words I heard from him when I first arrived.

    ''Is it really a basic message to everyone?''

    After hearing such a story, there is no one who can ask the duke to lay an iron plate right away, so I guess I''ll just blow it away.

    No matter how much I was told that it was okay to speak directly, no one would accept it directly.

    Usually they will take care of it, or pass the need on through Hans, the butler.

    ''Of course, if it''s normal in this world.''

    For me, that''s not the case.

    There is a way to deliver the message directly, so why choose an inefficient method of going round and round through intermediate steps?

    Rather, the thought of why he had forgotten what he had said so far came to mind first.

    Naturally, my gaze turned to Serpent, and at the first glance he met, he made a ''Ouch!'' expression on his face.

    I didn''t know what to ask for, but I realized that I was about to ask for something.

    Lord?

    Um, I guess I put too much pressure on Sir. I just hope that Sir Redford can quickly adapt to the duke''s family at any moment, so stop...

    It was obviously a look that came out of Serpens himself without realizing it. But as soon as Winston questioned it, a plausible excuse immediately appeared.

    Anyone who hears it would know that he made that expression for that very reason.

    Because of Serpens who made up the expression that he was so sorry for putting a burden on him because of his own greed, Winston looked at me as if it was a good thing in this case.

    Just ask me something. It''s an opportunity that comes every day, isn''t it?

    Winston''s expression turned bizarre, and Serpens''s eyebrows narrowed slightly.

    Huh, but... no matter how much it is, how dare you ask the lord?

    Sir Redford. No, you called yourself my junior, Sir Winston?

    Tell me.

    Isn''t every request harmed the other person �[��. Moreover, the Duke is Sir Winston''s lord, isn''t he? Surely he must have a favor to his advantage?

    As if he had heard any premonitions, Winston gave a cryptic expression on his face.

    A look of relief crossed Serpence''s face as he understood what I was trying to say.

    "You ask me to watch swordsmanship from time to time.

    If Sir Winston were to be strong, what could be greater advantage than that as a lord?"

    It''s not that he didn''t think about it because he had a short mind.

    Just to see if it would seem unscrupulous to make such a request since I just came under his subordinate. I just stopped thinking because I thought I might be making the master a lot of trouble for nothing.

    Isn''t he thinking that he''s smart enough to just look at his sword when Serpens sometimes kills him?

    Really, senior...!

    is not it?

    When asked how he dared to annoy his master, he shook his head as to how to persuade him, but it was a waste of energy.

 CH 105

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 105

    25. Duke''s Knight (3)

    At Serpence''s instructions, he pulled a few times on the rope made of blue cotton yarn that was stretched out of nowhere on the side of the drawing room.

    This is a kind of call bell. It is a device prepared to protect their face so that the nobles do not raise their voices to summon the servants.

    Since the inside of the drawing room is soundproof, if you pull the string for Octopus 1, the bell in the hallway connected to it will ring.

    Less than five minutes after pulling the cord, a knock sounded from the door leading to the hallway. And after about a breath, Hans opened the door and came in.

    He seems to have already figured out what Serpens had called him for.

    Instead of asking why he called, he slightly bowed his head and stepped aside.

    Then excuse me first.

    After bowing his head politely, Winston crossed the threshold of the drawing room. Hans closed the door.

    The outside and inside were cut off.

    "So, Hans, what the hell is that gentleman?"

    I immediately asked Serpens what I was curious about.

    Are you a butler?

    No, when a butler walks, he walks without making a single footstep sound?!

    Let''s say that the flashing east and west is thanks to the secret passage.

    But the lack of footsteps sounds too suspicious. When it comes to winning the award, it seems that Hans himself is no less than that, but what did he say only to me?

    It''s terribly embarrassing

    It''s not a big deal. The Roberto family has been serving the Prasidus family as deacons from generation to generation, while at the same time managing the intelligence group under it.

    Yes?

    that''s super awesome

    Looking at Serpens with cold eyes, he continued to explain.

    If it''s a great aristocrat, there''s a certain size difference, but everyone has at least one secret intelligence group.

    What is that. scary.

    Could it be that the butlers of all the great noble families in the world are the heads of the intelligence community?

    Usually, it is managed by a separate person.

    Ah, yes...

    What are you doing terribly?!

    No matter how much you know my thoughts, I wish you would refrain from replying before speaking out.

    "Then what about the butler''s child, and my On is the deputy butler?"

    When I came back one day, Xeon had become the deputy butler, so I had forgotten about it.

    Didn''t Hans say in a voice full of pride before, saying that his family has had the dukes from generation to generation?

    ''But the reaction of the people of the duke''s house was also the same, it seems that everyone recognized Xeon as Hans'' successor... .''

    Are you planning to take this opportunity to completely cut out the Roberto family and replace it with Rivelon?

    "If it were a son, would you have seen Seonwoo as well?"

    Yes? When?

    The general butler of the lord''s castle.

    When we arrived at Yeongjuseong late at night, the butler waiting for us must have been Hans'' child. He is the head of the four deacons working for Yeongjuseong.

    The reason I haven''t been able to relate Hans to him even though I''ve seen them every time is because they don''t look very alike.

    Unlike Hans, whose hair was completely white, and his eyes were barely visible, his hair was red and his eyes were wide open.

    Only after hearing that it was a father-son relationship, I was able to recall what they had in common: their eyes were the same indigo blue.

    "If the butler retires now, will he come up?"

    As if that wasn''t the case, Serpens shook his head. According to his explanation, he takes turns in charge of the duke''s residence and the lord''s castle in each generation.

    In time for retirement, he seems to be handing over the seat to his grandchildren.

    However, Hans''s grandchildren are not in my nature, and the butler education is put aside and other work for the Roberto family. i.e. information

    Are you focusing on collecting and playing in the field?

    ''Somehow, Hans said that even though that gentleman would be annoyed, why did he keep him still... .''

    In particular, it is said that the butler of the capital is responsible for collecting, organizing, and reporting information.

    The reason is that they keep the duke close by, and much more information is coming and going quickly in the capital than in the duke''s territory.

    Since the intelligence community also had to play a key role, it was necessary to check not only the ability but also whether the person was truly reliable.

    As a result, I have no choice but to be more careful in choosing a successor.

    "Is Xeon taking over as well?"

    If all your doubts are answered, let''s go to work.

    To avoid answering is to do what I say. Xeon''s parachute was a parachute, but it was a parachute for a reason.

    It was already quite late, so I concentrated on my work in the office for the remaining hours of work.

    And after work, while having dinner, I woke up.

    '' Didn''t you decide not to work today?''

    I was caught up in the sudden talk about the information organization and forgot about it.

    * * *

    On the train going down to the Duchy. Serpens asked Winston.

    "How is life at the duke''s house?"

    Thanks for your attention, I''m doing well.

    It had only been a few days, but Winston''s expression was full of satisfaction, as if it was not empty words.

    It was the perfect environment to focus on swordsmanship training without thinking about anything else.

    Moreover, Serpens, who had finally finished replying to the proposal, began to look at his sword from time to time.

    Count Pgnuto suddenly came to mind, probably because he was over 2m tall, and in the absence of Winston, I asked Serpens who is the stronger of the two.

    ''It''s still the Count.''

    ''Someday I''ll get over it.''

    From what I''ve heard, it''s said that he''s still at the top of the ranks among the duke''s knights. That alone is significant, but considering the future, it is still a long way off.

    I''m glad you''re growing at such a fast pace.

    As the power of the Holy Sword Party is expected to decrease in this and that way, it would be safer to raise allies who can develop their skills as much as possible.

    Of course, the hard work will be done by Serpens.

    ''If I can draw more of the enemy''s power,

    Good but... .''

    Unfortunately, the predictable whereabouts are either after they have already passed over to the demon worshipers, or they don''t know where or what they are doing.

    It was one of the two.

    "Come to think of it, the evaluation of the senior in the duke''s residence is quite bizarre."

    "Why me?"

    As if it had suddenly come to mind, said Winston.

    It''s light and pleasant, pathetic and incompetent, thoughtless but energetic and kind.

    I''ve heard reviews.

    These people?!

    I expected to some extent what happened when Xeon visited as a guest, but I didn''t expect my image to be this far.

    There''s no way the users would have been the first to speak up, even when they saw Winston''s size and fierce eyes. That ''s not to say he ''s the kind of person to ask questions like this .

    Literally what I heard, he called me senior, so people around me started talking about me, and he must have heard it.

    Or was it that the knights had a modest reception a while ago, and they picked it up there?

    ''Ignore the pathetic and incompetent thing because it''s Hans'' weekday anyway.''

    It''s a bit embarrassing to say that you don''t have an idea. After I came to this world, how hard I have been with my hair that I don''t use because it''s annoying!

    This is because he responded to Serpense''s praise to get to know them, and talked freely without going through his brain in the process.

    ''Perhaps ?''

    But now that Winston has come, who regards me as an unparalleled supremacist and wants to serve as my senior, he must have corrected it.

    Oh, don''t worry. I never corrected it.

    Yes?

    If the master hadn''t told me beforehand, I would have made a mistake.

    I wondered what this was, and looking at Serpens, a smile crept onto his lips.

    I''ve heard that it''s a tactic to hide yourself and get other people''s attention...

    W, I was in denial about it, but I was afraid that it would harm the intention of the senior, so I just affirmed it.

    I felt a little bit bitter at the thought that there was nothing to affirm. Because of that proud expression on his face, he even denied it.

    What did Serpence say without my knowledge?

    Sir Zion is a person who values truth rather than honor...

    There was nothing to say, so I stayed silent, and Serpence, who was quietly drinking tea, suddenly helped me with a word.

    How the hell does he set my settings?

    I don''t know if I''m going to cry

    Whether or not he knows how I feel about losing my foolishness, Winston shakes his head with a look of admiration.

    Anyway, it''s just... The fact that the rumors and the rumors are so different are so different, I was surprised to tell you.

    I was also at a loss for words.

    After that, the time in the train that followed made me even more speechless.

    Winston, who had been sitting still, seemed to have a sore throat, so after getting permission from Serpens, he started training in the corner, such as push-ups and sit-ups.

    Serpens before. I prayed like the day I got on the train with Solertia, but unlike the time when I just took a pose, a soft light was shed.

    Not a metaphorical expression, but really, a weak divine power flowed out.

    ''What are you doing?

    After seeing them, I went into bed and tried to sleep during the day with a feeling that I didn''t know everything... .

    "Are you just having a snack and sleeping?"

    Winston looked at me in disbelief.

    "I felt it when I saw you again, but I thought I had gained a bit more weight than before .

    Yes?

    All of a sudden, I even got to exercise next to Winston and follow him.

    ''I''d rather pray next to Serpens! Luxmea has a lot to say!''

    I wonder if he was aware of all the sounds and signs even during prayer, and Serpens, who woke up after a while, saw me in action.

    He looked at him with a look of regret.

    There seemed to be no intention of drying it.

    Instead of relaxing in the train, the train was filled with the heat from breathing and sweat.

    Now, I can''t tell if this is on a train or a 50-hour diet camp in hell.

    Where did the juniors who promised to treat me like a senior go, and the PT trainer appeared and pushed me hard.

    ''If I had known this would be the case, I would refrain from snacking sooner and take it out little by little!''

    All the snacks I brought in advance

    It went into Serpence''s mouth.

    Winston hated sweets, and that was the reason I had no choice but to eat anything other than meals.

    Sweet Food Hani, Serpens eating candy was also seen. Late in the evening, as soon as Winston went into the bathroom to wash up, he quickly took out a candy and put it in his mouth.

    The candy in the bottle was significantly reduced.

    So, sweet food entered Serpens''s mouth and sweet smell came out of my mouth, and the train journey proceeded.

    When it''s time to get off the train, muscle aches

    His limbs trembled, and he had no choice but to receive divine power from Serpens.

    ''I have to do this again when I go back... ?!''

    It''s terrifying just thinking about it. But the terrible thing didn''t just happen on the train.

    ''How many months has it been since you came down to the Duchy?''

    It sounds like a lot of stuff has piled up.

    Among the itinerary to visit the estate, the second day is the only one I enjoy. After going to the nursery school, I went to the duchy

    The whole schedule was blown away and I had to concentrate on processing the paperwork.

    After all, eternality. It was also locked in the office, so while we were tormented by paperwork, Winston went to check the family''s new home with Serpens'' consideration.

    At first, the master refused, asking how could he go to rest alone when he was buried in a pile of work, but he went to see his family only after he was ordered to come after checking the life of Young Ji-min, who had just moved in.

    "Are all knights really that bad?"

    It''s usually like that.

    They live really tired.

    I''m really glad that I''m in the body of an aide instead of a knight. I can never live like that.

 CH 106

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 106

    26. The Duke and the Second Prince (1)

    The schedule in the Duchy this time was really busy.

    The amount of backlogged documents was no joke, so it went by far more frantically than in the first month when things were clumsy.

    ''But I heard that measures have been taken so that it is okay to visit every few months from now on... .''

    Even if it happens that the empire is empty for a long time, things will not be pushed back to this extent.

    Core tasks will have no choice but to be left behind, but other things will be carried out with the consent of a large number of administrators under the leadership of the top administrator of Yeongjuseong.

    And it is the Roberto family who is the general butler of the lord''s castle and manages the private information organization of the duke of Prasidus... .

    Simply put, it was a system in which Hans'' son secretly monitored and reported.

    ''Isn''t that the method you would have used after becoming the master of the Holy Sword?''

    Whether this is trustworthy or not, I doubt it, but I have to entrust it

    I don''t have a clue.

    Anyway, since I left the power of attorney so that I could go back like that, there will be no more suffering like this again.

    ''If there is such a method, apply it quickly!''

    He said it would be better to hit even a blank sheet of paper, but to say that he has been handling a mountain of documents that cannot be compared to him alone. I guess I was thinking of carrying all the burdens of this world alone.

    Still, if you think positively, the duchy will disappear from the heavy workload like the mansion in the capital.

    ''As a bonus, my work is also reduced.''

    Even so, the accumulated work did not disappear. As soon as I got on the return train, I fainted and fell asleep almost all day.

    How exhausted I looked, even Winston wouldn''t recommend me to exercise on the way home.

    Still, the snack was lost.

    The next day after returning to the capital.

    After going to the advisory meeting in the morning and finishing lunch, I came up to the office and found a familiar empty bottle on my desk.

    ''Would you like to see this guy?''

    I set the number on purpose, so the last one from last night must have been empty.

    Anyway, I had brought candy today as a way to replenish this month''s daily candy.

    I was thinking of taking the candy hostage and giving it to you, and I was going to make the bottle come out with my mouth saying that I want candy, but I''m going to use this number!

    lost a player.

    I had no choice but to put the candies in a paper bag, counting them one by one, and transferring them by type.

    "What flavor candy did you like the most?"

    Is that... sweet?

    "How do you know when I say that?"

    As it is made from sugar, it is natural that candy is sweet. What do you call that answer?

    Um, it''s the first time I''ve tasted it... What does the green color taste like?

    It tastes like apples.

    " is that an apple?"

    As if in disbelief, Serpens made a surprised expression. Among the apples he ate, there were those that tasted and smelled like that.

    It seems to be saying that there was no such thing.

    If the taste is the same, why would you eat a real apple and eat a real apple in a healthy way? That''s the beauty of candy!

    It sounded like bullshit, and judging how convincing it was, Serpens didn''t fall further by risking it.

    "Then what flavor do you dislike?"

    Smells like cinnamon?"

    It tastes like cinnamon.

    " why is that the only thing that faithfully reflects the taste and aroma?"

    he complained

    Churros previously dipped in cinnamon sugar

    I thought it would be okay because I ate it well, but I guess I didn''t like the bitter taste of cinnamon candy.

    As if he remembered the taste, he frowned.

    Serpens are for kids!

    Shaking the bottle, I took out the brown cinnamon candy I had just placed, put one of them in my mouth, and put the rest in the bag.

    Then, as many green apple candies as that number were put in the bottle.

    ''It''s just delicious!''

    This is the taste of an adult, la

    He looked at Serpens with a saying expression. He had a look of a bit of annoyance.

    ''When you look at it like this, you are a child itself.''

    How did this naive bastard somehow corrupted and drove the continent to ruin... .

    I don''t know how to express my true feelings, so it seems like yesterday that I had all the expressions on my face blanked out, but seeing this change.

    It all felt like a lie.

    By the way, at the banquet tomorrow

    are you doing Glitter.

    Approaching Serpence''s seat, he asked, placing a filled candy bottle on his desk.

    " expressing."

    Hiding the bottle in his arms, Serpens clicked his tongue as if pathetic.

    Now I got everything I''m going to get. Is this here?

    "Where do you think there is a better expression?"

    There are many complaints about my expression, but I refute it and turn off a more appropriate expression.

    As if I wasn''t sure of myself, Serpens pretended not to hear anything.

    "At this banquet, I plan to approach the second prince."

    The second prince of the Holy Lumen Empire.

    His name was ''Frederic J. Lumen,'' and unlike the emperor ''Feriander F. Yus Lumen'' or the Crown Prince ''Humanus B. Deva Lumen'', there was no additional middle name.

    It is a gift from the emperor when he is sealed as the crown prince, because it is proof that he is the rightful heir to the throne.

    I think I''m finally trying to get in touch with him.

    If it''s a serpent, can''t you apply for a separate visit instead of a banquet? Why bother at a banquet...

    "Sunwoo, did you say that?"

    Yes? What am I?

    Serpens seemed hesitant, but in the end he cautiously opened his mouth and spoke.

    "In the books you read . After the day of choice, I became controversial, and there was no one who supported me. In addition, I said that I felt a separation from that."

    Last month, after working hours, I often visited his library. [Castle

    In order to inform you of the major events that appeared in [Master of the Sword].

    At that time, I remember talking about that.

    Why is it coming out now?

    "Do you think it''s possible just because it''s instigated by demon worshipers?"

    this is yours.

    That was the question.

    I just didn''t get the choice of the holy sword. He was accusing him without any other solid evidence, and that no one denied it.

    was offended

    No matter how good agitators appeared and tried to instigate, there were things that Serpens had accumulated over the years, and everyone in the Empire believed them?

    No way.

    Rather, it would be more correct to view that someone with great power sanctioned and suppressed the Serppens so that it could not be covered.

    No, this will not be... .''

    The possibility that he had passed over with came to mind again at Serpence''s words.

    "Uh I don''t think so if not

    It would be nice, but maybe... .

    I nodded my head heavily, as if what I had thought was the correct answer. If he too had come to the same conclusion, there was no doubt about it.

    The person who created such a situation... , was the emperor?''

    There was no evidence. It''s just a guess

    However, there was no other person who could isolate Serpence.

    ''The trigger of the final corruption of the final boss was the protagonist''s father. What are you going to do?!''

    It would not be that the emperor was worshiping the devil. If it had been that way, I would have used the Empire a little more usefully, or even made a false hostage play to embarrass Humanus.

    So, it must have been done in the name of my son to the end.

    Because of the existence of Serpens, Humanus is not recognized as the master of the Holy Sword by people.

    Although he was not chosen as the Holy Sword because Humanus wanted it, there were many people who viewed him negatively.

    ''Because of that, Humanus had a hard time... .''

    To create a reason why Humanus had no choice but to be chosen. Naturally, the assumption that he had cut down the serpenes for his son, made a flaw, and even deprived him of the opportunity to cover it, naturally followed.

    Where is such a law?! How many years has Serpens contributed to the Empire! How hard has he worked for the Empire and the Continent!

    At the young age of 15, he climbed the duke and told him to die. I work so hard that an ordinary person would have really died.

    To Serpens who have been doing it. And the emperor who knows it best.

    How could you do that?

    ''Winston should have been seeking asylum in the Empire, but Serpens should have gone to another country?''

    Suddenly, a fever rises in my head.

    Calm down, Sunwoo. It''s just a possibility.

    "You are lying! With a face of complete conviction, whom are you deceiving?"

    It was also preventing Serpens from entering the Holy Sword Party. I wonder if Humanus will be compared if we are together.

    The more Serpence shines, the more I fear that Humanus will be obscured by the shadow of the light... are you going?

    I really care about my children! Where is the guardian going out and ostracizing other people''s children!!

    While I was clenching my fists tightly and bursting with anger, I heard the sound of a small wind blowing out from somewhere.

    Even though this was not the case at all, Serpence was smiling happily as she let out a soft laugh.

    "Are you laughing? Is this funny now?!"

    I think so.

    This month is also in the red, so I use the household account book.

    How would you feel if a baby next to you smiled brightly and smiled?

    I was so excited, a smirk leaked out from me as well.

    Even if it''s because of this immature guy, what should I do?

    "Can I have another candy?"

    He never asks for a snack first, but like a man who never refuses, he proudly held out his palm.

    Soon a candy was also bitten in his mouth.

    "It''s a lot different from that book.

    However, if I formally request the second prince to visit, there is bound to be a misunderstanding."

    One of the only two dukes of the Empire, as soon as the Crown Prince leaves his office, begins to approach the second prince, whom he had never had a proper interaction with before?

    It''s a good situation to limit. In the eyes of others, it would seem that they intervened in the struggle for succession and favored one side.

    Knowing that the other nobles were already demonstrating the second prince, Serpens left it for a month would also minimize such misunderstandings.

    It must be to win

    " are you okay?"

    "What do you mean?''

    "Isn''t it difficult to be misunderstood and stamped by the emperor?"

    Writing]. According to what Seon-woo said in the book, shouldn''t the emperor be in more trouble than me?

    As if not to worry, Serpens smiled.

    It was a joke like that if he overturned the empire for nothing, only the emperor would lose.

    It''s a cruel joke, but

    Still, he looks full of confidence... .

    " you''re joking, right?"

    If not, what would you do?

    Making up an arrogant expression on his face, Serpence said with a sense of weight.

    However .

    Puhaha-! Because you put candy in your mouth and you say that because one of your cheeks is convex. You know you don''t look serious at all?

    Again, it looked more playful.

    "Of course you don''t know. Seonwoo, you showed the demonstration yourself a while ago, didn''t you?"

    Somehow, no matter how serious or not, he was smiling as if he was having fun.

    It''s all melted now, but the cinnamon flavor still lingers in my mouth. This guy''s candy, ruining the atmosphere, is very important.

 CH 107

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 107

    26. The Duke and the Second Prince (2)

    As soon as the emperor announced the start of the banquet, Serpens headed straight for the terrace.

    To be precise, he noticed that the second prince was trying to escape to the terrace, and predicted where he was going to enter through his gaze direction and movement path and headed there.

    Pretending to be a coincidence, they arrived in front of the same terrace at the same time.

    ...Duke of Prasidus?

    " Your Highness Second Prince?"

    The second prince, Frederick, was really surprised, and Serpens pretended to be surprised.

    Let''s go in first.

    Frederick glanced behind him and invited Serpens to join him.

    If he hadn''t recommended it, Serpens would have suggested it first, but now the two are being pursued over a common enemy (?).

    What''s more, Frederick must have been crazy at the banquet last month, so everything has to be rushed.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Serpens made up a smile of relief, as if saying he was lucky.

    I hurriedly opened the door of the terrace and put it back on, and the one who seemed to be the second prince''s attendant was vain in the air.

    Even though it''s a substitute, I thought that closing the door would yield to him, so I went inside and stood still.

    Since I opened the door, the servant seemed to know how to even close it.

    While we stood so far away, Frederick and Serpens were on the terrace.

    I sat down on a chair attached to the provided table.

    I couldn''t keep the door wide open, so I closed the door late and walked to the lock.

    after finishing the lockdown. Me and the attendant stood by the table where they sat, a little distance apart, and waited.

    Aren''t you with Yulydia-sama of Arche Kingdom today?

    Frederick asked if it had suddenly come to mind.

    His face, which he could only now see in detail, was quite similar to that of Humanus, but he was a little younger than him.

    ''Did you say you turned 23 this year?''

    He is two years older than Humanus.

    However, unlike my brother, who is very energetic, he exudes an adult atmosphere with a calm tone.

    You], you said that you are not attending today for personal reasons.

    Serpens lied without raising an eyebrow.

    It was only because it was difficult to make the internal affairs of the empire a topic of conversation when there was Eugene from a foreign country, and it was not possible to establish a meeting under the guise of a coincidence like before.

    There were no personal circumstances.

    Frederick, who did not know such a thing, nodded, wondering if it was just that.

    By the way, isn''t this the first time the two of you have a conversation like this?

    Yeah, you''re probably right.

    All this time, hyung was always in the middle...

    I was wondering what to do with the second prince, but now I see that Humanus often called the two of them and set up a private meeting.

    ''Between Humanus and the 2nd Prince

    and expressed it as if he had heard it from a third party.

    Just by looking at the fact that he and his younger brother tried to strengthen their friendship by calling him together, shouldn''t it be considered that they would be good friends?

    I''m talking because my brother isn''t here... Do you know that?

    Yes? What are you talking about...

    As if he had no idea, Serpens tilted his head, making up an innocent face.

    Actually, when I was young, I thought that I would like the Duke to be my older brother instead of my older brother.

    Yes?

    Serpens concealed the sincerity of ''why are you?''

    Unlike my brother, who sometimes jokes with me, he is always proud and kind, so I think he looked good.

    I am so grateful that you thought of it that way. Hana, the Crown Prince will be disappointed if he hears it.

    It is said that I did that from a young heart, even when I was young. It is absolutely not that I am dissatisfied with or disliked about my brother!

    Yeah, I know.

    "So, what I meant to say I just wanted to say that I think of you as a brother."

    Embarrassed to say the least, Frederick scratched his cheek. Seeing that, Serpens smiled in the guise of benevolence.

    ''Isn''t this hereditary?''

    I guess it wasn''t just the appearance that resembled Humanus. Establishing and building a relationship alone has left someone out of nowhere.

    Anyway, even Serpens didn''t notice.

    Thanks to the friendship, the conversation flowed naturally.

    By the way . If you buy this much, don''t you think it''s okay to just apply for an audience without worrying about other people''s opinions?''

    Of course, I knew there was nothing between them.

    Being absurd, I looked at Serpence for a long time. Even though he noticed my gaze, he didn''t blink once, as if he was proud.

    It feels like my childhood was just yesterday, but I''m already struggling with marriage issues...

    Follow the memories of the past to reach the present

    did. Frederick said with a small sigh.

    I heard that the Duke also suffered quite a bit from that problem.

    "Yeah, I guess That''s why it''s not that difficult every time I attend an advisory meeting these days."

    Saying that, Serpens raised his eyebrows slightly as if he was embarrassed, creating an awkward smile.

    I didn''t feel annoyed at all because of them, who bothered to keep talking to me and suggesting I don''t like it.

    [I know it''s because they care and care about me, but I have no choice but to keep rejecting it, so I''m very sorry.]

    seems to say so. It is a lively performance with delicate expressive power.

    Frederick, who had completely fallen for the good and pure inner acting to the point of regret, shed a sigh.

    ''On the subject that I grumbled in annoyance that I wanted to jump into an advisory council brawl and wipe everyone out .''

    Although there was a lie on his face, there was no lie in his words.

    It is true to the end that he is tormented every time he goes to the advisory council.

    Since the nobles can''t keep pushing it again after the marriage proposal has been rejected, it seems that he has changed course to make him want to get married.

    It''s like bringing a portrait of your little grandchildren or children and saying that the children are really cute, or the happiness of having a family.

    In that way, he eagerly preached to him the benefits of marriage.

    For that reason, he was always a Serpense who arrived more leisurely than the start time and waited, but at the advisory meeting yesterday, he deliberately narrowly entered and left faster than anyone else.

    Still, I believe that over time, those who understand my will will surely appear.

    I don''t know if that''s the case. It would have been great if the other nobles of the empire followed even half of the duke...

    Fred Rick smiled bitterly at Serpense''s clear expression, which didn''t even feel the slightest thought.

    Externally, the reason for refusal that Serpence advocated is that saving the continent is the priority.

    The appearance of Serpens who seemed to be purely worried about the future of the continent and those who tried to make up their own greed even in such a situation were the difference between heaven and earth.

    "Is it possible that the Duke is delaying the wedding because he is afraid that the balance of power in the empire will be disrupted?"

    When people try to find the reason for someone''s certain behavior, they have a habit of projecting and interpreting their own situation.

    It''s the same with Frederick.

    As if he was suffering from those who tried to use him as a tool of power, he naturally seemed to have gone crazy in that direction.

    Naturally, instead of denying it, Serpens simply smiled.

    I knew it !

    Frederick, who understood the meaning, looked at Serpens with respectful eyes.

    The more I look at it, the more it seems that the second prince in [Master of the Holy Sword] did not shake up the empire with his own greed.

    Considering that he thought of Serpence as his older brother".

    ''The emperor''s own father tried to oppress him, but to help Serpens, they all fell for his schemes . When I woke up, things got out of control and became irreversible?''

    We don''t know who the second prince is yet, so we''re not sure.

    I heard that your Majesty''s recent complaints about your marriage continue to rise.

    Knowing that the word is marriage, in fact, it is about succession to the throne. You do not need to say it back.

    Serpence was careful with his luck.

    However, Frederick referred to it bluntly.

    No one else, the Crown Prince hyung passed away... Hmm, Hmm! The rumors spread.

    Ummm... I''m sorry. Why did I bring up such a thing then...

    As if it was too manly to put it in his mouth, Frederick said, replacing the word with a cough.

    At that, Serpens made a sound of pain and blamed himself. This time, he must have been genuinely embarrassed, and a slight tinge of blood appeared in his ears, which were visible through the bluish-silver hair.

    I didn''t say this to blame. After all, other people in the room just didn''t speak out, but everyone must have had doubts.

    Admit it.

    In ''Master of the Holy Sword'', ''These conditions depended on it, and Humanus who satisfies them walked around pretending to have a lot of experience.

    There are always stories of whether he was doing it to hide and deny his inability, or to assert his well-being to others. It had to come out one way or another.

    ''In [Master of the Holy Sword], it was just not mentioned in order to protect the main character.

    me?''

    Judging from the situation so far, there were no lies in the contents of [Master of the Holy Sword], but there were a lot of stories that were omitted.

    Hearing that there was such a thing among them, there is nothing new about it now.

    Aren''t my older brother and the prospective brother-in-law who put an end to that anyway? Rather, he was delighted, saying that the Duke was very comfortable with him.

    At Frederick''s words, Serpens put on a puzzled expression. Although the expression on the outside was dazed, the inside of him was trembling.

    ''Humanus, you bastard. He''s a really nice guy... ?!''

    It was usually a situation where there was nothing to say even if a fistfight occurred.

    But for more than 10 years, is it because Serpens never took a joke and kept his manners?

    Although he was puzzled, he was happy to ask such a question.

    Yes, but .

    '' It''s salty.''

    It''s really, really, really sad and sad.

    How much iron walls do Serpens usually use?

    Since they hit it, I wonder if they have come to accept even that kind of thing.

    I''ll have to tell Serpens if he meets Humanus later, he''s a poor guy, so how about treating him kindly?

    I''m saying this because I''m afraid you''ll be misunderstood, but hyung is definitely not that

    It sounded like a question that could arise as to how you are so sure of that, or whether you just want to believe that way.

    Frederick was also aware of it, so he quickly followed up.

    "He looks a little light on the outside, but he really cares about the empire a lot.

    I am saying He is also clearly aware of the weight that comes from the position of the Crown Prince.

    I know it well.

    Serpens, who hid his ignorance expression, nodded with a face that he sincerely agreed with his words.

    ''Hey, aren''t you particularly fond of Humanus?''

    I was very curious as to how Humanus could drop the spear in front of the alternative Serpens so that the evaluation could hit the floor like that.

    Considering his inclination, it was not unusual.

    No matter how pathetic his outward appearance was, he was a guy who had endless doubts that it might have been calculated to lower his vigilance.

    '' I couldn''t open my heart, but it seems to have succeeded in breaking the vigilance.''

    It doesn''t look like all the efforts have been in vain.

    But, I feel like I''m being treated as a poor person rather than a friend. it''s just a little sad

 CH 108

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 108

    26. The Duke and the Second Prince (3)

    If he really had a problem with passing on... he wouldn''t deny it or hide it. He would have given up his pride and talked to Abamama or me, but he only left the message not to worry because he misunderstood until the end.

    In the end, it was just the sound of a heart attack.

    ''He said it confidently, so I thought there was some great evidence''

    In fact, there is no way that a urology department exists in this fantasy world, so there is no plausible physical evidence such as a hospital diagnosis.

    "Yes, it would have been the case if it was the Crown Prince."

    To Frederick''s desperate plea for his brother''s honor, Serpens pretended to agree seriously.

    ''What the hell are we going to do about this?''

    The way Humanus talks about it is uselessly gentle, like a scene from a gag program.

    Do you really believe me?

    Yes?

    In response to Serpence''s question as to whether what he had just said was unbelievable, Frederick let out a deep sigh and opened his mouth.

    I said the same thing to other nobles, but they were all denied.

    No matter how much people believe in only what they want to believe, it would be great if that firm belief could be transferred to faith to help protect the continent.

    Your brother keeps the throne

    He said that it was clear that he had hidden it for the sake of the future, and that we should prepare for future generations before it is too late... . I have only heard things like that, such as asking Abama-mama to say it in person."

    The emperor is still alive, and Hugh Manus and Frederick are in their prime, but how late is it? Anyone who doesn''t know will think this is a world where the average life expectancy is only 5 to 60 years old.

    ''Before Humanus completes his mission as the master of the Holy Sword, he must take care of his teeth, so he must have wanted to hurry.

    The Emperor is wary of Frederick

    All, when he first got married and had children. It must have been that he was preventing his marriage because he feared that the family that would become the only one greedy for the right to succession.

    As a nobleman who cares for his children very much, he must be worried that they will suffer an unwanted tragedy due to external pressure.

    ''Before the Day of Choice, everyone acted as if they were giving Humanus a liver.''

    If there was something he lacked as a Crown Prince, there would have been a lot of talk about it earlier.

    However, during that time, Humanus got along well with all the nobles, and there was no one who could be called a foe.

    Still, it was the end of the day that there were so many people who crawl out as soon as they had something to pick up and eat.

    Everyone has a dream of a thousand gold, but... .

    ''Even if that''s the case, when Humanus returns later, you''re going to be farting like you did when, right?''

    In the first place, Rainier knew that the Crown Prince wasn''t really in a ''that'' state just because of ''that''.

    If Humanus came after completing his role as the master of the holy sword, everything would be over... '' said Serpens.

    I remembered the conversation we had at that time.

    * * *

    From the point of view of Count Opulence, it doesn''t matter which family you get the second prince from.

    Even though the proposals are pouring on Frederick, it is special for the Rainier family.

    It was strange that there was no response, so when I asked Serpens, the answer that came back was this.

    why?

    The frontiers are not very interested in central politics, and in the center, the Opulences are the only two dukes and writers.

    Why?

    After realizing that I am from another world, Serpens seems to have given up on instilling in me the concept of etiquette.

    Perhaps he thought it was not just a matter of his tone, but he thought that it would be more efficient to simply not speak in front of others rather than to correct it.

    He opened his mouth without a single move in the why, why combo.

    Because it''s just the two of you.

    It is said that there is no family to intervene.

    If there are only two duke families, each of them creates a power to try to bond with the imperial family... .

    ''Ugh, I can''t come up with an answer.''

    Whenever the time of the Crown Prince''s custody comes,

    If you divide the team and fight bloody, one day, a civil war will break out and destroy the country.

    It is the same as usual. Even if someone makes an opinion, regardless of whether it is right or wrong, they will be busy covering up and opposing each other.

    Where is the country going to go?

    "Still, Count Opulence is not the best, is it?"

    "Even so, as long as you don''t press down on your voice with overwhelming force, you can simply hold on to it."

    Serpence said lightly as if it was not a big deal, and thought seriously about the caramel custard pudding and milk pudding on the parlor table.

    When I asked the kitchen for pudding as today''s snack, I asked for two under the pretext that one was a pity.

    "You said that you slowly wanted to reveal that you like sweets? As I kept eating dessert next to you, Serpense started pulling sweets too. Well, isn''t this setting okay?"

    As soon as it became known that he was a sweet dessert maniac, the kitchen maids would voluntarily work on research while analyzing the menus of the number one dessert shop in the capital. .

    Anyway, he''s a guy who can''t control my greed.

    ''Serpens apologize to Ador! Ador, repent to Serpens!''

    Seeing his conflicting face, he wants to concede to both types, but if he keeps doing that, his habit will deteriorate.

    You need to know what you''re missing so you can fix it yourself

    don''t even think

    At least, he brought the white milk pudding, which was less sweet, towards me.

    Of course, there is only one spoon prepared. But the sea was what I expected when ordering the pudding.

    He took out a small teaspoon he had brought in his pocket, scooped out a spoonful of pudding and brought it to his mouth. The soft pudding melted in your mouth.

    Anyway, continue what you said.

    He had a pitiful expression on his face and thought that both of them would yield if they were in conflict.

    and brought the caramel pudding in front of me.

    It''s a state of affairs, so there''s no benefit to fighting each other as much as it''s a state of affairs. It''s better for this generation to take power in this generation, and it to the next generation, he said. If you don''t like it...

    After a moment''s pause, Serpens scooped out custard cream with caramelized sugar syrup and poured it into his mouth with a dessert spoon.

    "In such a situation, it would have been difficult to maintain an infighting over the already established heir to the throne.

    Doha will automatically shut the other person''s mouth if he asks about his intentions, and even if he asks if he is just a purveyor of demon worshipers who are trying to disrupt the empire.

    While making a sound enough to bury an Ammon family, Serpens smiled slightly at the sweetness of the pudding that lingered in his mouth.

    When you talk like this in the future, you shouldn''t feed him sweets.

    In other words, on the Opulence family''s side, it is more important to correct the behavior of the Crown Prince than for the Second Prince to pay the Crown Princess.

    On the day of the choice, it seems that Rainier made an immaculate fianc��e''s alter ego into a dead state with just one jealousy.

    Is it like throwing a stone and catching two birds? not normal

    "But how come it sounds like you''re saying it on the premise that the Crown Prince''s place is dull?"

    If there had been a real problem, they would have broken up their marriage sooner. The young Count of Opulence is not foolish enough to be driven by emotions and continue to be engaged in a futile relationship.

    A guy who has never been in a relationship speaks well.

    Why? If you love, you can! Does Serpens know love?

    As if he couldn''t find anything to say, he scooped some pudding and put it in his mouth. It was a protest that he could not speak because he was eating pudding.

    Do you often appear in literary works? People who are blinded by love and make foolish choices. Isn''t that true in this world? In our world, they are complete regulars.

    Isn''t that just fiction? Are you really making that choice?

    "Oh no, not like that!"

    As I declared, Serpens gave a look of great enlightenment.

    Of course, this does not mean that he suddenly learned the greatness of love.

    That''s right, the Crown Prince is really...

    No, why are you talking about that?!

    I informed him of the health of Humanus.

    * * *

    Why do I have to explain the situation of Humanus to Serpens? There was a slight hit, but seeing Frederick''s face today, I thought that it was nothing.

    I suffer a lot because of my brother.

    It''s not that I don''t want to get married. To be honest, every time I see you dyeing your hair with your prospective sister-in-law in front of me... I also feel hostile and lonely.

    Fredrick said with a look of death in his eyes.

    Somehow, I wonder if it was right for a voice that was muffled to continue to envelop Humanus like this, or maybe it was a feeling of skepticism.

    But it''s obvious that they''re going to use me as a scarecrow and eat it. It''s impossible to pass on it as it is.

    You are right.

    Even one.

    As he was about to say something, Frederick suddenly stopped speaking and looked towards him.

    If it''s Lord Zion, is he someone you can trust?

    all.

    Serpens, noticing the meaning of that gaze, quickly defended me.

    Of course, since he was chosen by the Duke, I thought it would be true. It''s not a thought to be suspicious, it''s a story that we are careful to put into our mouths...

    "Is there anyone among them who has spoken directly to the throne?"

    Within the assumed range, ''I hope . hey, it can''t be Isn''t it?'' Serpence asked the question with a look that seemed to say, and Frederick nodded with a firm face.

    "There were even families who said they would make me emperor "

    Isn''t it usually treason to bring up such a thing?

    Serpens asked, pretending to calm down and forcibly calm the startled heart, and play a calmly calm voice.

    "How is that place?"

    " Count Masanal."

    It''s a family name I''ve heard of, so it''s clear that they''re a central nobleman, but since I can''t remember what the family is doing, it must be a rare family.

    does not exist.

    Count Masanal doesn''t have the power to do that. But, why would you say such a thing...?

    I knew it. Serpens also pointed out that it was very suspicious.

    I was blinded by excessive greed and there are many things that are difficult to say, so I said I would think about it first and sent it back.

    That''s a good judgement.

    There is a 99.9% chance that there is a hind stomach, so it seemed that they were talking about digging the rear.

    It doesn''t just end with a conversation.

    As soon as he returned to the duke''s residence, it was clear that he would immediately begin the investigation.

    ''...the two of you will do well.''

    Let''s just stare at each other and eat rice cakes.

 CH 109

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 109

    26. The Duke and the Second Prince (4)

    After talking with Frederick, he left the banquet hall and got into the carriage. Suddenly, the sound of horseshoes was heard along with the feeling of a slight leaning of the body.

    I''m happy though.

    As soon as the carriage departed, I opened my mouth with a small voice.

    As if I was just talking about the main point, Serpens looked at me with eyes wondering what the hell was that.

    2 His Majesty the Prince told His Majesty,

    Didn''t you do a good job?

    Regarding the remarks that seemed to be plotting Count Masanal''s conspiracy, the investigation actually passed to Serpens.

    And since Frederick said he would deliver the content of the conversation we had today to the emperor directly, he wouldn''t try to contain Serpens like in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Hmm... .

    However, Serpence still looked like his back was clenched.

    What else is wrong?"

    If the backseat herself hides it,

    What about the possibility that they have been approached for the sake of it?"

    What the heck is this, the conclusion of the Serpense translator, the possibility that the emperor will point to Serpence as the backbone of Count Masanal. In other words, it was said that he might be suspicious of a self-made drama.

    How many times have you seen Serpens awaken by scattering divine light after saying that he will protect the continent from his position? Still, if you doubt Serpens, the holy Zeg-Hub- !

    Before the sentence that the emperor of the Holy Empire must be laid down һ was completed.

    Before the Empire could even be mentioned, let alone the Emperor, Serpens quickly shut my mouth.

    Please be careful with your mouth.

    Mumbling like that, he removed his hand, pulled out a scroll with soundproofing magic, and tore it apart.

    He must have been anxious even though he was talking with his voice lowered so that he could not be heard from outside.

    "Did anyone listen?"

    It''s not like that, but it''s a world where you can''t even talk like that.

    If there is no party, I will

    Ra-nim also came from a world that swears.

    ��1 ''

    Oh.

    As if at a loss for words, Serpens let out a short laugh.

    Sometimes you tell me that the Emperor will be in more trouble than you... No, wait a minute! What does Serpens have to say to me?!

    I said these words while sensing all the surrounding presence in the soundproofed room. On the other hand, Seonwoo, you just spit it out without taking any measures.

    "Is my preparation a serpence?"

    " if you can''t even speak."

    At my clever reply, he finally sighed and put his forehead on his forehead.

    He blocked it well a little while ago and made a disappointing sound.

    "By the way, there was no mention of being close with the second prince."

    There was nothing to be gained even if I talked about the topic any longer, so I decided to ask another question that I was curious about during the conversation.

    "Is that friendly?"

    " not the standards of serpents."

    If I had to choose a close friend based on his criteria, me and . At best, Eugene

    it will be all that goes

    Even counting made no sense.

    "Sunwoo, would something change if you knew that?"

    I would have added one more rolling paper that I would have received on my last birthday. Oh, since the second prince must have come to the 2nd birthday party, there must have been one more birthday present.

    Serpens looked at me with cold eyes. That means you don''t need it.

    It''s just a joke...

    If we had been like a brother and sister, I would not have pretended to be a coincidence like today, but might have asked for a formal meeting. I thought I''d talk a little bit between my brothers and sisters after a long time... .

    That''s impossible.

    Aside from his suspicious look, as if he was really joking, he faithfully answered my words.

    The answer is also as negative as the eyes.

    why?

    Because I didn''t know that the second prince thought of me that way.

    Oh.

    OK, I admit. This is an unavoidable issue.

    And above all...

    I thought that was all, I think there are more. Serpens looked into my eyes and blurted out the end of his words.

    "The biggest and most important reason is that I never once asked anyone else to talk to me in the first place outside of public affairs?"

    No, this human?!

    For an absurd reason, his voice automatically rose. somehow my eyes

    When I looked at the chi, there was a point where I was stabbed.

    ''So, you''re saying that if Serpence made an appointment to meet first, it would be seen as a public event, right?''

    Come to think of it, I did not see Serpens interacting with other nobles other than the once a month imperial palace banquets or advisory meetings.

    If I had to judge what I saw, I was only teaching under the pretext of a swordsmanship match with Count Pgnuto.

    There are no machines that do the work.

    That''s why I usually do some network management.

    Normally, in politics, we meet in person and socialize, even under pretense, isn''t it?

    As soon as the imperial palace banquet starts, you can run away to the terrace like today, but seeing how you received people who talked to you for a long time in the past, you are aware of the importance of it... .

    "Why?"

    Because I don''t need it.

    Humans live, why do we not need human relationships?!

    My family who can speak words, I can be a flagship

    only dragon

    After all, after becoming the master of the Holy Sword, I had to leave the Empire, so I thought it was unnecessary.

    "Even so, what were you thinking after you left?"

    He kept his mouth shut. I mean, I had no idea.

    And rather than that there was no plan, it was more correct to think that it was the end and there was no need to think about the future.

    ''I expected it, but I didn''t expect it to be confirmed like this in person L''

    It was more bittersweet than I expected.

    Maybe it''s because it''s after hearing the wish, ''I want my daily life to continue as it is now.''

    Serpens at that time felt that even their daily life was difficult and painful, so they wanted to face the end as it is.

    "So why?"

    If it''s Sunwoo, don''t you already know. At that time...

    No, that''s not it. That''s the reason I brought this up.

    Before he brought this up, he had already

    I agreed and prepared to move on. In such a situation, the guy secretly floated his luck as if he had more to say.

    "Did you have any thoughts?"

    " Isn''t it you, Seonwoo, who first asked why it''s impossible?"

    Serpence said with a very regretful expression.

    I asked a question, so I have to answer. That said, I guess it''s just that the time has been a little longer because I''m noticing that I''m afraid I''ll hear anything.

    "It felt like you were bringing up something that was difficult to answer, so I thought you had something you wanted to ask me as before."

    " it wasn''t that difficult to talk about."

    I also thought about the past, but it''s only this much, is it the same thing?

    "Then can I ask you something else?"

    Whether it was a little twisted or not, Serpens answered with a sullen voice. Even when he''s pissed off, he''s kind.

    Maybe Serpens will tell His Majesty the Crown Prince?

    Do you hate it?"

    Why are you asking that?

    I saw something today, and it seems that only the Crown Prince has a particularly vulgar reputation.

    I don''t remember saying that.

    Instead, it was written on his face.

    At those words, Serpense''s gaze stared at my face and fell away.

    Then the lie on the train became the truth.

    He tilted his head for a moment at the sudden sound, but realized what he meant by the lie that became the truth.

    It wasn''t that difficult.

    " I hate it."

    With a muttering as if pondering the definition of the word dislike, Serpence was immersed in thought.

    After enough time to drink a cup of tea, the mouth that had been firmly clenched opened as if he had given an answer.

    It seems that way.

    It was in the past tense, and even he was not sure about it. But one thing is clear.

    Are you saying you don''t like it at least now?

    " Perhaps.

    Another uncertain answer.

    "Then what about Second Prince His Majesty, Sir Winston, Eugenes and I?"

    "What are we going to do now?"

    coldly ignored.

    The carriage arrived at the duke''s residence not long after, and Serpens as soon as they got off left Hans to follow him and went into the main building.

    It seems that he is planning to have Count Masanal investigate behind the scenes.

    * * *

    The background investigation ended sooner than expected. Strictly speaking, it was interrupted during the investigation. It was Hans who received the order, but for some reason, Xeon raised it after seeing it.

    "How did this happen, Serpens?"

    As soon as he finished his report and left the office, I practiced serpens.

    If it''s a report, didn''t you listen together? It''s just as you heard it.

    Isn''t that report a problem!

    What on earth did he believe in and be so calm?

    "The duke said he would not interfere in the struggle for the throne."

    The reason why the background investigation was stopped in the middle.

    It was due to another dukedom of the Empire, the Duke of Argento.

    It''s just that history has been like that. I didn''t say that it will be like that in the future.

    Serpens said sternly. It was an attitude that looked up to the sky and had no shame.

    Is it enough to just use respectful words now?

    That sounds like what I''m supposed to do.

    I shouldn''t have listened straight to what he was saying while obsessed with pudding!

    "I would have said the same thing if there was no pudding there."

    It is said that pudding is innocent even if it dies soon. It''s so stupid I''m going to die

    Actually, it''s not like the Dukes of Argento intervened.

    It just hampered the investigation. Rather, he even accused Serpens of being meddling in the issue of succession to the throne.

    Shortly after the investigation began

    It was not because the Prasidus family''s intelligence group was lagging behind that the Argento family was disturbed in the hidden state.

    This was a situation where I had to climb up the mountain by grabbing the Masanal family.

    On the other hand, the Argento family was determined and focused on monitoring only the Prasidus family from the beginning.

    "No, the second prince doesn''t want to be emperor! Besides, Count Masanal is investigating treason, isn''t it?"

    "But Count Masanal is dead.

    isn''t it Usually, the charge of conspiracy falls under the system of sit-in, but since he died before being accused, it is difficult to enter into an investigation.

    Suddenly, Count Masanal died in a horse accident.

    There were witnesses, but there was no subject to investigate. The count''s family didn''t even know that the count had met the second prince.

    And looking at the circumstances of his return, it was certain that Count Masanal had died while being exploited. Even if he sends his family to the dew of death, there is no income.

    Why is the Duke of Argento suddenly crying?

    Are you straight? Did you mean to drive Serpens to the Duke of Argento, not the Emperor? Or has the situation changed? Or was it a problem for both the Emperor and the Duke of Argento? What do you think Serpens?"

    First of all, it''s crazy, so I think it''s better to calm down.

    I quietly returned to my place.

 CH 110

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 110

    26. The Duke and the Second Prince (5)

    As I was sitting in my seat and trying to catch my breath, I heard the sound of a square nib scraping the paper.

    It was the sound of Serpens handling the paperwork, unable to endure that moment.

    Why are you so calm! You''re caught in a trap?

    " so did you get so excited?"

    It''s like asking, ''Only this much?''

    it was tone

    Even if Count Masanal had been brought in right away, he would have killed him by concocting suicide before even properly interrogating him. If that had been the case, he wouldn''t have gotten what he wanted, but it would have ended without revealing anything.

    There is no sibling answer Who said it was a pity that I didn''t buy a backstory?

    "What are you talking about all of a sudden?"

    Although it was deliberately revealed from the other side, it is quite a big harvest to know that the Dukes of Argento were involved.

    Oh, no! It''s not that, Serpens.

    You''re worried!

    He moved with the hope that the right to the throne would be maintained, so there was nothing to say about whether he had jumped into the scramble for the throne.

    But to the end, it was for the sake of the stability of the empire. Isn''t the purpose of dividing the country and finding out the moth eaters?

    ''But with that, you drive Serpens into a leader in disrupting the balance of the empire?''

    Moreover, it is said that Prasidus was aiming for the door from the beginning.

    Jeong must be ahead.

    If the emperor believes in such a voice and tries to oust Serpence... .

    ''Are you going to ask Eugene to exile to the Arche Kingdom?''

    Serpens are not elves, but they might be accepted as honorary elves because they are prettier than most elves.

    It is only custom for the duke''s family not to interfere in the succession to the throne. Even if they intervene openly, there will be no direct harm. Also, since the Crown Prince already has a fiancee, it has no effect on the power structure of future generations.

    It won''t hurt you.

    Because he spoke so casually, it seemed as if there was really no problem.

    still .

    This case is only a check in the end. Having already taken out a hand called the Duke of Argento, it must have been an unavoidable choice since you would have to be of the same family to tie this up.

    Saying it was no big deal, he handed over the paper that Serpence was reading.

    Now what are you going to do? Are you going to meet the Duke of Argento in person?

    "Before that, I think we need to meet the second prince again."

    There is one month left until the next banquet, so are you going to formally apply for an audience this time?

    Like you said, I think he''s friendly to me, so I know he''s going to ask me for help, so I set a trap... Or maybe he did it himself.

    Yes?!

    I had to reconsider Serpense''s words to see if it was true that he was referring to the second prince, Fred Rick.

    ''You really don''t believe me without mercy?''

    The reason why he didn''t scan the divine power was probably because Frederick also had divine power, so black magic couldn''t be detected.

    ''It''s not bad to keep the possibilities open. However .''

    Frederick''s face comes to mind as he says he thinks of Serpens like a real brother.

    No matter how much I think about it, it doesn''t seem like that, but Serpense''s words make me suspect that even that was just acting.

    Does this spread and become a rip-off, leading to sedition and fabrication?

    "What do you think of Sunwoo?"

    Me?

    "Is there anyone else in this world with the name Seonwoo?"

    there was no way

    Even though I knew he was referring to me, I expressed my opposition to his question because I never thought that Serpens would ask me for my opinion on this matter.

    Even Serpens couldn''t pick out an answer

    I didn''t have the ability to pinpoint what this was.

    It''s a completely different situation from [Master of the Holy Sword], so I can''t stand it.

    All I can say is... .

    I don''t know which one. If I had to choose between the two, I wish there was a third party who used the former.

    It''s just this, what?

    I think so too.

    really?!

    "In that case, if it''s Yeocha, the 2nd Prince will be the denomination

    You could also use a way to turn it around.

    Serpens is like that.

    For a moment, I thought that they agreed with the same thoughts as me.

    Perhaps he recognized my dry eyes, he took his eyes off the papers and looked at me and blinked.

    It''s not that we want to keep going to the church, it''s just until the Crown Prince returns after everything is over. After that, if he voluntarily gets excommunicated... Isn''t this also a story?

    My still gaze], he knew it and shut his mouth.

    If Frederick''s marriage problem never subsides, there is no better way to solve it than the method Serpens suggested.

    It was very disrespectful to use the fact that a priest who worships the god Luxmea cannot marry, but as it is for the future of the continent, Luxmea will pass over with great generosity.

    Later, when Frederick tries to leave the Order, many things will come up, but that is a matter to be resolved then.

    There is no disagreement with Serpence''s opinion, but I didn''t know that such a thing would come out...''''

    "Then, Seonwoo, why did you think that one was better?"

    Even though he had no feelings for Frederick as much as he had for a long time, when he thought of that assumption, I thought he would unconsciously feel a sense of betrayal.

    I guess I really had no idea. However, I do not intend to correct the choice.

    It''s better than being betrayed. Oh, of course Serpens doesn''t believe him.

    I know you are. Still, I just wish it was.

    Whether you use someone else''s acquaintance or use your acquaintance to hit the back of the head. Both are very evil in that they exploited the relationship between people.

    Among them, the reason I chose the one in front is because I hope that Serpens, who has just started learning human relationships, will not be wary of friendliness and goodwill any longer.

    It''s still a high wall, so if you go higher, no one can climb it.

    is it.

    Serpens nodded with a look of incredulity.

    As if that was the end of what he had to say, he silently processed the paperwork, and I moved my gaze to the desk.

    Now it was full of familiar administrative terms.

    * * *

    Serpence''s request for an audience was quickly accepted.

    Welcome, Prince Prasidus!

    As soon as we entered the drawing room of the second palace, Frederick was restless and greeted Serpence.

    I''m seeing you again sooner than I thought.

    As if he had no face, he smiled bitterly and looked at Serpens who said that, giving Frederick a worried expression.

    I''m sorry, I didn''t know things would turn out like this...

    No, I should have been more careful, but I couldn''t.

    Ser to Frederick who is apologizing

    Pence made a slurp in his mouth. This made Frederick even more apologetic.

    You have to sit down first.

    He offered Serpens a seat, and he sat down too.

    Whether it was calculated based on the time Serpens reached the palace, the maid came in just in time, placed a teacup in front of the two of them, and poured the properly brewed tea.

    Then, the maid quietly set the teapot down and went out quietly and closed the door.

    The rest are the 2nd Prince and Serpens,

    The servant and I, whom I had seen before. Only four in total.

    Once again, the two superiors were seated, and me and the servant were standing.

    "You haven''t been around for a while?"

    It''s just me as usual. Is the Duke any better than that?

    Frederick was even more annoyed by Serpence''s leisurely manner.

    It seems to me that the serpence is in trouble because of him. I''m sorry. I think he''s about to die.

    He seemed to be looking at Frederick calmly, wondering if he was doing something like that.

    It''s really good, so don''t worry.

    Serpens folded the corners of her eyes and smiled like an angel with a benevolent smile. If you look at it, it is a face that seems like the worries of the world will disappear.

    Thanks to that expression, Frederick seems to be barely stable.

    I''m sorry, because of me, as a duke, I''ve been dishonored for being involved in the struggle for the throne.

    Neither is it.

    Despite Frederick''s anxious words, Serpens still responded with a soft smile and voice.

    "Isn''t that the story of when the battle for the throne was established?"

    If you do well, it''s as if such disgrace never existed in the first place.

    Perhaps he understood the meaning, and Frederick let out a short exclamation, ''Ah-''.

    "Are there still a lot of people approaching you?"

    The numbers are almost cleared up, and the rest are pretty persistent, so that''s just annoying.

    Is it because they think that they are annoyed by their constant cumbersome behavior, and that even Serpense, who openly tried to help, is embarrassed?

    Frederick said in a slightly nervous tone.

    "May I ask where the rest of the family is?"

    In response to Serpence''s question, he nodded lightly and gestured to the attendant. Was it prepared in advance knowing that such a story would come out?

    I took out my notebook and handed it to Serpens.

    It''s a record of your visits.

    With those words, Serpens opened the notebook he had taken. When I glanced at the inside of the notebook, it seemed difficult to read unless I looked closely at the dense writing in small letters.

    Frederick sips the car while Serpens scans it.

    Well sir.

    Serpense, who has checked it to the end, tries to hand over the notebook again, but Frederick is the one with the one he has rather than himself.

    He declined saying it would be useful.

    ''Is this meant to select families that could harm the empire?''

    Like a lottery ticket, for example.

    In the meantime, the people who flocked to Frederick bought lottery tickets with the aim of making a fortune.

    And the remaining ones join the lottery number analysis site and pay money to get a number, or calculate the probability based on the past winning numbers.

    or calculate.

    You can think of them as people who are seriously risking their lives for the lottery.

    They are the ones who will take care of their own greed rather than the safety of the Empire when they are young.

    Thank you. I think it will be very helpful.

    I''m getting help, but that''s what you''re saying...

    Frederick scratched his cheek in embarrassment.

    And this is a last resort, but if you''re having a hard time, it might be a way to return to the church for a while.

    all.

    For a moment...

    He nodded slightly, whether he understood the meaning of Serpence''s words, or whether he had come to a conclusion after thinking for a moment.

    Do I really need to leave it last?

    Rather than wondering why, it''s probably about using that number right now.

    " Are you okay?"

    Even if it wasn''t okay, Serpens asked as if surprised, saying that he would have forced him to join the church if he didn''t.

    "Of course, I have no intention of going in right away.

    Are you going to make an official announcement that you will join the church if you force them to marry like now?

    That alone won''t make them completely give up, but they won''t rush in as recklessly as they do now, as the prey they''ve been driving may run away.

    Wouldn''t it be better to take a little more time and approach it slowly?

    It''s going to be a long game, so in the meantime Argen

    It seems that we can calmly investigate why the Duke Toh family moved.

    Yes, I understand.

    Serpens smiled softly and nodded.

 CH 111

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 111

    27. Deputy Butler of the Duchess (1)

    Currently, it seems that the intelligence group of the Prasidus family and the intelligence group of the Argento family are checking each other under the water.

    ''Everyone said they have an information group... .''

    The words are not secret, it must have been a normal daily life among the great aristocrats.

    Judging by the fact that they said that they were not even nobles of the capital, but great nobles, they had their own

    There is no doubt that the league is unfolding.

    While they confronted each other and bound each other, Serpens did not completely let go of each other.

    Serpens, who used the secret passage to get out of the duke''s residence without anyone knowing, hid in the dark area.

    And it is said that using them, he started to investigate the families connected to the Duke of Argento.

    ''I hoped not to use it as much as possible... .''

    Reading my sign that I don''t like it

    As a matter of fact, Serpens added a further explanation.

    In order to make sure that the sniper of the Duke of Argento is not obtrusive, even irrelevant families were inserted anyway.

    Thanks to this, the information merchants in the dark district would be busier, but that was not something Serpens had to care about.

    They say that even if you get caught, cut off the tail and that''s it, what can you say about that?

    ''If a demon appears later in the dark, I have to overturn it in a flashy way so that no data can be retrieved .''

    Of course, not me, but Serpens.

    It wasn''t just that.

    There was no way Serpens, who took care of other people''s affairs, left it to a dark place that was not under the duke''s family to collect information and waited.

    He was going out every night because he was doing the research on the Duke of Argento, which is the most important part.

    ''Thanks to you, I was able to know these things.''

    You look kind of tired these days, so I asked if there was anything wrong with me.

    He divulged some facts.

    If I hadn''t noticed, I would have been bewildered to see that everything was finished without knowing anything.

    And now... .

    "How many things are you doing at once?"

    After work, I visited his library in the evening and found him sitting upright in front of a desk with a statue of a polite cat, reading a book.

    ''Yes. It''s as good as reading a book, that''s it.''

    but the book is no longer in use

    not. It was a bit of a problem that it consisted of ancient sacred characters that were only used within the church even before the empire was established.

    Although it was the first time I saw it, the reason I could immediately recognize that it was a sacred script was thanks to the description of the divine character mentioned in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Sacred texts were, strictly speaking, more like codes of complex symbols than letters.

    I can''t even feel the regularity between each letter, which should exist in a letter with a single system.

    How are you? Do you know something?

    I''ve been reading for a while... but I don''t know if I''m interpreting or deciphering right now.

    Liena took a deep breath and looked through the booklet with the interpretations of the sacred characters, and ran her finger on the text written on the tombstone.

    It was exactly as described.

    It was more complex and bizarre than the characters that make up the magic scroll. I can''t figure out why he wrote that character, but it''s so difficult that I can understand why it''s been obsolete.

    To add to the exaggeration, it seems like it was created with the purpose of making sure that no one writes it and no one reads it.

    ''By the way, when did you start doing research on Luxmea?''

    It''s not an urgent matter right now, I''m curious

    If you do, I don''t know why you''re already doing something that won''t be too late even if the continent regains peace in the future.

    It must be said that he does not have a word in his dictionary to put off work and take a break.

    ''''Have you been sneaking into this sect and tampering with the book?

    It''s not like that.

    Oh, yes. Of course you do. You must have borrowed it without permission.

    Hearing my sarcastic remark, he took his eyes off the book and let me go with a dissatisfied expression.

    Isn''t it natural to be found out when the bookshelves are empty? You can rest assured that you can read the church''s books on the spot.

    That is very reassuring.

    It''s a hundred times true, but it doesn''t mean that he infiltrated anyway. dangerously.

    "Then what is that book?"

    I found it in the Darkside.

    Turning the bookshelf with elegant gestures, Serpens answered.

    "By the way, was it originally a holy place?"

    It is said that while he was in a dark place to investigate information, he was cleaning up the interior, and found something that someone had collected and stole it.

    What was discovered in the early days of the dark district, which was wandering around in the course of their struggle for power, seems to have been compiled by a person who recognized the value of it.

    The interpretation of the sacred text is strictly managed by the denomination, so it seems that the contents cannot be read, but someday it will be sold at a high price.

    They said they had it because they thought they could eat it.

    I didn''t pay anything for that and just brought it.

    Perhaps he lamented that he would have put it up for auction as soon as Serpence left.

    "So, do you have any income?"

    Not at all. Like Seonwoo, there was no mention of a different world, let alone a case where the marks were transferred to another person''s body.

    Yes?

    In answer to his gloomy words,

    I couldn''t help but feel stunned.

    Is that what you were looking for? Of course, I thought Luxmea was investigating the case of Ghan''s involvement in my eyes... No, sending down beings from another world is a huge intervention. Still...

    I thought Sunwoo would be the first to ask about it]. Wasn''t it?

    it can''t be

    Still, what made me feel a bit stunned was that he didn''t know that he would even care about such a thing.

    ''Even though I said it was okay, I must have been very interested in you.''

    Whether he researched it intensively or recognized it side-by-side while investigating other things, it was possible because he had a heart for me.

    That alone is something to be thankful for, but it was also strange and heartwarming to see him grimacing, saying that it was not helpful.

    It''s worth it. If there was someone from another world like me, I''d be able to tell you a book or a story about it, even if it wasn''t a book in the church.

    He must have come.

    " Sunwoo claims that he is the average of that world, so if he says so, it must be so."

    "What does that mean?"

    For some reason, it sounds like you''re saying that if it wasn''t for someone like me, I wouldn''t have been openly suspicious or found out by others.

    When it comes to the intervention of the god Luxmea, there are things like this.

    "Are you chewing my words now?"

    God Luxmea did not impose any restrictions or restraints on the beings of the continent.

    all. Just watching and reaching out to those who hope and hope for salvation. The rules were created solely out of human need, and he did not regulate them either."

    Perhaps it wasn''t the part he was reading right now, Serpense memorized it solemnly as he slowly closed his eyes and recalled the contents.

    Its appearance seemed to convey the word of God, so it looked noble and sublime.

    But unlike that... .

    How long does it take to be the last sentence?

    yo. This?

    Yeah. It''s a perfect story to get caught up in this gang if you gossip about it.

    Serpens opened his eyes and smiled brightly.

    "The statement ''the strongest divine power'' in the condition of the owner of the holy sword turned out to be false, didn''t it?"

    "I understand what you are trying to say. In the first place, the divine power is a power that has a large genetic influence. Moreover, as long as that power does not go away just by making offspring, it is the government and priesthood that prevent priests from marrying. to separate

    this would be As an added bonus, there must also be a purpose to prevent private use of it."

    To summarize, it is said that Humanus is being treated as an eunuch because what was just a custom was passed on as a rule that must be obeyed unconditionally.

    Like a poor guy

    Still, it''s a little bit difficult to tell the Crown Prince.

    Yes. Aside from the content that denies the norms set by the denomination, it is not that the conditions for becoming the master of the Holy Sword are clearly stated.

    You can''t take a risk on an issue that hasn''t been addressed, so the one who leaves it as it is will not tell you.

    Anyway, Humanus defended it well in [Master of the Holy Sword] and overcame it, so I believe he will do well this time as well.

    It is not easy to say that it is someone else''s business.

    "So why did you come to see me?"

    What could be considered information was whether it was my ex-wife, and Serpens later asked the purpose of my visit.

    Since I had delivered all the things I had to convey in [Master of the Holy Sword] as soon as I remembered them, I don''t have any more words to say, so the question is why did you come here?

    "Are you just here to play?"

    As if he didn''t understand English at my answer, he widened his eyes and tilted his head.

    Oh, why! You can just come over to your friend''s room for no reason!

    " Is that so? Indeed, even the Crown Prince would come and say things like that."

    Before, Serpence also broke into my room and said things like that? It''s also in a room without an owner!

    uh... .

    As if there was nothing to refute my words, he touched the corner of the bookshelf he was about to turn and avoided his gaze.

    "Originally, all of our friends are like that. Even in the world we used to live in, we would go out to eat, play games, and sleep in our friends'' rooms."

    " Is that so?"

    That''s it. If you''re a best friend,

    We should go to Law''s room to play!

    When I open my chest and speak confidently, Serpence seems to be thinking about something with a stiff face, ''Ummm '' and drooled.

    "Then should I move to my room?"

    He must have been seriously contemplating something like that, since he''s not the only person he''s ever seen for 25 years, his self-proclaimed friend, Humanus.

    I''m not referring to just one real ''room'', I''m referring to personal space.

    Right.

    This guy must understand only the dictionary definition of human relationships and emotions.

    As proof, if it was a different topic, didn''t the guy who pretended to pretend and understood, just looked at the words on the outside and accepted it as it is.

    In that sense, I plan to come here often, but can I change this into a long sofa? It''s hard to read a book while lying down.

    " the sofa is not meant to lie down, but to sit and read a book."

    Cross the body in a single-seater armchair

    So, lying crumpled up and tossing and turning, I opened the novel that I had brought with me, and Serpens spoke in a absurd voice as if teaching.

    No! So Serpence has never been on the couch before? Has he never read a book lying down or lying down?

    Is that surprising...?

    of course!

    It''s a pity that I got a seat at the most, so when I jumped up and asked a question, he made a face that he couldn''t do this.

    Please try it later. Then

    You will never be told to sit back and read a book again!

    " Ummm."

    It was obvious that he was unsure of what to try, or when I wasn''t there.

    Feeling like I had done something, I crumpled back into the armchair.

    Are you reading a book saying you came to play?

    Looks like you''re busy. If you''re a serpent, won''t you reduce your sleep time if you don''t read all of your target today?

    Just keep doing what you''re doing.

    Serpence looked at the opened book and me, and then closed the book.

    Sunwoo.

    why?

    If you have a book to read with you in mind, it''s hard to see that you''re here to play without meaning...

    Look, he''s such a guy.

    Even though he was able to dig into the words that were just slurred and immediately recognize the truth, he was acting so bluntly before.

    I''m going to stop reading today.

    really?

    Yes. However, there is nothing else to do, whether it''s a room or a study, so let''s talk and play today.

    Live and live, the words to play will come out of this guy''s mouth. But I don''t think it''s meant to be a real sleepover.

    I know that I was referring to telling you to confide if you have something to say, but it''s still impressive for nothing.

 CH 112

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 112

    27. Deputy Butler of the Duchess (2)

    I opened the book and put it back on my chest.

    It''s just a little uncomfortable.

    Better than that now?

    This posture is uncomfortable, too. So, isn''t that why you asked for a chair change?

    " that''s shameless."

    We decided to have a conversation, so it must have been a call to sit down

    They asked for an environment in which they could hang more comfortably, so even thinking about it, I was terrified.

    I have no intention of fixing it though.

    "Actually, Zeon is a bit sensible You can''t come here, right?"

    "Did something happen?"

    Rather than anything happened, I got some questions from him yesterday...

    After work, Xeon suddenly came to my room.

    I wonder if it''s just that the brothers don''t talk too much while living under the same roof

    D, I couldn''t take it anymore.

    And I went to ask a few questions in a way that seemed to be asking just out of curiosity.

    "Why does the new knight-sama call the younger brother ''senpai''?"

    or,

    [ By the way, the Duke and I were like friends? These days, the study seems to be coming and going, how did you become so close? ]

    or whatever.

    Well, those questions? These are questions worth asking out of curiosity, but it''s a bit difficult to answer the truth.

    "So what did you say?"

    After hearing my story, Serpens asked with an anxious expression.

    Lord Winston said that I was the greatest in my experience serving Serpens, and he only told me about sagas he had with demon worshipers on the streets of Semita. Let''s go Why is your expression like that?"

    When talking about Winston, Serpens nodded his head slightly with an expression of ''That''s a good excuse.''

    This is the best, I''m sure!

    At my words, Serpens looked at me with an expression that seemed to be not the only one, and shook his head as if feeling impermanent, shaking his head and brushing it off.

    "What could be more important to being friends?"

    I can''t bite the answer I''ve already spit out, so let''s skip this one time.

    Would it be so terrifying to hear that you had a crush on me?

    The guy who used to eat cream puffs as a snack with me before is quite unfair.

    "Anyway, are you saying that I ran away to my study because I was afraid I would be asked another difficult question?"

    It''s not that the question itself is a problem, but it''s because my On thought of me on the day I returned from going to the Bar Stool Kingdom. This isn''t a normal conversation between brothers, it feels like a search battle, so...

    I haven''t heard of such a thing. Did that person think of you, Seonwoo?

    "Uh, didn''t you know?"

    Wasn''t all the conversations in this mansion meant to be heard by Serpens?

    Of course, I thought that would be the case, so I didn''t say it right away.

    ''Come to think of it .''

    Now that I come to think of it, Serpens, who was worried about my physical condition, went into the main building first to give me a quick rest.

    And I must have handled the paperwork that was pushed back from the office... .

    Me and Zeon moved to the annex where the dormitory was located, and Hans stayed there to clean up and gave instructions to the attendants .

    ''If Xeon and I kept our mouths shut, Serpence wouldn''t know, right?''

    He seemed to be maintaining security for nothing, and showed me the troublesome writing about the rolling paper.

    "What was the conversation going on that day?"

    With the eyes of why you hid such a story from yourself, Serpens bruised me.

    I dug up like

    I explained the circumstances that day... .

    I thought about it twice.

    While I and Serpens were away, Xeon must have heard stories about me from Hans and the Duke''s family.

    And just as Serpens felt a sense of alienation between Zion on paper and the real me, Xeon must have felt the same.

    So he asked me if I was his older brother.

    ''I was in a situation where I could dismiss my fatness as an excuse and pass it on as a joke between brothers...

    Even if I had taken Zion''s place with a bad heart, I would have stabbed it without any risk, as I could have thought that these brothers were playing like that.

    But the cufflinks were a little impulsive?

    I have something to check for a moment.

    Serpence, who was showing signs of worrying about something, got up from his seat as if he was about to go outside.

    "Are you going to Xeon?"

    " Are you worried about him even in this situation?"

    I grabbed the hem of his robe passing by me, stopped his footsteps, and asked a question. Serpens looked down at me with strange eyes.

    I''m sorry. Even though it''s irrelevant to my will, I stole a precious brother from him]. It''s not just stealing, it''s like swallowing Zion''s very existence. He will recognize me as not him, then the real poem

    On will leave no traces of it in this world... . How could he not worry about his family?"

    As if to stop the flow of guilt, Serpens carefully wrapped his hands around the hem of his own clothes.

    I just have documents to check, so I just want to bring them.

    Documents?

    Yes.

    Looking at those calm eyes, even me, my heart calmed down. finger

    Power is released from the lock.

    Serpens took my hand away from his clothes and placed it on top of the book I had placed on my chest.

    I''ll be back soon, so don''t worry about it and read that book.

    If your superior orders it, of course it should. There is no other aide in the world who listens so well as me.

    It''s not ''good'', it''s ''not''.

    As he spoke eloquently, he grinned and left that one word.

    I opened the library door and went out. And before I had even filled the 10th time I turned the page, Serpence returned.

    ''He said he would come soon, but he came really quickly.''

    In his hands were more documents than I had read.

    "What is it all about?"

    The resume submitted by Zion Rivelon and the documents that Seonwoo has been processing so far.

    I closed the book and took over the papers he handed over.

    The first chapter was a resume written by Zion, and from then on, what I wrote was arranged sequentially.

    I turned the pages one by one and looked at it slowly, but all I could feel was the thought of praising myself for improving my ability to work.

    What is this... , uh?

    When I finally returned to the first chapter of what had been written earlier in the day, I felt a great sense of alienation.

    The handwriting is changing.

    Iknow, right.

    I thought I should reflect on myself, who is gradually turning into a bad pen.

    At first, because it was an unfamiliar character, it was written in Zion''s handwriting as I was accustomed to it.

    As I flipped through 3 or 4 pages at a time, it clearly caught my eye.

    Originally, the world obeys the law of equivalent exchange. If you get the ability to work in exchange for a typeface...

    I believe in such nonsense.

    There can be people.

    How they come up with such thoughts, the idea itself is a strange expression.

    Ah, why! If you work too hard, your hands may get in a hurry, so the writing may be a bit bizarre!

    I''ll admit it if Sunwoo''s speed of processing becomes equal to mine.

    "I think writing in easy-to-understand letters is a part of my job."

    Isn''t it a foul to write fast and have a pretty font?

    Inwardly, I swear that I must find out what he can''t

    see. But whether there is such a thing. It feels like a meeting at the same time as the promise.

    "In the case of administrators and deacons, I would have no doubts because I have been in contact with the documents written by Seon-woo every day "

    Xeon isn''t like that.

    I showed these documents to Xeon and followed his busy work, so I wondered if he would believe me even if I explained that it just happened like this.

    Even if he asks, it would be suspicious to bring up the evidence right away.

    Wouldn''t it only deepen the suspicion again?

    ''Now what?''

    I managed to get over it at the time, but it probably didn''t dispel all doubts.

    Perhaps even thinking that I passed it on was my own mistake, and he may have been suspicious of me ever since.

    No, why am I the only one who keeps winning awards like this?! If you read the novel of possessive water, everyone just melted in without any sense of incongruity!''

    A character who had a personality like a chap or a timid character suddenly changed 180 degrees one day and became a completely different person.

    Even if it happens, is it the basic premise of possessives that the people around you, including your family, watch the change with happy eyes?

    Even if we didn''t say it out loud, wasn''t that promised?

    I guess this is the difference between fantasy and reality.

    Anyway, it''s definitely not my fault.

    All of this is Luxmek..., Luxmea''s fault. At least, I should have prepared someone with a similar tendency to mine, wouldn''t this happen when I put it in a completely weird guy?

    There will be no one like you anywhere in the world.

    shameful guy.

    In such a case, you should have always taken my side unconditionally.

    It must have been that he had no respect for God at all, and it seems that he could not ignore the curse of Luxmea, the only god.

    Such an attitude is the cause of high-income conflict.

    Uh huh... If you get caught, I can listen to your resentment, but after that

    is a problem.

    Why do you have to listen to your complaints? It''s not Seonwoo''s fault.

    "Even so, it is inevitable."

    One day, the real family suddenly disappears somewhere, and if someone you don''t know is acting like that, you will have no choice but to resent him.

    "Originally, people have to live by exhausting their negative emotions."

    Before arguing for good or bad, first

    Finding someone to blame and express your anger to. Isn''t it something like a basic human instinct to avoid being engulfed by negative emotions?

    You know what the real problem is, Serpens better, don''t you?

    He pursed his lips with a dissatisfied expression.

    Because I don''t have a child... Anyway, it''s a situation where an unknown stranger is in the body of the family. Isn''t this a perfect situation for misunderstanding in many ways?

    If that''s the case, isn''t it enough for me to defend you? If I say that you are the messenger of God Luxmea like last time. Although I am not the master of the Holy Sword, I did something similar to awakening on the day of my choice, so would you believe me if I told you that I received a revelation at that time? don''t know either.

    It was the same with this child, Eugene, and he exaggerated guarantees. It''s a big day guy.

    What if you don''t believe it? Besides, you''re making up a revelation that you haven''t received...! The messenger of God is not wrong when you put it together, but it''s not a fake!

    Do you want to walk the Ruin Route?!

    No, what''s that expression again?! Follow my friend on the way to Gangnam to follow Yubun-suji, wherever I go! Oh, of course, that doesn''t mean I''m going to walk the ruined route...

    In the future, I will try to reduce the suspiciousness. And I''ll have to think of an excuse to convince them when they get caught... .

 CH 113

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 113

    27. Deputy Butler of the Duchess (3)

    What''s the point of looking into a lost and ruined barn?

    I returned the document containing the change of handwriting in my hand to Serpens.

    Without even having to turn his head, the figure of Serpens lying on the armchair and handed the documents to the ceiling was captured from a low angle.

    How long are you going to stand? My legs won''t hurt I''m sure.

    Serpens looked down at me with a cold gaze. It is an expression of whether you are qualified to point out other people''s attitudes now.

    Originally, conversations with friends are supposed to be in a comfortable position. Serpens are very polite and well-rounded.

    You''re so comfortable.

    If you twist, Serpens will also lie down.

    It was a looking down angle.

    The effect is that Serpens with an angelic face lowers his eyes with an absurd expression and sends a stern gaze.

    was awesome!

    I took a lot of damage!

    I had no choice but to get up and sit down according to the official usage of the chair.

    You said you won''t read any more books today, so why don''t you just put down those papers and bring a chair over here?

    I was still half lying down, reclining in my armchair. Still, Serpens must have given me a high score for sitting with my buttocks on the chair.

    He puts the received papers on the desk.

    Putting it aside, he gently picked up the desk chair and moved it closer.

    ''''Oh! The first day I went to work, Serpence will give you anything you need, so what you said to me is still valid, right?"

    Looks like a lot of it has been adapted?

    He sat down on the chair he had brought and said as if exasperated.

    ''''What about it, as long as it makes sense!

    Serpence, who said something that could be used as an excuse, was wrong.

    As I said with a smirk, he struggled for a moment and eventually nodded slightly.

    it was Anyway, I mean to listen.

    If you want me in the current situation, I''ve said that it''s not okay to cut off the deputy butler. Can I send it to Yeongjuseong?

    Somehow, the word "cutting" sounds very mundane.

    By the way, even if it''s administrative, isn''t it actually demotion rather than dispatch to move away from the owner from the standards of butlers?

    Where are you going to find Hans'' successor?

    If we can''t find him, we''ll have to call in the person who is on the field. I heard that he also received training as a butler...

    Wow, a kkondae mind.

    Rather than collecting information while working as a butler, I''m talking about the grandson of Hans, who is said to be a fielder].

    What kind of era is the present age, forcing the family business that you don''t like".

    ''Ah. That was the time, right!''

    Fortunately, Serpens tilted his head as if he didn''t know what kkondae meant.

    "Well, whatever it is. I told Xeon that I was close to Serpence, but what would he think of him if I let him go away under suspicious circumstances?"

    Putting potential threats out of sight to avoid the current situation is not how Serpence works.

    They had to either uproot the source of the threat or, if not, keep it nearby and monitor it.

    ''You think it''s your fault.''

    Other than that, he would say

    there was no milk

    Anyway, this timid fence. had to know

    Things are twisted, Min-, where is Serpence''s fault alone? There''s a reason why I put off my family and put off telling the truth.

    but I should have considered the possibility that you and Zion Rivel Ron were separate people.

    "This is not a world where things like possessive objects, regressions, and reincarnations exist. If you doubted me, you would not know; believing

    How do you come up with that?"

    Maybe the worldview itself is fantasy enough, or the general literature is fantasy enough, so there''s no such thing as a fantasy novel.

    It''s really unfortunate.

    I understand the possession... but what do regression and reincarnation mean?

    It''s just our world novel.

    A world that expresses that there is no magic to turn back time, and that death is embraced in the arms of the god Luxmea.

    Possession, I am right in front of you, and there are cases when a demon or a spirit is attacked by a person.

    there is. There should be no problem in understanding.

    But the other two are different. Is it sometimes used to mean that regression returns and reincarnation means that you die and come back to life?

    Since it is such a worldview, the concept itself must sound vague.

    ''''Anyway! The point is, I don''t know, so don''t be too sorry for me. You''re just thinking of me, aren''t you?

    But the result is...

    People make mistakes and live while making mistakes! Even good intentions can turn into bad just because the results aren''t good.

    is not it? The methods and results are a bit different, I know for sure that they tried to help me by thinking on their own, but I don''t want to blame them for that. Thank you and it''s just wonderful, what!

    With that said, what should I say about Serpense''s expression... .

    It reminded me of a child who broke the bowl while secretly washing the dishes, saying he was going to help my mother.

    I thought I would be scolded, but I was worried that I would get hurt, and it was as if I had even heard the words thank you for helping me.

    that''s the look

    Surprised by the noise of the vessel breaking, and bewildered by the sharp fragments scattered here and there.

    I was scared because I thought I would get scolded, but I was relieved because I didn''t do it, and I''m sorry that it did harm against my intentions to help.

    Still, thank you so much for taking care of yourself first.

    The feeling of saying thank you again fills me with emotion and guilt.

    All of those emotions are mixed together, like a crying child who doesn''t know what to do and just rolls her feet.

    Somehow, everything will go well! If the youngest child is born anyway, I''ll have to go down to Rivelon''s estate, but if it''s going to be easy, I''d rather only get caught by one Xeon and get help from him...

    Sunwoo.

    ''''Of course it''s best not to get caught at all, yes.

    Wow, you''re staring at me very terribly.

    Of course, the people who stared fiercely with their mouths closed with tears on their faces, rather than being a threat, they felt like they were harassing a child, so their conscience just pricked me.

    Anyway, it''s not about Xeon.

    Then, it must have been the intention to change the subject in a sneaky way.

    "There is no point in worrying about looking at the water that has already been poured."

    I might be able to wipe it off though.

    The carpet has already eaten up.

    Serpens let out a long sigh, ''Hi-.''

    If the ground can be extinguished with a sigh, it has the momentum to penetrate the 5th floor of the peacock''s mansion and dig into the depths of the earth.

    "It was something I was trying to say before.

    yo. This?

    He was suspicious of my words, but he blinked softly as if to tell him something.

    It''s about the debt I owe Serpens.

    uh... . It''s not a lot of money in terms of my personal assets, but it''s not even an amount I''d just give my aide... . It may be misunderstood that it is stolen for the purpose of making slush funds or using it for other illegal purposes. .

    Serpens answered with a smirk.

    Rather than being misunderstood, I''d say it''s possible that you might be caught off guard like that.

    It''s not public money and he spends his money as he wants.

    ''It''s true, it''s hard to live with integrity.''

    Since I''ve always lived so cleanly, it''s as if the little dust on the paper seems to have been spilled with ink. It''s just dust that can be blown away cleanly.

    Those who grab it and rip it apart as if it''s going to tear a piece of pure white paper

    This is the problem.

    ''I don''t know if it was before the Day of Choice or if he had been chosen by the Holy Sword.''

    He was no longer the savior of the continent. You can tell just by looking at the Duke of Argento right now.

    ''Especially the devil worshipers are the problem.''

    Even in [Master of the Holy Sword], didn''t he try to keep the Serpens in check and use the dark side to estrange his relationship with Humanus?

    "Is there something that happens that you have to run out of big money in a hurry?"

    No, it''s not like that...

    If you''re short on salary, shouldn''t you reduce the money you send to the Rivelon family?

    When it comes to spending, it''s all about snacking...

    He frowned as if he didn''t know what he was trying to say.

    Serpense doesn''t understand that it''s just annoying to see the debt go out when you get your pay stubs.

    If you don''t need money right away, just wait a few months.

    "Will it be paid off in a few months?"

    It''s good news while listening. The amount of money was not as big as I thought .

    That''s a long way off, and there''s a salary negotiation instead.

    Is it too far...?

    By the way, I started working in May. Now, in about two months and a fortnight, a year is almost complete.

    Of course we''ll negotiate a salary, but I didn''t mean to pay off debt, I mean pay it back.

    Why is he making an expression of ''to the subject?'' rather than ''how?''

    Serpence said, ''Do you know who Ladrava is?

    "How does Seon-woo know him?"

    Ladrava.

    Hundreds of years ago, the name of the great thief who gained notoriety while active in the entire Canaan area was D-I.

    his identity has not been revealed

    I don''t know if that''s his real name.

    It''s just that after he stole something, he always left the four letters of Ladrava in his place, so he was called that.

    Of course, we didn''t send out a notice like it appears in our world''s cartoons.

    "Of course, I know because [Master of the Holy Sword?

    There was still plenty of time for Humanus to discover it.

    I didn''t read it by counting the months, but there were grounds for estimating it.

    It is said that he accidentally discovered the warrior''s armor during the ordeal of obtaining the second out of three.

    He must be on his way to his first trial now, so there is still time left.

    Later, when I had more time to spare, I was going to invite him to visit, but .

    ''I don''t see any sign of that!''

    Seeing what this guy is doing, I think he''ll create something that doesn''t exist.

    I''ll tell you first, then take the time to make an appointment or not. I came up with the idea that this can''t be the case.

    "Didn''t you tell me everything in that book?"

    I did all the important events as I remembered them. Oh, by any chance, during this period, what did the Crown Prince did, where and how he overcame God''s ordeal, and what he did while resting in between. Were you curious about that as well?

    It''s a waste of time to even listen to it.

    Say it like that''s a waste of time

    If so, what am I going to do with the time I spend reading it?

    Even if this child read novels, he would not have thought of anything other than the essential reading books for nobles that foster literary literacy.

    I must have read one more thesis while reading a fun-oriented novel for killing time.

    Anyway! I put all the treasures in the subspace pockets prepared there, sold them, and used them as funds for my activities.

    There were a total of 6 subspace pockets, one each, and the remaining one was sold.

    Is it okay to intercept something like that?

    Of course! I couldn''t get any support from the Empire, so I used it instead, so I don''t need it anymore, right? Handing over one of the pockets found is enough to manage the burden jointly, well.

    You can put your whole bag in your bag and take it out when you need it and hand it over.

    "So, where is it?"

    One of the mountains in the Kingdom of Terrarum.

    ''What''s the name of the mountain?''''

    .haha!

    He tried to move on with a smile, but Serpens''s eyes went cold. It was the eyes that said that you are so.

    The fact that it has not yet been found in the land of dwarves digging into any land with veins... It must be one of those places where all the veins were exhausted before the thieves were active and left unattended.

    Ah, that''s right! Abandoned abandoned mine!

    It''s an expression that tells you to say that first.

    "What else comes to mind?"

    In the process of containing the mountain of gold and treasure, the remains of a dwarf buried in it were found. Perhaps the remains of Rad Lava.

    There were not one but six subspace pockets, so it would have been much safer to carry treasures in them.

    But I dared to build them up by setting up traps in abandoned mines.

    The reason is .

    ''Looking at the golden sea, you probably want to swim in it.''

    And maybe he couldn''t get out of the process, so he was buried and died.

    Judging from the location of the ashes found and the fact that they suddenly stopped working and disappeared, there was no answer other than that.

    "So, he used the tools he made for the crime. All of the traps are mechanical traps he made himself, so they don''t get caught by magic detection, and still

    Does it work well?"

    Are you talking about asking the Crown Prince to purchase one of the found subspace pockets?

    Can you see this child?

    There was no need to even run a Serpense interpreter.

    ''You must have decided that it would be better to do something else with that time.''

    Even if he goes, he says he will not go because he has no benefit, is cumbersome, cumbersome, and has no interest in such treasures.

    coveting subspace pockets instead

    It was the same, so it was also a proposal to come to an agreement with that.

    You say you can do anything, you liar!

    "Isn''t that the Seonwoo''s own adaptation of my words?"

    Still, you acted like you''d listen to me earlier!

    I nodded my head and now come back.] Dani, I really did too much.

 CH 114

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 114

    27. Deputy Butler of the Duchess (4)

    After that, I found Serpens'' study.

    It''s the same whether it''s in my room or here anyway. If that''s the case, I''d rather be more comfortable here.

    Laying down on the long sofa, I idly read the novel I had borrowed from the Duke''s library.

    Serpence still digs into books with sacred characters.

    What has changed is that instead of sitting in front of a desk, you can sit comfortably with your back on the original armchair.

    At first, he held a book with his back straight. It seemed uncomfortable, so I put a cushion on my lap, put a book on it, and made him lean on his back, so a much more comfortable posture was completed.

    ''Ah, I wish I had a book stand that would make it easier to read while lying down!,

    I explained the smartphone or tablet cradle in the world I lived in to Serpence, and the cradle to hold the book

    It was commissioned to be produced, but only received with contempt.

    He looked at me with eyes as if he had given up on being human, and said that he could just sit and watch like himself... .

    I had to shut up quietly.

    I turned the last chapter of the novel I was reading and then closed it.

    I glanced at Serpence, and saw that the number of pages left in the book he was reading was few.

    ''Are you so fast?''

    Just a few days ago, I was reading through it at a very slow pace.

    This gradually increased, and now it is almost like reading a novel.

    At this point, it would not be an exaggeration to call him the first person in the divine character.

    "Would you like something to eat?"

    At this time?

    I read the book I had read until the middle of yesterday, so it was still only nine o''clock in the evening.

    It''s a bit early to have a late night snack.

    Early?

    These were words that came out of nowhere,

    It was such a great idea that I regretted why I only thought of it now.

    You''re going out later today, aren''t you? You''ll be hungry, but it''s better to have something to eat.

    I ate dinner, and in the first place, skipping a few meals is not a problem.

    It was February and it was still winter.

    However, Serpence already said that the nights get shorter when summer comes, and every other day, after midnight to investigate, he went out and wandered around.

    I''ll have to tell the kitchen in advance from next time. I''m late today, so can I bring the chocolate bar I bought for my room?

    It''s really good.

    I woke up on the island of Juseomju with the thought that I should remove the beef horns as soon as possible and go to the place I thought of.

    Are you saying that things like this are chewed up?

    No, where did you learn those words?!

    Serpent, who opened his eyes from the book, looked at me and chinked at me.

    As a sincere apology, I will offer you a bar of chocolate! Please grant me permission!

    Fufu-!

    Is this so funny?

    If it was normal, I would have said, ''It''s just because you want to eat, so don''t use my excuses for nothing.''

    He hadtily stopped the burst of laughter as if he had been attacked by an unexpected surprise with one hand and waved the other hand telling him to go.

    Then I''ll go!

    So I left the study and went down the stairs to the second floor]. I regretted it.

    ''You have to leave the main building, go to the annex, go up to the second floor where my room is, then come back and go up to the fifth floor?!''

    It was too much of a loss of stamina for a sacrifice just for a chocolate bar. thought was short.

    It felt like I was going to a convenience store in front of my house, and it was stupid.

    ''But to go back... .''

    I dared to recommend it to Serpens who said it was okay, and I did it because it was bothersome.

    I couldn''t shake it.

    Even if I pretend not to, I''m sure I''ll be looking forward to it. But how disappointed would I be if I returned empty-handed?

    It''s like giving candy to a child and stealing it.

    ''Let''s go and exercise, let''s go!''

    Now she has regained her original weight, but her older sister said that maintaining it is as difficult as dieting.

    I''m going to eat a high-calorie chocolate bar, so think of it as a calorie consumption for him.

    As if half-jumping, bow with a quick pace

    We arrived in front of the annex where the cow was.

    ''Are Hans and Xeon going to leave work by now?''

    Not only Hans, but Xeon''s room was also on the first floor.

    This annex is the building where I, the butler and assistant, stay, but it is also a building where guests stay, just like Solertia did in the past.

    It doesn''t matter if I''m on the same floor as my assistant, but if a butler who is a semi-noble but close to a servant does that, most nobles will be offended.

    There are only two butlers and me living in this building right now.

    Actually that was the problem.

    " Why is the light on the second floor on?"

    There is no need to count the windows and measure their location. it will be my room

    Since Serpence was in the mansion, there was no outsider to invade.

    I don''t know if it''s only one year after the demon itself who has signed a contract with the devil in earnest.

    Even if there was an intruder now, he would have noticed right away.

    If you''re an insider and someone who could sneak into my room... .

    '' ..Hans Lee Yangban again?!''

    In order to catch the scene, I climbed the stairs and carefully turned the doorknob while holding my breath.

    It seems to turn a little and then stops right away.

    also locked

    When I put my ear to the door, I heard a rustling sound from inside.

    ''Is something clumsy?''

    Carefully insert the key into the doorknob

    inserted and turned.

    - Crackle.

    As soon as I heard the sound of the lock being released, I jumped open the door and tried again. Then you see ".

    ". .Xeon?"

    Ahh-!

    - Cheeropduck.

    When the door suddenly opened, Zeon, who was running around, tripped and fell while trying to run to the bathroom with a secret passageway.

    I don''t know if it''s because he''s embarrassed or if he thinks he hasn''t heard it yet, but instead of getting up, Zeon lay face down and raised his hand to cover his face.

    "Xeon, what are you doing here?"

    I usually don''t think about whether I fell too hard or get up. Where did you hit it big?

    Approaching him, he reached out to grab him and to get up.

    "So what are you doing there?"

    What do you mean, I''m trying to get you up. What are you to hyung more than that?

    - Squeak.

    Xeon slammed my outstretched hand strongly.

    Brother? Where is your brother?

    Huh?

    ruined.

    Slowly I got up and the eyes glaring at me are terrifying.

    You don''t even recognize my family? Who the hell are you? Where''s my little brother!!

    It was discovered quickly without any reward at all. I couldn''t help but smile bitterly at the sight of him screaming like a scream.

    " how did you notice?"

    ,,lie .

    With his own mouth, I am Zion

    Even after denying that, I affirmed it, so he also denied it.

    I would like to deny

    I don''t think it really matters how you know...

    "Hey, what do you mean ?"

    As it is a family, there must have been plenty of reasons to find out.

    And looking through the room like this, there was no guarantee that today was the first time.

    These days... .

    ''No. Last month too [The Lord of the Holy Sword]

    [In] U] I went to Serpence''s study after work to tell a story, so it may have been since then.''

    Now is the time to be sure enough.

    Even so, I kept checking and checking without paying a vote, maybe because I wanted to be my real older brother, not someone I didn''t know.

    ''If I am not Zion, it means that Zion is in danger or has already become irreversible.''

    Due to the structure of the annex, Hans might be able to hear if you just have a conversation.

    He took out the soundproofing enchantment from the scroll bag he had left in one side of the room and tore it.

    The light spread out around the scroll and hit the wall, and a blue curtain was applied.

    ''''What, what... !

    Soundproof magic. It''s difficult if the sound leaks out.

    As Zeon took a step backwards with a pale blue face, he fell helplessly as if his legs had loosened.

    He trembled, biting my lip as if trying to come to his senses.

    all.

    ''Is it that shocking?''

    I thought that if I was found out, I would be grabbed by the collar and listen to the complaints.

    It was worse than that.

    It wasn''t that he was shocked, but he seemed to feel even more fear than that.

    He was trembling with fear, his wide-open eyes glaring at me with caution.

    "I, what are you going to do with me?"

    uh?

    "It was the same for me as it was with my younger brother.

    What are you going to do? Kill me, change me... .

    ...what?

    I needed a moment of reflection to look back on my words and actions.

    '' Isn''t that suspicious?!''

    It''s a shame because Zeon''s physical abilities aren''t as good as mine, but if it wasn''t for him, he would have attacked me right away, subdued me, and handed it over to the church.

    I saw that there was some misunderstanding...

    What kind of misunderstanding is a misunderstanding! Now, I don''t think you''re going to claim that you''re the little brother.

    would you?"

    The sight of him shouting at me with his blood-red eyes, writing evil while trembling in fear, was tragic in itself.

    As you said, I''m not the real Zion. I''m sorry.

    But that doesn''t mean I''m a demon worshiper or anything to do with it. I''m not a spy, and I have no intention of harming you. Soundproofing magic is just for quiet conversation with you.

    It''s a look that doesn''t believe anything.

    "What about my brother?"

    At least not in this one.

    No matter how many times I called, there was no answer, and no emotion came from him. Even after digging and digging, the information is dry

    So that''s the conclusion I came to.

    I am the only soul in this body.

    I don''t know the details.

    You don''t know why!

    I can''t help but not know! It''s me...!

    I didn''t want to take someone else''s life.

    all. Even when I lose my life.

    ''At least give me a notice... .''

    Me too, Zion.

    Each one gave his family time to say good-bye, such a vile god.

    Tears welled up.

    You, what the hell are you?

    Anyway, Zion''s whereabouts are not in this place, and it is because God Lux Smea put me in this place. Maybe God took it or it was in my original body.

    Xeon''s expression turned even more confused.

    Even so, the two eyes still had the light of vigilance. He must be doubting that I am acting.

    What''s your original body like?

    "Another world?"

    Did it sound too pretentious? It''s like he completely thought I was lying.

    As if it wasn''t worth listening to anymore, I was glancing at the scroll bag I had put on my back.

    Xeon, whose physical abilities are weak, must be able to defeat me.

    I''m sorry. Oh, I keep saying I''m sorry. Anyway, I''m sorry, but if I''m wrong, something big will happen. I can''t pretend I don''t know.

    I closed what I had left open to take out the soundproof scroll, so he wouldn''t take it away.

    Looksmea-sama sent it? Why? Evidence? And why did you take my brother''s body?

    I wonder if there was a calculation that I would be corrected if I tried to run away, Dali

    Since there is no way, it seems that he intends to draw something out through dialogue.

    i liked it too

    For the sake of the continent. The proof is that he knows in advance what will happen in the future. And Zion... because his destiny to die is imminent?

    Rather than that, he was actually Serpence''s assistant. It''s probably because it''s the easiest way to get in touch with him, but he wasn''t someone who had been around him before.

    Remember the last time I said I had ties to demon worshipers? I''m guessing it was because of that incident. I

    The future we know is from the day of our choice, and at that time, Zion was no longer of this world.

    "So, you were destined to die anyway, so it''s okay?"

    It doesn''t mean that...

    Or. Even if that body is alive, you left it, so do you want to hear a word of thanks?

    It''s like that...

    Why? The only future we know of is after the Day of Choice! But why did you have to live and your brother had to die?!

    Xeon cried out as if it was unfair and sad.

 CH 115

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 115

    27. Deputy Butler of the Duchess (5)

    The hostility that looked directly at me was more terrifying and painful than I thought.

    I was determined to endure any resentment, but I think my own defense came first.

    It may be as he said.

    It''s so unfair that I have to feel guilty every time I see Xeon.

    Even if I did not come to this world anyway, Zion is not a living person.

    it would have been you

    It''s not because I want to hijack Zion''s body, it''s because I''m also a victim.

    ''Maybe I don''t have to apologize to Zion and her family?''

    You may have been thinking about it unconsciously.

    In that way, he must have wanted to be forgiven and understood by his family.

    To Serpense, pretending to be mature, pretending to be soft, and pretending to be strong. He pretended to be Chuck and was running away.

    "At that time, the Duke must come to the rescue.

    didn''t you say that So, if you said you were safe, why did you say that the younger brother must have died in that incident?

    As I kept silent, he shouted again.

    It was a question of why Serpens did not save Zion but saved me, and I struggled to believe that all the stories I just talked about were excuses I made up.

    Everything I said was a lie, and that it was the god Luxmea who sent me was also a lie.

    You''d rather believe that all of this is the work of demon worshipers.

    If I was going to tell the future anyway, I was crazy thinking that I could have given him a chance by letting Shion know.

    However, the god Luxmea instead took Zion''s body and gave it to someone else.

    It felt as if it had been abandoned by God.

    I feel so sorry for my older brother like that.

    ''It was much better to deal with Serpens.''

    If dealing with him was the process of healing him, in the case of Zeon, it''s the opposite.

    There was a difference in the size of the wound, but somehow it had no choice but to inflict a wound. I feel like I''m being ripped off too.

    You can''t really do it twice.

    "I don''t know if you heard I came here to investigate the duke a little and because of that, the butler was monitoring me? It''s probably not the difference

    peel?

    It''s all true, but to say it''s because of the difference is a lie.

    Because it was Serpens who killed Shion.

    Are you saying that Hans wouldn''t have supervised the second brother? Could it be? He''s only been a few months, but he knows what kind of person he is. You or your brother or anyone else must have been monitoring him?

    The former aide didn''t watch?

    "The former aide and the new one who worked for over 10 years

    Are you the same as the aide who came in?

    The appearance of Xeon speaking with his face contorted, somehow caught the loopholes in my words and looked like a person who didn''t want to refute it.

    All I could say was that I wanted to admit that I was wrong.

    ''Yes. Hans, if it was the yangban, it would have been the same if anyone came, not me or Zion.''

    On a scale of one to ten, it really doesn''t help.

    It''s not that I didn''t think of other excuses.

    I returned my vacation and stayed in the capital, but since Sion returned to her hometown, it seems that Serpens could not find it in time... can''t say

    ''You said you died because you went to see your family? To a guy who cares so much about his family?''

    it''s not supposed to be said

    But, as I''d guessed, Zion was tricked by the demon worshipers to help frame the Serpens. So Serpens... .

    I can''t even talk like that.

    In the first place, he''s a guy who won''t believe anything I say.

    ...ha.

    Xeon was taken aback by the sigh that was exhaled in a frustrated heart.

    Even though he was pretending to be strong, he was still wary and afraid of me. The situation is not even wet.

    - 1[1 ...

    Suddenly something crumbles

    I heard it. The magic that had enveloped the room as if it were a coating dispersed.

    ''Is it still a long way from the end of the effect?''

    As I looked around in surprise, I saw an open door and Serpens standing in front of it.

    As the door opens, space also opens. As the shape of the magical film was distorted, the magic was destroyed.

    Serpens hardened his face, looking alternately at Zeon, who was sitting down like he was about to collapse, and me, who was standing with a scroll bag.

    It didn''t come even after a while, and even magic was activated, so I wondered what was going on...

    Although the time was delayed quite a bit, considering the time I had to go back, it was not enough to say that it was a long time.

    Maybe it was just that I sensed the magic and added an excuse to break the magic and come in for privacy.

    "What happened?"

    It was a question posed to the extent of confirmation, with the expression that he would roughly understand the meaning of the English language.

    Serpens entered the room and closed the door.

    "Did the master know?"

    In response to Zeon''s question, Serpens looked at me without saying a word. I meant to use scroll again.

    Unlike other magic scrolls, the number of scrolls with soundproofing effects was sufficient.

    of Solertia,

    "Aren''t there a lot of things to worry about when it comes to security when you''re a duke family? You know that you can''t achieve this effect with divine power, right? I have to tell you a secret right now, so will you come running to buy the scroll every time?"]

    I fell for the word , and the 10+1 bundle I bought was going to be used like this.

    I tore the scroll that had been stored in the safe behind the picture frame since I was assigned a room.

    Just when I head towards the safe

    Zeon''s puzzled face turned completely dark.

    ''...Serpence, isn''t he really trying to get a guarantee?''

    I would die of anxiety, but that didn''t mean I couldn''t stop soundproofing.

    Still, on the other hand, I thought that if it was a Serpence, it would somehow be able to overcome it.

    I don''t know how far the conversation went... If you were asking if you knew that Lord Zion was in a different world other than Zion Ribelon. Yes, I do.

    "Well, but why !"

    My On''s face, who had felt a sense of insecurity, was wet with a sense of betrayal.

    The floor is cold. Sit properly...

    You know, why do you still have the author by your side? Do you believe the nonsense that Luxmea sent him for the future of the continent?!

    Yes, I believe. Because I believe, I have it by my side.

    Serpens tried to raise Zeon, but Zeon avoided his hand.

    stood up alone

    Since when have you known? Knowing that... Did you hire me on purpose? What were you thinking...!

    that''s...,,

    No! The Duke only found out after the ceremony of choice was over.

    With eyes wondering what the hell are we going to do, my On looked at us.

    "Because I miss my family so much and you want me No, because I''m worried about Zion and want to work at the duke''s house. I don''t know that I''m not Zion.

    That''s all. Knowing that you are my real family... .

    "If you talk about your family like that, I , I !"

    He couldn''t utter a word after that. He looked at me with a confused expression.

    Really, is what I''ve said so far true?

    I could see Xeon''s eyes fluttering.

    According to the Duke''s rule, he forgot even that, while he was observing respectful words when Serpence was present.

    I don''t know what kind of expression he looks at me, or why he was shaken by his denial so much.

    Perhaps you are acting quite miserable.

    Luxmea-sama sent you, the younger brother is the one who should have died, and the body belongs to you, but there is nothing in it...?

    I nodded.

    "Then, is that the reason why he died?"

    I don''t know about that. All I know is after the Day of Choice.

    Do you think that makes sense? To tell you the future, put it in the body of someone about to die, and you''ve never heard of a way to avoid it. Believe that nonsense?

    I knew who killed him, so I hadn''t thought of it before, thinking that I only had to cover the serpence well.

    ''It''s really absurd... ?''

    I can''t believe what they say after that.

    Is this a mistake by Luxrexia, [Holy Sword]

    owner] Maybe the writer was the problem.

    That, that...

    If that''s the case, I''m guessing.

    Serpens, who had been watching our conversation quietly for a while, opened his mouth.

    Are you sure you''re not saying that Zion has become a demon worshiper?

    As if he had read my thoughts, he slightly tilted his head left and right.

    I''ll explain it to you, ...Kyung-eun, you better take a break.

    Serpense''s expression as he said that didn''t look too good either. Tears did not flow, but her face seemed to be crying more than the day she cried for two hours.

    Even if you tell him to rest, he doesn''t feel like leaving his seat and has nowhere to go.

    On the contrary, I thought it would make me more depressed if I was alone, so I sat on the bed vacantly.

    Serpens confirmed it and looked away from me.

    "At first, the two are different beings. They think and act differently.

    The premise that he would face the same perils that the original Zion Rivelon suffered was wrong.

    If you have a good excuse like that, please share it earlier.

    Do you know what the first thing he asked me on the first day of work? I wanted to live in the duke''s mansion, so he asked me to make a room for him.

    Hearing this, he is a very suspicious, strange, and ignorant guy.

    "It is common to have an aide in a mansion, but if you say that from the first day you go to work.

    " No."

    "The environment itself has changed since the first day."

    If so, there was no need to say how much has changed since then.

    Tears welled up in Xeon''s eyes.

    "Yeah I''m going to fix that timid personality "

    It was an unreachable word.

    Rather than blaming it, a bitter regret

    all.

    After exhaling a sad breath, I looked at Serpens in front of me, not someone who was not here.

    But then, why did the master come to believe in him? According to Han''s expression, he was a man with no spiritual credibility. He also admitted that he had investigated the master with his own mouth...

    It would be difficult to trust the person who investigates the boss from the first day of work, but I didn''t know that I would tell my brother straight away.

    Anyone who handles information should be cool and objective, but with that cool objectivity, he delivered a poignant evaluation without caring about his family.

    It is just a confrontation that stems from differences in ideology. However, the deacon does not completely deny Lord Zion''s method, and since he acknowledged it to some extent, would he not have accepted him as the deputy deacon?

    That''s right...

    Yes?!

    It was so unexpected, I was depressed

    I felt a sense of humor and doubts arose.

    ''I was hoping to take a break and calm myself down, but I didn''t mean to take a break like that... .'' Serpense''s gaze passed me by for a moment.

    And if he researched me, there was a good reason. He was envisioning a group for the purpose of saving the continent. And before accepting me as a member of that group, he conducted a preliminary investigation. It was just thrown.

    Somehow I think I know the name of the group.

    "A few months ago, it was widely known about its existence, so you must have heard of it."

    " Illuminati?"

    Yes, that''s right.

    It was also exactly what I expected.

 CH 116

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 116

    27. Deputy Butler of the Duchess (6)

    Thanks to Serpense, he seems to have avoided being accused of being a spy of a demon cult.

    When work is all over, hyung will be able to come back... right?

    The heated emotions subsided and subsided, and in a quiet voice, Zeon asked me a question.

    Those words of respect felt very distant.

    a little sad

    I do not know.

    you are?

    If you ask me if I can go back to where I used to live, I don''t know.

    After examining my expression closely, Xeon turned his head and sighed.

    Until I find out the exact whereabouts of my brother, I will never be able to accept you as an assistant.

    I understand.

    I''m not going to treat you like family anymore.

    you].

    But I don''t mean to disturb you... Other than that, let''s do it like we have so far.

    I didn''t mention it directly, but I guess I also noticed that I had entered Zion''s body unintentionally.

    There was still a feeling of resentment on my face, but I didn''t say it out of my mouth.

    Then I''ll excuse you.

    Xeon came out politely, greeted Serpens, and left the room.

    " Isn''t Serpens going out?"

    Instead of going out, he

    He went further inside and pulled out the soundproof scroll from the safe he had left open and tore it apart.

    It''s already the third time today.

    Why are you tearing it up again? It''s late at night, so we''ll just have to talk tomorrow...

    No answer. He stood still, looking towards the wall where the safe was.

    "Me, Serpens?"

    I heard the sound of breathing in and out. I thought he was standing still, but his shoulders were shaking

    all.

    Are you crying?!

    Somehow, even though he laid out plausible false settings for Xeon, he couldn''t make up his facial expressions at all.

    Looking at me and Zeon, I should have recognized his face, who should have acted a sad and pityful expression, from the time when he was showing the emotion of pain because it was painfully sad.

    It must have been because he was holding back the tears that were about to burst out.

    Serpen...

    I''ll tell you when it''s hard!

    Suddenly, Serpens shouted out anguish. He turned and looked at me.

    The look in his eyes looked miserable as if he had been betrayed.

    Damn, how hard were you going to tell me?! After I''ve been down to the level I was before I met you?

    Tears from his eyes drenched his long, rich eyelashes and continued to flow down his cheeks and chin.

    "So , did I mean that I didn''t like you ?"

    A single word that felt sad and even miserable fell down heavily.

    It''s not like that. That''s what I was prepared for, but when it comes to reality, it''s more than I thought...

    Ugh... a dog whistle.

    Excuses would mean quitting.

    Why doesn''t Seon-woo hold a grudge against me? He did nothing wrong, but he said that he should bear his resentment.

    Serpence because he slept before

    I said that I might have come.

    At that time, he passed it as if it were passing by, but it seems that such a thought was still ingrained in his mind.

    Is it because I''m weak? So, in this lonely world, with no one to lean on, did you secretly feel so lonely? The only person who knew Sunwoo was too weak to lean on me. Because I depended on you too much ! , after all, because of me "

    Without even thinking of taking off the glasses that were in the way, he pushed them up with the back of his hand and rubbed the corners of his eyes.

    No matter how many times I wiped away the tears, they flowed non-stop and spread across my hands and face without wiping off.

    Serpens, come closer.

    I called him by tapping the seat next to him, and he quietly approached me and sat down while crying.

    What about the handkerchief?

    Hey, heh heh:

    Although the clothes are different from that time, items that are used right away, such as a handkerchief, are usually put in the same place.

    Recalling that he once pulled a handkerchief out of his pocket,

    I searched for you and found it.

    ''Should I pack some handkerchiefs now? .''

    He took off his glasses and wiped his eyes with a soft handkerchief.

    It''s not because I don''t believe in Serpence. It''s because I''m weak. I thought I was really okay? But this really I think it was harder than I thought. .

    lie.

    He''s still sobbing and shouting

    replaced with

    It''s true. If there''s a lie, it''s just that I thought so and couldn''t. I''ll tell you when I really can''t stand it...

    At the subject of crying profusely to the point of doubting whether I would be able to see myself properly because of tears, Serpens opened his eyes and looked at me.

    Oh, I see. Even if I can bear it, I''ll tell you right away if it''s hard...

    lie.

    No, really!

    He blinked and tears again

    dripped down

    Instead of letting old feelings go away like before, it is pitiful to see him weeping because of me.

    "Why are you crying so sadly today?"

    Because you don''t cry.

    You know how to cry for others. Serpense is all grown up now.

    lie.

    ..can''t you deny that?

    As he was about to stare blankly at him with absurd eyes, he opened his mouth first.

    "Why doesn''t Seonwoo blame anyone?"

    " Serpens didn''t know, so I thought I was blaming Luxmea and the [Master of the Holy Sword] writer a lot, didn''t I?"

    It''s a sign that it doesn''t mean that.

    Actually, I think I''m lucky to be here.

    ,,lie .

    Xeon did that earlier. I feel like I''ve heard all the lies I''ll hear for the rest of my life today.

    "You say that a lot today.

    do you know Would you believe it?" Did you deceive me first? I didn''t mean to deceive. I knew he would suffer more if I hid it and it exploded someday. So before that happens, I thought I''d talk about it first.

    only.

    Now that there is no hope of returning, I buried it thinking that thinking about it would be of no use.

    I buried it so deeply and avoided even thinking about it, so I realized that I was already reaching my limit.

    I just didn''t know.

    But I couldn''t respond to his bitter gaze, and I quietly looked into his eyes as a drooling centipede.

    Yeah, that''s right, though. But it''s true that everything is done.

    If you''re going to keep talking nonsense like that, let''s all stop.

    I didn''t dare to ask what I was going to quit.

    "I wouldn''t have thought of this if I had been in another novel."

    lie.

    It''s a family to the end... but I don''t think I was the one who should have come with a high probability.

    what?!

    His eyes lit up at my words. I was so startled that the tears that flowed nonstop like a broken faucet stopped.

    "Is that such a surprise?"

    " Ummm."

    Anyway, the tears had stopped, so I returned the wet handkerchief to his hand. Serpence folded it flat and glanced at me.

    "The reason I read [The Master of the Holy Sword is because of my older sister. And my sister .. A fellow writer I became close with by chance read it and asked me to share my impressions."

    * * *

    Sunwoo~

    "Why, again! What are you going to do this time?"

    If my sister calls me so sweetly, when she has something to do for me, when she wants to run an errand for me, or tries to pamper me.

    it was only

    Hey, Yoo Seon-woo. Anyone who hears it would think I''m just pampering you every day?

    Why, Seonhwa Yoo! It''s true, isn''t it?

    Uh-huh? Do you dare call this sister by her first name? You don''t want to receive pocket money this month?

    I was foolish and short-lived, so I dared to abuse the honor of my heavenly sister! I''m sorry!

    As she playfully clapped her palms as she spoke, she smiled contentedly.

    Then he alternately tapped my shoulders with the blades of his hand, making a sound like, ''Forgive your sins.''

    So what''s going on?

    "There is a fantasy novel that I am reading these days, why don''t you read it?"

    It was clear that the tone of the tone that made up the excessive softness had a different plot.

    "My sister is running out of stockpiles these days, so she doesn''t have time to read the novels she''s been reading, so she''s kept everything."

    "That''s the truth the kid who happened to be close.

    There is a book, but he suddenly started writing, what do you want me to look at?"

    Again, it wasn''t just a novel recommendation.

    "You can read it later."

    "I said that, but as a senior writer, I kept sending gift cones and asked me to give you some comments on how my writing looked . Even though I said I wouldn''t accept it, I wondered how desperately it would be because he keeps sending it "

    Something ominous was sensed.

    " Why are you telling me that?"

    I''ve been thinking about how the reader feels

    It doesn''t matter what other writers see, isn''t it?

    therefore?

    After all, you like to read novels. Just read it and let me know how you felt about each episode. Simple isn''t it? It''s no different than just writing a comment!

    face is frowned upon

    It''s no different than just a comment, you have to read it carefully, read it, and write it in full detail!

    "Is there any way to write a book review for each web novel that I used to write when I was in elementary school . Never! Even if you give me pocket money.

    I hate it, it bothers me! I won''t!

    Really?

    At my words, the older sister put her hands on her waist and raised the corners of her lips crookedly.

    I''m thinking of buying a new tablet PC...

    Huh? How are you doing right now?

    "So, what I used before . No, it''s my younger sister who doesn''t even listen to my sister''s requests anyway. What''s pretty? It''s better to just trade-in."

    "So, where is the serialization site?"

    * * *

    If my sister had come instead of me, would I have entered into someone else''s body instead of Zion?

    Either one of the maids of the duke''s house, or one of the noble girls... .

    ''What else?''

    Anyway, if the god Luxmea was a sane god, at least he wouldn''t have put it in Zion''s body.

    I got all the spoilers while my sister gave me my review, so in the end, my sister read [Master of the Holy Sword]

    didn''t

    So, it is my guess that I may have come here as a chicken instead of a pheasant.

    "I did it because I fell for a bribe , I think if it wasn''t for that, my sister would have come."

    So you''re lucky?

    Yes.

    Serpens grabbed the hand towel that had been finely chopped at best. Tears welled up in the boy''s eyes again.

    Why, why?! What''s the matter this time?

    In the end, you sacrificed yourself... You''re saying that it''s all about doing, right?

    Oh, there''s nothing to argue about this.

    I know when I look at you. Unlike in Canaan, the world Seonwoo lived in did not feel any threat to life. It must have been a very peaceful and peaceful world for you.

    " Is that so?"

    " What do you mean?"

    More than anything else, the reason I was the first to find a way back

    notice i''m asking it

    As he noticed, he pretended not to know and trembled.

    "Family, friends everything I enjoyed there. I miss it, of course. When I''m alone, I feel a little lonely."

    But why!

    He tried to wipe his tears away with the handkerchief again, but he wouldn''t let go even if he pulled on it.

    Reluctantly, he wiped away his tears with the cuffs of his slightly stiff shirt.

    I have Serpens by my side, what could be any danger? Besides, my friend who cried on my behalf like this.

    There is.

    Uh-huh.''''

    I had experiences that I would not have been able to do if I hadn''t come here. It was enjoyable enough.

    lie .,,

    Where the hell do these many tears come from?

    I had no choice but to stop wiping the tears away. He wrapped his arms around his shoulders and patted his back.

    If you''re so sorry, don''t just work every day, and play a little so that I won''t be lonely.

    Are you very good?

    shhhhhhh.

    Serpens nodded.

 CH 117

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 117

    28. The Duke and the Illuminati (1)

    Eugene visited the duke''s residence.

    For some reason, he was holding a box of cakes and a box of champagne in each hand.

    On the way up to the drawing room, as if I had asked in advance, shortly after she arrived, the maid came in and set an empty plate and crystal glass on the table.

    Can I prepare that too?

    No, I''m fine.

    When the maid asked a question while pointing to the cake box Euges had brought, Euges smiled gratefully for the favor and gently refused.

    I''ve called Winston, so I think he''s going to take it out when he comes up.

    After she had finished her work, the maid quietly retreated.

    I wanted to visit you a long time ago, but I was able to come now.

    After the maid went out of the drawing room and closed the door, Eugese opened the door.

    Unlike Humanus, who came to visit at any time, she politely asked for permission to visit in advance.

    That was already a month ago.

    Before last month''s imperial palace banquet, Serpens had contacted him, and Euges had not been there.

    Since then, I''ve been asking how things have gone. To meet Winston as well, she requested a visit.

    ''But Serpens was busy with investigations... .''

    Her request must be rejected

    It was.

    Reluctantly, Eugenes replied to invite him when he was free, and Serpens delayed it, time and month.

    Then, I met her at a banquet a few days ago, and when she asked if she was still busy, Serpens said that if it was the weekend, the time would be fine.

    And that weekend was today.

    I heard you''ve been quite busy.

    Well, that''s right.

    Actually, not in the past tense, but in the present.

    pretty

    After work, Serpens read the ancient Bible in the library and went out at night.

    Even last month, he did an investigation by the Duke of Argento, and even in the last week, he did not go down to the territory and was sent to the residence of the Duke of the capital.

    Besides, I had already read the Bible once, and it was the second time I read it.

    ''Maybe I''ve missed something because of the intricacies of the sacred text?''

    It''s hard to think that Serpens, no one else, has missed something.

    I just didn''t have much income, so it must have been like catching straw.

    Still, it''s not just work.

    After that day, recently, he seemed to be trying to relax.

    When I had free time during working hours, besides training me, I taught myself horse riding, and we drank tea and chatted leisurely in the drawing room.

    Most of the conversation topics are ''to me!]. Or, I talked about the world I lived in.

    He is a very good listener, my boy

    He paid attention and listened.

    The 2nd Prince, His Majesty''s entering the church, said aggro.... Thanks to him, anyway, the fire was put out immediately. It''s still busy, but it''s more than official business hours... You know?

    Oh !

    Me, Serpens and Eugenes. There were only three people, but for nothing, they raised their palms exaggeratedly, brought them to their lips, and pretended to speak softly.

    As if Euges understood, he let out a small sigh. He said he was sorry

    The woman''s gaze turned to Serpens.

    It is gaze processing that limits busy people to only one serpent.

    ''If the duke is busy, shouldn''t it be assumed that his assistant must also be busy?''

    That doesn''t mean I''m busy. Rather, it is the month of leisure.

    After work, I lounging next to him digging into the ancient Bible, and at night I went to my room and slept very comfortably.

    ''I want to help too.''

    However, Serpence has to investigate.

    When infiltrating here and there, the only thing I have to go with is my luggage.

    It was also impossible to read a book of sacred characters in separate parts.

    All I can do is put a plate of fruit on the desk of a child who studies late into the night during the exam period.

    All I could do to help was to nip the late-night snack.

    ''I heard that the milk crepe cake at a new cake shop in the capital city is so delicious.''

    I''m going to go buy it next weekend.

    �R

    As he was making a welfare plan for Serpense''s taste, he heard a knock.

    A sound that is restrained in a regular beat. Up to that point, it was similar to Hans or Zeon, but it had a more heavy feeling.

    Moments later, the drawing room door opened and Winston entered.

    I heard you called.

    Eugene, who arrived first and sat down

    , and Winston paused for a moment and opened his mouth a beat late.

    When I heard that Serpens was waiting in the drawing room, I guess it was because I was puzzled by the first elf I had ever seen sitting with me.

    You are the person back then! It''s the first time we''ve met face-to-face like this, it''s nice to meet you.

    When he even pretended to know him by adding another drink, his face was full of doubts. It seems that the sneaky glance at me wants me to explain who she is.

    First, please take a seat, Sir Redford.

    Regardless of whether he was embarrassed or not, Serpens offered him a seat.

    Except for Serpens''s seat, which corresponds to the top seat, he appeared on two sofas for multiple people, and Eugene was seated on each of them.

    Without a second thought, Winston sat right next to me.

    This is Eugenes Yulydia-sama of the Arche Kingdom.

    How do you know where to introduce me like that?

    peel? Sir Winston, the one who helped outside the building as we escaped from the arena.

    I added an explanation to Serpence''s blunt introduction.

    Then, realizing why she pretended to know him, he jumped up from his seat and bowed to greet him.

    Thank you, Wilydia! You have been greatly blessed.

    It''s grace, I''ve been saved by the two of you here before. Don''t feel burdened because I''ve only acted as much as I received.

    indeed !

    Eugenes said with a smile in a soft voice, and Winston exclaimed.

    His eyes filled with admiration and respect turned toward Serpence. very burdensome

    Sir Winston, please sit down.

    Oh, I see.

    I thought he would be looking at me like that forever, so I sat him down, and his gaze got closer, making it even more burdensome.

    I need to change the topic quickly, I can''t.

    By the way... I''ve been concerned since before.

    But what kind of champagne is the cake?"

    Oh, this is a tart, not a cake.

    With a smile of conversion, she placed the box of cakes on the table and pulled out the contents inside.

    It''s a yuzu tart.

    ''Why the hell does Eugene love Yuja so much?''

    If there were stones in this world, I would have suspected that she had caught Yuja and her parents named her Eugene.

    I was worried that the champagne I brought was also like citron champagne, but when I looked at the label, it was just plain champagne made from grapes.

    Even if you think about it, you might have thought that the combination of citron + citron was a little odd.

    And the champagne is a celebration for the second regular member of the Illuminati. It''s a bit late, but shouldn''t we have a welcome party?

    she said proudly.

    The word ''champagne'' for celebration means that yuja tarts are not. During the last trip, I was a serpent

    He kept feeding him snacks.

    Noticing that he liked sweets, it was obvious that he had bought something that Serpens had not yet tried, instead of a regular cake for celebration.

    Did I also join the group?

    Winston, who had unwittingly joined a secret society, whispered to me that he had never heard of such a thing.

    Yes, I''d be able to hear it all in the ears of the other two people here. slightly embarrassed

    looks like one

    Yes, it is.

    At my answer to my question of asking such a natural thing, he put on a bewildered expression on his face.

    But there was only one person who was bewildered by that fact. Winston''s becoming a member of the Illuminati was nothing short of predestined.

    There''s nothing surprising about it.

    Serpence also looked like he had already anticipated that things would turn out like this. I''m more curious about the taste of the yuzu tart than the news about the addition of new members of the Illuminati.

    seems to do

    "But why the second?"

    In terms of all members, it had to be the fourth, and after the formation of the Illuminati, the first is .

    ''Oh right.''

    Eugenes believed that once upon a time, me and Serpens had formed a group together and were operating without anyone knowing.

    "They were founding members, and I thought I was the first regular member . Are there other members I didn''t know about?"

    "No, it''s not like that Eugenes is also a founding member, right?"

    I''m not trying to make her feel better.

    In fact, if you were asked who the true founding member of the Illuminati was at this time, the answer was undoubtedly Eugenes.

    It is a fact that even Serpens cannot deny.

    Planning, organizing, and materializing the secret society are all the achievements of Eugenes.

    Without her, the Illuminati would be

    Existence itself was not established.

    I, really...?

    The image of me, who was endlessly denying the existence of the group and refusing to join her, must be passing through her mind like a panorama.

    Euges seemed to be happy to finally be recognized as a true colleague, but he was overjoyed.

    "Of course! Your job title is Human Resources?"

    "Hey, such an important role! Can I really do it?"

    of course!

    She was already playing that important role brilliantly.

    No matter how hard you worked, you didn''t even bring in the head of the group and an assistant to give you a personnel appointment.

    I thought that I might have decided on my own by talking too much, so I first looked at Serpens who was set as an aide and a second person in the group.

    He, who had been silent all the time, opened his mouth slowly.

    As an Illuminati executive, I have a job for Yulydia-sama to do.

    I guess it didn''t matter. Beyond that, I tried to order something as if I had been waiting.

    "What is that?"

    Securing activity funds.

    Serpence took the mood seriously and said... .

    "Come on, wait a minute, Serpens!

    Securing funds for the activities of secret societies. A large sum of money without an owner that makes it possible.

    Now this guy is Ladrava''s legacy

    He was planning to hand over the task of finding the .

    When I called him in bewilderment, his head, who was looking at the other side where Eugese was sitting, turned towards me. This is the line of sight that says, ''Did you ever want to go there yourself?''

    I shook my head slightly, meaning no.

    ''To be honest, I don''t want to go.''

    I don''t know which mountain or where I''m stuck, so I''ll just go hiking.

    It''s not like dungeon exploration that''s exciting even after I''ve been looking for it.

    Because of all kinds of traps, Serpens will only carry them around for a long time.

    If you could get it without going there, that would be better.

    There is no one more qualified for this mission than Yulydia-sama.

    It means that he also doesn''t want to suffer hardships, and Eugenes has a spirit, so something will happen.

    I don''t know the exact location. It''s not like there''s people hiding there and they can''t catch a presence.

    Rather than serpens running on their feet, the spirit of the wind that moves freely

    Lou was more qualified than her.

    It is, but...

    In front of Eugenes, who is burning with enthusiasm after receiving a mission, it is impossible to ask, ''Didn''t that bother you so you decided to give up?''

    He blurted out the end of his words, but that alone was enough for Serpence to understand. He answered with a look of eyes that seemed to ask if there was any problem with that.

    ''Anyway, this is not a little!''

    Seeing Euges burning with a sense of mission for his first solo mission as an Illuminati executive, his conscience stings somewhere.

    comes stabbed

    Shion! Don''t worry. I''m not as strong as Serpens-sama, but I''m on the strong side. There''s nothing for Sion to worry about.

    It''s like you want to believe in yourself. Euges said in a firm voice.

    Judging from the way he talks, it seems that he misunderstood that I was hesitating for fear of hurting myself because it was a dangerous job.

    Even though I know she''s the right person, I''m reluctant to give her the job, and Serpen tries to convince me.

    NS

    It was enough material for her to write another novel.

    Shion, who lost her former colleagues, was not willing to let her go due to the trauma.

    His aide and close friend, Serpens, was deeply saddened by the appearance.

    However, in order to achieve great things, it was impossible to hold on to the wounds of the past forever.

    should be cool have to be strong

    Serpens persuaded Shion to trust her just once.

    There is nothing strange about the current situation, even though Eugenes is describing the above in his head.

 CH 118

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 118

    28. The Duke and the Illuminati (2)

    ''Hey, I don''t know.''

    It wasn''t my hard work, Serppens''s work wasn''t aggravated, and Eugenes was also happy to do it.

    He nodded his head to signify that Serpens should take care of it. He nodded, indicating that he was going to do it anyway.

    Since it''s decided that way, we''ll pass on the detailed mission while we eat! Or eat it all.

    That would be nice.

    Eugenes responded to my words and carefully opened the champagne lid.

    I prepared champagne for the celebration, but since it''s indoors, I don''t think there''s any intention of popping it.

    With a small ''tock-.''

    Somehow, it has become a welcome party for new recruits and a place where I wish for the success of my first solo mission.

    "What''s going on, how about Eugenes, the toast?"

    Me and Euges laugh haha ho ho

    He raised a glass of champagne. Serpence, as if trying to match the mood, smiled softly and raised a glass.

    But there was still one glass left on the table.

    "Why did you name the master"? And the situation just happened ."

    A confused voice rang in his ears. When he turned his head, Winston''s face was contemplated.

    ''Did I just call Serpens by his first name?''

    Looking back, it may or may not have been

    Before that, the flow of the conversation was a problem. Didn''t it look like Serpens was asking me for permission?

    ''This is just embarrassing.

    For some reason, it seems that Winston has been there since before, as if it was not there... .

    You''ve become a new Illuminati member you don''t even know about, so you must have wondered what the hell this was like.

    Still in a confusing situation, I called Serpens by name. And I passed it over to Serpense and Eugenes so naturally.

    He seems to have lost his mind.

    I looked at Serpens with eyes wondering why I didn''t cover my mouth in the middle.

    He didn''t even think about what he had to say about it, and why am I blaming Seonwoo for not taking care of his mouth?''

    Actually, because today''s meeting is a secret meeting of the Illuminati.

    Still, I think I''m going to do a follow up.

    As if prepared from the beginning, Serpens came up with an excuse.

    That''s right, the head of the Illuminati is

    It''s on.

    "Even if it''s not that, Serpens and I are friends, so we call them by their first names in private."

    Eugenes naturally took over, and I jumped on board without missing an opportunity.

    With the constant flood of information, Winston could not calm down and became even more confused.

    Sir Redford.

    Yes, my lord!

    Serpens called out Winston with a clear yet powerful voice. confusion

    In the midst of the chaos, he immediately responded to the master''s call.

    "Are you confused?"

    ...Yes.

    I understand. Why was I called to this position? And why did I become a member of a secret society? It''s embarrassing.

    If Serpense really understands and says things like that, then I''m offended.

    Isn''t it very pseudo-historic from the way you speak? It is clear that something is starting up.

    The fact that we went to the Kingdom of Bastul

    You know, I think you have already noticed."

    Winston looked puzzled at his words and had no idea what he was talking about.

    However, Serpens pretended not to see anything and continued talking.

    "The Illuminati promote peace across the entire continent beyond the Empire. It operates as a transcontinental organization."

    Who buried Eugenes in Serpens? I didn''t.

    Even if you add Winston in the first place, there are only four people, but they must have been operating on a pan-continental basis.

    Being tied to one country is politically entangled, and there are too many things to check. In the meantime, you might miss out on demon worshipers, so that''s essential.

    The way he speaks bitterly, as if it is very sad, is still sublime today.

    The setting of not to be bound by anything for quick response and free activities was very similar to a secret society.

    look at me

    The true founder of the Illuminati, too!'' he nodded.

    Aren''t you acknowledging it?

    "So, the story that comes out today should never leak out."

    "Hey, why did you bring me to such an important position "

    At Winston''s question, Serpens didn''t say anything, but just smiled.

    His mouth is closed, but from somewhere, ''it''s because I believe in Sir Redford'', is an expression automatically supported by voice.

    Whether it was Winston who heard the non-substantial voice, he was deeply

    This was subdued.

    However, it is clear that the act of going overboard without speaking directly did not truly give faith.

    ''That''s a trick, a trick.''

    It''s a smoke that makes my tongue stick out without realizing it. Eugenes, who was sitting across from him, was also watching the game with a curious expression.

    Serpens still recognized Winston as a complete stranger.

    It''s only because Winston has an antagonism to the demon cults that put him in this conversation. he chivalry

    Because I believe in a savvy, out-of-bones beast.

    By our rescue of him, on the basis of the gratitude and debt he feels for us.

    ''It must have just been judged that the possibility of betrayal was less than that of others.''

    Since they rescued him and gave him the name ''Illuminati'', there must be a plan to put him on the same boat, who knows the identity of the Illuminati.

    Come on, come on. Now, let''s get together quickly, and let''s make friends.

    Winston doesn''t have much to say about my imposing friendship. I have a lot to say, but I have a face that I won''t say.

    It''s a secret society, so you''d think it''d be okay to be so light-hearted.

    Since the number is small, shouldn''t we get together more? Come on, grab a drink! The person who bought it is sincere, how long are you going to just look around?

    This time, all four glasses on the table were lifted.

    For the new Winston-sama to quickly adapt, I wish you the success of my first solo mission, and wish you peace on the continent! May Kwangmyeong be with you!

    Eugene cleared his voice and sang a toast.

    It seems like it was going well and eventually became a pseudo-religious group, but what do you think? If it''s fun and the meaning is good, that''s it!

    May Gwangmyeong be with you!

    While imitating her last words, I slammed my cup into the cup of Euges that was held high. Serpens and Winston silently held out their glasses.

    There was a clear chirping sound, but this is not a proper toast.

    I didn''t like it.

    Without taking the cup, he deliberately furrowed his eyebrows and glared at them both.

    May the light be with you.

    Serpens let out a small laugh and took the glass back slightly, then brought it back lightly. Once again, a clear sound rang out.

    Everyone''s eyes are on Winston.

    Wow, may Gwangmyeong be with you...!

    He still looks stunned. You''ll get used to it soon though.

    I smiled contentedly, took the glass, drank the champagne in one shot, and tossed the empty glass over my head.

    nice~!

    Serpens in my actions are just my three

    Passing by saying it''s a champagne, I sip champagne.

    Shion seems to really like alcohol.

    The etiquette was arrogant, but Eugenes didn''t care about that.

    As if to drink a lot of what he likes, he immediately fills the empty glass.

    According to [Master of the Holy Sword], did you say that by the standards of the elves of this world, it is enough to have respect for people in dealing with them?

    As long as you keep that line, the elf doesn''t touch the behavior according to the individual''s inclinations.

    it was down

    The reason the law is made is to at least specify the morality to be observed because of those who harm others and try to satisfy their greed.

    The same goes for etiquette and formality.

    ''For the elves, who are born with consideration for others and a peaceful race, there must have been no need for that in the first place.''

    The reasons were different, but Serpens and Eugenes naturally passed on my actions.

    Winston had a puzzled expression on whether we were weird or if he was weird.

    Alcohol is alcohol, but the atmosphere is better than that.

    A more lively and exciting atmosphere than usual. It''s nice to have an atmosphere where we can treat each other more freely.

    ''It''s because the drinks I drank after coming to this world are only of high quality, and they taste great!''

    If you come into Zion''s body and ask what''s better than mine, I''ll pick the point that I drink heavily through my nose.

    It was pitiful compared to those who had energy such as divine power, aura, and magical power in their body, but for a normal person, it was excellent.

    ''Yeah, you should drink alcohol at the party!''

    Of course, even if you don''t drink, you can get drunk and play like you''ve been drinking.

    It''s so exciting to be surprised when the people I''ve been drinking with for the first time find out about it later!

    I want to become a dog in the same way] Hey, I guess we can just drink alcohol. However, unfortunately I was an alcoholic waste.

    What if even a small amount of alcohol dries like a sick chicken and falls asleep without even having time to enjoy a drink?

    Champagne with the sadness of that time in a glass

    took a sip in his mouth.

    The sweet scent that rubs the tip of the nose and the stimulation that stings the tip of the tongue are very enjoyable.

    "So, what is that mission?"

    Eugese cut the yuzu tart into very large pieces and placed it on Serpens'' plate. Because he knows he won''t touch the dessert in the first place without that excuse.

    Do you know a thief named ''Ladrava''?

    "You don''t know. It wasn''t usually a riot at that time.

    It didn''t work out in the middle... . Ah, maybe that money]?!"

    As if recalling the past, he said with a tone of ''It was then,'' and with a look of surprise, Eugenes, who was putting the tart on my plate, was suddenly surprised.

    ''Didn''t you make a loud noise like it just passed by?!''

    I was surprised too.

    I knew my age was three digits, but I didn''t even give myself time to prepare my heart, and I... . No, the century difference will come in.

    Eugenes is about to put a tart on Winston''s plate, but he hastily

    I waved my hand.

    I''m fine. I don''t really enjoy sweet foods...

    If that''s the case, then there''s nothing you can do about it. And it''s okay if you don''t be so polite to fellow Illuminati. Just treat him like you would with Shion.

    As he moved the tart piece he was about to put on his plate to his plate, Eugese smiled softly.

    Meanwhile, Serpens seized a chance and cut the yuzu tart with the edge of the fork and put it in his mouth.

    Tart paper and cream cheese filling. The harmony of the citron curd on top is satisfying.

    it''s a cute expression

    " I''ll try to do that so."

    Perhaps it was because of the century difference he felt a moment ago, Winston answered with a little hesitation.

    "Then can we continue?"

    Serpens said as if he was waiting for the conversation between Winston and Eugenes, the main word that Ji had to eat because he wanted to eat tart.

    Yes, please tell me.

    Eugene straightened his posture and sat down. Her eyes became serious.

    As Yulydia had guessed,

    He intends to use the wealth he has gathered.

    Did you find Ladrava''s lair?

    It''s not the exact location, but we got the clue.

    Saying that, Serpens glanced at me, and Eugene nodded with an expression of understanding.

    "It is the grace of God Luxmea/

    Originally, it was the wealth that Humanus, the master of the holy sword, should have obtained.

    It looks good in intercepting such a thing

    The expression Mea''s Grace is attached, so it''s really bizarre.

 CH 119

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 119

    28. The Duke and the Illuminati (3)

    Serpence pulled the line for the prepared call to the drawing room, Doo1, who briefly asked Eugenes for his pardon.

    After a while, Xeon immediately arrives as if he had been waiting.

    ''Why did you suddenly call Xeon?''

    He didn''t give me a single glance, and handed Serpens some papers. Serpence flipped it over quickly and nodded slightly.

    There is no omission of content and you can see it at a glance

    It''s well organized, so I don''t think there''s a need for additional explanation. Thank you.

    thank you.

    Xeon replied with a rather complicated expression, bowing his head.

    Probably one of these locations.

    Serpens said, handing over the papers to Eugenes. As he handed it over, Euges glanced at Zeon.

    Is that...?

    "I am the deputy deacon. I know about the Illuminati, but I am not a member.

    all. We had no choice but to use the power of the family as we did not have an information system in place yet."

    i See.

    Coincidentally, it was Hans who greeted her today as well as the last time I visited for Serpence''s birthday.

    In other words, his introduction has not yet been heard.

    Charon and Sion resemble their father, so they look like brothers, but Zeon closely resembles their mother.

    Perhaps that''s why he didn''t realize that he had a brotherly relationship with the clever Yuji Sudo, Sion.

    After seeing Serpens openly commenting on the Illuminati, he seemed to think he was a trustworthy person.

    She turned her gaze and looked at the documents handed to her.

    ''This is intentional.''

    In order to prove for sure that I am not the enemy of the Continent, assuming the possibility that Zeon did not believe it anyway.

    Winston, who had a history of being saved by the elves, Eugene and the Illuminati, was set up as a witness.

    It''s kind of a performance.

    "The deputy butler may leave."

    After Zeon bowed his head slightly to greet Serpens, he went out of the drawing room.

    "There are three candidates but the distance between each place is quite far, isn''t it?"

    Jujis looked at the documents carefully and asked.

    Serpence, who was silently slicing the citron tart, couldn''t answer right away.

    Chew the contents in your mouth without making any marks, and lift the crystal glass with an elegant hand gesture.

    A natural movement, as if saying, ''Before speaking, I just want to choke.'' After taking a sip of it, Serpens opened his mouth.

    Before he was active, these are the abandoned mines of the Terra Room Kingdom.

    That was the clue.

    Yes. And according to Shion, he was a Dwarf. There are mechanical traps around the hideout, and they still work well, so you should be careful.

    I''ll be careful. Thank you for your concern.

    Eugene had a distinctive bright smile. For a very brief moment, a look of embarrassment passed by Serpens'' expression.

    To the last, the words to be careful just a moment ago were polite to Serpens. It was just a slurred word like a habit.

    It''s just a pretense put on the mouth that was conscious of Winston, who didn''t know the real Serpence yet, and it''s just acting.

    ''I wonder why Eugene, who must have understood himself to a certain extent, expressed his sincere thanks to that.

    Ji.''

    However, the change in expression was very subtle and disappeared quickly. As always, it was as natural as ever, but she covered it with an infinitely artificial smile.

    What you''re looking for is also finding, but it''s a long way to go, so it''s going to be a long business trip.

    "How long do you think it will take?"

    "If you go to all three places, it will take two or three months? Is it urgent?"

    Eugene asked with a nervous expression. Are you asking if anything that will cost a fortune for the Illuminati will happen anytime soon?

    Although not for that reason, there were reasons to hurry.

    If you leave it alone, someone else will find it in about three to five months.

    Once again, it''s pretty specific. It''s not a revelation, it''s foresight.

    That kind of revelation.

    Serpence smiled and turned around with no sincerity towards Eugene.

    ''Even if you throw in a dog-tteok-like setting, you will interpret it on your own because it''s Yujis who eats it perfectly.''

    Winston explains more than she does.

    will need

    He didn''t even dare interrupt the master''s conversation, and he was just rolling his eyes blankly next to me.

    Actually, I am... God Luxmea''s samurai, the lion... Kuk, Ra.

    There is no separate remark from the second bottle. Time and space, the shrinking shame comes rushing in.

    Previously, I had explained something similar to this to Xeon.

    But at that time, he was in a very emotional state, and there was a desperate need to calm him down somehow.

    So I couldn''t even think of the thought of being ashamed or embarrassed when I spoke.

    Moreover, saying, ''God Luxmea has sent me here'' and saying ''I am the messenger of God'' are different from the meaning of the word.

    If the former feels like an office worker dispatched overseas, the latter is a middle school bottle or a pseudo-teacher no matter how you try to package it.

    ''Tonight is a quilt kick angle.''

    At the sudden remark of my lion, Winston asked what was that, with a puzzled expression on his face.

    I can''t keep my mouth shut to continue the detailed explanation.

    When he glances at Serpens to tell him instead, he usually does strange things well, but he asks why he is doing this today.

    It''s okay! If you''re having a hard time, you don''t have to tell me anymore!

    Instead, Eugenes put his hands in front of his chest and intervened with a sad expression on his face.

    You shouldn''t spit that fact out of your mouth... Are you that kind of person?

    What the hell is the ''something like that'' I''ve been talking about?

    I didn''t know what it was, and I didn''t want to know.

    I struggled to ignore it while Yuji Suga, who had spread his imagination by himself, gave further explanations.

    When it''s time to worry about that, put another slice of yuzu tart or more on the empty plate of Serpence.

    The baby leaked for a little while. Anyway, we''ll be able to find it before that, but I''ll try as soon as possible just in case you don''t know. But...

    Yes.

    Yes?

    Serpence allowed him to think about whether or not to speak out of something, without listening to it.

    ''He''s going to make a big deal... !''

    He knew what to say and signed it first. Previously, they tried to get me a guarantee, but there is no such thing as a very special case.

    Eugene also seemed to be perplexed.

    "You know what I''m going to say."

    It''s strange that a famous diplomat is absent for two long periods of time.

    Because of this, isn''t it that you want to hand over the position to someone else and enter the duke''s residence as Zion suggested last time?"

    No, that''s right.

    Fortunately, I guess it wasn''t a blank check.

    But this time it was Eugese, so damn it. I''m a little worried about what he''ll do if he suddenly changes what he says because he''s a bad guy.

    And I don''t know when I''ll be called out like this again... It''s the same Illumina Tea, but if I''m alone, I''ll contact you...

    She smiled bashfully, adding something she didn''t ask.

    In the meantime, I think I was lonely because I felt like I was being left alone. Even last month, I didn''t even see him, let alone the door.

    We can''t help but be envious of us living in the same mansion

    Uh! Wait, Serpence! So you''re saying that Yu-Ges is allowed to live in the duke''s manor?!

    He reflexively tried to make an impression at my startled cry, and then smiled as he recalled Winston''s presence.

    Even if it''s not the Illuminati, if it''s not Wiridi, the security in the mansion will be better. Is there no reason to refuse?

    Does Serpens want to make the duke''s residence into an iron castle?

    His presence should be safe enough already, but I don''t know how much more you want to make it safer.

    I tried to listen to it, but I quietly chewed the tart at his reprimanded gaze as to whether the conversation was not progressing because of you.

    "There is a distance between each place, so it would be better to share it if possible.

    just . Right now, due to the internal circumstances of the empire, it will be difficult to leave like the last time."

    Serpens let out a sound that didn''t make sense to him. It''s true that it''s hard to leave the place, but there''s a record of already hitting the road to find it. Sharing is bullshit.

    "No. It''s division of labor and division of labor to do what each person can do, isn''t that a big deal?"

    Thank you for thinking that way.

    Seeing the external smiles and the serpens spewing out pretentious words, Euges me

    glanced at I''m going to die of discomfort, so why not ask for something to be dealt with quickly?

    However, I''m a little worried about how I''m going to bring those enormous wealth by myself.

    According to him, there is also an empty pocket there.

    " This time, it''s subtly detailed, but the most important thing is sloppy information."

    Serpens looked at me while nodding his head with an expression that he sympathized with Eugene''s words.

    ''why? I''m proud!''

    All of this is due to the author of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''If we were going to send people to this world from the beginning, we should have emphasized the name of the important area over and over again!''

    Who the hell reads a novel and thinks, ''Maybe I will be possessed by this novel!'' and memorizes even a place name that is only mentioned once or twice.

    So I''m proud

    ''Before climbing a mountain, how can I remember what was mentioned once, just as the story of moving to a certain mountain passes?''

    Looking at the place name, I wondered if there was a familiar name for the mountain, so I tried to look through the atlas without Serpense''s knowledge.

    Not even a single feeling came.

    But if I knew that there was even one mention, it was obvious that he would stare at me like I was pathetic.

    Let''s pretend it didn''t come out at all.

    Then, is this the end of the business transfer?

    "Yes, do you have any more questions?"

    I just commented on the situation in the Empire.

    you did... . Oh! If it''s confidential, you don''t have to tell me. The succession issue has been settled, but I want to see if something else has happened."

    Apparently, since Eugenes was not an insider, the details were not conveyed.

    The story Serpens heard from Frederick about Count Masanal and his doctor. And briefly told the story of the Duke of Argento.

    Although it is not a story to be recklessly revealed to foreigners, there was nothing harsh in the setting of the Illuminati, a pan-continental organization.

    In an instant, the atmosphere became that of a secret meeting of a secret society.

    Winston wondered how he would take the present situation, so he glanced to the side.

    He was quietly furious at the actions of the Dukes of Argento, who tried to find fault with the respectful master who knew nothing but peace.

    In a hurry, I picked up the glass that was in front of me, took a sip, and put it down quietly with the expression that I ate something I couldn''t eat.

    Enjoy the sweetness in moderation with the serpent that pretends not to be oily and revels in the sweetness

    It''s because I bought the champagne with the highest sugar content, taking me as my standard.

    ''I don''t think I usually hate sweets.''

    She wouldn''t even know Winston''s taste. So I guess I hadn''t considered it.

    After Eugenes enters the mansion, there will be occasions like this in the future.

    Even if not, if the Illuminati goes beyond the setting and is properly launched, there will be a meeting place.

    Maybe I''ll go on an expedition with these people

    may be

    ''Every time we eat something, I can''t tell Winston to suck his finger alone... .''

    It seems that Winston''s taste characteristics should be understood in advance.

    I heard that the two dukes of the Empire have always maintained a cooperative relationship for the sake of the safety of the Empire while keeping each other in check and balance for a long time.

    Yes. So it is necessary to investigate further. It would be better if it was a simple lust for power, but

    If not... .

    Serpens was silent.

    In the worst case, one of the two dukes of the Empire might have to be lifted whole.

    It shouldn''t have happened.

    I just hope so.

    Eugene and Serpens exchanged words with heavy expressions on their faces.

 CH 120

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 120

    29. The duke''s aides (1)

    The weekend has come again.

    He told me that the beef horns were also short-lived, so I went out to buy the cake I had planned last week. Normally, I would have gone out alone, but today I had a companion by my side.

    Sir Winston, what do you want to buy?

    No.

    As I left the mansion with my money, he suddenly followed me without saying a word.

    At first, even Winston thought there was something to do outside. However, wearing a sword around my waist and walking behind me while maintaining a constant distance seems to be escorting me.

    "Then why are you following me?"

    Well?

    Anyone who sees the subject that is being followed makes an expression that he does not understand English. Seriously, I don''t think you understood the intent of my question.

    If that''s acting, it''s a great ability, but Winston didn''t seem to be good at acting.

    Aren''t you following me?

    That''s right.

    It''s true that you''re following me, but why did you react that way to the question of why you''re following me?

    I paused for a moment. As Serpens did to me, he stared at Winston as if analyzing.

    I have no idea, what the hell did he see and analyze me?

    "Have you not heard?"

    Listen, what?

    "From now on, whenever seniors go out of the mansion, they give me orders to always escort me.

    You got off.

    It didn''t matter who did that.

    The only person who could give Winston such an order was Serpens.

    Why the hell did you issue such an order?

    With his personal escort attached to his aide, the only aristocrat he travels alone is probably the only serpent in the world.

    What if I entrusted my personal escort to the other knights of the duke right now?

    I don''t know if there''s a visible problem and I''m being targeted by someone.

    No one will be happy to follow along to buy a cake in a leisurely, secure capital city centre.

    Serpense''s command, so I''ll have to listen to it, but I''m sure it''ll hurt my pride.

    But Winston''s expression was full of pride, as if he had been given a very heavy task.

    "Senior-nim isn''t that important person."

    Somehow, he kept packing me hard in front of Winston and putting all sorts of settings on me.

    ''Did you mean to do this?''

    Now, Winston thinks he''s the head of a secret society and is tasked with escorting beings who receive divine revelation.

    In the eyes of others, it was a matter of pointing the finger, saying that the master was not walking away because he lacked ability.

    But by Winston''s standards, it''s the exact opposite.

    Maybe the future of the continent is at stake

    Unknown, he was given a heavy duty to protect important people.

    Because I know the importance of the mission I have been given, even if others do not recognize it. He was more daring than anyone now.

    Let''s sell our worries, there''s something dangerous.

    Your master was worried about your attitude like that.

    "What did I do?"

    Winston''s gaze seemed to go down, then stopped at my waist.

    Where did the black go?

    ...it''s the weekend, so you gave me a break today

    all.

    I know you leave it on the weekdays.

    "Serpens is right next to me, what do I do with my sword?"

    On weekdays, it is right to believe in Serpens and carry a sword, but in fact, I just forgot today. What I didn''t usually take care of, I''m sure I''ll take good care of it today.

    ��] Uh .

    Winston sighed. As if he was facing a total difficulty, his expression was even disastrous.

    I''m just going to buy a cake, so what''s the point of reacting like that?

    I only walk on the main road with lots of people anyway, so what''s the problem? It''s fine because I always carry one defensive scroll in my pocket.

    I heard that you are a person who gets involved in accidents by creating accidents that don''t exist.

    That''s a misunderstanding. I just got caught up in the danger that already exists, I didn''t create it.

    Even that was only happening in Semita Street and the Kingdom of Bastul, which had links with demon worshipers.

    I defended myself hard, but Winston didn''t even listen.

    It''s not because Winston ignored me, but because Serpens gave him a premonition.

    "All of these things are meant to reassure those around you, so don''t be fooled. You put me down like that before... ."]

    When you say things like that, you make a bitter expression on your face and you blur the end of your words, but who will not be deceived?

    I haven''t seen the conversation between the two with my own eyes, but just hearing the words, I can clearly see what kind of expression he must have made in my mind.

    ''Hey, Serpens! You man, aren''t you?!''

    Only the innocent Winston, who knew nothing, became pitiful.

    I can''t speak the language, so I can''t send it back to the duke''s mansion again. I staggered forward and looked at him.

    ''The military is getting close.''

    Keep your back straight and look around.

    To the extent that it looks very tense as he walks. If someone you don''t know sees you, they''ll think you''re being chased by someone.

    Say it out loud... .

    Sir Winston, do you know what''s so suspicious right now?

    His gigantic stature and size are conspicuous, but not usually conspicuous. It is very intimidating for such a person to be alert and move around.

    Even passersby are wary of what is going to happen all of a sudden.

    It seems like they don''t want to get involved in the case. Walking speed suddenly increases

    I even saw people running away or turning back the way they came.

    ''Come to think of it, the work that Winston has taken on... .''

    What did you say, the Count''s dog-like master was only behind the scenes.

    It''s obvious where these guys play. I should have looked more threatening to avoid an argument.

    But we headed to a street lined with cute dessert shops.

    That attitude doesn''t help at all.

    I knew I was doing harm, but I was scared

    If the owner of the store closes the door, isn''t it worth going out?

    I''m going to be vigilant in all directions like that, and I''ll report it to the guards! Let''s relax a little, right?

    I don''t know when and where who''s going to target you.

    It''s the first official mission given by Serpens, and I can understand the mindset of escorting a dog-like bastard and then escorting a gentle person like me.

    But it was too much.

    Rather than openly limiting

    Wouldn''t it be better to pretend to be lewd and snatch it when it''s decisive?

    Indeed, what the master said was right. How long have you been outside, and you are trying to dig a trap that puts you in danger...

    It''s not like that, but if you keep getting nervous and lose your stamina, why don''t you use your strength when it''s important? That''s what it meant!

    He still had a questionable expression on his face, but maybe he accepted that there was some truth to it. Or maybe he thought that there would be no end to it, his posture relaxed a little.

    His stride is still full of moderation, but it''s like an occupational disease, so there''s nothing we can do about it.

    First of all, I know what Sir Winston thinks of me.

    It is certain that the difference between me and the real me has widened considerably. I''m really excited about it.

    "What do you think about Serpence?"

    As a prosecutor and as a person, I admire and admire you. It''s hard to believe that there are such perfect people in the world.

    There seems to be no sign of narrowing this gap either. It was too unreasonable to expect Winston to have the same look as Eugenes.

    There is no perfect person in the world. There are only people who are forced to be perfect, and no one can be perfect.

    I don''t know why I feel infinitely unstable when the word perfect is attached only to people.

    Is that the same for the master?

    "This applies to anyone. No one can be perfect as long as he has feelings.

    You can''t say that a person without emotions is perfect. A perfect person can''t exist, right?

    I don''t know what you mean.

    It''s as if you''ve heard the answer.

    Yes, I also want to know what this means, but the listeners have nothing to say.

    Actually, Serpens can''t eat spicy food.

    her?

    "Even when I ate something slightly spicy, my eyes were full of tears, but if I eat something spicy properly, I will cry, right?"

    As I said with a smirk, Winston put on an absurd look on his face. Then, as if he had suddenly remembered something, he exclaimed ''Ah!''

    Do you, lord, like sweets?

    I find out very quickly.

    Most of the yuzu tart disappeared into Serpens'' stomach.

    It was the same when I went down to the Duchy before that. Serpens did it for me because I was dealing with snacks for my diet.

    On the train, ''I have no choice but to eat.''

    However, if my weight control was the purpose, it was enough to take it away.

    ''It was Winston who stole it... .''

    There is no reason why Serpens should have eaten it.

    It is not for nothing that the saying that love and cough cannot be hidden.

    He was acting like he wasn''t, but he couldn''t completely hide the happy smile that slowly leaked out when he ate sweets.

    ''After watching Serpens eat sweets over and over again, did you notice now?''

    This is why stereotypes are so scary

    it will It was only then that he realized his human side that he fully accepted what was in sight.

    "Do you know that wherever I go, I always pack a bunch of junk food?"

    "I thought you were doing this to eat."

    "I enjoy sweet things too, but it''s not enough to live on sweets, right?"

    "So many no, nothing."

    If I had asked if I had eaten so much and said something like that, I would have been very sad. so i''m sad

    I have to T_T.

    To be honest, I prefer spicy. How about Sir Winston?

    "If it''s not sweet, I tend to eat everything regardless. If I had to pick one thing, would it be salty?"

    The one thing you can''t eat is sweet. Even so, I don''t think the sweet and salty harmony would be bad if we put it together.

    ''Euges likes citron, so do you like sour?''

    Why is it that all four have different tastes? Even the common denominator of sweetness disappeared.

    More than that, the master must have had an unusual corner...

    It''s okay to just say that I''m a child.

    At my words, Winston put on a totally unfavorable expression on his face. But isn''t it true?

    I don''t say that I like sweet things and hate spicy things as something special. I don''t know if it''s to hide that and take the shichimi.

    For those who do not know the past of Serpence, it could be thought that it was a childish stroke who wanted to hide his childish taste.

    I walked slowly, talking and receiving, and I arrived at my destination.

    There was no risk while safely purchasing the targeted milk crepe cake and returning to the duke''s residence.

    Look, nothing happened, did you?

    Even if it didn''t happen today, there''s no guarantee that there won''t be tomorrow. Next time, if you have something to go out, don''t forget to tell me and go. I''ll follow you no matter what.

    Sir Winston isn''t my escort, but three... you remember the Duke''s escort, right?

    Having arrived at the duke''s residence, he hastily corrected the title.

    Your lord is a person who can take care of your own safety.

    Does that person pick up anything on the street and eat it?

    If Serpence was someone who could take care of his own well-being, he wouldn''t be [Master of the Holy Sword]. Even if I knew how to take care of half the average person, my worries would have been reduced by half.

    Winston went back to the barracks to train again, and I headed to his study, where Serpens would be.

    Look at this, look at this. You sneaked out without a word again.

    The library was empty.

    Now that I think about it, if you attach an escort, you just have to follow it yourself. I think it was because I had a place to go, so I had a Win Stone attached to it.

 CH 121

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 121

    29. The duke''s aides (2)

    I tried knocking on the bedroom door just in case, but there was no response. Even when I turn the doorknob, it is still locked.

    ''I''ve always been on the go, wouldn''t it look weird if I went down to the bar today?''

    I don''t know where he went, but it''s clear he went to investigate.

    Even if I go back to my room anyway, nothing interesting happens, and it''s a pity to just go down, even if it''s a waste to go up to the 5th floor.

    With this in mind, I will have to sit around alone in the study with the mindset of cooperating with Serpence''s alibi.

    I put the cake on the table that I brought when I started eating late at night in the study.

    I lay down comfortably on the sofa I was used to now, and opened a book.

    As I am reading a book in the silence of my breathing, all I can hear is a little drowsiness.

    There''s no need to defeat it.

    Sunwoo.''''

    In my sleep, I heard a faint voice calling my name. He must have been a serpent without needing to check, but he couldn''t even close his eyes and talk.

    Once I opened my eyes His vision came into view, dressed in a dark outfit with a hood.

    "Are you here now?"

    I was about to go to my room, and I felt a presence, so I came... What are you doing here?

    The question is, why is he sleeping on the sofa in someone else''s study, leaving his own room with a bed in it?

    It was an absurd expression, but it was like that. I got up and stretched out.

    What are you doing? Of course I''ve been waiting for Serpense.

    Wait... Do I have any business?

    "More than that, where have you been without a word?"

    Had I known he was absent, I wouldn''t have come up. I wish I had left the cake in the kitchen and asked to upload it at tea time tomorrow.

    He deliberately looked up and down his whereabouts, with the meaning of where he was sneaking around in that manner.

    '' Come to think of it.''

    Was it because I heard from Winston about swords earlier? He was concerned about his empty waist, which he would normally have passed on without hesitation.

    ''In [Master of the Holy Sword], as soon as the day of choice passed, he carried a sword and carried it around.

    Somehow, the current Serpence is still unarmed. Of course, the birthday present that Humanus gave me must be buried somewhere.

    ''Unlike back then, I''m not driven mentally, but if I think of it as proof that my mind is stable, it''s positive... .''

    Even so, what does it mean that the person going to investigate the undercover is unarmed? He had previously told me he didn''t carry a sword, and that was the case with him.

    I''ve been to the Argento Territory.

    The Duchy of Argento?!

    It sounds like you went to the enemy camp without a single weapon.

    When I asked my flagship, he said, ''Why is he overreacting again?''

    made a face like

    Then he nodded his head slightly with an expression that he knew if he had found his own reason.

    In the Duchy of Argento, there is a gate that connects to the dark district.

    Hey, that''s incredibly useful.

    I think he took it as a question of how he got to that long distance so quickly. At my sarcastic tone, he tilted his head with a ''Isn''t this?''

    "I was curious about that too."

    I just got stuck in the sword and postponed it for a while.

    Doesn''t Serpens buy swords? I don''t even have to pick up a holy sword anymore, so I''ll just hit one that fits my hand, right?

    Did you wait until now to talk about that?

    no.

    I pointed to the cake with my index finger. Following his fingers, his gaze turned to the table.

    "I bought a cake, but he wasn''t there, so I was afraid that Serpens would be found out when I went down. When I came back from waiting, I wanted to ask what he was doing and left without a word?"

    Let''s eat first.

    I woke up and didn''t realize it, but it must have been dinner time. It seems that he came back on time for dinner on purpose so as not to be found out that he had left.

    Serpence headed towards the bedroom to change clothes, and I went down first.

    Came up after eating. As I put the tableware borrowed from the kitchen on the table and took out the cake, Serpens arrived.

    If it''s a sword, there are things that the family has equipped for each type, so you can use one of them if necessary.

    As soon as I arrived, I went straight to the main topic.

    Serpens in [Master of the Holy Sword] carried a sword right after the day of choice. I think I wrote one of them.

    Isn''t it new? A craftsman doesn''t choose a tool, but if you have a good tool, you can get better results, of course.

    To get the right weapon, you have to visit the Terra Room Kingdom, but for now, the stabilization of the Empire is the priority, so there is nothing to be done.

    Judging from what you are saying, it seems that he has an intention to match weapons.

    However, the situation is not good, so for the time being, I will just make up with what I have.

    ''Dwarves are a race of artisans, so they see people and make weapons tailored to the user?''

    They have great pride and self-esteem.

    If the user does not come directly, they are the ones who refuse the request even if they give them thousands of gold.

    It was also a Dwarf who created a new type of weapon used in the current Luxmea Church''s Great Hall. At that time, there are records that the Pope personally visited their kingdom.

    On the good side, the craftsmanship was excellent, on the bad side, it was inflexible.

    As a joke, there is even a saying, ''If an elf maintains the innocence of a boy/girl until the moment he dies, a dwarf is born with the savagery like a brat from the moment he is born.''

    ''Yeah, where did you not tell the god Luxmea to come and find you?''

    Anyway, unless it''s a sword like that, I don''t think there''s anything I can do other than match the Serpense''s skills, as they are all swords that are the same size as those of a long time ago.

    " But when you go to a dangerous place, you can use a weapon

    I''ll take some and go. Do you not know?"

    I''m talking about someone else.

    I''ll take good care of myself in the future, so take care of your serpence as well.

    With the expression that he had obtained an unexpected income from my words, he meekly nodded.

    Be careful in the future.

    As a reward, he placed a piece of wheat crepe cake on a plate and handed it out.

    Serpens looked at the stacked layers, and then ate a regular cake.

    He cut off the tip and put it in his mouth.

    In order not to disturb the shape, it is a more delicate hand movement than usual.

    "So, how was your visit?"

    I asked him, rolling the top with a fork.

    "I thought it would be difficult to hide in Yeongju Castle on a bright day, so I only looked around Yeong-ji."

    I don''t know if it''s from Prasidus, who knows all about security devices, including the deployment of troops.

    The castle of another duke''s family is displayed in broad daylight.

    Going out seems burdensome, no matter how serpents are.

    "Have you had any income?"

    It was clean.

    As if it was creepy, he frowned.

    Just because it''s clean doesn''t mean it''s not dirty. It must be said that there are no traces of demon cults to be found.

    Then you''re saying that the Duke of Argento is just trying to keep Serpens in check with his pure lust for power?

    There is a possibility, but...

    The aide was suspicious.

    If you''re an aide, Sir Breathe?

    After the last big fight, I never talked to him again.

    I didn''t feel the need to talk to him first. He, too, realized that touching me doesn''t make him look good, so they were half-ignoring each other.

    "If I had known this would be the case, would I have been a little closer? If that had been the case, I would have thought about it implicitly while having a conversation."

    It sounds like a big deal.

    As if he was not even dreaming of approaching him, his expression and voice were resolute.

    But is it really a matter of the wonder of the arm? Or, the Duke of Argento is trying to put everything on him...

    The possibility of that is being considered as much as possible, but for now, he is the most suspicious.

    According to Serpens'' explanation, it seems that the Duke of Argento is quite cheap about him. There are rumors that he loves his aide more than his son?

    ''Often at the advisory meeting, like a whisper

    It was enough to show them exchanging things.

    For nearly 20 years, I have been traveling with him most of the day from a location closer to him than his son. It just felt closer than family.

    However

    "Oh my God, where is the duke who is swayed by an aide?"

    The aide is the closest position to a superior and offers advice and opinions, isn''t it?

    There are horns!

    Whether they were on the same side as the duke, Serpence poured out words like excuses.

    Anyway, yes! Huh, oh, uh, I don''t have teeth . What the hell are all those incompetent people?!

    Yeah, that''s incompetent...

    Incompetent!

    O Uh " -9 - ''��

    He lowers his fork and lowers his head. You must have thought it was something to be ashamed of as a duke.

    I-I-I-I''m so crazy! And I''m so crazy! I just put the peacock on the palm of my hand and the mouse.

    Are you rocking? There is a degree to being disrespectful! tt-!

    Kicking his tongue, he put a crepe wrapped around a fork into his mouth.

    Serpens looked at me like I was curious.

    Oh, I''m not kidding you with what you eat! It''s the way my sister ate, but after trying it once, it''s really fun.

    "It''s not "

    He mumbled, and quietly blinked his eyes.

    " why are you looking at me like that?"

    Oh.

    Somehow, he said that it was strange for Serpens to make desperate excuses like his own. It was really because it was his job.

    "Is the Empire okay with the dukes swayed by their aides?"

    Whoops!

    I''m really worried, so I''m asking. Is it okay if there are only two dukes?

    As if not to ask myself about that, Serpens looked at me with a disgraceful expression. With a face burning with shame, if there is even a mouse hole in front of you, it will crawl in.

    Uh, um... That''s right. Did the Duke of Argento say he was in his 70''s? Did he say that his son went down to live separately because he concentrated on managing the estate... and his wife died?

    If you''re nervous, you close your mouth and roll your eyes away.

    It could be because you''re getting older and you''re getting weaker! Yeah, that''s it!

    As you dig into your broken heart and take care of yourself by your side, you have no choice but to pass!"

    Being lonely and hostile, I unconsciously look for a place to turn to, and of course I have no choice but to lean on Sir Palsum, who has been by my side for a long time!

    It seemed like he was swearing too much, so even though he defended him diligently, Serpense''s expression showed no sign of improving at all.

    It seems that the truth was not felt because of the exaggeration.

    That''s right. In a state of unstable mind and spirit, it is easy to be swayed by other people''s words, that''s what it means.

    Now that''s over.

    We were silent for a moment, then nibbled on the cake.

    After each ate a piece, we were able to continue the conversation again.

    Then you went all the way to Argento and looked around? Do you have any souvenirs?

    "I went to work."

    "Even on a business trip, you should buy something like a souvenir."

    I''ll keep that in mind the next time I go.

    I didn''t know that I would take the words lightly thrown in the mood to change the mood. As I gazed at Serpens'' face that had regained its original color, he held out an empty plate to me.

    Another piece of cake was placed on top of it.

    "I''m asking this out of curiosity, didn''t you just eat a little to eat a lot of cake?"

    Eating well is a special thing, so if you cover it and feed it, you''re going to have problems like this. In the future, I felt the need to feed little by little.

 CH 122

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 122

    29. The duke''s aides (3)

    Serpence did not do anything that could be called interaction with other people at the banquet this year.

    In January, he exuded a no-access aura with Eugenes, and in February he deliberately approached the second prince, Frederick.

    Last month, I brought food in moderation, including Eugene. The three of them came together relaxingly on the terrace.

    ''Besides, at the end of last year, I went to the Bastul Kingdom, so I skipped the banquet itself.

    Ji.''

    The time has come when you need to manage your personal relationships.

    Still, it was a Serpence who had already avoided personal interactions with people.

    Even in that state, people supported him because they viewed him as a messianic rather than the same person.

    So Serpens was able to report on his own, and he had no choice but to do so.

    I am afraid that my priorities will be pushed and I will not be able to get help due to my personal feelings.

    However, he was afraid that he would become his weakness to get particularly close, and that he would be targeted by the demon worshipers.

    Because of that, Serpence personally viewed it positively as he did not get along with anyone.

    Treat everyone as equal, and not be swayed by anything.

    If we look only at the issue of the holy sword, Serpence is a powerful young man. It was common for you and Donna to be anxious to get to know each other.

    There were many people claiming to be close with the Crown Prince Humanus to say that he could not be approached due to his high title.

    all.

    ''The biggest problem is that Serpens erected a wall... .''

    They, too, were building a wall against Serpens. for their own safety.

    It was not for nothing that Humanus declared that Serpens had only me as a friend.''

    Because no one except himself tried to get closer to Serpens more than a certain distance.

    So, to hear that Euges is celebrating Serpence''s birthday, he must have felt particularly happy.

    ''If you think about it this way, you definitely feel like the main character.

    Joe Ugan.

    Since the Holy Sword had passed into someone else''s hands, Serpens couldn''t help but continue to delay interacting with people.

    Even if it is impossible to build personal acquaintances with them right away. At least, as at last year''s banquet, it was necessary to maintain the extent of exchanging comments on various theories, or discussing political issues.

    As far as I can tell about the assistant to the Duke of Argento,

    It meant that you should know how to avoid it and be careful.

    Worried about leaving me alone, Serpens said in the carriage he rode to attend the Imperial Palace banquet.

    There was a way to keep him sitting next to him while he was talking with other nobles, but there was a high possibility that he would be pushed by people as before.

    It is hard work to stand still while listening to things that are difficult to understand.

    Yeah~, yeah~. Oh, you must be.

    "Sunwoo, are you really "

    In response to my sarcastic reply, he rubbed his forehead and sighed. It is a look of great concern.

    I know what he''s worried about.

    But the problem is that he''s not the only one who said this today.

    "And what else did you say? If I didn''t say anything, I would get caught up in it, so he said that he said it because it was better to know and pay attention."

    Worrying lasts for a day or two, and hearing the same words over and over again just feels like nagging.

    "I know you well, don''t you worry?"

    someone who knows... . So, did you stare at him blatantly at the last meeting?"

    After hearing such a story from Serpence, I was worried for nothing, and I guess he was subconsciously staring at Sir Pence.

    Suddenly, I felt something touching my leg, and when I checked, it was Serpens. He reached out to the back of the chair and touched me standing behind him.

    Don''t be suspicious, go somewhere else

    meant to see.

    ''This bastard doesn''t even have eyes on the back of his head, how the hell did he know?''

    After all, he''s like a ghost.

    Do not provoke for nothing, and do not be provoked.

    If anyone hears it, they''ll think I''m annoyed because I can''t fight.

    ..is not it?''

    As if surprised, his eyes widened a little.

    ''Is that a joke, are you serious?''

    My image in his head

    I do not know how it was eaten. Anyway, it was not the gaze of a common sense person.

    The carriage arrived at the imperial palace just in time, so I moved to the banquet hall without even examining it.

    After the banquet started, the nobles flocked to Serpens, who kept the banquet hall alone after a long time. I fell off before I was pushed by them.

    It''s been a while, Sir Rivelon!

    When I turned around to the voice calling me warmly, Tustor was standing there.

    After all, was he there?''

    Unlike Serpens, his superiors will participate in various banquets, so he might have met Lord Palsum there too.

    It''s been a long time, didn''t you see me at the advisory meeting yesterday?

    Haha! That''s right! We see each other at the advisory meeting, but we haven''t been able to talk, so it''s been a long time.

    The first time I saw it, I couldn''t eat it, and I was anxious about it]. Now, as if my words are unconditionally correct, they agree with each other and are shivering with flattery.

    Our duke is very much out of entertainment.

    Since he is a distant person, I think it is more likely that he did not attend events other than the imperial banquet."

    It''s really unfortunate.

    Exaggeratedly, he expressed regret.

    Does Lord Tustor attend a banquet or something like that?

    Every place you can participate in, you attend.

    It must be either a person who is crazy about not being able to play, or a person who is greedy to gain power through personal connections.

    ''If you look at him, is he the latter?''

    Maybe Tustor is hard on me

    He may have his own will to rub his palms, but I wonder if there is an instruction from the count he serves.

    "Then you must have met a lot of other nobles and their assistants."

    Of course! Does anyone have any questions?

    He said he often goes to social circles, and if you pretend, it''s a chuck.

    I looked around the banquet hall.

    Unlike Serpens, the Duke of Argento had created his own power, and he was with a group of nobles of various ages.

    Unlike the group surrounding Serpence, it seemed that there was a definite hierarchical relationship. At a glance, it feels like he is supporting the Duke of Argento.

    ''Eight breath lord''.''

    It wasn''t difficult to find him either. You just need to find a place where the aides are gathered.

    Sir Falsum was seen reigning in the ranks of his aides. Very similar to my boss.

    ''They do the same thing, so the Duke of Argento feels as close as my son.''

    I don''t like the snarky things that I said, ''Ttt-.'' I kicked my tongue and shook my head.

    Of course! As an aide to the expensive Duke of Prasidus, I don''t think you like that look. I absolutely hate it too.

    To the subject of desperate flattery for power, Tooth Thor said in a way that he was not bound by such things at all.

    "Who is Sir Armsom?"

    "He is assertive, so he always has a hard time getting his job done unless he takes the initiative. And this is a secret .

    Big, big-!"

    Tustor coughed and looked around before reaching for me.

    Sir Rivelon is so open-minded.

    Yes?!

    Why, didn''t you have a big fight with the Lord Eightsum the other day? After that, that you had no culture or that you were simply ignorant and twisted and listened to words...

    After the fight, he apologized coolly and acted as if it was over, and he seemed to have been peeling pumpkin seeds from behind.

    Suddenly, in front of you, the two-torga big man

    to the extent that it can be seen as

    They say they don''t know how they got a person like Lord Ribelon as their assistant. You''re worried that it will have a bad influence on the Duke of Prasidus, so why don''t you secretly turn to the Duke of Prasidus and curse him?

    "Wow, that !"

    Pretending to be worried and cursing The quality is worse than expected.

    That''s all because they don''t know the greatness of Lord Ribelon. The closest person to his assistant is saying that Duke Fra Sidus is not good enough. I''m full of laughter.

    What are you about to come?"

    As if he was even more excited when I reacted, Toothor talked about Misoo well.

    I must have been so mad at Lord Rivelon last time that I couldn''t come to my senses.

    How come it sounds like ''Go and scold him!'' Not only the words, but also the eyes seemed to expect something.

    Tustor''s eyes twinkled with concern.

    ''You bastard, aren''t you flirting right now?''

    Unknowingly, doubts arise in those burdensome eyes, which is an unavoidable reaction.

    I was just telling the truth! I can''t deny that I was a little emotional, but since I''m close to Lord Rivelon, he keeps rejecting me...

    As he looked at Tustor with a suspicious expression on his face, he jumped and defended himself. Whenever I attended the royal banquet, I must have hated him because he acted like my limbs.

    '' Come to think of it, he''s the only aide meeting

    Were you out of the house?''

    But, considering the dazzling change of attitude I''ve seen, I don''t know how I will behave again at a banquet I didn''t attend.

    I still need to shave my hair.

    Isn''t there anything else? Other than swearing at me.

    "Other than that, what ?"

    I heard that you are very close to the Duke of Argento.

    "Ahh, is that what you mean?"

    Tustor glanced over the place where Lord Falsum was, and smirked.

    Between us, the subject of pretending to be a superior. No, it goes beyond that, and he behaves disrespectfully even to our countess? In such a subject, in front of the Duke of Argento, how well-tamed he is... how he behaves like a puppy. It''s very just like that.''''

    Maybe it''s because they''re close together, and it seems that the loyalty that he didn''t even have for his superiors is springing up.

    It''s like borrowing the power of the duke''s family without thinking about their past...

    The way he speaks with his upper lip lifted,

    There was clear contempt.

    Past?

    Oh, you don''t know?

    Of course I didn''t know, and I searched through Zion''s memory, but nothing came up.

    It was a long time ago, and he doesn''t socialize, so you probably don''t know.

    He must have accepted that he was deeply immersed in his thoughts while digging through Shion''s memories, as he was offended by his question of whether he didn''t know and kept his mouth shut.

    Tustor quickly changed his words and muttered that it was worth it.

    Lord Falsum''s family was originally the Count family, but it''s safe to say that they don''t exist anymore.

    "No?"

    Yes. His father blew up his fortune by gambling, and even Sir Falsum''s younger sister tried to sell it in exchange for gambling debts in the form of arranged marriage, right?

    He''s a very trashy guy.

    By the way, does that mean you didn''t?

    "Fortunately, his mother knew ahead of time, and ran away with her and went into hiding.

    He became angry and the opposing family entered into a territorial battle under the pretext of unilaterally breaking the contract."

    No matter what he had to endure, whether he reached an agreement or not, Yeong-ji, who had an empty warehouse, did not have the talent to endure it.

    ''I couldn''t even pay the soldiers'' salaries.''

    In an instant, the entire territory passed through the opponent''s door.

    It is said that the Count Palsum, who had lost his estate and lost his debt, chose to commit suicide.

    So left, Lord Palsum was left alone.

    All he had was a pretentious position as head of a count of heavy debts and no land.

    Even that position was a burden for him to stand up.

    ''The head of one family cannot find a job in another family.''

    He asked for help from those he was close to before, but they all turned down, and it seems that he was beaten up and ignored.

    Then, he made a decision and suddenly submitted a document to the imperial family saying that he would hand over his position to his younger sister, who did not know where he lived.

    Naturally, the position also had a pile of debt tied to it.

    Aren''t the people who collect the original money wisely find a person?

    They found a mother and daughter who were hiding in silence, and it is said that they asked for help from Sir Falsum, who became an aide to the Duke of Argento.

    "While it was your responsibility, you rejected the request saying that you were the one who abandoned yourself first?"

    "So what happened to them?"

    I married a wealthy merchant and

    It is said that he divorced immediately after handing over , and went into hiding again with the money he received as alimony. They must be living well somewhere.

    In effect, the title was passed on for money.

    Although it is absolutely illegal to trade the title of nobility, it is an expedient taking advantage of the fact that there is nothing wrong with passing it on to your spouse through marriage.

    The Palsum family has no estate, and not a drop of Palsum''s blood flows to the newly elected Count Palsum. How is this different from the extinction gate?

    Perhaps that''s why Tustor''s contempt was expressed.

    Tustor smirked, saying that it would be like giving up the pride of a nobleman and the responsibility of being the head of the household saying that I would live alone.

 CH 123

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 123

    29. The duke''s aides (4)

    It''s been more than 20 years.

    If Tu Stor, who has only had a little experience as an assistant, knows this much, it means that he is still being mentioned in the social circles.

    The Duke of Argento may not attend all social gatherings. Inevitably, there will be places where Sir Palsum will not attend.

    ''In the guise of exchanging information, they must be talking among themselves.''

    All of the assistants are of noble origin.

    It is said that he is now working under a nobleman from another family, but he does not change his surname. We have no choice but to care about the family of origin, which can be called the root.

    family history and traditions.

    It is an essential subject in aristocratic society. This is similar to how nobles in the Joseon Dynasty used to memorize genealogy.

    It is said that he was given the title of Viscount when he became an aide to the Duke of Argento, but that''s how the original family was.

    ''To the other aides, do you think Sir Falsum is like a ruthless bastard?''

    He must have been very dissatisfied with the fact that he was flirting over their heads by borrowing the power of the duke.

    ''I heard that he won one quarrel with Lord Eight Sum, and that Tustor changed his attitude like flipping his palms, so he had no stomach... .One

    A person who thinks that he is inferior to him by his own standards cannot stand being above him.

    As much as he lives intoxicated with a sense of superiority, even more.

    He must have judged that the one who had something was better than the one who had no roots at all.

    "By the way, what is the current status of the opposing family that declared the War of the Territory?"

    It may not have been possible to touch it immediately after becoming an aide, but in 20 years, it is time for Kang-san to change twice.

    He must have gained power and had the confidence of the Duke of Argento, and his personality doesn''t seem to have left him alone.

    "It was a long time ago, so I don''t know the whole process, but the situation got so bad that management of the estate became difficult, so it was completely destroyed.

    Did it or what? . At least, Sir, it is clear that he made his hand.'''' I don''t know that far.

    ''Is serpens something you already know?''

    I''ve been researching so hard, so I don''t think they''ll know that it''s a thing of the past.

    As much as he doubts Sir Falsum, he must have been digging into every detail since before he became an assistant.

    I''ll have to ask when I get back.

    It seems that all the territory has passed to the imperial family.

    "When you say everyone, you mean the original estate of the Falsum family?"

    "Yes. Currently, it seems that the royal family has sent an official to run the business."

    It seems that now it has become a direct control of the Imperial Family. If someone makes a contribution to the imperial family, they will be rewarded.

    He''s a very narrow-minded person with a long back. So, he''s probably wearing the Rivelon lord with something he''s been messing around with at a banquet.

    Tustorga, who is still chatting about Sir Falsum''s backstory, pointed out Sir Falsum''s backstory.

    ''It''s not that the problem is that I''m embarrassed, it''s probably that I didn''t like the fact that I didn''t lean in under myself.

    After losing everything, he must have gone through a lot of hardship before becoming an assistant to the Prince of Argento and being recognized by others.

    I would have tried countless times.

    To him like that, I would be nothing more than a lucky guy.

    It must have felt like a young chick who had never had a proper social life, let alone hardship, was trying to compete with him.

    Moreover, since Shion has been rejected from recruiting for aide for two years, there is nothing he can do if he judges him to be an incompetent and incompetent person.

    That''s how I claimed to be equal to him. If you think about the hardships and hardships you have gone through so far.

    ''In that sense, it''s about my backstory. .''

    No, but I can understand and move on.

    It is also true that he is not accustomed to the aristocratic culture and is darkened by rumors from the social circles. There''s nothing fatal about gossip like that.

    ''But you can''t even trip over a serpence

    That alone could be problematic, but in reality, it''s not that much.

    What was the reason for investigating the Duke of Argento in the first place?

    ''Moving the Duke of Argento to touch the Duke of Prasidus? Because you don''t like that aide?''

    funny sound.

    If Sir Palsum had not been that sensible, he would have been abandoned by the Duke of Argento sooner or later.

    ''I''d rather not know if it''s the other way around.''

    If from the beginning the target was a serpent. What if that''s why he approached me, his aide?

    ''I don''t remember very well, but didn''t I tell you to come and find yourself?''

    It was dismissed as a simple fight. But the thought that it may not have been the truth was horrifying.

    ''What would happen if I naively passed the Holadang at that time?''

    Accepting the superficial meaning as it is, a kind senior seems to give advice

    because I believe Ask him about the job, get advice, and put it into practice.

    If that behavior repeats itself and you trust and depend on him... .

    ''Aren''t you saying that you were trying to use the information about Serpence through me?!''

    why? Sir Falsum, what do you think Serpens has a crush on?

    "Maybe there is a conflict between Sir Palsum and Ghana, Duke of Prasidus or the Duke I serve. Is there something like a bad connection?"

    Yeah? There''s no way there''s such a thing.

    " Yes. No, of course."

    Tustor made a face asking what kind of fat question he was.

    If it weren''t for that, it would be something that could be the origin of an unprovoked hostility towards Serpens... .

    ''After all, was this incident related to a demon cult?''

    They have always dug into the hearts of those who are desperate, and made fun of them and corrupted them.

    Considering the past of Sir Palsum, they

    It is highly probable that this approach has been approached. Perhaps it was their support for him to become an aide to the Duke of Argento.

    "Do you have any more questions?"

    No, that''s enough.

    Serpens should already know the details. If you don''t know, you''ll have to do some research to find out.

    Of course I don''t

    Then, I have one question... can I ask?

    It''s tough to curse the lord

    He showed a very cautious attitude to a topic that was not there. His red-brown eyes, the same color as his hair, roll around.

    "What are you trying to ask?"

    Oh, no, that''s it. Rather than I''m curious, our count wants to know. Not only that, but many other nobles...

    The intro is unnecessarily long. Judging from the fact that he is working hard for his defense, he must be asking a very disrespectful question.

    I don''t take questions.

    Yes?

    I refuse.

    I''m curious as to why you''re making lengthy excuses to ask a question, but I don''t think it''s good to hear about it.

    It seems difficult to answer, so it is right to block such things in advance.

    Tustor made a face that was somehow unfair, but that was beyond my knowledge.

    * * *

    Tusto, which many nobles wondered about

    It seems that Le''s words were true.

    If that''s the question, I''ve been listening to it all the time.

    In the carriage going back to the duke''s house.

    Since the story about Sir Palsum seems to be getting longer, Serpens answered the topic that was lightly thrown aside for a while.

    "What was your question?"

    Eugese Yulydia. I asked her about her relationship.

    ''Hagisa'', in the two banquets, they were attached like everyone else. It was natural to have the door of

    Is it possible that you were planning on getting married, or was it that Yulydia-sama left the Empire this time to get permission for it? I asked.

    "Isn''t that a terribly rude question?"

    I would have asked such a blatant question. If so, what are you going to do, or what are you guys going to do?

    From what I heard through Serpence, it sounds like the horseshoe bird is shouting ''I''m against this marriage!''

    It must be because of the divine power.

    Ah, come to think of it... Ordinary elves

    Couldn''t you have divine power?

    The two races remaining on the continent are elves and dwarves. And Merrow, also called a mermaid. There are only these three

    According to the [Master of the Holy Sword] worldview, in the case of the other three races except humans, there is a fixed existence that can have divine power.

    High Elf, High Dwarf, High Merrow.

    Or, those called ''Apostles (ʹͽ)'' are those beings.

    ''In the past, there were more

    They say there were races, but it''s not important right now, so I''ll just skip it.''

    The apostles of the elves are the trees of the world.

    The dwarf apostles use the furnace of eternity.

    The Apostle of Merou protects the deep seas of infinity.

    And their number is always kept constant and circulated.

    After the death of the elf apostle. If you bury the body under the world tree, the tree will heat up.

    A bond is made, and a new apostle is born in it.

    The dwarven apostles were burned in the furnace of eons] and the ashes were gathered.

    After the apostle of Merrow sinks in the deep sea of infinity, through the egg that rises.

    The method is different, but the result is the same.

    It feels more like a resurrection than a birth, and names and memories are also inherited.

    In any case, it cannot be considered universal.

    Because of this generational change, is it appropriate to incorporate the apostles into the relevant tribe or as a separate tribe?

    Anthropologists are arguing over whether to see it, but... .

    ''They say they''re right, but why is the third race discussing it?''

    Anyway, it''s too wide.

    Anyway, the conclusion is that unless you are an apostle, you do not have divine power. It''s the same with mixed races.

    "But, in the next generation, won''t the divine power reappear?"

    From the perspective of the world, only the genes of the race with more blood appear from the quarter, so from then on, they are no different from just humans.

    "You must be worried about the future generations."

    What is the importance of divine power...

    In other countries, most of the defects of noble families are politically motivated. However, the Holy Empire added that holy power was an important factor.

    Just looking at Serpense''s parents right now is the same. Did you not get married based on only one divine power?

    However .

    "There is only a difference between the quantity and the quantity, but even if you go to the temple, people with divine power are full, right?"

    That''s because it''s a temple.

    What I''m saying is, there are enough substitutes! For a job that requires a lot of divine power, a group of people can work together.

    "Then what do you think is important?"

    Serpens asked as if asking for advice with a serious expression.

    It doesn''t matter who it is. As long as Serpens are happy, dependable, and able to move on.

    Is it really okay with just that?

    blink both eyes

    Beautiful eyelashes rise and fall, and brightly colored pupils appear and disappear repeatedly.

    Think about it. There are a lot of people with divine power. But there is no substitute for the Serpence face. It''s unique.

    ...what?

    With all the elves lining up except for Eugene, she has a beauty that can blow all the slaps off her cheeks.

    There is a face more sacred than divine power, and divine power is not even considered in the first place.

    If Serpence has to leave something to the world through posterity, it will be the face, not the divine power.

    ...to be serious, I''ve lost money for nothing.

    I''m only really serious.

    Serpens must have taken it as nonsense. He turns his head as if it''s not even worth talking to anymore.

 CH 124

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 124

    29. The duke''s aides (5)

    Upon returning to the duke''s residence, the first thing he did was prepare food for Serpens.

    I got off the carriage and asked Hans who was there to meet me.

    You don''t have to.

    No way! I couldn''t eat anything because I was harassed by people.

    Perhaps because of the accumulated stories, the nobles held Serpens until later than usual today.

    The main dish was almost cold or out of stock.

    After everyone has eaten. There was no need to fill it, and its place was replaced by desserts.

    ''I still can''t tell you to fill your stomach with dessert!''

    Just like a child who wakes up to snacks for the first time. I knew that I was still paying attention to snacks rather than meals, but I couldn''t stand by it.

    It was doubtful that he might have been caught up late on purpose, aiming for this kind of situation.

    So I immediately put him in the wagon and returned to the duke''s house.

    I will give instructions to the maids. Please wait in the dining room first.

    Even though Serpense''s permission had not yet fallen, Hans accepted it. After preparing a quick meal, he bowed down to Serpence and left immediately.

    Something that could not have happened before.

    "Then shall we go in?"

    Serpens nodded with a puzzled expression. him like that

    I dragged it to the dining room in the main building.

    How do you keep talking to the buffet in front of you, so you can''t even eat?!

    Due to untimely dinner preparations, the maids were busy coming and going, napkins and water glasses on the table. Then he put up tableware such as forks and knives.

    Still, I could see that he had picked up my words and nodded his head reflexively.

    But Sir Zion couldn''t eat?

    No way. I''m sorry for Serpence, but I blocked Tustor''s question.

    well taken care of

    And that''s a fact that Serpens knows.

    In other words, that''s the question of why the person who has finished eating is sitting here.

    I ate well, so just prepare a cup of tea, please.

    all right.

    Before I answered Serpens, I spoke to the maid. She took the dishes she was going to put in front of me.

    '' I wonder if I can eat here from now on?''

    In the beginning, I couldn''t even dare to do it, but now I''m in the mood to just do what I do, so I don''t think there''s anything unusual about eating together.

    It was a car that bothered me to let him eat alone every day, but it worked out in the end.

    "Of course, to talk about work. Is there anything else?"

    Her face is smiling, but her eyes are suspicious as if she heard something she couldn''t hear.

    I''d rather eat well or not.

    He seems to be saying that if he had said that he had come to poetry, he would have understood.

    I''ve heard rumors in the social circles from Sir Tustor.

    "Are there any more questions than what you asked in the wagon?"

    Why, you know that. You told me to be careful before.

    I understand what you are talking about.

    He makes up an ordinary expression and sends a gaze with the implied meaning of ''I told you to be careful, did you come crawling?''

    We didn''t talk directly, it''s just an inquiry!

    Yes?

    He tilted his head and smiled as if he was making excuses even though he didn''t say anything. But I guess I want to tell you to put away any excuses.

    No matter how loyal the servants of the Duke of Prasidus are, we can''t openly talk about sniping the Duke of Argento.

    ''More than anything else, this guy has to show that kind of attitude... .''

    I don''t think there will be a smooth conversation

    does not go

    More details after the food is all out. It seems better to bite people.

    It also seemed to be the only thing that was frustrating.

    There was no need to talk to the maids again. After hearing Serpence''s words, the girls brought the food out one at a time instead of one by one in the form of a course.

    Soup with croutons, Caesar salad with chicken breast and salmon steak.

    It''s late in the evening, so

    It is a light meal that is not burdensome. Finally, he put the car in front of me, went out of the dining room and closed the door.

    I can''t say no because it''s really professional.

    "You must have told me to be careful and avoid it, right?"

    Serpence, who immediately put away the artificial smile, said with a dissatisfied expression.

    The person who said not acting was awkward and uncomfortable no longer exists.

    I told you not to approach me, I didn''t even mention it

    Didn''t you say no?

    "Do I have to explain all of that?"

    "Let''s talk while we eat."

    While Serpens sighed, he quietly raised his spoon, scooped out the soup, and brought it to his mouth.

    I drank a little bit of tea.

    "So what did you hear?"

    He asked with a tone of displeasure, whether he was sprained or not.

    Lord Palsum is talking behind my back, or about his past. But

    Did Serpens know about this?"

    "Well , yes."

    He sneaks away and pretends to be preoccupied with his food.

    Judging by the reaction, the feeling that I didn''t say it on purpose is conveyed.

    If you had such information, it would have been nice if you would let me know in advance, right? Then I wouldn''t have to go around asking about that, and Serpense who kept his mouth shut was also wrong.

    "Does anything change if you know?"

    My curiosity is satisfied! More than that,

    Are you saying I''m incompetent now?''

    But it was true. There''s nothing I can say I know.

    "Anyway, it seems that Lord Palsum is being ignored from behind because his home is like that .. If the power of the duke was completely destroyed, wouldn''t it be possible to bring it back?"

    It''s possible if the head of state is passed on to someone else. Considering the face of the duke, it''s strange that it didn''t.

    I thought it was a bit strange, but it must have been a very strange thing.

    It was after he became an assistant that they asked for help, so there was enough money to help.

    And it was a good thing for Sir Palsum himself.

    ''Really simply because they thought they had abandoned them, and for that revenge they completely abandoned their background as a countess?''

    Isn''t it something to say that I threw it away in the first place? He was an inevitable blood god.

    Whether it''s convincing the other lord or taking it by force. It''s nothing more than reclaiming the territory. Under the imperial law,

    It is possible to get the territory taken back by paying the corresponding compensation. And that would be beneficial to the Duke of Argento.

    "What is it?"

    "In return for reclaiming the estate, it is possible to remove a certain amount of tax every year, or even directly intervene in its management. It wouldn''t be a bad idea to try a system that is difficult to do.

    From what I''ve heard, the Duke of Argento will also benefit if he puts in a little effort.

    that it''s going to happen

    In other words, the reason that Count Palsum was so prosperous was simply because Lord Palsum wanted it.

    It was understandable that his sister sold the title over.

    If I had held on, I would have had to get married that I didn''t want. As the situation worsened, he was forced to become a concubine rather than a wife.

    ''In such a situation, would you buy me a pretentious title with an amount that would be more than enough to pay off all my debts?''

    To the extent that I wondered if it was the mercy bestowed by the god Luxmea,

    not gracious

    For their mother and daughter, that would have been the best option, and a much better life.

    No longer aristocrats, but in exchange for freedom.

    To reclaim the territory, you must have a lord to present, right?

    Of course.

    "And most of the management would have been in the hands of the Duke of Argento."

    right.

    Serpence replied in a blunt tone, and cut a salmon steak and put it in his mouth.

    put It''s a rude answer to the point where I doubt that you''ve heard my question properly.

    Maybe, isn''t that why he refused to help them?

    I hope that I will not be entangled in other people''s lives anymore, and I want to live freely. Although there have been difficulties because of that.... Rebuilding the family and reclaiming the territory is a great benefit to both Palsum and the Duke of Argento. The reason for not doing so is .

    Serpens, who was eating with an elegant attitude, held me in his right hand

    put the yep down He raised his glass, took a sip of the water, and opened his mouth.

    "Why do you think so?"

    Yes? Did you just listen to me properly? So, according to Serpence''s words, if you put your sister in the lord''s seat...

    It''s not. I mean, there''s something good about thinking that way.

    what else is this talking about?

    Even though I was a Serpensian master, what I just said could not be interpreted. His expression was also cluttered and it was difficult to keep track.

    Serpens let out a small sigh as he was tearing apart his face to try to understand somehow.

    "At the same time, a person who buys a title on such good terms appears, and quietly handing over alimony and getting a divorce is unnatural."

    also !

    One problem has been solved, and it is no longer clear why Serpens said that.

    Anyway, he''s an enemy. Worst of all, he may have something to do with the demon worshipers. If that''s the case, there''s no way to save him no matter what his past is.

    It is, but...

    Do not sympathize. Do not enter into his feelings, nor do you understand them.

    Isn''t that too harsh a word?

    "Then you are too affectionate."

    Now I know. Why did Serpence say that with that kind of expression?

    Is it because I''m hesitant and you want me to save him?

    Yeah. That''s why I didn''t want to say it, but where did I pick it up and hear it?

    Without hiding his feelings of discomfort, he clicked his tongue low.

    How the heck does this guy think of me as a good person, that he will cover me for any sins and forgive me?

    I have to be sympathetic, but that''s different. If it''s not related to the demon worshipers, the Duke of Argento will cover it up, and if it is, it''s inevitable.

    right.

    If you can save someone, you can take some damage, but you''re not foolish enough to take fatal damage.

    Is there?

    then I''m glad.

    At that time, the guy loosened his stiff expression and smiled a relieved smile.

    But if possible, end it as long as you don''t take any damage.

    Of course!''''

    Serpens'' hand, which had stopped, moved again, and resumed eating.

    And since we''ve been talking about the Duke of Argento, do you know why he chose Sir Falsum as his assistant? There''s no way you wouldn''t have known about the status of the Falsum family...

    "As long as you do your job well. That is a problem that can be solved with the power of the duke family.

    I guess he didn''t know he would refuse help.

    He said that he would pay off his debts and reclaim the land], he would have never thought of rejecting it.

    "Then you were chosen purely because of your ability?"

    To some extent. He was the one who maintained the financially bankrupt estate instead of the Count Palsum at the time he was addicted to gambling. If the debt had not increased any longer and the war between the territory had not occurred, it would have been easy.

    He said he was able to find his place.

    It seems that Zion was the only one who was chosen as an assistant because of his incompetence. Still, I''d be pretty good with what I am now, maybe.

    "What else is it?"

    Usually, the documents would have been filtered before even being delivered to the duke, but it didn''t.

    It seems that dogs and cows did not accept all documents.

    There''s no time left, and I wouldn''t be able to check all of them one by one and go through an interview, one by one.

    Of course, the circumstances in which Serpence chose Shion were a special case, so let''s move on.

    That''s right, if you ever dig behind the person in charge at the time...!

    dead.

    Is that an assassination?!

    " with old age."

    The weight of time was too heavy.

 CH 125

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 125

    29. The duke''s aides (6)

    Peaceful days followed, nothing special other than having dinner with Serpens in the main building. about a week or so.

    As soon as we arrived at the office after dinner and sat down, the letter that Hans brought us was a problem.

    "I think it has nothing to do with letters."

    The words ''Nerus Falsum'' written in the sender''s name field. on the envelope

    The words ''invitation'' written in colorful handwriting.

    Wow! I haven''t even opened the envelope, but I think I''ve already read it!

    It''s a great communication effect.

    As soon as he received the letter, he was sarcastic, so he secretly approached me whether he was curious about Serpence. Then, after checking the writing on the outside, it is taken away.

    There is no hesitation in opening the envelope.

    It''s a meeting of aides, so that''s a good excuse.

    Serpence frowned after checking the contents of the invitation card contained in it.

    "Is there anything like that? But why haven''t I been invited for nearly a year?"

    For your information, the previous meeting was hosted by the Pra Sidus family aide.

    "If it''s the Prasidus family''s aide it''s me now?!"

    Yeah. Seonwoo, it''s you.

    I wondered if Sir Palsum was disrespectful and sent out the invitation except for me, but it must have just not been opened so far.

    Is this what I was supposed to do? Didn''t you hear that?

    "Rather than what I have to do, I

    There was no access to the church, so the former aide started to open it up to compensate for that. It can be seen as a way to understand the trends of friendship and social circles."

    It''s the right thing to do, what.

    Serpens, I''m not the kind of person who cares about such things, so let''s say that.

    Still, if it was Hans, I would have asked him to send me the invitation even if he was polite to me.

    Even if you don''t participate in the meeting, you can get any information on social trends by running an information group.

    Serpens, who noticed my question,

    explained why.

    In simple terms, it means that Hans himself chose to work harder because I was not sure.

    "Still, building friendships cannot be replaced."

    "I must have been wrong about fighting, not building."

    What is it?!

    I cried out in tears, and Serpens quietly smirked.

    He opened his axe eyes and stared at him. Noticing my gaze, he coughed in vain.

    Anyway, then Sir Palsum doesn''t need to hold a meeting like this?

    The aides will meet at other social gatherings except for you.

    Serpens nodded and returned the invitation to me.

    After reading it, it''s about having a meeting with aides after a long time to build friendships with each other. And it ended with a final greeting wishing everyone to attend.

    Then this is for calling me, isn''t it?

    You don''t have to go.

    I don''t have to go! Aide''s meeting is like a parent-teacher meeting, isn''t it? These days, there is a lot of fuss saying that if you miss a meeting like this, the damage will go to your child.

    After making a fuss and talking about nothing, Serpens made an absurd expression on his face.

    "It was about the place where I used to live, but since the neighborhoods where people live are all the same, there won''t be much of a difference here."

    There seems to be another problem before that.

    He hardens his face and uses respectful words to make his face look brighter.

    "You said that you don''t have to worry about it and you can just cut it and go, so I made a joke. It''s not like I''m doing this for a day or two, but I''m relaxed.

    " Isn''t that what you say with your own mouth?"

    Contrary to the words, Serpens nodded with an expression of ''Yes, it is.'' The more I understand it, the more I feel uncomfortable.

    It''s a joke, but I think it''s right to participate. The other person came out so blatantly, but you have to go to understand the intentions or not, right?

    You don''t have to risk it.

    It''s not a one-on-one meeting, and there are other aides. Shall we go straight to work?

    There''s no guarantee that it won''t.

    Maybe it''s because only the aide gathers separately, and the place is the Duke of Argento''s residence. It is a more vigilant attitude than usual.

    It doesn''t matter if you refuse anyway. If you use an excuse to express your absence, you''ll make it on time for me, or tell me to set a date?

    I like to just do everything neatly. Why is there anyone who knows it so clearly?"

    If you don''t have the ability, what can you believe in and act so fearlessly...

    Do you believe in Serpens?

    The strongest guy in the world is taking care of my worries like this, but I can''t help but feel relieved.

    In response to my answer, he stares at me and lets out a deep sigh with a terrifying expression as if he can''t help it.

    Avoid one-on-one situations with him or anyone else. Keep a reasonable distance, and if anything happens,

    Come back right away.

    "I, by the way, aren''t you leaving today?"

    I am already worried that I may not hear nagging every day until the due date. Why is he so worried?

    * * *

    The meeting date was a weekend.

    On weekdays, each person has their own work, so it seems that this is not to interfere with work. At the same time, it will also serve the purpose of making sure that no one misses out on work as an excuse.

    go.

    I headed to the Duke of Argento in the chariot of the Prasidus family that Serpens had given me.

    When I inquired about whether the duke''s residence had just given up space for the aides meeting, I got the answer that it was because the previous meetings were held in the banquet hall of the duke''s residence.

    ''At the time, you opened it as part of your business, so were you willing to give up the space?''

    It seems that Hans and the servants also acted as attendants, picking up conversations and helping to gather information.

    Although circumstances have changed, the previous meeting

    The duke''s aide who hosted the meeting held a meeting at the duke''s residence with the duke''s permission.

    Sir Armsom must also do the same.

    Rather than not being able to rent a separate place, it was for his own prestige.

    Welcome, Lord Rivelon.

    Since I had arrived almost on time on purpose, all of the aides were already filling their seats.

    Sir Palsum, who was having a conversation with the other aides, comes up to me as soon as I enter and asks for a handshake.

    Thanks for the invitation, Sir Palsum.''''

    I grabbed his hand and tried to pull it out immediately, but he grabbed my hand so he couldn''t get out.

    Even at the age of nearly 50, he is a person who is thorough in self-management, so his grip strength is no joke.

    ''Is this a handshake nerve war?''

    I couldn''t push myself, so I gave my strength as much as I could.

    But is it useless or is it just holding on? That hair that was turned over with a pomade without a single strand of mess

    Just like that, the facial expression also maintains a smile without a single point of confusion.

    ''How long do I have to hold on to this?

    I try to keep a smiling face, but my hands are slowly starting to hurt.

    In the past, I had been rude a lot. It was a good thing, but after listening to Sir Ribelon and looking back, I think it was a misleading statement.

    In the end, it was because I was sarcastic about what I said, so it probably means that I''m going to go ahead and do something that wasn''t there from now on.

    "When was that enemy, do you still have it in mind?

    That was last July. What kind of bastard have you been thinking about for 9 months? I''m exhausted and I can''t speak.

    Even after returning the word that he looked like a mothball, his expression didn''t change in the slightest.

    I''m glad you''ve forgiven me.

    Is there anything to be forgiven? It all happened out of a misunderstanding.

    Hahaha! That''s right.

    Finally, he released the power from his hands. I quickly pulled my hand out.

    ''You''re not a new concept answerer, and you didn''t think I''d release it until the words I wanted to hear came out?''

    He gripped it so tightly that his handprints were clearly visible. If there was a Serpens in this place, it was so tingling that I wanted to scold him for treatment right away.

    Lord Rivelon has a lot of things I want to share.

    The period of ignoring each other for such a thing is too long. suddenly nothing

    I wondered if the wind was blowing like this.

    I know that Lord Rivelon also has many questions to ask of me.

    My gaze naturally turned to Tustor, who was watching our conversation comfortably. Tustor, who received the gaze, shook his head in amazement.

    It means he didn''t say anything.

    ''Hey, you''ve been swearing so hard, where did you say that?''

    I thought I was going to be buried because there was a lot of noise around me, but it is because there are so many people who have trained in aurora and divine powers. conversation at that time

    I think there was someone who heard

    We should have moved to the terrace and chatted.

    I didn''t curse him with my mouth, but just listening to it... .

    ''wait for a sec. But Sir, you cursed me directly, didn''t you?''

    I almost felt sorry for myself.

    I was curious as an aide to the duke''s family. Sir Falsum seems to know me very well, so it seems that he is not.

    "Is that possible? Let''s hear it.

    I heard that you already have great trust from the Duke of Prasidus. It''s a pity that we didn''t get to know each other sooner, because he was such a talented person.

    strange.

    It seems that they praise me for being capable without the slightest twist, but strangely, my heart stings as if I heard a sarcastic remark.

    Did you say that Sir Eightsum, the Duke of Argento loves him more than his own son? The secret to that is curious.

    The conversation seems to be getting longer... Would you like to change your seat?

    He paused for a moment on the way, looked around, then resumed. It means that there are not too many eyes watching.

    "Isn''t it okay if the organizer just left the seat?"

    Even though I am the organizer, I am also only an aide. It is not a formal place, and you do not have to worry about it as it is a free meeting for everyone to enjoy.

    No matter how free you are, you don''t leave your seat. If everyone is like that

    If they are scattered, what kind of gathering is that? Let''s just disband.

    I told Serpence that he was going to find out his intentions, and for that purpose, it was right to follow him.

    But the result of a nerve war a while ago... .

    ,boy, you''re a lot stronger than me... ?''

    I don''t think it can be compared with the strength of Zion, who has only recently started exercising.

    There was also a warning from Serpence, and if you flirt in an empty place for nothing, you may be suppressed at the moment.

    Change the plan completely and make it a little easier

    I decided to see

    It''s the same. It''s just as Lord Ribelon said. But I''m saying this because everyone doesn''t seem to be enjoying it properly because they''re looking at us.

    Did you notice? It seems to me that the duke''s aides are just listening, knowing that it''s time for a big tip to gain trust from their superiors?

    Isn''t it a world where we can all share good information and help each other?

    I am the left in the center of the banquet hall

    Sitting on the seat, he beckoned Lord Falsum to come and sit down.

 CH 126

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 126

    29. The duke''s aides (7)

    Sir Palsum put on a puzzled expression for a moment, but then he straightened his expression and daringly pulled out a chair next to me and sat down.

    It was a large round table, so there were plenty of empty seats. Starting with Tustor, the other aides who had been watching intervened one by one.

    Those who failed the nunji game moved to a nearby table in moderation.

    When you are seated, the attendants ask for the drink you want and pour it out.

    I thought Lord Rivelon didn''t like to hang out with people, but it seems that''s not the case.

    Ah! Surely. Sir Rivelon is kind of like that.

    Yes? Me?

    It is the story of the beginning of the golden hour. No one likes hanging out with people as much as I do.

    However, the brown haired aide sitting next to him responded to Sir Falsum''s wild words.

    Seeing that the other aides are nodding their heads, it doesn''t seem like the opinion of one or two people.

    I understand that you are not in the social circles, but unlike your predecessor, you do not hold such gatherings, so I only knew that it was so.

    He seems to have thought that I did not hold the meeting on purpose.

    But no one told me that there was such a gathering, so I had no choice but to do it. Whatever you need to know, open it or not.

    I didn''t even know I had to open it.

    "Even at the imperial banquet, I hardly ever saw anyone first hanging out or talking."

    Once a month, there was no way we could get close to having a conversation with a pretentious unilateral approach.

    Perhaps it was because it was an official event, and the name of the banquet was disregarded, and conversations with a public feel were coming and going.

    Moreover, it was more because the aides followed them as assistants rather than as the main body of the banquet.

    From the person you serve, something like, ''Talk to someone''s assistant.''

    This is because there are many cases where they come with instructions.

    It was very inconvenient, as I felt that I was aiming for the other person''s mistake while making a slurping noise.

    It was clearly visible that he was looking for flaws or weaknesses of the other party, or turning his head while arguing for profit or loss.

    When I first talked to him, he gave me an empty answer, but honestly, I didn''t really want to get along.

    ''Treatment with pretense is the same for Serpence... .''

    With those who hid their sharp thorns with a thin cloth to pierce their opponents

    was different He knows that it is the result of gnawing and abrading himself in order not to be hated.

    It is rather regrettable because it is an action that stems from the anxiety of wanting to be accepted and loved by others.

    There must have been a misunderstanding. I just became an aide, and I thought it was impossible to call you all in the name of the aides meeting.

    Even so, who will refuse the call of Lord Ribelon, the duke''s assistant?

    said one of the aides. They seem flattering and encourage abuse of power

    It sounds like a swear word.

    let''s spill

    Ah, of course, I knew that another duke''s aide, Sir Falsum, would open the door. So, what have you been waiting for all this time? It''s been a while since I didn''t get an invitation, so I was cautious about whether I was the only one shunning me. I guess I didn''t know what to say.

    As I made excuses, somehow it felt like everything was the fault of Sir Palsum.

    I felt the same way as I spoke. The listener will be even more so. eight breath

    Kyung immediately went to explain.

    Last time you said you don''t need my help, I didn''t know you were going through such a hardship.

    I didn''t ask for help. I made a concession as a courtesy to my seniors. Next month will be the full year, so if there was no news, I thought I would go and open it.

    My throat burns when I try to lie without saliva on my lips. I took a sip of the wine I had received earlier.

    "By the way , so how did that happen?"

    Relaxing wine glass as seen anywhere

    Turning the , pretending to be swirling around, someone asked a question in an anxious voice.

    Is that it?

    Koo, great tip release .

    It was a spit-out, but I guess he was really looking forward to it. The man with the sky-blue hair with a scholarly impression said cautiously.

    I know about this person. When Count F Gnuto came to fight Serpens and swordsmanship, he was standing like air.

    "I think it''s a matter of different attitudes depending on the person you serve.

    .

    I ?

    Why don''t you try to build muscle?

    Yes?

    It''s bullshit, but it''s not bullshit.

    I remember when Count Pgnuto, who was my background, talked about Serpens'' swordsmanship, his gaze changed in favor.

    I don''t have any advice I could give to the other aides, but I could definitely give an answer to this guy who looked as weak as Zeon.

    Let''s try it once.

    Perhaps it wasn''t the answer he was looking for, he nodded shakily. It''s an expression that doesn''t like it.

    Did you know that there is a way to connect people with just one word?

    Now I know. How Sir Ribel Ron was able to win the trust of Duke Prasidus in such a short time.

    Suddenly, Sir Armsam smiled softly and spoke as if floating luck. There was a sense of fishiness somewhere, which evoked a sense of uneasiness.

    Duke Prasidus is a righteous man, isn''t that what he was aiming for? By showing his unyielding appearance to malice when he was previously associated with demon worshipers...

    No, isn''t it natural to not succumb to malice? A person who yields to such things is a bad bird... a child!

    Aww, I was surprised.

    The words are different and different, and if I unintentionally affirm it, I am telling it to feel like an extension of my plan, even with a demon worshiper.

    "I don''t know how you can come up with such a nonsensical idea.

    all. To be angry at the behavior of demon worshipers who try to harm the continent is a thought that everyone who lives on this continent has. Isn''t hating evil the heart we should have as a human being?"

    As if asking for consent, he looked around and said, of course, everyone nodded, saying yes. If anyone shook their head here, it was either a devil worshiper, or someone who would worship the devil in the future.

    And at that time, did you know that it was thanks to the bond of mutual trust that the Duke was able to come to rescue me on time.

    Ha, ha ha... I forgot about that for a while. I know that was less than two months before you were hired by the duke. I wonder how you gained trust in such a short time.

    He must have realized that if he continued to discuss the matter and try to catch up, it could be a game of chicken in which bombs are exchanged with each other.

    Pretending to turn back the topic that had almost leaked, he dismissed the story of the incident.

    "Trust is built over time, but sometimes it takes more than time.

    There are also things that are important. Even if they are together for a long time, there is a relationship where they distrust each other, so of course there is the opposite, right?"

    It''s more important than time... What are you talking about?

    I''m serious. If there''s no lies in dealing with each other, there''s no reason not to believe it.

    It''s a stereotyped and obvious ideal, but what can I do?

    I have been taming myself with food and living like a cat, and it cannot be said that it is the result of treating them with sincerity.

    He and I sincerely care for each other.

    That''s right, it wasn''t wrong.

    "How do you know if someone''s actions are sincere or false?"

    "How long have you been living in disbelief that you have to be suspicious when dealing with others?"

    Ahhhh...! Sir Ribelon has not experienced much of the world yet, so he may not be familiar with it. His innocence is only enviable.

    Sir Falsum, who almost became a human atheist, blamed it on my lack of social life.

    Then how can Sir Falsum have such strong trust with the Duke of Argento?

    Have you built a relationship?"

    It''s been 20 years since I brought the Duke with all my heart. It''s a reward for those years.

    Aren''t you talking about people''s hearts as if they were paid too much for their labor? Duke of Argento is also pitiful...

    "What else do you mean?"

    At my sarcastic remark, Sir Palsum raised an eyebrow.

    No, it''s nothing. It''s just a pity. Rumor has it that he regards Sir Palsum as his own son, but he is too clerical.

    It''s like.

    He opened his mouth to say something, then closed it. What were you trying to say?

    Aren''t you over-interested? It doesn''t matter that much.

    Oh, is that right? I must have excused myself. I heard that Sir Palsum cares about our Duke very much.... I also believe that the culture of meddling and worrying about each other, regardless of family, is a popular trend in the social world these days. What did you know?"

    "��] Ah .

    As if excited, he smirked.

    When you curse others like that, you should have thought that you would get the same back.

    I was also very rude. Sir Rivelon didn''t have any conversations with me, so I guess I misunderstood what he said.

    No, it could be.

    I''ve felt it before, but it''s very quick to control my emotions. quite a seasoned sleeper.

    I thought that this kind of person was a bit pushed back in the fight, and it doesn''t seem like he would have been swearing behind his back.

    It was not enough to say that it was to damage Serpence''s honor.

    It is said that if dust accumulates, it becomes a big mountain, but it is so light that it will blow away with one blow, so it is difficult to gather properly.

    ''Did you put some rice on the bottom to make a big hit later?''

    Considering the mention of demon worshipers earlier, this is a possibility.

    "I saw it at the banquet, Lord Rivelon was drinking alcohol.

    You seem to be enjoying I just got a precious drink as a gift, so I want to share it with you as an apology.

    Yes? No, that''s fine. What I''m drinking right now is good enough...

    I''m so glad that I was able to talk openly with Sir Rivelon. I was misunderstood because of the lack of conversation in the past, but he seems like a wonderful person. I really want to get to know him.

    After saying that, Lord Falsum did not listen to my answer, but called the attendant and ordered him to bring alcohol from his room.

    To quote the word sincerity, which I sarcastically put up as a source of trust a while ago.

    '' It''s terribly suspicious, isn''t it?''

    Even so, it was a social gathering he held. The open place is also the author of Prince Argento, and the alcohol he prepared himself. There were many people watching.

    There''s no way it''s poisoned There is no gain in killing me right now.

    It''s a drink called ''Fire of the Brave'', do you know?

    Unfortunately, Shion was not born into a family where he could drink precious alcohol.

    Because of this, the only name of alcohol in this world I know of is what Humanus and his party drank in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    And among them, there was no alcohol with that name.

    No. It''s the first time I''ve heard of it, but I think the number of degrees from the name would be considerable?

    Yes, that''s right. And the taste is great. However, since the production process is complicated and requires a long aging, the amount is only two glasses per bottle. Don''t worry, I can''t recommend much.

    One for me, one for myself? It''s a crazy feeling Pretend it''s a mistake and let it go

    have to go

 CH 127

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 127

    29. The duke''s aides (8)

    Not long after, the servant who had erranded Lord Falsum returned.

    I thought they would only come with a bottle of alcohol, but I brought a serving cart with a lot of stuff on it.

    What stood out the most was the wine bottle with the neck of the bottle wrapped in colorful gold leaf.

    As a non-drinker like me, it is slightly larger than the miniature spirits my father used to collect.

    It was the size of a bottle.

    It is not well known to the general public because there are few released on the market, but there is no one who does not know it among alcoholics. You cannot get it because you do not have it.

    Sir Palsum handed it over and showed it close to me, as if to check the label.

    ''The name of the drink called Brave Man''s Flame and the number presumed to be the year of production were written underneath it .

    ''Do I know that I see?''

    When you first hear the name, you look at the year of production of alcohol, whether that''s good or bad

    I have no way of knowing.

    However, if any of the aides had a knack for alcohol, I was like, ''Oh !'' A small exclamation was heard.

    ''That''s out of my business

    It was only checked whether the gold wrapping paper covering the spout of the bottle was new.

    As I nod my head, Lord Palsum carefully removes the wrapper. The metal lid, which had been covered with wrapping paper, was revealed.

    When I looked at the finish of the lid, there was no sign of it being opened.

    - Crazy.

    Only on the first opening. A characteristic metallic friction sound was heard. At the same time, a strong smell of strong alcohol came in.

    Rather than getting drunk, I''m more worried about throwing everything away.

    ''If you drink it straight all at once, you''re just going to get hooked?''

    What am I supposed to do by feeding this to me?

    It''s ridiculous that you can''t even drink properly, so you''re complaining about the heat and looking for water.

    Do you expect directing, or do you want to make mistakes because you are drunk?

    I want to specify either way.

    "You think this is going to hurt your stomach? Shouldn''t that be the modifier ''stupid'' rather than ''brave''?"

    Hahaha! That''s a good point. When it was first made, it was said that they just drank it straight to test their bravery, but that''s stupid.

    Ji prepared it and wanted to know what kind of bullshit this was. Perhaps it was revealed on his face without realizing it, Sir Armsom coughed in vain.

    Heh heh! This drink is so good that it''s a waste to drink it at once and get drunk...

    He handed the bottle back to the attendant.

    Suddenly, another servant came along and placed a high-ball glass in front of me and Sir Palsum.

    Then, ice was removed from the ice bucket on the serving cart with tongs and transferred.

    ''What kind of trick are you trying to do?''

    In any case, I looked carefully to see if I would burn something in the process.

    The servant first poured water using an hourglass-shaped measuring cup, and then poured alcohol on it. Liquor of soft red color falls like sunset.

    There was nothing suspicious about the process.

    Everyone enjoys this in a float style these days. The smell of alcohol disappears as it is diluted, doesn''t it seem to bring out the rich flavor? In this way, enjoying the aroma and taste and drinking it leisurely, is truly this drink. I think it''s a way to have fun.

    "Ah yes."

    I really don''t know what to do. that

    Was it just an ordinary drinker?

    Was it just a search war that I sang today, or was the purpose of breaking down my vigilance?

    Or, it may be a strategy of putting a frog in a pot and boiling water, and sending it away without realizing that you are getting drunk.

    Even if it is diluted like this, the alcohol content is still high. It may upset the stomach, so it would be good to drink a glass of honey water to protect the stomach before that.

    How are you? Now I think about my gastrointestinal health as well.

    While drinking on one side, another servant who was drinking honey came out and handed Sir Falsum a glass of honey water.

    When I was young, I didn''t ask for these things, but as I got older, my stomach became so burdened... Don''t be vigilant about how young Ribelon is. Health is a law that you must protect from a young age.

    He spoke as if he was shy and took a one-shot of honey water. I drink it really cool.

    The moment I lifted a glass of honey water thinking about how to throw away alcohol naturally.

    - Clang!

    Aw !

    Something broke through the window and quickly passed between me and my arms.

    It flew at an angle and pierced the glass in my hand, and slid into the thigh of the servant who handed it to me.

    A sharp scream from the servant filled the banquet hall. The drink in the broken glass broke my hands and cuffs.

    got wet

    It''s an attack!

    It''s an assassination, an assassin!

    In an instant, the meeting was in chaos, and the aides panicked and screamed and hid under the table.

    The table shook, and the alcohol that had been placed on it poured out and splashed here and there.

    I too, hastily got down from the chair and hid under the table, trying to calm my startled mind.

    ''What, what just?! Wouldn''t it have been possible to die if I made a mistake?''

    I wondered if this was also part of Sir Palsum''s plan, so I looked at him reflexively.

    However, perhaps it was completely unknown, he raised his eyes wide and looked around, calling the knights urgently.

    The commotion spread outside in an instant. The knights are scrambling to find the culprit.

    Whether that worked or not, no further attacks continued.

    Are you okay, Sir Rivelon?

    Sir Rivelon?

    First of all, Sir Palsum checks the safety of my presumed target.

    "Ah , ah! Yes, yes . Gwae, it''s okay ."

    It was the first time I had been suddenly threatened in this way, and I was so out of my mind. Because of that, my reply was a little late, and in the meantime, Sir Palsum has confirmed that I have not been injured.

    He looked away from me and hurriedly checked the safety of the other aides.

    Anyone injured?!

    As a result of the confirmation, no one was seriously injured except for Shi Jong, who was hit by a flying dagger.

    However, there were a few who were cut into shards of broken wine glasses that fell to the floor in the commotion.

    In case of an unexpected attack, knights of the Duke of Argento surrounded the banquet hall.

    Sir Eightsom! What the hell is this?!

    I didn''t know that an intruder was coming in, so the Duke of Argento''s expenses would only be this much!

    It''s something that''s never happened before in the Duchess of Prasidus...

    Do you think safety has been ensured?

    One or two people started to speak up.

    At the pouring voice of condemnation, Sir Armsom couldn''t hide his impatience and bit his lips.

    How could there be an assassination attempt in the mansion of the duke of a great empire!

    It was not confirmed that it was an assassination, but the unstable psychology came up with the worst number.

    The point is that what flew in was a blade that could cut off a person''s breath enough.

    And maybe it''s because I swerved to the point where it''s amazing that I wasn''t hurt?

    It appears to have been nailed down in an assassination attempt.

    In the first place, wasn''t today''s meeting itself a mess...?

    Someone asked a small question. It was a self-conscious muttering unconsciously, but the monologue reached everyone''s ears.

    Wow, sure... From what I''ve heard, there''s no need to hold a gathering like this, Sir Palsum...

    It''s strange that you dare to go through the security of a strong duke''s house and aim for an aide of another family.

    "Weren''t you aiming for Lord Eight-Breath?"

    No, whoever looked at it was targeting Lord Ribelon!

    Everyone''s eyes turned to me. Following that gaze, I also looked at mine.

    Red wine splattered from somewhere and the ''brave man''s fire flower'' spilled on the table. and covered with honey.

    Hasn''t Lord Falsum displeased with Lord Ribelon before...?

    A brief silence passed by.

    I, I''ll just have to go back.

    NS.

    me too .

    I think it would be better for Lord Ribelon to die soon.

    Did they think that they might silence them after a while?

    Seeing the knights who stood firm and guarding the banquet hall, feeling threatened, they secretly rose from their seats.

    The intruder may still be around. We''re still checking, so after we''re safe...

    You still haven''t found the intruder, is that even true?

    It happened in the middle of the work."

    Lord Falsum did not catch those who went out. There was disbelief in their eyes.

    There may have been no intruders from the beginning. It could be a planned assassination.

    He may have felt that it was better to take care of things inside than to break through the boundaries of the Prasidus family.

    I think that''s roughly what I''m thinking.

    As much as what happened at the Duke of Argento''s residence, you can''t avoid taking responsibility for this incident.

    If I think a little rationally, there is no reason to kill me, from the Duke of Argento to the Duke of Prasidus.

    ''Serpens must also have sent me gently based on such thoughts.''

    But the stream of groupthink, paralyzed by fear, convinced me that it was the correct answer.

    ''Isn''t this a masterful attempt to openly fight the Duke of Argento and the writer of Prince Prasidus?''

    Such doubts also passed, but there was no need to claim a disadvantageous position there.

    And above all, Sir Falsum''s expression clearly showed that it had nothing to do with him.

    ''Let''s go back.''

    I didn''t intend to stay here like this.

    To return, it was better to act together when others left.

    He moved to the place where the Prasidus wagon was waiting, and he roughly wiped his still wet hands with the handkerchief he had been carrying around recently.

    Ugh, it''s still sticky.''

    Maybe it was because the thing he was holding was honey water, and even after wiping it off, the stickiness remained on his right hand.

    He opened the carriage door with his left hand instead of his sticky right hand. I was about to get on, but there was already someone inside.

    who !

    Without even reacting, he reached out and grabbed my right hand holding the handkerchief. Then he swishes and pulls me into the wagon.

    At the same time, he covered the mouth he was about to shout with the other hand.

    was done

    While being forced into the carriage, there was a loud bang.

    That''s me.

    If it hadn''t been for a whisper in my ear, a voice so small that I couldn''t hear it. But it wasn''t that difficult to find out the owner of the voice.

    It was such a unique and familiar voice.

    ''Serpens, why is this guy here?!''

    Did you notice that I recognized you, take the hand that covered your mouth

    gave out

    Is something wrong?

    Oh, no! I stumbled while riding! It''s okay, so let''s get going!

    It seems that the driver felt the wretchedness of the driver because I suddenly shouted Nu, along with the squeaking sound.

    It seemed like he didn''t know that Serpens was on board.

    Bolshera, who quickly closed the carriage door.

    The wagon departed.

    Serpense''s hand was holding my hand

    This thickly comes off As unpleasant as it might be, he showed no such sign at all.

    I quietly took out the soundproofing scroll that had become a staple item from my pocket and tore it up.

    I''m sorry, you must have been very surprised... No, you must have been surprised. Yeah. I''m sorry...

    As soon as he confirmed that the magic had been activated, for some reason, Serpens was restless and apologized.

 CH 128

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 128

    29. The duke''s aides (9)

    Even asking the question if Serpence is ok seems to be a no-brainer. Sneaking a glance, he looks at my well-being with just his gaze.

    ''Being here means that even the turmoil that just happened .''

    It doesn''t sound like he''s just sneaking into the wagon.

    "Is that what Serpence did?"

    "That''s the drink that the servant will drink for Seonwoo.

    I think it''s like riding something more... .

    Like a child making excuses after being caught in trouble by the teacher, Serpens answered, hesitatingly.

    ''Of course I should have been careful... .''

    The alcohol was too suspicious, so I was distracted to focus on that. While riding it, he caught his gaze and poked at him from behind.

    ''Standing in a place with a lot of people watching... Isn''t it?''

    Everyone''s eyes were focused on the ''flame of the brave''.

    ''It''s a shame because Serpens was hiding and watching. Whoops, creepy!''

    At the site, pour water from the same water bottle and mix with honey from the same bucket. And on the way you drink it first.

    I guess I''ve lost my mind unconsciously.

    Okay, okay. I was very surprised, but it''s okay now that I know it wasn''t an attack on my life. It calmed down.

    " I don''t have a face."

    He said he would protect me and thought he was threatening me. paper

    Not sure if he was really sorry, he bowed his head and apologized again.

    This is the appearance of a timid fence that I haven''t seen in a long time.

    "Would you mind not apologizing for what you tried to save me?"

    still .

    Write!

    With a frown on his face, he took a deep breath with his teeth and made a sound, swallowing what Fence was trying to say.

    "Ummm are there any injuries?"

    You know when you pretend? Where do you live?

    Nougat threw it well without being seriously hurt. Not a single scratch occurred.

    After hearing my answer, he breathes a sigh of relief.

    With a pale complexion, whoever looked at it would know that the blade had passed in front of him, not me.

    If you''re going to be so heartbroken, please tell me. If I had only known in advance that I was going to follow you, I would have noticed and would have been less surprised.

    Thinking that he was a very hands-on guy, he muttered a little as if he was grumbling. that

    Serpens raises his doubts.

    I blink my eyes as if I''m talking about something. When our eyes met, he tilted his head to the side.

    What is that expression again?

    "Didn''t Seonwoo ask you to follow me and protect me first?"

    I? When?

    When did I say that?

    I wondered if it was spilled like a bird I didn''t know, and even if I try to remember, I don''t remember saying that.

    ''No matter how hard you feel,

    You can even make up stories that don''t exist!''

    I didn''t raise my child like that.

    When he opened his axe''s eyes and looked at him, Serpence made a face of injustice.

    "Didn''t I say that because you believe in me, you can go anywhere without fear?

    Yes?! No, not at all! With the position of a Serpence, he said that he would not be able to openly harm me as his assistant.

    Was it?

    There was silence for a while.

    ''What the hell is this guy thinking of me?''

    Seeing how shameless he was, was it possible to interpret those words in that way? I don''t understand at all.

    No, did you have any awareness that you were the boss?

    At this point, isn''t it okay to just let go of the word right now?

    "Common sense, in broad daylight.

    You can''t ask me to escort you until I sneak into another duke''s mansion, right?

    "Sang , what?"

    Serpence''s eyes widened, and his mouth opened slightly. It''s absurd, her expression as if she heard a shocking story, and her pupils shaking.

    I''ve never seen him so surprised.

    If there is a person whose ideological foundation has been shaken to the root, would his expression look like that?

    What''s your reaction?

    " Oh, nothing."

    it doesn''t seem like anything

    It''s dubious, but that''s not what''s important right now, so let''s move on.

    Anyway. No matter how strong the serpents are, how many basic troops do the dukes have?

    "It''s okay to come and go at night and get used to it."

    "Is it the same as sneaking around at night and running away after making a fuss in broad daylight?"

    Of course, I don''t think Serpens will ever be caught.

    However, I''m afraid of getting hurt or revealing my identity. That''s what I''m worried about.

    For example, even if you have long blue-silver hair, try to stay away from it. I can''t take it out or put it on... .

    '' is not it? Considering the external image of Serpence, is it enough to take it off and claim it as a conspiracy?''

    That''s why everyday behavior is so important.

    From there, I took a step forward and burst into tears. With a sad face in the world,

    ''All of this is my fault for not trusting you all. what to do

    number no... , whoops!''

    If you cover your mouth while showing off your pretty beauty with lines like !

    Who can blame Serpens?

    If only I had known how to cry Serpens in [Master of the Holy Sword]! If only I had recited that line!''

    People never know when or how things will turn out.

    As soon as I have time, I''ll just have Serpens memorize the lines and practice them.

    And what about a dagger? First part

    Were you determined to take it?"

    If the sword is long, it will be cumbersome when infiltrating...

    I think he was trying to keep up with my words of carrying a sword with me. It''s weird.

    But that''s it, and this is this.

    ''Don''t leave your main armament behind for that reason!''

    what the hell

    No matter how secretive his movements are, like a cat, he is light and flexible. He probably didn''t learn something like assassination somewhere... .

    '' what to do Do you really think you got it?''

    All the yangbans who even tortured young children. Compared to that, it''s a bit overkill.

    Ah, there''s no way they''ll get caught because of the source. After hearing the story, I got it from a dark place just in case... I didn''t know it was going to be used like this.

    As we were immersed in other thoughts, Serpence took care of it and added an excuse under the guise of explanation.

    It seems he didn''t expect this to happen from the beginning.

    To be more precise, he probably didn''t mean to throw it at me.

    ''It''s a shame because I had the dagger I brought with me.

    After all, the capital was almost buzzing with rumors about the twig assassin.

    I''m glad I didn''t become the target of the twig assassin.

    By the way, what was it that got burned with honey? Also poison? I drink poison and fall down, but I am threatened with assassination, but from the point of view of the Duke of Argento, there would be nothing good...

    At my question, Serpens suddenly licks his finger. This is the hand that held my hand before.

    What are you doing?

    Ummm... is it difficult to confirm this much?

    Now, have you tasted and verified what it is?!

    I will welcome

    Are you a baby in your mouth? Don''t you put anything in your mouth blindly?

    That expression... Let''s move on.

    you just skip it?

    It was said impulsively, so I knew what to say, and I spit it out and was a little nervous. Serpence seems to have just given up no matter how I treat myself.

    I have divine power, so it doesn''t matter because my body is immune to any poison. Seonwoo, aren''t you different?

    This means, ''You are the one trying to put anything in your mouth, and don''t tell anyone else''.

    There is no objection.

    Sheesh-!''

    After admitting defeat, Serpens asked for something with a more confident expression.

    put out a hand as if

    His gaze was directed to my right hand, which was still sticky.

    Are you crazy, Serpens?! You want to lick my hand...!

    Surprised, he reflexively pulled back and grabbed my right hand as if to hide it with his left hand.

    Then, Serpense''s eyes suddenly sink.

    With cold eyes, he said the exact requirements.

    ...handkerchief.

    Oh .

    Then I saw that he was still holding the handkerchief in his hand. I couldn''t put it in my pocket because it was wet and sticky with honey water.

    I gently handed the handkerchief to Serpens.

    Serpens took it and brought it to his lips.

    "Ummm it''s not poison, it''s like a hallucinogenic drug. Basically, it''s a long-acting drug, but when the blood flow increases due to alcohol intake, etc., the drug''s effect also increases quickly . Is there a little stimulant mixed in?"

    induce hallucinations and induce excitement

    It''s a stimulant... . I guess he wanted to create a picture of me going crazy when I was drunk.

    Maybe he was planning to provoke me like that and induce me, who was seeing hallucinations, to attack myself.

    ''By the way, if it''s a hallucinogenic drug, it''s not a drug... ?,

    It felt very vague at the thought that Serpens would cure him if it weren''t for instant death.

    However, I got goosebumps because it was said that it was drugs that I secretly tried to feed.

    ''The body will be healed by divine power, but what about the mind?''

    Even if the divine power has a mental stabilization function, isn''t that the only one? The memories of when I was drunk will remain intact.

    Is it because of the image the drug has?

    There was a fear that I might become something other than myself.

    It started with the thought that it was only once out of curiosity, which is often talked about in the mass media... Beginning with .''.

    The story that once you experience it, you will not be able to let it go, also crossed my mind.

    When I was exposed to it, I wondered if I would be able to overcome it without becoming addicted.

    Fear creeped in.

    ''wait for a sec . But why does he know this in detail?''

    It feels familiar.

    Are you crazy, Serpens?!

    It doesn''t matter if you lick it a little, it''s a very small amount. It''s to the point that it''s decomposed before it''s even effective...

    Even so! Give it to me, that''s confiscated! I''m afraid I''ll wash it off as soon as I get back and burn it in an incinerator.

    NS!

    If I had known that, I would never have put my mouth on it.

    ''I thought I was just trying to determine the presence of poison!''

    Moreover, finding out the effect of a slow-acting drug means that the blood flow rate was also adjusted with divine power.

    You use your divine power for something like that. Luxmea will hit the ground and weep.

    Seriously, I can''t live because of him.

    It''s not possible.

    why!

    After more detailed investigation into the ingredients, we need to find out the exact identity of the drug and check the source of its source.

    " Is that really the answer?"

    "What else?"

    Serpence answered with clear, transparent eyes without a single blur. It looks fine, but... .

    I don''t think he''ll ever touch drugs or anything, but I can''t help but worry.

    Let''s make a promise to me. No matter what happens, I will not entrust my mind to drugs or divine powers again.

    "Why is it all of a sudden?"

    Why? Serpence has a history. He''s a very interesting figure.

    " I have never touched drugs."

    Anyway!''''

    He must be the same, isn''t he a guy who has been relying on divine powers for a long time?

    No matter how unaware of the dangers involved, One in a thousand, one in ten thousand possibilities seizes me.

    "Aren''t you too trusting me?"

    "I just can''t believe it, and if you promise me, I''ll believe you."

    Got it. I promise.

    Emotional consumption is always healthy! You know?

    Yes.

    It was just a verbal promise, but Serpence would definitely keep it.

    I was very happy to receive his confirmation. I felt like I had dealt with one big problem.

    He met his eyes with a satisfied smile. The boy grinned and shook his head.

    Everyone is coming soon, so I''ll get off first.

    "On a running wagon?"

    Hmmm, I want to be noticed... ?

    ''I think the precautions when jumping from a moving wagon are very different from what Serpens and I think.

    ''By the way, was he secretly riding it?''

    After the carriage was finished using, the driver thoroughly inspected the inside and outside to check for cleaning or damage.

    That''s why I thought I''d get off first... .

    When I get off, I''ll fall and scream and grab your attention, so sneak out the door on the other side.

    You can see the alley next door], that way

    If you jump right in... .

    Let''s take the easy and safe way! Who can see from the outside, and I might not be able to close the wagon door in time.

    " if I fall, I will get hurt, is that safe?"

    If you''re hurt, Serpens will heal you, what?

    After shrugging his shoulders and answering as if it was no big deal, Serpens hesitated and eventually nodded.

    Then I''ll go to my room first and wait.

    Yes? Whose room? My room?

    There''s no need for that, is it?

    To report on today''s work, it is a matter for me to go to his office or study.

    You''re just waiting in the study? I''ll stop by the room and then go up. I''m feeling bad right now, so I want to wash up quickly.

    Okay, I''ll wait in the parlor. Instead, bring the clothes you''re wearing now.

    "Would you like to try it again?"

    In the words he had jokingly said, Serpence clearly showed his dislike without hiding the slightest bit of disgust.

    Ah, no-! I was kidding! You got honey on your sleeves, and you''re trying to check the ingredients of the brave booze! I know, me too!

    That expression really hurts, would you please stop? No, please stop!

    I can''t even joke.

 CH 129

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 129

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (1)

    As soon as I returned to the duke''s house, I went into the bathroom of my room and washed myself.

    ''Isn''t it enough that the hair doesn''t dry out roughly?''

    There was no time to dry wet hair and even tidy it up. I''m sorry to keep Serpence waiting until then, and above all, there''s not much left until dinner time.

    ''I was very surprised, so I should eat a lot!''

    I took it off and threw it away before washing.

    He picked up the clothes with his thumb and forefinger.

    I didn''t know it before because my nose got used to it, but the smell of alcohol and honey mixes and comes up sweetly. The smell itself is okay, but the stickiness is unpleasant.

    I roughly opened it, picked it up, and headed to the reception room of the main building.

    - Smart!

    There was someone in the hallway, so as a courtesy, I just knocked and opened the door right away.

    "I''m here , huh?"

    Whoops!

    I thought Serpens was waiting alone, but there were three other people in the drawing room.

    Among them, Hans frowns and coughs and looks at me.

    Sir Zion, please come in first and sit down.

    Yep !

    I closed the door and entered the living room.

    Serpence''s seat was the same as usual. There is a table in front of it,

    There were two multi-seater sofas on either side of the table.

    On one side of them sat Hans and a woman with short red hair that he had never seen before, and on the other side was Zeon.

    ''Somehow, he said that he would wait in the drawing room instead of in the study room.''

    It must have been to invite other people besides me. You can''t sit in a seat where two people have already been seated.

    I put the clothes I brought with me on the table and sat down next to Zeon.

    "I heard a loud noise when I got out of the carriage. Are you okay?"

    Yeah, it''s fine. It''s just bruising for a day or two...

    I was taken aback while answering Serpens who asked me with a nuance of whether to write even a divine power.

    ''Can I ask you that?''

    It is a question no different than revealing that he was riding with him in the carriage returning from the Duke of Argento.

    And it''s like admitting that you threw a dagger.

    On the way, I stopped talking and looked at him.

    Serpen recognized the meaning of my gaze

    Suga opened his mouth and explained.

    It''s okay. They know that the Dukes of Argento are keeping each other under water. They will also investigate this matter together.

    Hans and Xeon are sitting there. Judging from the name of the investigation, it seems that the woman with red hair is an informant under the Prasidus family.

    I heard that today''s meeting was a trap from the beginning. If it was this kind of work, I should have taken the initiative.... My skills were still low and I made trouble for my master.

    It''s about hiding in the mansion of the only two dukes of the Empire. usually don''t

    Still, she said with a look of genuine resentment.

    If you look at them like that, they seem to be from the field, unlike the two butlers.

    ''Being in this position means that it is a particularly important job, right?''

    For that kind of thing, he looked quite young, so he looked young. He looked like Zeon, who sat next to me, or looked down about a year or two.

    great at a young age

    No, don''t say that.

    Five. Roberto is always there for help.

    As always, Serpens smiled warmly and spoke warmly.

    Seeing that, a woman called Roberto with a determined expression .

    Yes? Ro, what?!

    " You are my grandchild, do you have any complaints?"

    Disappointment erupted out of nowhere.

    I rolled my eyes and looked at the two Robertos alternately, one of them was the old Roberto. Hans asked as if he was sick.

    " ah, no, nothing."

    What is the gender, let''s say that.

    The butlers were well aware of both the structure of the mansion and the information about its users, and were often deeply involved in family affairs.

    ''As for Hans, besides information management... . You know a lot, don''t you?''

    For this reason, in most cases, the entire family is subordinated to one family and serves the master from generation to generation.

    As a result, if there was no son, there were times when the daughter took over the work.

    However

    ''Too , don''t they look alike?!''

    Although the eyes of Hans, who had narrow eyes, and her big, cool eyes were different, they were very different.

    Now I see that both eyes are the same color.

    If you don''t look closely, you can''t see Hans'' eyes well, so he keeps forgetting the color. Naturally, there is no reason for me to look closely at his face.

    It''s the first time we''ve met face-to-face like this. Nice to meet you, Iollen Robert.

    It''s Saturday.

    I flinched slightly at her greeting.

    It''s my first time meeting face to face.

    Did he hear something from Hans about me, or was he hiding somewhere and watching?

    If it''s one of the two, I''d rather be the former.

    Yes, nice to meet you. This is Zion Rivelon.

    Xeon''s body, who was sitting next to me, shook slightly at my introduction. Then, naturally, pretending to sit back and

    was muted

    By the way, I heard that the family''s intelligence group is checking each other with the Argento side.1, are you okay now?

    Anyway, because of that, I''m the only one participating as an individual this time.

    It seems that they are still wasting each other''s power without productivity.

    ''In [Master of the Holy Sword], this kind of situation happened all over the continent... .''

    What if the god Luxmea rips off the soul at the best and lowers the holy sword?

    We''re busy swearing at each other. no empire

    It is possible that you will lose your faith, your faith will be split, and the continent will be endangered.

    perhaps. The god Luxmea in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''The child you loved the most must have fallen, didn''t you just let it go and let it go?

    No matter what they do, they''re cute and convenient, and they''re running wild on their own.

    For example, let''s say that the parents are still wide-eyed, and they fight while distributing the inheritance as they please.

    Then it doesn''t hurt even if I put it in my eyes

    second. The cutie maknae, whom he loved the most, got involved and was seriously injured.

    Even if he was so naive that he couldn''t even get into the fight and was beaten while trembling.

    I wonder where the brain was damaged as a result of that incident, and if the child started playing and turned around... .

    ''After destroying the family register, leaving only the youngest child, it is worthwhile to write a new will and find a trustworthy guardian!''

    I''d be like that too

    And this time, to try to do well, I also shoot an awakening beam at Serpens.

    did you do it? It would be nice if you put a little more effort into the seaweed.

    That''s what''s buried here on the retail side... Can I find out what it is, find out the distribution structure and the recent purchasers?

    Yes. And, in case you don''t know, please check the other liquids as well.

    While I was washing, Serpens seems to have finished explaining the outline. Iollen rummaged through my clothes and asked, Serpence affirmed.

    Huh... that the duke''s aide would do such a frivolous thing. It''s better to be weird.

    In a complicated voice, Hans muttered to himself, clicking his tongue. I can''t tell if I should be happy or angry about this.

    But that''s why he seemed complacent, so he must have been exposed to this kind of situation.

    A cynical voice was heard. The source of the sound is right next door. It was Xeon.

    It could be seen that Hans smiled satisfactorily, whether even the family thought that he was analyzing soberly.

    '' In the absence of me, the two of you became friends by using my swear words as a mainstay, didn''t you?''

    It got weirdly awkward.

    "The master is a very strong person, so I think it is a plan to break down the surroundings little by little. And there would have been no more suitable target for that than your aide. It deserves to be considered a good target for slashing.

    For some reason, I seem to be saying that it wasn''t because I was Serpence''s closest confidant, but because he wanted to find fault with me.

    correct it Not the same, Hans said.

    Zeon did not deny his words,

    He looked at me and took a deep breath that was close to a sigh.

    ''Anyway, on the outside, it''s a family, shouldn''t we have to pretend to wrap it up?''

    If my younger brother reacts like that, what would the person I met for the first time today think of me?

    I looked at Eollen with concern.

    Just as the sun rises in the morning and sets in the evening. It sounds like you''re hearing a very normal sound.

    Hearing their conversation lightly, I wrapped my clothes in fine silk,

    was put in the bag of

    Come to think of it, it was the first time I had seen her, but she was an informant for the Duke of Prasidus. There''s no way you don''t know me

    '' Serpens?''

    There was no one else on my side in this place. I threw my eyes at him, wondering if he would refute something.

    Serpense secretly avoided my gaze with a very sorry expression.

    ''Brutus... . No, Sertus, you are me!!''

    The instep was cut by the ax of faith. I thought you were on my side!

    Feeling a deep sense of betrayal, he stared at Sertus, and he coughed up his attention.

    ''It''s late, ma''am!''

    It''s a train that has already left, and it''s your heart that can''t be turned back.

    I will call him Sertus all day today. Only inside, of course.

    Sir Shion. If it''s okay with you, can you tell me about the situation after I left... So, after the dagger flew?

    If he traced back the direction the dagger flew, no matter how much he hid his presence, the place where he was hiding was bound to be revealed.

    I guess I didn''t even look at what''s going to happen after that because I was taking out my body right away.

    I tried to briefly summarize what the anxious aides had uttered.

    This, it''s been fun.

    Hans, who said that with a twisted smile, with his small eyes wide open and one corner of his mouth raised, was very frightening.

    The face of a villain who plots bad things

    itself.

    Although the faces do not resemble each other, the blood may not be deceived, and Eollen also has an interesting expression on her face.

    Xeon''s expression didn''t change much.

    Sertus is... .

    "At that time, do you remember who said what?"

    Yes? How do you remember them all? I wasn''t even in the mood for that...

    Uhm. I understand.

    He salivated as if something was uncomfortable.

    "Why?"

    I thought there might be a reaction like that, but it''s too much. Even if there was a talk, it had to be after they each returned to their families.

    That''s not to say it''s not something to say face-to-face. Serpen... After listening to Sertus''s words, it seems to be the case.

    "I heard that there were many people who ignored him behind the scenes because of the family he came from]. Is it because of that? Or ."

    We were all silent.

    Everyone was thinking the same thing, Gootae

    There was no need to open my mouth to speak.

    ''Someone wants two dukes to fight.''

    Although it went against the plan that Sir Palsum had originally prepared, a more plausible opportunity was created for the two dukes to collide.

    The situation has changed, but since the embers were ignited, they fanned it hard.

    Those who deserve such a thing... .

    "What kind of spirit do you all have in choosing your aide?!

    The possibility that it was bought after hiring cannot be ignored.

    After hiring an assistant, Sertus, whose contents were replaced by someone else, answered without hesitation.

 CH 130

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 130

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (2)

    I decided to find out about the other assistants gradually.

    The urgent thing right now is the Duke of Argento. We couldn''t help it because our agents were also tied up because of the agents on that side.

    If you''re lucky, you might come out with it while investigating Sir Eightsum... .

    ''Is this too hopeful?''

    It is possible to use the information of the dark house, but there is a clear purpose of investigation.

    The difference between no and no is huge.

    Focusing on ''Are they affiliated with demon worshipers?'' and just vaguely collecting data.

    The investigation process and method will be different, and the results will inevitably be different.

    "As the butler did, I would like the Argento family to manage the agents who are confrontational. The deputy butler and Mr. Roberto will be in charge of the investigation on drugs."

    Now it looks like I''m about to close the conversation. What Sertus will do for each

    started to direct

    Yes, I''ll check it out and take care of it as soon as I can afford it.

    You must be busy, are you okay?

    When Sertus looked at me and blurted out his words, Hans, noticing what my master was trying to say, answered directly without hesitation.

    Sertus asked him cautiously, as if worried that he might have put too much pressure on him.

    Thanks to Xeon-kun for coming, the butler''s work has been reduced a lot lately, so I''ve got a lot of stamina these days. That''s quite a lot.

    Hans was very happy to hear the voice acting out his worries, said Hans. Sertus nodded saying he was happy and looked at this Ollen.

    First and foremost, as soon as it is revealed exactly what the drug is, I will post the first report through the deputy deacon. After that, I will inform you according to the progress.

    Iollen showed a respectful attitude.

    I did get some education. He is well-positioned enough to get a job as a butler right now.

    The instructions were delivered, and it was time for dinner. everyone at work

    it happened

    " the aide."

    Zeon called me to the dining room with Sertus.

    After learning that I wasn''t Zion, he didn''t talk to me unless it was work-related.

    What happened at the Duke of Argento''s residence was about me, Sir Falsum... ?

    Yes, do you have any more questions?"

    "It''s not "

    What he was trying to say, Xeon paused for a moment before opening his mouth.

    I just wanted to tell you to take care of yourself.

    Xeon left only those words and left without hearing my answer.

    ''He must mean ''this body'', not ''me''.''

    Knowing that, something became bitter.

    After eating, I went up to Sertus'' personal study on the 5th floor of the main building as usual.

    But not Sertus ! Serpence!

    " Sertus?"

    As I kept calling Serpents Sertus in my heart, words came out without me knowing. I have to stop now.

    It''s not like you suddenly forgot my name.

    I''m just speechless! Stop just thinking inside...

    He waved his hand and claimed that it was nothing, but his eyes grew even more bitter.

    It''s the eyes that tell you to go ahead and do the right thing.

    In our world, there is a person who is like an icon of betrayal called ''Brutus''... Well, that''s it.

    betrayal ?

    With a puzzled expression, Serpens muttered the word betrayal.

    He stares into my eyes as if trying to understand the heart of the person who said that. Before long, the doubt on his face turned into conviction.

    "I''m angry because I didn''t take the side of you, Seon-woo earlier . No. It''s sad Rather than saying. Are you crazy?"

    I''m sure you''ll be criticized for being pouted by Serpence.

    But the answer is there is nothing to argue with.

    In the eyes of others, my actions and tone of voice were light. Also, he often appeared suspicious, such as using strange words.

    ''I used to talk like that in the social world,

    Those in this mansion are the only ones worthy of a high-status duke. Her body was full of formality, and her mouth was filled with culture.

    Among them, I was the only one who was unique.

    so that''s nice. I guess I am the perfect person to be determined and drive badly.

    ''From the external image of Serpence, I would have judged that he would protect me without cutting off my person.''

    Apart from the serpens they knew, he would surely wrap me around. Then you might run into trouble.

    It doesn''t end with just gnawing around, that''s all.

    ''I have to change a little bit now... ?''

    In the meantime, I thought it was okay for Serpens to accept me, so I continued to act comfortably, but when I saw him, he didn''t refute his reputation for being good to eat.

    Okay, I guess I was wrong. I got tired of crying.

    I thought that if it was inconvenient and harmed my image, I would have fixed it if I had told him directly.

    But I can''t blame Serpens for accepting my actions.

    It was a small rebellion on the inside. He became so comfortable that he immediately threw the tee away by mistake.

    Ummm... Seonwoo, isn''t it true that you are different from others and that you have a side to avoid? I think you told me not to deny yourself?

    I know. But still...

    Sunwoo.

    Serpens called me like a tyrant. Why are you making a face that is so painful?

    If you set your mind to beating your opponent down and bringing them down, you can do whatever you want.

    it''s one world No matter how you act, the result is the same. As long as you don''t throw yourself away and fit in someone else''s standards perfectly.

    Ser, Pence?

    Even if it''s not perfect, if you try to change according to the standards here, your reputation will definitely improve. If you call it adaptation, you can call it that. But.

    He paused for a moment, then took a breath.

    I hope you don''t change. I hope you don''t.

    Serpens said as if pleading.

    I think I can understand why the sorry expression he had made earlier. And even now, he had the same expression on his face.

    ''I have no regrets at all... .''

    Acknowledging that it''s okay to exist as me. That was what I wanted to hear the most.

    I should thank him, not that he should apologize to me.

    "Sunwoo, I wish you weren''t like me."

    It felt like a lot.

    So, I just completely erased the question of whether I was really okay with it.

    " I will cancel the call of Sertus."

    Yes. Thank you.

    Serpens smiled softly, round and round.

    I''m sorry for the misunderstanding. I knew that Serpence was going through some inconvenience because of me... so I didn''t have anything to say against them, so I avoided my gaze and thought that they were sorry.

    No way.

    Rather than being uncomfortable, he replied with a smile on his face that was very easy.

    It is said that raising a child brings you comfort from unexpected places and heals your heart. I guess this is exactly what it is.

    It felt like my gloomy mind had cleared up.

    So. What were you calling to talk about?

    After confirming that my expression had loosened, Serpence returned to the original topic.

    Oh, I''m just curious about your future plans.''''

    "Isn''t it all talked about earlier?"

    "Not everyone else. Serpens isn''t the kind of person who leaves everything in the hands of others, right?"

    He gave each of the three people a task, but left out what he was going to do.

    Pointing to him, Serpens nodded slightly, indicating that he understood.

    I''m thinking of investigating the servant who got the drug in Seonwoo''s cup. He must have worked under the direction of the aide, but I''ll have to check it anyway.

    A guy with a knife stuck in his thigh? Would you like to meet him in person?

    Serpens shook his head.

    There are ways to obtain a confession by intimidation, or to use a gangster by persuading him.

    Naturally, I thought I would do one of them, but Serpens responded with skepticism.

    I thought I was deliberately slashing a knife in his thigh for that purpose...

    The Duke of Argento also had divine power, but he said that one of his servants was injured.

    It will not heal you with divine power after folding.

    Instead, it will be all about financial support for treatment and a few days off.

    If it was a Serpence, the two who treated him directly], would have supported the above.

    ''That''s why if the mansion''s users are Serpens, they''ll be replaced.''

    He must have had a worried look on his face as he healed the big and small wounds that he got while working.

    Anyway, the important thing is that ''leave is paid.

    He must have been out of the mansion for a while, so I thought he was deliberately aiming for that time to approach him.

    There was nothing I could do about it because that was the only angle you wouldn''t get hurt by the shards of a broken glass.

    Uh, um.

    I don''t know if I should praise him for saying thank you, or if I should give him my soul for not doing so.

    I don''t know if the servant who got the knife was an innocent person... .

    After thinking about it for a while, I decided to just pretend I didn''t know and move on.

    "Even if we allow him to open his mouth through threats or interrogation, there is no other evidence to drive the aide right now. , I only live with a sense of vigilance.

    Being at a stand still, as always, Serpens took care of it and started explaining in detail.

    ''Come to think of it, villains usually have a habit of talking about their plans... .''

    He always kept silence when he turned to the devil in [Master of the Holy Sword]

    Thinking it was the other way around on the continent''s side, he somehow laughed.

    "And why are you smiling all of a sudden?"

    No, it''s just. Serpens are so friendly.

    Serpens had a trembling expression on his face.

    That expression quickly changed to a feeling like, ''Yeah, it doesn''t happen in a day or two for him to react out of the blue, so let''s do it.''

    He opened his mouth again and continued his explanation.

    For conciliation, this identity is

    it should be revealed No, even if he disguises a third force, there is no guarantee that he will completely overcome it. It''s not something you can keep by your side to keep an eye on, if he informs the aide of contact. It will also buy boundaries."

    So is he.

    It is better to investigate him and use it as a witness at the decisive moment.

    He nodded his head to signify that he understood.

    Other than that, it will depend on the Duke of Argento''s response to today''s affairs.

    Ji.

    Either you declare that you will catch the intruder, or simply announce that you haven''t found it... .

    "I think there is the greatest possibility that the criminal will be falsely arrested and the investigation will be carried out secretly from behind."

    His honor and pride as a duke was at stake.

    Also, especially since there are stories from today''s meeting before the aides left.

 CH 131

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 131

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (3)

    Three days have passed since then.

    As Serpens had expected, the Dukes of Argento built the dummy. Taking it one step further, I announced that it was aimed at Lord Eight-Breath, not me.

    ''He''s strong enough to break through the mansion''s strict security, but he couldn''t come near the building because the duke''s residence wasn''t green enough to completely ignore it... .''

    anyway.

    Their concentration was dispersed while guarding the knights and soldiers guarding the mansion, and they claimed that the accuracy was lowered by aiming at Lord Palsum at a distance.

    He succeeded in catching the assassin, but before he even tried to interrogate him, he used the poison he had hidden and killed himself without any help... .

    ''You mean you caught the wrong guy and killed him?''

    At best, he thought that all he could do was to convince him that he would give him a reasonable reward and spend him life in prison, and release him if the real culprit was caught.

    Perhaps he realized that he had completely missed the culprit.

    I looked at Serpense''s expression as he received the report.

    At the thought that someone innocent had died because of his actions, he was making up a face of great suffering.

    And we found out the identity of the drug that ordered the investigation.

    Whether that was the end of the announcement of the position of the Duke of Argento, Xeon continued the report.

    Results were faster than expected.

    ''but. Serpence hallucinates Jihyo

    Because I was informed that it causes .''

    Xeon gave a presentation saying what kind of test did Xeon have, and what kind of reaction was there among drugs with the same effect as a result.

    Serpens fumbled through the data that Xeon had posted, and occasionally shook his head.

    I didn''t receive any data, and I didn''t know what he was talking about, so I pretended to listen with one ear.

    When I turned off the sound, I naturally took a closer look at Xeon''s face.

    all.

    ''Why do you look so tired?''

    It looks like someone with an ailment in the house.

    Did you even organize your data overnight? Or maybe it''s because I went to work yesterday. You seem very tired.

    His job is to collect and sift the reported information.

    It is the role of organizing necessary information in an easy-to-read manner and instructing the informant to investigate a certain part in more detail regarding the missing content.

    A place to find information

    It wasn''t, but Zeon is learning as the head of the duke''s intelligence group after Hans.

    Without knowing the field, you cannot lead an organization properly just by holding a desk.

    As Xeon moved into the duke''s residence, Hans, who had been working alone without holidays, was able to work six days a week, taking turns with Xeon and taking off-duty breaks.

    And since yesterday was Xeon''s off-duty, it seems that he naturally left the duke''s residence and came to understand the site with Eollen.

    ''The fact that the head of the intelligence group is Hans

    Because it is unknown.''

    Ollen Lee is also commonly known as the butler''s granddaughter. Externally, it is the setting that the two were dating through the introduction of Hans.

    Of course, overtime and holiday overtime pay will be changed and paid in the name of a bonus.

    The deputy butler''s complexion doesn''t look good. Or, was it because he was out of work yesterday? The job is not suitable for his aptitude...

    Even Serpens didn''t seem to be in good shape.

    The setting fence, which is known to take care of subordinates, goes out after reporting

    Ryo summoned Zeon and stood up.

    No. It''s fun to learn new things, and thanks to Ollen Lee, I had a good trip yesterday.

    "Are you tired then?"

    As for the excessive use of divine power, before Serpens, who was the number one on the continent, raised the divine power, Zeon denied it.

    No. It has nothing to do with work. It''s just for housework...

    Somehow, her face looked as if she had Uhwan at home, so it must have been.

    housework. In other words, about the Rivelon family.

    Serpens gave me a glance at the story.

    ''Is there something wrong with Rivelon?''

    I was worried and wanted to ask, but I shut my mouth to open the question as to whether I could ask.

    Can you tell me if it''s okay? I don''t know if I can help.

    That''s... It''s been about a week since my mother''s due date has passed, so it was time to contact her, but there was no news from home. I was just a little worried about that.

    I only knew it was roughly April, so I was prepared that I would be contacted within this month... .

    ''Isn''t it a week before the aides meeting?''

    I just got anxious.

    Ummm... Shouldn''t it be time to go downstairs?

    Since the child was born, I may have just forgot to write a letter because I was so concerned about it. I have a job to do.... I sent you a letter this morning, so I will wait until I get a reply.

    Contrary to the positive words, it seems deep.

    He may have just forgot as he said, but the timing too. can only worry

    ''I wish it wasn''t a big deal... .''

    I hope he didn''t even touch a newborn baby... ok?

    I''m worried like this alone, but Xeon is terrified.

    It was clear that he was imagining all sorts of things in his head. Even though he would want to go down to the Rivelon Territory right away, that''s just the way he said he would stay.

    I suspect that it may be because of the idea that solving this problem is the top priority, thinking that the Argento family may have done something.

    If you change your mind later, please let me know.

    Thank you for caring me.

    Xeon bowed and left.

    Don''t worry. If you''re going to attack me, you don''t even need to touch the Rivelon family. Even more so if you''re targeting a newborn baby. It won''t be a big deal.

    As soon as Xeon left the office,

    As if to be relieved, Serpens spoke to me first.

    Is that so...?

    If you really care, there is a way to sneak around using that ''gate this weekend.

    "Do you need to go to me soon? But , um. You''re busy, so maybe it''s not bothering you too much ."

    Anyway, it is a place that needs to be maintained periodically. It is not difficult because it is only heard at the same time.

    In the Kingdom of Bastul, I could not empathize at all with worrying about other people, and I was talking nonsense.

    When Xeon found out, I didn''t know how to comfort me, so in the end I just cried.

    It became natural to be genuinely caring and concerned. There are a lot of things that comfort me.

    Wow, you''re growing really well. Who raised Serpens so well?

    shamefully. If you give me an answer, where can I get better?

    * * *

    It''s weekend.

    Serpens headed to the dark side to use the gate as he had foretold to me.

    And I am with Winston at Solertia''s shop, ; Distortion of the Phenomenon .

    This is because there was a semi-threatening letter from Solertia telling her to come to the store more often and telling her to cut off school.

    It''s not the time to go out and play... .

    After all, because of the excessive use of scrolls with soundproofing magic, when

    I was going to stop by, so I decided to visit.

    You can go up to the second floor right away. Do you know where the drawing room is? The president''s sister has been waiting for you since before.

    I must have told you in advance that I would come.

    Without waiting after calling Solertia, Ella sent us straight up to the second floor.

    Welcome, Mr. Sion. But the Duke... didn''t you come with me?

    Yes? Do you have to come with me?

    The letter said to come together

    there was no tongue Also, I was always alone when I went to her shop.

    But somehow, Solertia looked for Serpens as soon as she arrived.

    Ummm~. No, no. Well, I can''t help it. Are you really not here?

    Rather than looking for Serpens who are not here, don''t you usually ask about Winston who is here for the first time?

    Something was strange. It''s like sending such a letter all of a sudden.

    Actually, the reason I called Ms. Sion today is because there is a dragon... Over there, the person who came with me is drawing a sword?

    Not only did he pull it out, he even blocked my way.

    It doesn''t seem suspicious to me to ask if Serpence is still here.

    I did it because I had something to tell you! I think it would be better to deliver it directly to the Duke! I''m scared, so will you give me some life?!

    Solertia exclaimed urgently. But Winston, far from saving his life, sharpened his sword.

    Then write a letter... Or can you come to the duke''s residence in person?

    Ugh... Recently, there were people monitoring our store, so we had no choice but to do it.

    Winston''s body was so large, he leaned slightly to the side and looked at Solertia beyond.

    His face, with a sad expression on his face, was pale.

    I poked Winston on the shoulder, wishing that I would have a better life.

    He stepped aside and put the sword in. However, Solertia''s complexion was still pale as if she was still shooting life.

    Again, communication is the moment when you learn that speaking is best.

    I heard that there are quite a few people who asked for confidentiality while submitting a scroll production request the other day... No, what the hell is that guy!

    I tried to say it with patience, but it seemed that my life was too threatening to ignore.

    The haze-like thing blooming around her seems to have generated magical power to counteract her life.

    As much as that, Winston also started to load Aurors to live, so Solertia finally gave up.

    It''s all wrong! I wanted to say something while setting the mood!

    He looks like he''s about to sit down and cry. Sadness and sadness were drowned out in that cry.

    Sir Winston, the conversation is getting difficult, but would you like to save me some life?

    " Are you trustworthy?"

    Perhaps.

    As if life had finally come to an end, Soler Tia''s face became more comfortable.

    Once you''re seated... Oh, no. If you don''t like it, don''t.

    It looks like her mouth is moving, it seems like she''s swearing without a sound. how sorry

    I''m sorry, I''ve got some work these days. I''ve even been escorted like this! Then, Solertia-san''s words and actions just seemed too suspicious...

    To the extent that I want others to feel this way when they see me.

    It wasn''t, but when it was confirmed that there were no serpenses, a bunch of suspicious people would pop out and surround us, or the prepared magic would attack us.

    Even the letter I sent you is very suspicious

    it was rough

    Isn''t it rare that we usually even cut off school because we don''t show our faces often? It was just natural evaporation.

    Okay, it''s not that Shion-san did that on purpose... If the duke''s family escorted an aide, it must have been a really big deal.

    I started pasting it before there was a big deal, but let''s assume that''s roughly the case.

 CH 132

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 132

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (4)

    By the way. Did you say that you called for a business? Is it important?

    I asked her as I sat down.

    Of course! I didn''t ask you to come to Sion without saying anything like quitting school. I''m not a thoughtless and leisurely person enough to tell people who are busy for no reason to come and go.

    There''s someone watching the store.

    He said. It must have been written with in mind that the letter might be leaked.

    ''Is this something to do with the demon worshipers?''

    Given the timing, it seems to have something to do with the Duke of Argento. It might just be a mere coincidence, so I''ll have to listen first.

    It would have been nice if the Duke had come in person, but I''m sure Shion-san will be able to deliver it.

    Are you okay now? Someone is eavesdropping...

    "As I said before, we are preparing because of those who want to secretly submit quests.

    It''s one place. Soundproofing is sure~. If you''re really worried, would you mind tearing up a scroll?"

    At least within the realm of my senses, there is no sign of being caught.

    Solertia and Winston respectively answered. If that''s the case then you''ll be fine.

    "You''ve been talking about secret quests, is it normal to secretly buy scrolls?"

    It''s not a small number. Among them, most of them, like Shion, buy it to protect themselves. Isn''t that a trump card? If something like that becomes known, won''t the effect be halved?

    Maybe it''s because I go out too much, the magic scroll was a highly effective item that someone had to hide.

    Looking back, it was the same when infiltrating for trap investigation in the past and when confronting the hijackers in the Kingdom of Bastul.

    ''When I pulled out the scroll and listened. Were you all vigilant?''

    I don''t know what kind of magic will come out. If life is precious, it should be kept a secret.

    "Aside from that, privacy is really at stake , fufu uh kid, really. You shouldn''t laugh. It''s nothing. It''s a really sad story."

    Some of them seem to be entrusted with a quest with a story that makes it impossible to laugh or cry.

    Although curiosity was stimulated, Solertia kept a secret for customers with funny stories.

    Hmm, hmm. Anyway, is it because of people with such a sad story? The scroll itself sold is the number and price of sales.

    However, there is no law as to who bought which scroll.

    It is ironic that the law was created by the establishment, and most of the buyers are from the establishment.

    ''At least, leaving information about the magic scroll... .''

    Since scrolls are something that anyone can use, I don''t know what will happen if I just let them go.

    For that reason, some restrictions are placed on the sale itself, and they are probably trying to thoroughly inspect what products are made and sold.

    "So, what is dragon-geon?"

    Shion-san, you have a very impatient personality. My surprise hasn''t subsided yet, has it?

    As I was groaning alone while thinking of the funny story just before. She came out with new sullen eyes and seized Winston.

    Can I ask you to introduce who that person is? When I stayed at the duke''s residence, I know that there were no knights that stood out like that...

    As soon as we entered, there was a little commotion, and Solertia was very meaningful.

    I forgot for a moment as we talked.

    Oh, this man is Sir Winston Redford. He was originally from the Kingdom of Bastul.... Somehow, it came to pass. It''s too long to explain.

    " Huh, well. Everyone has a story."

    To explain, it was too long.

    Every time I introduce myself to people, I can''t even talk about Winston being abandoned by his former master and what he''s going to do.

    In a way that asks you to pretend you don''t know

    Come on, let''s talk about it, as if she understood.

    "And about Solertia-san, you came here to explain, didn''t you?"

    "There were a lot of cases before."

    Winston looked heavy and bowed his head slightly.

    But he''s still vigilant, he doesn''t sit down, he just stands there. Unless his suspicions about her have completely disappeared, I think he will continue to be vigilant.

    If someone who doesn''t know you sees it, they''ll know that you''re not the Duke, but a knight of Mr. Zion. He seems to be doing that all the time.

    Alright, I''ll just get to the point.

    Solertia''s tongue stuck out at Winston''s like-minded attitude.

    "As I said before, there are many cases of secretly commissioning certain scrolls. But recently. Even taking that into consideration, there are suspicious customers."

    What the hell are you so suspicious of?

    Sometimes, among the scroll makers, there are cases where they hide their own unique sentences that have nothing to do with magic operation. Did you know?

    Among the main characters in [Master of the Holy Sword], there was no scroll producer. There was an excellent wizard Anima in the party, so there was no need to purchase it.

    It''s not that there was no explanation for the magic scroll, but it was used as a device to boost the skill of the devil.

    Magic can be divided into two types depending on when it is activated.

    A magic that instantly controls mana and activates immediately upon use.

    A post-activation magic that draws a magic circle in advance and uses it when necessary.

    The advantage of instant magic is that you can adjust the range and power of the magic depending on the situation.

    Magic that requires the introduction of fluid figures or that requires continuous, delicate control cannot be implemented as post-actuation magic.

    However, in the case of instant-actuation magic, there were two fatal flaws.

    All calculations must be solved quickly with mental arithmetic.

    It means that you have to draw your own mana and draw a camp in the air in response to the mana of the atmosphere.

    The magic of miscalculation is nothing more than holding a handleless blade with bare hands.

    If the mana sensitivity is insufficient, the delicate Jin cannot be drawn, and the moment it exceeds that, the magic will collapse.

    Because.

    It is practically impossible to perform magic that requires a large, complex, and long calculation expression on the fly.

    Because.

    In general, large magic refers to magic that is used after setting up a magic circle in advance.

    But there''s only one person here.

    Anima Freud, she was the only exception.

    һ goo... .

    Mana vibrates.

    As if a skein of mana stretched out and wrapped around her like a cocoon, a complex magic circle was created around her.

    And with the flow of the wind. enemies

    according to the movement of

    It was erased and created anew, gradually expanding its size and scope.

    The atmosphere and the earth fluctuate.

    In the midst of a mixed battle that it is difficult to distinguish Pia. On this vast battlefield.

    Her magic thoroughly picked out only monsters and demons'' minions and tore them to pieces.

    However, post-actuation magic is inexhaustible.

    It''s not that it''s easier.''

    You need to set the virtual space in advance and designate the range.

    Emissive magic is more difficult. By calculating the number of cases in addition to setting the space, the direction in which the magic is shot .

    ''Hey, what do you know? I''m not even going to use magic myself.''

    I think I''ve heard from Solertia before, but it got too long and it all flew away.

    In conclusion, did you say that sentence expression is important?

    '' Sorcerers are in the sciences and sciences. all

    Are they monsters who have mastered it? What a high-class manpower!''

    A typical example of a virtual space is a soundproof scroll.

    It spreads around the scroll and hits the wall to form a membrane.

    A space surrounded on all sides where that is possible. That is the condition for manifestation, and for that reason, if you open the door or something, the magic will be immediately broken.

    anyway. It was the first time I had heard what Solertia had said, so I shook my head to mean that I didn''t know.

    "Of course, I don''t write that sentence outright, but rather cleverly between driving expressions .

    How should I express this? For example Feel like vertical reading? Of course, it doesn''t look like you''re actually reading it vertically. By dismantling words and sentences, and subtly using them again... . Let''s get past this.

    I don''t know about anything else, but I only understood vertical reading.

    I didn''t know that vertical reading existed in this world, but there are people who give and receive secrets everywhere, and it''s not a password, it''s a password that you don''t need to learn.

    There must be someone writing here too.

    "Anyway, there is something like that. It''s kind of like a signature.

    It''s not well known to the general public, so even if you don''t know, there''s nothing you can do about it.''''

    That''s why she must have looked for Serpens that way.

    Even if I try to convey the story to Serpence, at least a basic understanding is required.

    "But why all of a sudden?"

    Is this for identity verification? It''s also a magical anti-theft, and can be used as proof of rebuttal in case someone comes up with a cheap scroll and tells the truth that it''s a misfire. That''s it.

    Copyright and real customers in this world

    You''ll hear stories about countermeasures.

    I understand what it is. I understand.

    "But there were people asking about it. Not just asking if you put such a sentence in it, but what kind of sentence you used! ''I''ve heard that creators of high-priority scrolls leave their own phrases in their scrolls. Of course, Reseratus-sama would leave it too?

    Solertia frowned and grumbled dissatisfied.

    But how... .

    " Isn''t that just a work statement?"

    Sion-san is not there, so you can think of it that way. That is , yes. A merchant who used all sorts of rhetoric to sell things . It was just that feeling! I can feel it instinctively!

    When Solertia says that, the reliability is incredible. She must be right.

    Hey, it''s strange that you didn''t ask where and how you hid it? He was even a regular customer who bought as much as Mr. Sion. There are various kinds. Isn''t it strange to ask after stocking up for a while?

    It''s not like I want a refund all of a sudden...

    If that were the case, I wouldn''t have asked which sentence to write as a signature. Besides, if it were me, I wouldn''t be able to recognize it even if I told him publicly.

    So, wait for the people who bought the scrolls to have a good knowledge of magic.

    "In my case, there are certain words that only me can recognize. I make them by adding sentences that come to mind from time to time. It''s just a list of characters that only I can understand and that other people can''t understand. You probably couldn''t find my signature on the scrolls I went through, so you asked me.

    It must have been properly twisted and hidden.

    It is said that if the purchase volume is similar to mine, it would be enough to buy several dozen copies, but even though there are so many samples, it is impossible to find them.

    Oh, if I was frustrated, would I have asked outright?

    I said I couldn''t tell you that... After that, strange people often snoop around, or there are traces of mana I haven''t used. I made a bunch of scrolls to use, but I''m really worried about it.

    "It must be so. It must be dangerous. Would it be okay to stay in the store?"

    As she said, the customer could have noticed something just by calling me.

    But Solertia frowned and thought about it, then shook her head.

    Requiring a signature, not the magic itself, means someone is trying to impersonate me, right?

    Is it like that?

    I don''t know how the scroll will be used, if it''s Panjo]... No, that''s better than that. If it''s even associated with a demon cult... Ugh...! I can''t even imagine. A problem to be simply avoided not going.

    It was as she said.

    ''And her shop is in Serpence.

    It was built with investment.''

    If the undocumented Solertia Mark Scroll she sold was used somewhere, it was associated with a demon cult.

    It was quite fatal.

    ''Things that would not have happened in [Master of the Holy Sword] are starting to happen... .''

    my butt hurts

    "What about buyer information?"

    Unfortunately, no. The customer will pay 100% in advance, and on the specified date

    He came directly to the store and looked for things. I told you not to do that, but what can I do? You left a bunch of money and left.

    I guess it was because I didn''t want to leave even a small record.

    I don''t know much about painting, so I don''t know if it will help to express the figure as much as possible in writing. And, originally, the customer''s purchase specification who wants to destroy the record should be deleted immediately....

    Solertia coughed and handed me the papers. It means you wrote it all down secretly.

    I don''t think a shopping list would be of much help if you were just buying it to find my signature, but it''s better than nothing.

 CH 133

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 133

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (5)

    Even if I went back right away, it was meaningless because the Serpense who was supposed to be told was out.

    So, I decided to enjoy a light refreshment while I was there and have a conversation with Solertia.

    She wanted to talk about it for a long time, so she had all her plans for the day blank. Thanks to you, I was able to enjoy a relaxing time... .

    Isn''t it a matter of arguing over a poem? I don''t know that Serpence is out

    Winston alone fretted.

    Even if you do research, it will start tomorrow. What? It''s not too late to have dinner and talk to the Duke''s study.

    Oh my, the study just went up, right?

    It''s okay, you''re my best friend!

    While only Winston was anxious. We chatted in a friendly atmosphere, and returned to the duke''s residence around dinner time.

    She finished eating with Serpens, who calmly walked down from the 5th floor, as if she had stayed in her study the whole time.

    There is something suspicious around Rivelon''s estate.

    There were no elements."

    As soon as he climbed into the study and took a seat, Serpence immediately brought up the main point.

    "What about the youngest and Zion''s mother?"

    Everyone is in good health.''''

    I breathed a sigh of relief. It would be very fortunate if there was nothing suspicious around Youngji, and the child was born safely.

    But then a new question arises.

    Why didn''t you contact me? Nothing suspicious, but is there anything dangerous?

    Ummm... the child is overly healthy?

    What the hell is this?

    Are you saying that there was even a feast because the youngest was an exceptionally good boy? Excited to the point where you can''t even reach your sons out of the capital?

    ''It''s not like that.''

    As he stared blankly at Serpence with an expression that he did not understand the English language, he further explained.

    He was born with divine power.

    "Why is the divine power suddenly springing out of there?!"

    At least according to Zion''s memory, there was no divine power holder in Chin or outside.

    all. I know that very rarely, there are children born with divine powers regardless of heredity.

    But it''s literally a very rare case.

    It doesn''t seem like it''s usually happy. As long as you forget to contact us.

    It''s not like that. Did I say, that''s too much.

    Among the arrogant rural aristocrats, they were treated fairly with just a speck of divine power.

    There is nothing bad about it.

    ''It''s not that much, but what if Serpense said ''too much''?''

    It was a great opportunity.

    If you are a family that is greedy for power, you can simply sell off your children.

    It would be very enjoyable.

    But as far as I know.

    Born and raised in a peaceful country estate, the people of the Rivelon family put their families ahead of their families.

    It is not that there is no desire to develop the estate, but it is for the better future of the family, not for the prosperity of the family.

    Excessive, how much?

    "If it is known, it is not only the capital''s powerful family, but also the marquis and the dukes.

    It might be coveted by the imperial family who doesn''t care too much about it.

    crazy?!

    The sound of coveting the divine power means marriage.

    He hopes that the enormous divine power dwells in his bloodline, and that he will brighten up the family. If it''s a boy, it''s Daryl''s son-in-law, and if it''s a girl, it''s the housekeeper.

    ...don''t get me wrong. To the end, that''s what I mean, not even me.

    I know, you''re just trying to say that it''s great, don''t you?

    The radical remarks that came out without me knowing,

    Excuses fence is still busy defending itself today.

    At some point, I started making excuses like that, but if I had known that I would be there for myself like that... .

    ''is not it? It''s because I''m afraid that I''ll be misunderstood to the extent that I''m doing that.

    I wish I could grow up a little more proudly.

    But it is a problem that will be resolved gradually. Right now, there is something else in front of me.

    "How does it compare to Serpens?" "Not like me. To make the comparison easier for Sunwoo to understand . to be an adult

    By this time, you will have the same divine power as the priest you saw at the banquet for the master of the holy sword."

    "Why does such a divine power come out of the Rivelon family?!"

    "Ask God, not me."

    Liena is the youngest cardinal...

    Not to that extent, perhaps even the youngest pope to take the throne. He was a young rookie who boasted strong divine power.

    Of course, the seat of the pope cannot be obtained by divine power alone. As a companion of the Holy Sword, his skills were certified,

    It was also possible because he was strong.

    Still, the fact that he is a possessor of unstoppable divine power does not change.

    If that''s enough, even if I''m the duke''s assistant, how can I not?

    uh...

    Even if they say that I am Serpence''s aide and that I am my younger brother.

    ''I can''t be greedy.''

    As soon as that fact became known, the Lee Bellon family would be flooded with engagement proposals.

    And if you keep rejecting powerful families from weak families. what

    It was obvious that something was going to happen.

    Usually, in such a situation, the only way to avoid becoming a prey to power is to separate the infant from the mother''s arms and entrust it to the church.

    ''Liena was one such case.''

    Unlike the Rivelon family, I come from a long-established family that has a lineage of divine power, but I know that it was not possible to set foot in the center because of its weak age.

    Because of that, she couldn''t keep her in her arms until she became an adult and chose her own future.

    So, from the time she was a baby, she was entrusted to the church and slept as a priest.

    came la

    "Is there anything you have to say to me?"

    Ah! Standing at Solertia-san''s shop during the day...

    Not like that.

    Serpens cut me off with a firm voice. Contrary to the strict expression on his face, there is a certain sense of anticipation in his eyes.

    It is like watching a young child who has just started writing, forcing her mother to take a nap, saying that she will read a fairy tale book.

    I think he should give him the answer he wants, and give him praise.

    was engulfed in feeling.

    And what I can say to Serpence in this situation is".

    help?

    Yes.

    Serpence answered willingly.

    The fact that the fact has not yet spread to the capital is because the priests stationed in the Rivelon Territory have poor skills. It is at a level lower than the divine power of a newly born child, so it is because the amount of divine power has not been accurately measured.

    If you do not deviate significantly from the due date, it is a week after the baby was born and a few more days have passed.

    I can see why there is no contact and no rumors about him.

    Even before accurate measurements were made, it must have been sanctioned to prevent interference from the outside.

    It seems that the priest dispatched from the Great Hall has already visited. By tomorrow, the incident will be bustling. Pretend you heard it then, if I pretend to be a guardian, there will be nothing to worry about.

    exactly.

    As an assistant, I can be responsible for

    Although there are limitations, if Serpens himself stands and protects, he can be relieved.

    ''As a guardian, send the knights to create a safe environment?''

    that''s a bit overkill I think Zion''s family will feel burdened.

    Still, I can attach at least one escort knight.

    ''Even if it''s not, the denomination side is trying to contain the demon worshipers, so they will place proper priests and paladins in the temple of the Rivelon Spirit... .''

    put a sigh

    The safest way is to burn the youngest child and Zion''s mother to the duke''s house.

    it''s rushing

    However, there is a problem that I am uncomfortable, and above all, it is impossible to bring a newborn baby and a mother who has just given birth to a distant capital.

    ''Zeon is

    According to Serpence''s external image, he is a person who can endure such hard work for his people.

    He''s not the kind of person who is so rude that he even tries to interfere with the affairs of the family before he even asks for help.

    ''Of course you think I asked for it.''

    It''s the same with Xeon.

    I don''t want to get him to acknowledge me in this way, but he wouldn''t take it that way even if I said it was a courtesy from pure concern.

    Nevertheless, it is an offer that he cannot refuse as he loves his family.

    First of all, I will send the doctor to Rivelon Street by letter. You will need time to think, and we also have work to do in the capital. We should make an appointment for a visit next month.

    Yes, Serpense. You were talking to me with that in mind from the beginning, didn''t you?

    " Didn''t you mean to say something about the scroll shop earlier?"

    This child is talking

    ''It''s a shame, it''s embarrassing.''

    The reason he had to put all of his plans together was probably because he was secretly hiring Xeon, and then things got messed up.

    He was careful about making suggestions first, and he must have wanted to hear me ask for help.

    It''s not because I want to tease you or to be sarcastic, but because I know it''s for me.

    Even if the effort was hypothetical, he

    Go beyond pretending you don''t know what you''re doing... I can''t go.

    In this case, it is normal to say thank you.

    Thank you, Serpens.

    Yes.

    Serpence''s answer came a little late.

    The desire to make fun of him is like a chimney, but unfortunately, I had something to talk about today.

    "And that''s what I was going to say "

    Hand over the documents you received from Solertia, and send the details to Serpens.

    reached

    I''ll have to investigate that too.

    "Can I get one more informant?"

    I can do the background check myself, so it''s not a big deal.

    It is clear that I am possessed by the novel, but the one who rolls it every day is Serpence.

    That''s why it''s hard to be so talented. There are a lot of things that can be done, so Serpense is not going to roll around hard on his own.

    If all those stories are true, you never know when suspicious people will appear around the store again.

    Solertia to protect herself

    It is said that the building has its own defenses, but that also has limitations.

    ''If it was possible to directly catch the guy watching, I would have done it earlier.''

    Her main specialty is scroll making. If you make a little more concession, even installation magic is possible.

    However, the common disadvantage of the two is that expensive materials are required and, nevertheless, only pre-prepared magic can be used.

    ''The ability itself is not enough.''

    It is unavoidable for a woman whose mana sensitivity is low. born in the first place

    It is wrong to expect a battle from Sanjik.

    Even a small amount of magic can be implemented on the fly, but it won''t be of much help.

    After all, it means that someone has to watch over her shop 24 hours a day.

    Currently, all the personnel there are tied up, so it is not possible because Serpens has to show his face in public affairs.

    "What are you going to do?"

    I''m in charge of the investigation into this and the previous drug...

    Oh, okay. Stop it!

    Even the work he entrusted to Eollen himself

    Hold her and wait for her to lurk. Where were the ghosts who couldn''t work and died?

    There was nothing more to hear, so I cut him off.

    ''Isn''t he still monitoring his arm?''

    You only have one body, so why do you keep trying to increase your work?

    Because that couldn''t happen, I had no choice but to entrust it to Iol Ren. You act like you''ve got to squeeze yourself out somehow.

    Sorry, why don''t you leave it to Sir Winston? I''ve heard of the situation, so I don''t need to explain it.

    There is no load to take care of. My job is... . You escort me on weekends, but I don''t always go out, right?

    When I spit out the facts as they are without thinking, there is no other white person on this day.

    If anyone hears it, they''ll think you''re a paycheck thief.

    It''s a good thing Winston wasn''t here, and he almost became a fact gangster.

    Why, why?

    It is nothing.

    It seems that Serpens was a little bit like that too. I don''t like Winston, it''s a questionable expression.

    If I had to pick five close friends and likeable people in this world, Sir Winston would be among them.

    I didn''t say anything.

    You said it with your expression. After putting it on your forehead in a very big way!

    He must have known that it was not meant literally, but Serpence ruffled his bangs and patted his forehead as if he was concerned.

    I''m just saying it because it''s a pity to just ruin such a high-quality manpower.

    When Winston came to the duke''s residence, except for eating and sleeping, he had devoted himself to training.

    Occasionally, he received guidance from Serpence, and his skills have improved by leaps and bounds.

    I''m working hard right now, thinking that improving my skills will help Serpence, but if I keep making fun of them without giving them a proper task, I''ll eventually get tired. Tego . Far from improving my skills, my body doesn''t even deteriorate.

    It''s nice to have it covered.

    I know that much.

    "Then why Oh, there was nothing I could entrust to you."

    The duty of a knight is to go out on the battlefield to fight or to protect someone.

    Serpens don''t need an escort, and I spend most of my time with them.

    Even now, I think that it would be beneficial to Winston himself to learn how to sneak from Eollen even now.

    Still, this isn''t about infiltrating anywhere, is it?

    Wouldn''t it be ok if we just need to grab it, hide, and kill the Gicheok?

    Controlling the senses is one of the basics.

    It is true that he lacks more than an expert in the field compared to a competent person in the same class, but he had a sufficient foundation, so it was trustworthy.

    Serpens''s head moved up and down slightly. Needless to say, it has a positive meaning.

 CH 134

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 134

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (6)

    The priest of the Great Hall of Fame hastily went to the local estate.

    To be precise, he visited Yeongju Castle, and the family had a newborn child.

    It wasn''t too difficult to guess the priest''s intention to visit.

    The Luxmea Church kept their mouths shut, but rather that the child''s divine power was not at an average level.

    was able to guess.

    Ser Pence, who had come to report the progress of the investigation, confirmed Zeon''s dark face, spoke first.

    I''ve heard of the situation. I think I can help. Can I do that?

    that .

    I''m not asking for anything. I have a connection with the Rivelon family, and I want to protect the future of the child born. I just want to protect it. I won''t force it, and I don''t want anything in return.

    Seeing Xeon hesitate, Serpens smiled softly and spoke in a soft voice.

    It''s like saying you''re going to spread it out.

    If the other person is someone else, it is questionable whether there is any other conspiracy, but it was Serpens who had made such an offer.

    ''Even if it''s a burden, you have to accept it, well.''

    The hesitation didn''t last long. Xeon accepted Serpence''s offer.

    To become an official guardian

    I''ll have to get the consent of the Rivelon couple, but... .

    ''I have no reason to refuse.''

    They do not know that Zion is gone.

    They think it''s just because their children showed good looks to Serpence, and they''ll think it''s amazing.

    Thank you so much.

    I wasn''t the first to comment.

    Serpens lied without saliva on his lips. His gaze reached me, and it followed that of Zeon.

    His gaze also turned to me.

    thank you.

    Anyway, I got confirmation from Xeon as well. It''s best to get your hands dirty as soon as possible, before an unexpected accident occurs.

    At other times, it would have been enough to participate in the advisory meeting and secretly talk about it.

    However, this week was the last week of the month, when the advisory council was off.

    On the pretext of being formal.

    By picking up a letter from the person in the duke''s house and sending it down directly to Ribelon''s estate,

    It was decided to indirectly inform about guardianship.

    "Would you like to go down by yourself?"

    Thank you for your consideration. But I have a task to do, so when it is resolved... I will go back then.

    Xeon shook his head. As much as he received help, he seemed to have decided that he had to do his job well.

    Serpens called Hans, handed him a letter to the Ribelon family, and told him to send someone to deliver it.

    The fact that my younger brother was born with enormous divine power is also disconcerting,

    Maybe it''s because it was resolved in an instant before I was even worried about it properly.

    Or, the fact that it was me who came up with the solution Is it confusing to the reality that looks like?

    Even after Hans came and went, Xeon stood there idly for a while.

    Waking up late, he handed the papers he had been carrying all the time to Serpens.

    "In the Empire, ''The Fog of Delusion''] distribution channels have been identified."

    mist of delusion.

    It is a name befitting of a drug that hides the truth in front of you by making you see visions.

    It was just built on a drug theme in a needlessly glamorous way.

    "There are three distribution channels, as stated in the document. One of them was cut off when a merchant was arrested about a year ago, and information on the buyers of the other two channels is currently under investigation. Report as soon as it is complete. I will.

    Yes, thank you. Thank you for your hard work.

    Then let''s leave.

    After politely bowing down, Xeon went out of the office.

    What are you talking about just now?

    I put the papers I was processing over and asked Serpence, who was looking at the data that Xeon had handed me.

    Don''t you remember? I caught a drug dealer who had ties to a former aide...

    "Besides that, before that No, you''re worried about that too, right?"

    "I have the ledger at the time, so I''m going to check it out.

    If it was, it wouldn''t be of much help.

    Serpence answered bluntly.

    It''s not a helpful resource, but it''s good. If you want to check all the people who bought it long ago, there would be no limit.

    than that.

    "I mean, I was the first to comment. I knew it was going to lead me to think that way, but I didn''t expect to say that out loud."

    "I said to ask for help first.

    Isn''t it?"

    Wow! See that brazen thing?

    Sunwoo, only you.

    Serpence answered in a playful way with a smiley voice.

    A clash with the Duke of Argento, the aides of other noble families, and someone trying to copy Solertia''s scroll appears.

    It''s just a riot of blues, but I don''t know what''s so good about it, joking around and joking around.

    Don''t you laugh? Because you''re in love... Ah, but that means that you haven''t heard of it yet.

    Nira... !

    Serpense''s bright smile suddenly disappeared and turned into tears.

    Sometimes they say that we are not just friends, but best friends. So we talked about friendship.

    As if cutting along the perforation line, he looks at me with a face as if asking if it was a relationship that could be cut so easily.

    ''Isn''t this like stealing candy from a child?''

    The moment when you take a high-stacked cone of ice cream and take a bite.

    It was like witnessing the ice cream tower plummet to the floor as passers-by crashed into it.

    A face that feels the emptiness of life.

    As the culprit who made the ice cream drop, my heart has no choice but to sink.

    I''m already full of affection! It''s just a playful expression that doesn''t mean much in the world I live in, so don''t make a face like that in shock!

    Really?

    Of course! In this world, I am the most

    The person I believe in is Serpens, and the person closest to me is Ador. You know that, right?"

    Whether or not the old man''s soothing had worked, the eyebrows that had drawn the eight (��) characters found their place. The corners of his droopy lips curled up and fluttered.

    ''Is this why I don''t treat him like a child?''

    Even the fourth member of the Rivelon family, who was just born, wouldn''t do that.

    "I just have a lot of things to worry about, but you''re smiling happily, so why are you like that?

    It was a question that came out of me."

    "The Count Rivelon was a family with no divine power."

    Why?

    There was no reason for Serpens to laugh just because a child with divine power was born in such a Rivelon family.

    I wonder if it''s because I think Xeon''s attitude towards me will change, so I''m wondering if he''s doing something other than that.

    "Nevertheless, a person with greater divine power than the noble family, Raja, was born in the capital city.

    It is enough to be called the grace of God. In addition to that, didn''t you have the background to protect it just in time? It is no exaggeration to say that the god Luxmea protects the Ribelon family.

    Serpense would never say something like that with an overflowing piety.

    As proof of that, the expression on the face is that of the gimmick fence.

    " Are you going to spread rumors like that?"

    "Now, no one will ever doubt Sunwoo."

    Newborn child a falcon of media manipulation

    It must not have been that the god Luxmea gave the divine power to make it an entity... ?

    ''If that''s the case, is it evil or good?''

    It wasn''t face-to-face, but I don''t think it was.

    * * *

    Within a few days of hearing from Solertia, it was easy to find someone with the impression that she had given me.

    If you ask how easy it was to find it, you can answer that Serpence didn''t even need to investigate.

    so will he

    He was found around Solertia''s shop, and Winston captured him.

    Ella, an employee of ; Distortion of the Phenomenon , came to the duke''s office and delivered a sealed letter with such information.

    She delivered the letter and left work early on the way.

    ''Certainly, Ella is just an ordinary person.

    You must have kept it a secret from her.''

    Me and Serpens got on a small wagon without the family crest on them, and exited the duke''s residence using the back door.

    The destination is, of course, ; distortion of the phenomenon .

    The culprit must visit the scene again, and that''s the perfect match.

    You''re a fool. In that case, shouldn''t you look back and go abroad after washing your identity?

    How the heck did you think of such a large-scale crime to say something like that?

    He lightly ignored the nonsense Serpense.

    "More than that, why did you follow me?"

    Did I say I was curious?

    I know what you''re going to see.

    Whatever happens, Serpens will take care of it.

    There is also Solertia and Winston, so there is no need for Serpens to turn into suspense.

    "The wagon has already departed, so what are you going to do now?"

    "I told you everything you didn''t have to follow before we started, but isn''t it that Seonwoo followed suit?"

    You''re still on working hours. Wow! That way, you return your vacation and refuse to leave work early.... There is no other aide in the world who works hard like me. Isn''t it?

    Serpens didn''t ask me for anything anymore.

    In the quiet silence, the carriage ran. It didn''t take long before we reached our destination.

    There was a sign of the end of business hanging on the door of the store, but there was no problem in entering because the key was also in the envelope.

    I locked the door again and went up the stairs.

    And the moment I opened the drawing room door... .

    "Isn''t that also a paranoia?"

    Because it is not, it is! It must be something? I can assure you on the honor of my Master!

    Not being able to risk your own honor doesn''t mean that Reseratus also isn''t confident?

    Winston and Solertia were raising their voices.

    Between the two of them, a handsome blonde man was kneeling, tied tight.

    The author is probably the person Solertia was talking about.

    Ji, calm down...

    It''s all because of you!

    The blonde man slowly opened his mouth as he looked at the two of them, but his words could not continue to the end.

    Solertia stopped talking with a sharp shot, and Winston stared at him without saying a word.

    The man was completely terrified and withdrew his body.

    " what kind of mess is this?"

    He turned his head and looked at Serpens who was following him. No matter how much Serpent was, he shook his head with an expression that he did not understand the current situation.

    "I was just an ordinary person."

    "Isn''t it?"

    I''ll correct you as an ordinary stalker.

    Ah-no, that''s not the case! This is a conspiracy to trap me!

    As if Solertia was cramped, her feet were pounding nervously.

    It really doesn''t make sense!

    I don''t know what''s going on with this, and I don''t know who''s right.

    I looked back at Serpens again.

    ''You should try something with them.''

    His eyes met and he blinked lightly to signify that he knew. Serpense

    passed by me and approached them.

    I closed the living room door and followed him.

    Both of you, calm down and explain what''s going on.

    Serpence only opened his mouth, but the atmosphere that was like a dotegi market quickly subsided.

 CH 135

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 135

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (7)

    It''s a stalker.

    My impression of hearing the story was enough with this one word.

    No! I''m just interested in the pretty girl here, so I''ve only been watching it from afar! I''ve come to buy Scrolls often, just to have a conversation with them.... The reason I didn''t leave a name was a mystic operation. Lesser Ratus pay attention to me too.

    I thought it might be boring... .

    Even if he died soon, he complained of injustice, saying that he did not do anything wrong and that it was just a misunderstanding.

    '' 100% pure stalker remarks?''

    Without revealing who you are, you came to work, flirting, and secretly watching you.

    He is forming the perfect stalker''s trinity, and he was proudly revealing it with his own mouth.

    At this point, it was safe to see it as just a confession.

    "Because of that, the parties concerned

    You felt the pinch, that''s stalking!

    Winston agreed and nodded. Somehow, it was strange that it was caught so easily.

    I thought it was a sign that something big was about to happen, but only a jojo came out.

    Because it''s not stalking!

    Look at that! Didn''t the party, Master Reseratus, also say no!

    When Solertia denied the stalker''s stalking, the guy lit up his face and shouted with great force.

    "As expected, Reseratus-sama . No, Solertia! My sun! I believed that you would understand this feeling! You are now accepting my love ."

    It must have been a scoundrel sent by a demon cult who coveted my powers! It must have been that he was trying to ruin my business and, if I had to sit on the side of the road, he would sneak up on me and lure me with sweet words to scout me!

    Confidence in one''s own abilities is great.

    Solertia, ignoring the stalker''s dog nonsense, raises her fever and bursts into rage.

    The stalker, who suddenly became a demon worshiper, was speechless and muttered.

    I am preparing for a demon worshiper to undermine the duke''s reputation and cause the Prasidus family to clash with the imperial imperial family or aristocratic family, causing chaos in the empire and ultimately driving it to ruin. I thought it would be one...

    That''s right! It''s possible!

    It was a good thing that there were no problems, but there was nothing I could do about it. At the words that sounded like lamentation, Solertia responded.

    S, it''s a stalker.

    I heard a creeping sound from somewhere and looked up to see a stalker introducing himself with a pale white complexion.

    Hey, I''m a stalker! I worship demons he, that has nothing to do with that! You scumbag stalker that has nothing to do with it! I''ll never come near you again, so please forgive me!

    It can''t be, you''re not a stalker! Are you?

    No! I''m a stalker!

    It''s a dazzling change of attitude. devil worship

    It is better to be a stalker than to be driven by a ruler, right?

    Then what are the traces of magic left around the shop?

    Isn''t it just that a wizard passing by accidentally used magic nearby?

    Lord Winston, do you know magic? It''s a saying, but how do ordinary people who aren''t wizards know the scroll''s signature... Yes, they say they know its existence. But how do you know that it''s a meaningful sentence to the wizard?

    Isn''t that what you''ve been studying to get Miss Reseratus'' attention? They''re all males. They''re too lazy to show off in front of attractive women.

    When Solertia cast ''Be quiet for non-experts!'', Winston responded by saying, ''I don''t know magic, but I know better when it comes to men''s bluffs.''

    One side argues with fluttering, and the other refutes it with a mechanical tone.

    Besides that, there must have been some people snooping around the store!

    I turned it over and couldn''t confirm who it was... . I''m sure it''s not this one. Is it because something like that instinctively came to be dangerous and strong?"

    "Isn''t it natural for a stalker to be dangerous and strong?"

    If you listen to her opinion, it seems that way, and if you listen to Winston''s objection, it seems to be true.

    Besides that! My scrolls are very expensive. A person from a wealthy family who buys so many of them wouldn''t be known!

    Certainly, that''s a bit suspicious...

    Pah, sold!

    Just as the two, who had never been able to narrow it down, were about to come together as one, a voice intervened.

    He''s a guy who doesn''t know if he''s a stalker or a nerd.

    I sold all the scrolls I bought. I sold them second-hand at a slightly lower price than the regular price, and then I put my own money on top and bought a new one...

    "Pah, you sold it. To whom?!"

    "Just here and there ? There are so many that I can''t remember ."

    If this was the world I used to live in, I think he would have loved the used country very much.

    It''s a used magic scroll trade, so I haven''t heard or seen it.

    I know it''s shameful, but I had no choice but to see Reseratus-sama up close!

    Don''t say nonsense! Who doesn''t believe in a non-professional who buys delicate items like scrolls?

    Solertia, a native of this world, also seems to have never heard of a used magic scroll being traded.

    Before getting angry at the news that his scroll was sold at a bargain price, he was startled by the news of a used sale.

    In other words, Mr. Reseratus, do you think interest is a bait for distraction?

    Serpence, who had been quietly listening to what he was thinking, suddenly came out.

    Yes, that is correct! It must be a smoke screen operation to hide the real plan by turning this into a simple stalker commotion.

    yo. This!

    What do you think, Sir Redford?

    I don''t look like Iza is lying. The first thing I said as soon as I was caught was about my relationship with Miss Reseratus, and I could feel jealousy and obsession in my gaze.

    It is said that he consistently showed off his stalker-like side.

    When I heard it, that guy was only glancing at Solertia from a while ago.

    Are you both right?

    all.

    You mean demon worshipers stalked Mr. Solertia?

    It''s not like that. It sounds like Iza has been brainwashed. I can feel the aura of black magic in a subtle way.

    In response to my counter-question, Serpens gave me an extra explanation, giving me a look on not to say anything strange.

    ''If you felt that way, you should have told me sooner!''

    I don''t know why I was just watching the fight in this mess.

    Even if you don''t feel any black magic, the guy who started scanning all the time .

    Ah! No way!

    Yes, that''s probably it.

    According to records, brainwashing magic has been created and used for a very long time.

    Even in [Master of the Sacred Sword], there were some instances where ordinary people were brainwashed by demon worshipers.

    But.

    ''Previously used brainwashing magic and [Castle

    The problem is that the brainwashing magic used in [Master of the Sword] is different.''

    Demon worshipers have constantly developed magic to manipulate others.

    The first developed was a method of controlling the self by completely annihilating the ego and then inputting commands from time to time.

    A level that cannot even be called brainwashing.

    It was very passive, so it was awkward and cumbersome for anyone to see.

    So the second magic created is a way to make you believe it as the truth, with strong allusion and hypnosis.

    The advantage is that the ego is alive.

    The fact that soft actions are possible and that there is hardly any remnant of black magic left.

    The downside is that it can be easily untied and needs to be maintained regularly.

    And last.

    The method from [Master of the Holy Sword]... .

    ''Manipulating by injecting black magic directly into the brain and mind.''

    Black magic has permeated my brain and is deeply ingrained in it, so it will never be released. He sincerely believes that the manipulation is his own memory and will, and actively

    act

    No matter what method is interrogated, no information can be obtained from those who have been brainwashed in this way.

    ''Because I really don''t remember anything.''

    But the problem is, the brain can''t stand it for long.

    Even with the divine power that has healing powers, touching the brain and mind is a delicate task that must be approached very carefully.

    A warlock can''t care about someone being brainwashed.

    Side effects that started with a small headache,

    Gradually, the pain increases and gradually leads to death.

    ''However, if I was to inject the divine power in haste... .''

    Black magic permeates so deeply that it purifies and vanishes, inflicting great damage to the brain, eventually causing the mind to collapse.

    The reason I know this is, of course, that such a thing happened in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    The knights who were fighting together in the territory they visited to exterminate monsters suddenly attacked them.

    In order to unleash his brainwashing, Liena used the previous solution to cleanse, and the result .

    How bewildered she was when she met the empty eyes that had lost their senses.

    The second victim was an unarmed civilian. This time, instead of touching him rashly, he stopped by attaching the watcher to his side.

    As a result, he died in pain.

    ''Liena had a hard time too... .''

    And when the demon worshipers noticed it, they ran through a civilian village.

    brainwashed all over

    Without any force, they rushed to kill the main character and party.

    The party carefully suppressed them so as not to injure them.

    If left alone, they will die in pain.

    Liena, one by one, tried to erase the black magic in their heads.

    He carefully used his divine power to caress their minds, but he had to make eye contact without fail.

    Each time, she blames herself and

    was embarrassed

    The more you think you need to be careful, the more you tense up. Control of the divine power became difficult.

    ''At the same time, more and more people complain of headaches... .''

    She wasn''t on her side until time.

    I''ve been through so much pain for a few days... .

    The incident happened when the villagers were briefly ungagged for a meal.

    it happened

    You filthy demon worshipers!

    It was the brainwashed man''s words. It was fine to ignore.

    Even if they showed the holy sword and divine power in front of their eyes, they did not believe it.

    In their eyes, the divine power was dark and gloomy black magic.

    In their minds, the master of the holy sword and all of his companions were nothing but demon worshipers.

    If they didn''t kill them, they would die, and even if they cried and cried and hung on, it was no use.

    They could not accept that it was a lie unless the brainwashing was resolved.

    Holding such people and feeding them semi-forced food was tiring no matter how many times I tried.

    I couldn''t afford to even accept their nonsense.

    Evil Warlock Year!

    had to ignore

    "How does it feel to experiment with the same human beings?"

    II III

    could not be ignored.

    It''s not like that... It''s not an experiment, I...!

    Don''t lie! The results of failed experiments are so good!

    Who''s next? The man next door, my father. Now...!

    Don''t listen to all of that!

    Puror, who found Liena frozen without even moving, threw away the bowl he was holding and ran to him.

    Hey, let go of this ah! Ugh!

    She roughly tore the bread in the basket next to Liena.

    Then, after immersing it in the soup bowl Liena was holding, she put it in the mouth of the girl who was pouring out abusive language and covered it with a cloth.

    Such a rude act!

    "Listen! Humanus, Eugene, and Liena. I know you are working hard to protect everyone on this continent and in Canaan. I''m a person, I want to protect

    I only protect people, the rest don''t matter. If it hurts my friends, whoever it is, it''s all my enemies.

    Furor said with a low growl like a beast.

    I''m sure you didn''t keep that story in your heart? This is what Mattangi said because of his black magic. If you''re sane, will you beg for you? If you don''t, I''ll force you to pray, so don''t stop.

    "Puror-sama Can I do it?"

    before she treats them

    In response to Furor''s zero words, Liena asked as if she wasn''t confident.

    More than ten pairs of eyes lost their guns.

    And it also took away Liena''s confidence.

    If there is anyone in this world who can do that, it''s only you. If you can do it, it''s possible, and if you can''t, it''s impossible from the beginning.

    I can do it. I can''t give up, I''m sure I can do it!

    Puror heard Liena''s promise.

    With a satisfied expression on his face, he got up from his seat.

    Oh, really. Don''t tell Humanus what I said earlier. That guy, after the Empire became like that, he''s been pushing himself by saying that he has to protect everyone. Be on the lookout for, and even now, I go out on patrol by myself If you know that I said I was protecting myself, would you care so much about me during the battle?"

    Yes, I see. And thank you.

    Liena smiled faintly.

    It was the first smile I had since coming to this town.

    It was the very next day that Liena first succeeded in curing the brainwashed person.

    I had already told Serpense about this.

    I can definitely feel the energy of black magic, but Winston is talking about a stalker.

    Thinking of the possibility of brainwashing and injecting divine power as usual

    You must have figured out the new situation first.

 CH 136

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 136

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (8)

    "I mean that I was brainwashed by a demon worshiper?"

    He seemed a little terrified, but he felt a remorse in his heart.

    He seems to have decided that a good victim is much better than being rushed into demon worshipers and being dragged into the church''s torture chamber.

    "I heard you were called the Duke before , you''re the Duke of Prasidus, right?"

    With Serpence right in front of you, you must have thought that the brainwashing would be easy too.

    The brainwashed victim looked at Serpens with a look that even found a lifeline.

    ''Wait, is this really weird?''

    A well-known celebrity like Serpence came in, and after only looking at Solertia, they are now interested in him.

    It was conceptually absurd.

    A duke or former master of the holy sword

    Even if the title of nominee is second to none, isn''t it a face that is not inferior to being called a gaze robber?

    As soon as I get used to it, even I, who is used to it, often does, that someone who is obviously seeing Serpence up close for the first time gets their attention.

    The power of brainwashing that makes even instincts ignore!

    It was really terrifying.

    ''The default value given to him is probably a stalker obsessed with Solertia.''

    Not frantic enough to risk their lives, but if it is threatened,

    Number that can be waived by converting tax

    increase

    And ordinary people who have absolutely nothing to do with demon worshipers.

    ''There may be other detailed settings, but is this enough based on what has been revealed?''

    If you believe you are a stalker, you can erase your interest in the scroll itself, and this man who is a witness and a witness will die on his own.

    If you notice the black magic and push in the divine power, your mind will collapse as it is, and you will be unable to mine anything.

    ''Even if the smoke screen operation fails, there is nothing to lose, and if it succeeds, it is only very beneficial .''

    He is a person who will die if he leaves it alone anyway. I think I might have thrown it away and just threw it away.

    "Hey, have you had any headaches lately?"

    Yes?! Come to think of it, sometimes...

    this this. It seems that the side effects are starting to happen."

    "Boo, side effects What happens when it starts?"

    To make a more accurate diagnosis, we checked the symptoms on the victim.

    Sure enough, the symptoms have already progressed to some extent.

    Duke, do you think that''s right?

    You 1, it seems like that."

    The victim''s complexion darkened as I began to converse with Serpens with a serious expression instead of answering.

    ''I heard that Serpence is like that too, so I guess I was right... .''

    Liena''s divine power control was not even enough to say that it was excellent.

    The reason why she was only able to succeed after suffering a dozen or so tortures is that it is not a problem that can be solved simply by purification and treatment.

    Black magic was obsessively entangled in his brain, and he was manipulating his mind.

    To solve it, you had to directly engage the brain as well.

    ''How many people in the world go to priests to manipulate the mental realm by artificially touching the brain, not for the purpose of treatment?''

    even if the treatment is the goal. Very few people came to her because of a mental seizure.

    It''s something I''m not used to though.

    Needless to say, we had to go beyond that and even purify black magic. A higher level of control was needed.

    ''In addition to that, the burden that one person''s life can be ruined if it fails... .''

    It was for this reason that Liena failed one after another.

    if.

    Although she is mentally driven

    Had it not been, the success of the treatment might have been much earlier.

    ''It''s a shame that you overcame those things and succeeded .''

    Had it not been, she would have been utterly destroyed as the demon worshipers had planned.

    Dude, is there something wrong with the headache?

    As Serpense and I looked at them and remained silent, creating a serious atmosphere, the blonde man asked with a trembling voice if he was worried.

    Have been brainwashed in the usual way

    doesn''t seem to be. Black magic has penetrated deep into the brain. If it''s like this, maybe... It won''t last long.

    Serpence made a face that was miserable and answered in a voice that dripped with regret.

    It was such a pitiful appearance, Solertia, who was watching it, said, ''That''s... !'' and enthralled him.

    Oh, I can''t hold on for long... Are you saying I''m going to die?

    Serpens remained silent, but it

    This soon became the answer.

    Ji, please cure me! Please! Uh, maybe brainwashing... Maybe something comes to mind when that happens, yes! Sure!

    If it hadn''t been tied up, it''s likely that he would have grabbed Serpence''s crotch and hung on it.

    If possible, of course I would, but...

    As if in pain, the man''s face was dyed with despair at the sight of Serpens who narrowed his forehead and bit his lip to avoid his gaze.

    ''This guy is laying the ground rice.''

    What Serpens is doing now is nothing more, nothing less.

    I''ll try, but I have eyes to see, so I''m doing this assuming it fails.

    ''I have confidence, but I don''t know if I should say .''

    Even if a problem arises, it is not his fault, and it must be to show that he hesitated because of it.

    At least, now, referring to the sequelae when the treatment has failed,

    I''ll ask you if you''d like to get treatment.

    "If you want, try , hoo-u. I''ll do my best, but if you don''t, you can seriously damage your brain um "

    It''s like I don''t know what to say.

    Serpens sighed in the middle and the end of his speech was blurred, appealing to him that it was difficult to even say his best.

    ''It''s painful for me to say this, too, but it''s time for the patient to know their condition and make a decision.''

    That''s what I was saying.

    It reminded me of a doctor who gave advance notice of side effects to patients who were about to undergo an operation with an infinitely low probability of success, except for hesitating smoke.

    "I''m going to be an idiot are you saying that?"

    Patients are also on the verge of crying out in search of a doctor.

    " It could be it could be."

    With an expression of utter pity, Ser Pence nodded. Saying sorry is making up a face to the fullest.

    But.

    Contrary to his lack of confidence, in fact, the probability of success was extremely high.

    ''Among those who possess divine power, you''re unique in that category, right?''

    How many years have he abused his divine power to control his own emotions?

    It''s not something you can do, or a level you''re used to.

    It doesn''t work, so it can be used lightly as if breathing.

    ''Demon worshipers wouldn''t have known that.''

    If I had known, instead of paying interest, I would have kept my mouth shut and didn''t even come close to it until I lost interest.

    Who in the world uses the divine power to suppress their emotions and to rip out their ego?

    Because I felt the soothing effect myself, Serpence was overusing it, and I knew his instability.

    That''s why I was able to notice it.

    sure. To unwind the brainwash it

    It is a higher-order problem that must be solved by applying

    But no one can''t breathe and do other things at the same time.

    I believe that Serpense can do it well enough.

    The sooner the choice, the better. The more you go, the more the pain will get worse.

    Actually, there is only one option.

    Please take good care of me...!

    Thank you for your trust.

    Serpens took a deep breath.

    He closed his eyes and placed his hand over his head.

    A silvery, splendid divine power flowed out of Serpens'' hands. And it seeped into the crown of the company.

    ''Wow, really... . It would have been a really holy scene had it not been for that fake stalker tied up... !''

    The figure of a Serpens emitting a divine brilliance with his hands on the head of a kneeling man tied to a rope... .

    ''Why are you so uselessly holy and uproar... ?''

    I''m still holy, what can I say?

    I don''t know if I should

    Is this why you say your face eats everything? A handsome guy is cool no matter what he does, there is no foul like this.

    '' By the way, it''s taking longer than I thought.''

    I thought it might be showmanship, but looking at Serpence''s face, it didn''t seem like it.

    He didn''t close his eyes comfortably, but rather tightly.

    It''s not enough to describe it as sticky, but I put all my heart into trying to get rid of brainwashing.

    Oh, it was clear that I was concentrating.

    In the solemn atmosphere, I unknowingly held my breath and looked at it.

    It must have been the same for Solertia and Winston, and there was no rustling of clothes in the drawing room.

    Uh-huh.

    The long silence was finally broken.

    Serpens took a long breath and slowly opened his eyes. The hand that had rested on the blond man''s head was also withdrawn.

    "Okay are you done?"

    As his hands were removed, the brainwashed man slowly opened his eyes and asked a question carefully.

    Without needing to check, I could tell that it was over safely.

    Yes, it''s over. Any discomfort anywhere?

    Not at all, my head seems clear and my body is full of energy!

    That has nothing to do with the purification of black magic, and it must be purely because of the nature of the divine power.

    I''m glad you''re safe.

    "Thank you! Oh , as expected, the prestige of Duke Prasi Dus was the truth. I don''t know how I should repay this favor !"

    It seems that the exaggerated and arrogant personality was probably her own.

    The appearance of praising Serpence is so much that there is no sense of incongruity even if it is placed among the dukes and other people.

    May I ask a question if it''s okay with you?

    Anything is fine! I''ll tell you everything I know!

    "Perhaps, I remember the person who brainwashed me.

    do you If it''s not, it''s the suspicious person I saw while being brainwashed... . It doesn''t even have to be about people. Anything, if you have any doubts, please let me know.

    Is it because he has just recovered?

    Due to the discrepancy between the information that was distorted due to black magic and what was actually seen, there seems to be a slight confusion in the memory.

    He couldn''t answer Serpence''s question right away and seemed to be in deep thought for a moment.

    "Uh that''s it. The person who has been brainwashed first

    He was wearing a black hood that was pressed so deeply that he couldn''t see his face.

    That hood!

    All existence of Hood in this world should be annihilated.

    I think I said I sold scrolls here and there, but in fact, I passed them all on to one person. At first, they came with the warlock who had brainwashed me, and they covered their faces as well. I met him without covering his face and handed him a scroll. What happened was

    It''s easy to break, but

    It''s hard to hit.

    He must have been vigilant at the thought that he would never be able to solve the brainwashing, and it seems that he showed his bare face.

    We listened to valuable information.

    Duke, do you know who you are?

    I wondered if anyone could guess what Serpence is, so I asked him.

    " If you can identify a suspicious person and show them a portrait, can you point out the person?"

    of course!

    "And do you have any idea what you were going to do with the scrolls you bought?"

    I''ve never heard of such a thing.

    I guess they didn''t reveal what they plan to do with the scroll.

    Unfortunately, that was all the man knew.

    If you find out that your brainwashing has been broken, a demon worshiper might come and do you harm. You remember the other person''s face, especially.

    Well then, what should I do...

    The poor man who was brainwashed by a demon-worshiping warlock was in quarantine for protection.

    Taking advantage of stalking that had nothing to do with his will, it was decided that he would be locked up until the case was resolved.

    He''s going to be buried there as if he''s really dead.

    ''It''s really pitiful to the end.''

    The man who thought he was a stalker gladly accepted the frame of being a stalker.

 CH 137

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 137

    30. Conflict between the Dukes (9)

    After catching the fake stalker, about two weeks have passed.

    In the meantime, the salary has been increased through salary negotiations.

    I got a letter from Eugene with one large citron and three small citrons.

    There were many things, but the biggest income was that I gathered all the information I could gather.

    A little while ago, Xeon was about to leave the last report.

    After all, the question is, Count Ferrarius?

    Countess of Ferrarius.

    It is a very wealthy manor with many ore deposits, including iron ore.

    It is only natural that the lord, Count Ferraris, was also wealthy.

    Somehow, I thought I was hoarding scrolls...

    It wasn''t just scrolling.

    A drug used by Sir Palsum, the mist of delusion''.

    It turns out that it was also not Sir Falsum, but Sir Stein, an assistant to Count Ferrarius.

    Sir Lee Stein, who recently purchased ''Mist of Delusion''. He wasn''t the only one, but the real buyer of the scroll Solertia made was also Sir Stein.

    There can be no connection

    At this point, there is no need to check, and the first thing to

    I wondered if it was also Sir Stein who caused it.

    just as expected.

    When I hinted at Tu Stor, whom I met at the banquet held this month, I was assured that he was right, as I expected.

    ''I remember seeing Zion in a group interview before, so I stabbed him just in case... .''

    I guess I have a good memory.

    h] Gee. He must have become an aide to the aristocratic family if he did anything.

    "I thought it was only the aide that was the problem.

    I did... . I didn''t know that one of the capital''s nobles was backing the demon worshipers.

    His aide, Sir Stein, was originally a member of the demon cult, and had been hired from the outset to act as a link between Count Ferrarius and the demon worshiper.

    This is valuable information that Serpens found by infiltrating Count Ferrarius whenever he had time.

    ''During that time, I also did very important work.''

    lounging alone in his study,

    made an alibi

    It''s important. Cancer, not like that!

    "Did you say that among the contents Seonwoo read, such information did not come out?"

    you . The imperial situation itself at this time was not mentioned in detail, but .

    But?

    As he muffles the end of his speech, he tilts his head while repeating the end of his speech.

    about a year ago.

    It''s a completely different feeling than when I heard a similar way of speaking from him.

    Someone who lives where can convince people to convince them to make them their own limbs, and those who show hostility or walk in vain have all been swept away. Maybe they were swept away together then?

    ...Uh, ummm.

    As if someone who lived somewhere faced the dark history of childhood, he bowed his head in shame.

    By the way. If it was Sir Stein who gave the drug to Sir Falsum, why did you turn the arrow at Sir Falsum during the fake raid? Not on the same side.

    go?

    Whatever the process, as long as the two dukes feud and the empire becomes chaotic as a result, it doesn''t matter.

    "I knew that I just thought things went wrong because we couldn''t communicate with each other."

    The demon cult of this period was still in the form of a point organization.

    Although his black magic is gradually getting stronger, he is outnumbered, so he can establish a minimum number of connections and break them at any time.

    Warlocks would recognize each other with magical powers, but members of the general power were unaware of each other''s existence.

    So I figured this was the case.

    Sir Palsum is the duke''s assistant, and there are things he has accumulated through his position...

    "Are you saying that you seem to throw away such a useful hand too easily?"

    " speaking of. Well, something like that."

    After learning that he doesn''t see people as people, he deliberately

    I tried to express it alive.

    I don''t know the deep meaning of this.

    For no reason, I spilled the serpent I loved once.

    It is a clash between two large families. If they collide head-on, even if they succeed in trampling on the opponent, it is only an honor that will only hurt. The hyenas will come and bite you before they can even repair the damage.

    Serpens pretended not to see my gaze and continued explaining.

    Why?

    "I was prepared to consume it from the beginning.

    means.

    "Ramen from the beginning ?"

    It has been more than 20 years since he became an assistant to the Duke of Argento. It has not been long since the Holy Sword descended.

    You''ve been planning this situation for 20 years now?!

    Startled, I jumped up from my seat and shouted. The chair he was sitting on made a squeaking sound and was pushed back.

    Then Serpens quietly shook his head. it doesn''t mean

    Is that possible? They misjudged the owner of the Holy Sword. The same is true for them. The situation is different.

    Oh, that''s right.

    The plan seems to be going pretty much the same way.

    What, you''re right after all!

    Serpence raised her hand gracefully without a word and flicked it up and down.

    "You want me to come closer?"

    Shut up and sit down.

    write the word shut up in front of him

    was not It''s regrettable

    Basically, all kids are like that. When you first learn a new word, you try to use it all the time.

    The more primary the word is, the more joyous it is just to hear it, and the more you laugh.

    ''Wake up or sleep in front of Serpens, and watch your mouth!''

    With that promise, I quietly shut my mouth, pulled up a chair and sat down.

    "Coming back to the point When he just became the duke''s assistant, he was a god who could move the Duke of Argento.

    could not obtain Even if possible, if they attacked the Duke of Prasidus at the time, the damage would be greater than the gain. At that time, the person who was thought to be the master of the Holy Sword was still young... .

    It''s complicated and confusing, so it''s understandable if you just call me Nara.

    Yes.

    It was good until I cut my nerves on the Holy Sword], I cut it off too much.

    "Anyway, even if there is a problem with the Duke of Prasidus, the me they were aiming for is only sent to the Luxmea Church.

    By the time ''Day of the World'' comes, the balance must have been restored to some extent.

    There''s nothing left to look out for anyway, so it''s like you quietly nurtured your strength behind the scenes.

    Besides, if I''m protected within the denomination, it''s far more remote for them to touch me. So, it''s more efficient to prepare for other things when I have time to focus on this.

    I heard something... .

    " don''t you feel sorry?"

    "Are you sorry?"

    Serpence hit me blankly

    see everything

    ''If the demon worshipers had attacked the Prasidus then, Serpens would not have grown up with such abuse... .''

    Even if the rules of the temple were strict, it was nothing compared to what Serpence suffered.

    As he was honored as the master of the holy sword, he was not carefully nurtured, rather than gold or jade.

    I don''t like it.

    "What do you mean?"

    Demon worshipers.

    "What are you going to do with them?"

    It doesn''t mean that.

    perhaps. Wouldn''t that be the first and last chance for good deeds the demon worshipers could do for the continent?

    ''Let''s use a little bit of force... .''

    If only Serpens had been protected by the Order by biting the Squadron Duke Prasidus with all his might, even if he lacked strength.

    The god Luxmea may have forgiven his past sins of worshiping the devil and bestowed a blessing.

    ''Evan, until the blessing?''

    Even I would die of regret like this.

    Serpence said, ''Is it because of the idea that being treated as the master of the holy sword is the same no matter where they are sent?

    Whether he thinks that the treatment he will receive is the same, there is still no emotion.

    "At the time, the conditions were not right. Even if we planned a strategy, we wouldn''t be able to implement it, so from the beginning, ''Now .

    Are you empty-headed?

    I was determined to eat it very raw.

    Even if the Duke of Argento''s aide seems to wield the duke''s power as he pleases right now, it is because he has the duke''s trust. The moment he loses it, it ends there. There is nothing strange.

    The son of the Duke of Argento seems to have a separate aide, so the retirement of the current Duke of Argento is no less than the retirement of Sir Falsum.

    And with that, the power of Lord Falsum

    It''s over.

    Ah! That''s why I said, ''From the beginning!

    Yes.

    In other words. It was said that when Lord Falsum allowed the Duke of Argento to roam freely, he intended to use it as he needed it and throw it away.

    Guess who isn''t a demon worshiper?

    "If it weren''t for the variable that the Holy Sword had chosen the Crown Prince. Rather than playing cumbersome behind the scenes like it is now, he would have actively utilized the power of the Duke of Argento to destroy the Duke of Prasidus as quickly as possible.

    before you come Even after returning, there is no way I can use my hands.

    Serpents remain in the Empire and there are ten million. If he had followed Humanus... .

    ''It must have been a real disaster!''

    After all, to the demon worshipers, the Duke of Argento was a power that could only be used temporarily.

    He must have attacked the Prasidus family to the point of being blatant.

    And. In the process, if you deliberately use black magic to drive the Duke of Argento into a demon worshiper.

    Yes?

    nothing to ask The whole family goes to the temple dungeon holding hands, and after an in-depth conversation with the Heretic Inquisitor, it is a public execution.

    And if they fill that void with their allies as perfect as Count Ferrarius.

    uh .

    The Holy Lumen Empire will fall into the hands of demon worshipers.

    Suspense appeared after a long time.

    Oh no, why are you talking like that?

    Are you?!

    Is that a real demon worshiper''s plan, or if Serpens were a demon worshiper, they would have devised such a plan, what? .

    He speaks like a ploy he devised.

    ''Why are you talking with a pause between words?''

    Do I have to say it so confusingly?

    It''s just a guess.

    He must have been a little reluctant after he said it, uh-huh-! and let out an awkward cough.

    As if Suspense had already gone home, Serpence rewrote her glasses that didn''t even leak.

    "By the way, do you know the length of the arm? Did you mean that you were only going to use it for a while and then throw it away?"

    Even if you didn''t know it, you''d definitely know this time. Maybe it was the demon worshipers who threw the dagger at the last aide meeting.

    Yes?

    what do you mean That''s what you did, right?

    Sunwoo using drugs. You are an aide.

    After explaining that the plan is to lower the reputation by inducing people to behave in a meeting. In the background, instead of such an uncertain method, don''t you think that he was plotting a plot to create a sure cause of conflict?"

    Why?

    Why is this explanation now, ''I''m going to try to flirt like this . how is it? Don''t you think it''ll work out?'' Does it sound like you''re asking?

    ''Didn''t the suspense just go back?''

    Pretending to go back, a serpent

    I guess I was pretending

    Give it back.

    what?

    Give me back the serpence from my house. Where did you go? What, why do you keep getting suspense?

    Our Aeong, who left the house, is looking for it.

 CH 138

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 138

    31. Duke''s Dream (1)

    " No, are you really doing this?"

    I already said I''m going to do it. Are you going to change your mind now?

    Serpens said with a look as if he was asking if he was saying two words with one mouth.

    Don''t worry. I''ll be hiding and watching, so there won''t be any danger.

    That''s normal.

    The reason these conversations come and go is because we have made an appointment to spend this evening with Lord Palsum.

    ''It''s also for Sir Palsum and Ferraris to separate the door... .''

    If the dukes clash with each other like this, it would only be good for the demon worshipers.

    According to Serpens, what could be better than that if they fight and destroy each other?

    That was correct.

    But the problem is .

    It is true that the demon worshipers used the sutras for throwing away, so Serpens asserts that it is not a schizophrenia.

    He said that he was already aware that he was being used by them, and that he was only giving a little confidence to that thought... .

    ''In the first place, didn''t it start with the dagger that Serpens threw that led Sir Falsum to have such doubts?''

    Add a lie or two to that, and it''s a perfect alienation.

    I glanced at Serpens with a questionable look.

    It was.

    . If not Seonwoo, who would I make this kind of request to?

    The timid fence looked at me and said gently.

    He cried like that no, and he looked like he was being stabbed. Also, it seems that the divergence was right.

    I''ll admit it right away.

    It''s not that Serpens is bad. Not to mention Count Ferraris, even if Lord Falsum was exploited by demon cults, it''s true that he sympathized with him with malice.

    are you?

    Then what''s the matter?

    Justice Realization, Lee Jae-Je. all good, this one

    ''Besides, you were the one who touched me first, wasn''t it?''

    I wonder if the scroll I bought was handed over to the warlocks on the demon worshiper''s side.

    Serpens searched the mansion thoroughly, but did not come out.

    So I don''t know where I''m going to use the scroll, so even if I hit the second one.

    Even compared to taking drugs in drinks, a lie or two is just aegyo level. but .

    The thing to admit is to admit it. If you''re going to do it, do it confidently, if you''re going to force it, think about other ways.

    Sunwoo...

    "When did I say that?!"

    " I feel uncomfortable."

    While we all know each other, it''s like that again

    I was concerned about things, so I said it was kind of weird.

    ''Oh, now I understand.''

    It was very conspicuous for Serpens to meet and talk to the Duke of Argento in person.

    There is no other person who can make this happen except me, who is an aide and knows his nature.

    However, I felt that I was reluctant to do this kind of trickery, so I made a reasonable excuse for it.

    ''I''m playing around with some suspense''

    Since it''s been eaten, there''s nothing to look out for like this?!''

    I don''t know what dreams and fantasies this guy has for me.

    I seem to have completely forgotten that last year I received a letter from a demon worshiper, misunderstood the sender, and headed to Semita Street to cover up the fact that Serpens killed a former aide.

    ''I don''t mean to put innocent people in trouble, but if there was a little suspense in the process, would I cover it up and oppose it? .''

    Serpence doesn''t know that, so

    Actually, I am a human being who can be cruel and vicious if I put my mind to it.

    ''Currently, Serpens are dependent on me for all their snacks.''

    If I''m determined and brutal, Serpence will end up with cookies stuffed with cacao nibs instead of chocolate chips and a candy bottle full of cinnamon-flavored candies.

    ''It''s as if they stole ramen and chicken from a Korean...''

    Can''t be on the same level as Luxrexia

    does not exist.

    Let''s try another evil method.

    However, without any physical evidence, you can''t call them demon worshipers. There are witnesses, but the black magic has already been purified, so the credibility is low. Establishing witnesses is only after things become more certain. It should be used as a final wedge, but to say that I sneaked into the Count Ferrarius and overtook their conversations and found out that they were demon worshipers...

    "I''m disappointed with Serpens when I came here.

    Or you don''t, so you can stop making excuses.

    The excuses were getting more and more lame. I''m to the point of being ashamed of everything I''m listening to.

    Count, it''s Churpens!''

    If it is left as it is, it will become a fringe fence rather than an excuse fence or a timid fence. I applied the brake before crossing the line.

    You can look cute until you are timid, but you''re a little stingy... .

    I think I said before that Serpens is a good person as he is... Oh, didn''t he?

    Didn''t you say something with a similar nuance?

    Do you remember what you said?

    It wasn''t the words of the head, but the words spit from the heart! They said that the left hand should not know what the right hand was doing.

    As I spoke confidently with my chest sticking out, Serpens stared at me. Whether that''s right or wrong, it''s a long, thoughtful expression.

    What do you know about that?

    After all, it''s an idiom used only in the world I lived in, so no one would know.

    As long as the sentence structure is similar, it doesn''t matter, right?

    Anyway, I think it''s okay for Serpens to show her frankly. Wasn''t she the most comfortable person in the world? If you don''t like this, I''ll tell you first.

    Then what did you call me suspense? It was scary or creepy...

    "It''s just a nickname to call with friendliness! If it''s really scary and creepy, you can''t even put it in your mouth. Besides, I was talking about it as a complete joke, right?"

    At my words that ended with asking for consent, Serpens''s head reflexively nodded.

    ''I thought that a lot of self-hatred had disappeared... .''

    It seems that the place was filled with a sense of vigilance against the Serpence from [Master of the Holy Sword].

    I avoided going into detail, but my job was to

    I think I can imagine it to some extent like you.

    To the point of being playful, the suspense of Serpense isn''t bad either. It''s just that he has a good brain, so he thinks about it in many ways, that kind of feeling?

    Sun woo.

    Perhaps he was moved, and he called me with a choking sound. His green eyes fluttered as they met.

    like that or not.

    I''m more worried than that because Serpens only sees me as a very kind person.

    I''m sorry to interrupt you while you''re moving, but I''ll definitely point this out.

    I''m not a sage. Even when the bad guys threaten me with dirty tricks behind my back, I don''t think we should look up to the sky and be clean without shame.

    How can people live by eating only dew?

    Endure damage from others

    The only thing I return to is being treated like a hogu is like this world or the world I lived in.

    Moderately weak side is good for life.

    "I: I am confident that I will not be disappointed even if Seon-woo framed an innocent person."

    That should be a disappointment!

    It''s not like we''re competing to see who''s more accepting of the other. Serpence snarled with a face full of determination, needlessly.

    "If you procrastinate, you will be late for your appointment.

    It seems like it, so I''ll just stop here for today.

    " weren''t we going?"

    I didn''t say that. I''ve made an appointment, but you can''t cheat, right?

    As if speechless due to the brazen attitude, Serpens''s mouth was tightly shut.

    I glanced at the watch... .

    It''s not like it''s going to be late, it''s already too late.

    "When did the time become like this?! I wish I had been honest about that from the beginning!

    All right, I''m going to tease you! Why can''t you speak?!''

    ...Sunwoo?

    Uh, isn''t this a little bit?

    Something was strange. Strangely enough, it was bad for a long time.

    Serpense''s gaze at me also became a little cold.

    Sunwoo, be honest. You, aren''t you that average in the world?

    Come on, come on! Let''s get going! Isn''t it polite to call someone first and be late?

    ...Since when did you keep that?

    No, but it''s really late. You have to go quickly.

    * * *

    The meeting place is the famous restaurant ; First Supper in the capital.

    It means that once you taste the food they offer, it is so good that you feel like nothing you''ve eaten before.

    Although exaggerated, the name

    It was also one of the three famous restaurants in the imperial capital because of its excellent taste.

    ''It was dark under the lamp.''

    As the three delicious three meals a day with a different menu composition every day at the Duke''s Residence, I didn''t feel the need to eat out.

    ''Is Bona Mana Serpens just hiding and watching?''

    I can''t even buy food... .

    Try it today and if it''s delicious, I''ll have to visit him again.

    Welcome, ; First Supper

    NS. What is the name of the person making the reservation?

    11

    This is Zion Rivelon of the Prasidus family.

    When I gave my family and name, the staff checked the list.

    The party is already here. I''ll guide you right away.

    Following the staff, we arrived at a private room, not a public place.

    High-end restaurants serving the aristocrats of the capital must have at least one such private room.

    There are some reasons to relax and enjoy food without being noticed or disturbed, but the most important reason is also for the purpose of maintaining confidentiality.

    From small personal lives to political conversations.

    For this reason, the restaurant side was very careful not to overhear customers'' secrets by mistake, such as ringing the bell before entering the food into the room.

    You''re a little late.

    I took out my pocket watch and checked the time.

    In Hani, I was about 15 minutes late for my appointment.

    "Ah, that''s "

    - jingle

    A gentle bell rang, and the door to the private room opened smoothly without a sound.

    The waiters start moving food one by one on the table.

    It''s too late, so I ordered in advance. I don''t know what to eat.

    I ordered it from the cloth menu.

    I''m late, so I have nothing to say.

    At such a high-end restaurant, sitting alone in a room, without ordering, is a sight to behold.

    ''I was thinking of getting a recommendation anyway.''

    In a place like this, the food recommended by the chef that day is the best.

    I''m sorry. I ran into a cat on the way, so it''s okay to play for a while...

    " ho?"

    After flirting with Serpense, it can''t be said that it was late, and Palsum showed interest in the excuses that came to mind.

    ''This gentleman, did you like cats?''

    Gain 1 useless knowledge.

    Still, while playing with a cat, where is it that you don''t criticize me for being late for an appointment with me?

    If you run into a cute cat, you may be a little late for your appointment, is that kind of caution?

    It''s like meeting a cat, you''re dressed neatly.

    Sir Palsum glanced over my outfit and said.

    I didn''t know you were going to continue talking about cats. I don''t think he usually likes cats.

    ''How hard do you have to play with the cat to get your clothes out of order?''

    He even seemed to think it was normal.

    You don''t see any injuries.

    Because it''s a cat that doesn''t bite.

    Even though it''s still limited to me.

    By the way, I don''t know what the hell he''s doing with his cat.

    How on earth do you play with your clothes in a mess, so that you end up hurting yourself?

    Don''t bite... Then you''re late to let the cat go?

    Well, that''s it.

    It is not wrong to say that it was late because the conversation with Serpens had been longer than expected.

    ''Doesn''t it have anything to do with not biting and the difficulty of keeping cats apart?

    I don''t know if it is.''

    The more docile the cat, the better it is to be petted.

    Maybe that''s what it means?

    ''By the way, how long do you plan on talking about cats?''

    Anyway, while the employees were going back and forth, I couldn''t bring up the main topic.

    If you can be late for 15 minutes and make the other person feel better with a few words about the cat, it is beneficial.

    "How many cats did you have?"

    One.

    "Are there any distinctive features that stand out?"

    It''s incredibly cute.

    "Like a nobleman?"

    "I think so."

    While moderately acclimatising to Sir Falsum''s cat talk, the waitresses finished their chores and went out of the room.

    In an instant, only me and the rest of the room were left.

    "I think the chase is quite boring."

    As soon as the employees leave, the breath is amazing

    Suddenly, his face hardened and he made a strange noise.

    ''What, why do I have to be chased by a cat?''

    I almost lost my absurdity for a moment, but I felt a sense of alienation during the conversation I had with him, so I could quickly understand why Sir Palsum had said such a thing.

    The cat he and I are talking about must be referring to different things.

    If we take a look at the stories of the eight breath wonders .

    ''Is that a slang for something like an assassin or an informant?!''

    Then yes. It was kind of weird.

 CH 139

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 139

    31. Duke''s Dream of Dongsang (2)

    Yes. It was a very bloody chase.

    There was no need to clear up the misunderstanding.

    Today''s setting is

    ''For now, let''s put all the sins on the family of Count Ferrarius.''

    Because of this, Count Ferrarius, who was wary of contact between the two dukes, misunderstood that the pursuit was attached.

    it is the wind that blows away

    Even if it wasn''t, the person who was late to separate the pursuer was better than the person who broke the appointment time to play with the cat.

    In addition, there was nothing similar to cat hair attached to the clothes.

    He doesn''t seem to even think of the fact that I was late while playing with a cat. Because I want to be found out".

    '' wait? You didn''t even play with a real cat, did you?''

    I fell asleep while explaining by substituting Serpense for the cat to match the conversation.

    I was confused

    By the way, I didn''t know that Lord Ribelon would contact me to see me first.

    The staff must have left, too, so I guess he''s going to stop talking about cats and get to the point.

    Lord Palsum looked at me with his searching eyes and broke his luck.

    ''Well, that''s how the aides meeting last month ended.''

    It makes you wonder, and makes you wonder about your intentions.

    I''ve met with eight breaths like this

    What I asked for... . I mean, I don''t know how to open this up.

    I was nervous for nothing, so I took a deep breath and cleared my mind.

    "At the same time, I also had something to say to Lord Ribelon.

    Oh, no! That''s fine!

    By the way, it was said that it was a win-win.

    I must have got on the carriage to return to the aides meeting last month].... Inside the carriage was something like this.

    Perhaps intercepting the horse, I quickly took out the card I had prepared in advance from my pocket.

    The card, which is slightly smaller than the palm of the hand, seems to have been written by someone with his or her left hand. It was written in crooked handwriting.

    [ Lord Palsum has taken a pill for your drink, thinking it will do you harm. If you don''t believe me, check the ingredients of the drinks on your clothes as soon as you die. ]

    This is, of course, fabricated evidence.

    But Sir Palsum''s thoughts seemed to be very different. His eyes trembled slightly with anger.

    I knew that I was working hard, but the thought that I did not know that I would have done this is clearly revealed.

    ''It was really good fishing.''

    Now, Sir Armsom has come to know.

    The fact that the dagger that flew at that time was not aimed at my life, but the cup it was holding.

    ''I am the assistant to the Duke of Prasidus.

    What if I am killed by a man who broke into the Duke of Regento?''

    Since the identity of the assailant was Serpens, the assumption itself is not established in the first place, but since Sir Falsum does not know about such a thing, let''s assume that it happened.

    Although the Dukes of Argento could be held responsible, they could not be held responsible.

    Of course, that alone would make the relationship between the two dukes uncomfortable.

    However, they decided that it was not enough to completely hostile each other.

    Count Ferraris squeezed another number. Perhaps

    That''s the card... setting called.

    They created circumstantial evidence that the aide of the Duke of Argento directly harmed the aide of the Duke of Fra Sidus.

    Not Count Ferrarius, but Serpens.

    ''It''s completely rigged from start to finish, isn''t it?''

    It was Serpens who threw the knife, and it was me who wrote the words on the card.

    Serpense even writes with his left hand so much

    As for the rest, there was nothing I could do.

    At first, I tried to put a fountain pen in his mouth, but when I met his eyes, which were colder than frost, I just wrote with my left hand.

    ''It''s not like you''re arguing like this, it''s a rainy season... .''

    Who the hell believes such a thing? He''s a three-way brazen guy.

    Hey, what the hell is this...

    What''s even more surprising than the contents of this card is the result. It really came out. One light stimulant drug. And..., 1 mist of delusion.

    this one.

    I really don''t know. I swear to God Luxmea, I was only planning on that day to clear up my accusations and clear up misunderstandings with Lord Ribelon. This is definitely a conspiracy!

    Do you like carriers].

    Everything else was a blatant lie, but the fact that he took this drug was the truth.

    Serpence''s Investigation Conclusion

    In addition to the medical expenses paid by the Duke of Argento, the servant, who had a knife stuck in his thigh, could see that he received a separate compensation from Sir Falsum.

    I also couldn''t believe that someone as many as an aide to the Duke of Argento would do such a frivolous thing... But what would you do?

    It was made up to create feelings of regret, but I don''t know if it was conveyed well.

    Stop sarcasm, and let''s get to the real thing. If you could even check the name of the drug, you would have understood the distribution channel and the buyer. I know you want to laugh at me, but let''s just stop there.

    I don''t think it was communicated at all.

    what is the problem? Zion''s face? my smoke?

    I have a point, too. Wasn''t any of the drug buyers associated with the Count Ferrarius?

    Oh!

    lost the line

    Perhaps interpreting my reaction in a different way, Sir Palsum smiled slightly.

    ''It''s better.''

    First from here, Count Ferraris

    It''s a much better result than pointing out. I don''t think there will ever be any doubt about this epilepsy.

    I thought so.

    "Did you know that?"

    I asked him back, pretending not to know.

    Have you found a card with these words written inside the carriage, someone poisoned the drink that I had recommended to Lord Rivelon, and a dagger that suddenly flew in and spilled on Lord Rivelon''s clothes?

    Sir Falsum is the Count of Ferrarius.

    He replied with a grin twisted in anger, perhaps thinking of demon worshipers.

    ''It''s not strange. Don''t be weird.''

    The dagger that flew in was sent by Serpens to prevent me from drinking the honeydew with the medicine, and I wrote the card today during the day.

    The assumptions and the order are messed up, so the result is bound to be strange.

    "It sounds very strange to me."

    The intruder who threw a dagger that came from the aides meeting probably didn''t come here for the purpose of assassination.

    They were aiming for the cup that Lord Rivelon was holding.

    Hey, it''s amazing. I was really fooled by the blink.

    However, we who were there all mistakenly thought that he had come for the assassination �[��. Everyone was confused and lost reason, the person who was there, induced and instigated someone to accept it that way.

    Sir Falsum, is that what you want to say, that he is Count Ferrarius'' assistant?

    Yes, that''s right.''''

    Still, I thought about how to solve that story in a more natural way. Thank you so much for letting me know how to give it to you.

    And back to the story of the intruder.... The public announced that the intruder died as soon as they were caught, but the reality is different.

    of course it has to be different.

    The intruders of that time are still watching us in hiding.

    Behind him was Count Ferraris... a demon worshiper.

    Yes?!

    I heard that there was something I wanted to say earlier, so it must have been something like this.

    I came here to flirt, and the other side showed a hotter flirting.

    ''No?''

    Count Ferrarius is a supporter of the demon cult, and his assistant is a demon worshiper.

    The intruder was behind the dog bullshit, but the story of a demon worshiper is the truth.

    This tickle rather than tickle

    should it be right?

    I understand your surprise. You may wonder why you didn''t tell me about it.

    Not a single one was puzzled.

    I couldn''t tell you because such a person didn''t exist. understand enough

    I succeeded in interrogation up to that point, but I had no choice but to do it because I couldn''t stop him from committing suicide by taking a break. There is no physical evidence and the witnesses also died. I don''t even know...

    Neither I nor Serpense can accuse him and Count Ferrarius for evidence.

    Still, there was no sense of unity.

    I know that talking to the Duke of Prasidus is the quickest way to deal with demon worshipers, but these days... you know Lord Rivelon.

    aldamada. That one was the first to argue

    I wanted to investigate their backs with the power of the Dukes of Argento at the very least...

    "It''s like they hold each other''s ankles."

    Now, looking back, ''It was because of Count Ferrarius that our dukes faced each other.

    How are you?

    He secretly said, ''I don''t even know what to call us, so all of a sudden he brings up the story of the past.

    A savvy person like Duke Prasidus couldn''t have been interested in the battle for the throne... I don''t know why he heard such a nonsensical story and believed it.

    NS. I was deceived by them and caused great damage to the two dukes.

    This is how it happened

    It seems that he intends to wash his hands by blaming Count Ferrarius for all his faults.

    ''Will that really work? ?''

    It is unlikely that Count Ferraris will let him go.

    When the last moment comes, won''t they try to bring him down, saying that only they can''t die?

    ''Even if they get away with it, they aren''t the only demon worshipers .''

    There''s no need for Serpence to step out and use his own hands.

    Their retaliation is by no means light.

    As soon as we return, we will evacuate all family members.

    You], I''ll tell the Duke right away.

    With this, the binding of the intelligence community was resolved, and the Duke of Argento and the Count of Ferrarius seem to take care of themselves and fight well.

    ''Is it okay to watch good food and eat rice cakes now?''

    Before that, I''ll have to eat the Jinsu Sacrament that is in front of my eyes.

    Ah, Lord Ribelon, you should be careful when you die.

    Yes?

    Finally, after trying to eat some food, Sir Palsum suddenly spoke to me again.

    Didn''t you tell me you had a follow-up? It''s likely that you know you''re meeting me today, and that you''re trying to kidnap Lord Rivelon and put it back on me.

    Thank you for your concern.

    I think I''ve heard the world''s most useless worries.

    There is no reason for the cat I played with before coming to kidnap me, and no one else''s cat can beat my house cat.

    Why don''t you ask the store''s staff to send someone to escort you to the mansion?

    Only one serpense was enough.

    It would only be a waste of manpower if we stuck more.

    It''s fine. I know how to buy a single body. The wonder of eight breaths.

    Look out.

    You have to be careful yourself.

    ''Isn''t that the Duke''s going to follow him and protect him?''

 CH 140

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 140

    31. Duke''s Dream (3)

    After an informal meeting between me and Sir Falsum, the work of the two duke families'' intelligence groups was restored.

    Goodbye to the past, when only rumors circulating in the capital were picked up.

    Among the information, of course, was the content of the latest trends in Count Ferrarius.

    "Hey, are you really doing the right pressure?"

    The Duke of Argento was weakening the position of the Count Ferrarius to the extent that he wondered if he was okay with that.

    At the advisory council, a bill was introduced to raise taxes on iron ore and other ore, which is the basis of capital, and it was passed very quickly.

    Even that wasn''t enough, until it interfered with the business of the count''s businesses.

    Even after tying up the Ferrarius family''s informants, there is still room behind them.

    Digging for was a bonus.

    Why does Seonwoo show interest in such a thing?

    Something like this happens in life, huh?

    Serpens asked as if wondering.

    ''Is that enough?''

    Up until now, I''ve been thinking that it''s just that when Hans posted a report, and I''ve moved on.

    At first, they didn''t know anything, and as a butler, they thought it was just a report about the owner or the mansion management.

    After finding out that the report posted as the head of the intelligence group was added to that, Serpence took care of it anyway.

    ''If it''s something you must know, Serpence will tell you vaguely without asking!''

    With that thought, I completely turned off my mind.

    I''m not going to run my own business, something to know where and to whom what happened. It''s closer to saying that they didn''t feel the need than that they weren''t interested.

    So today, as soon as Hans posted a report and left, I approached Serpense''s seat and looked around and showed interest in it, so it must have felt strange.

    "Sometimes I wonder how things are going."

    "So, do you understand?"

    Serpence smiles that he is unique, hands me the report he has read and asks.

    I received it and checked it carefully from the beginning again.

    "Well?

    How about grinding?"

    And?

    "And? Uh , I can''t remember anything Ah! But is it okay to attack like this?

    I didn''t see him as a yangban who couldn''t distinguish between the front and back.

    Even if the demon cults hit the back first, they won''t care.

    ''Besides, it hasn''t been hit yet, isn''t it just a little bit?''

    Still, the dagger that Serpens flew

    I just shouted that it was blown by the assassin prepared by Lord Falsum.

    In fact, even they do not know who or why the dagger was fired.

    Perhaps, on the side of Count Ferrarius, why is Sir Falsum turning on his eyes and driving them up?

    I don''t know English, so maybe I''m confused.

    ''If I knew the truth, I would be very upset.''

    That''s what I''ll eat with a little heart.

    This happened because I played around with the food I ate.

    ''If it wasn''t for that, even Serpens wouldn''t have thrown a dagger!''

    Anyway, the guys playing with what they eat were the worst.

    Sir Falsum on the drug, or Sir Stein who told me to take it. Everyone wait there.

    ''The pressure started after me and Sir Palsum met... .''

    It was just right for them to think that Lord Falsum betrayed them in the first place.

    It''s the other way around.

    Are you against it? Then you''re doing that because you''re worried about your future?

    Yes.

    Serpens nodded.

    I have already revealed to Seon-woo that Count Ferrarius is related to demon worshipers, so if you can prove that they are demon worshipers, then all the actions of the Duke of Argento are to fight them.

    Yes.

    You can push them thoroughly and draw the power of the demon worshipers.

    If only, then when the truth is revealed. In addition to receiving a reward for his work, he could also request protection from the denomination.

    Something like witness protection?

    It''s a feat that broke one of the demon cult''s financial lines. deserves protection.

    ''If that''s the reason, it''s understandable to be proactive.''

    If you show an ambivalent attitude and say that you lose the biggest contribution to others, you are a fool.

    Even if I try, I''ll aim for that first, bo

    I''m afraid of good fortune, to say the least, only the 1st contributor is around.

    But can we do nothing like this and just watch? Oh, except for Serpens to sneak in and watch.

    We are aware of the count''s financial flow.

    "Is that okay?"

    "Then, would you like to approach Count Ferrarius and even flirt?"

    Serpence said mischievously and laughed playfully.

    "Are you kidding me now?"

    a few days ago.

    Just before going to see Sir Falsum, I should not have said things like, ''I''m going to mess with you, why can''t you talk?'' to Serpence.

    Old man, we don''t even need to dip our feet in the mud. For now, it''s enough just to see how they move. Then it''s not too late to take action when they show suspicious movements.

    I think my words are very tasty. If you see me chewing.

    Pretending he didn''t hear anything, my

    He chewed his words and continued speaking in a plain tone.

    * * *

    Again a few days passed.

    In the meantime, the Duke of Argento has beaten Count Ferrarius unilaterally and hard, and there has been no movement of the demon worshipers in the meantime.

    ''Should I postpone the plan to go down to Rivelon''s estate in the last week of this month?''

    When that thought comes to mind. Finally the case happened.

    This morning, the Duke of Argento was attacked. It is said that dozens of magics attacked the mansion at the same time.

    Not only the incident occurred, but the Argento family''s mansion also exploded.

    ''A dozen or so?''

    So many wizards use magic at once, and there''s no way they could have left it alone without stopping it.

    I said that it was attacked, so it wasn''t the end of an attempt, it was definitely magic.

    it must be a sound

    Is it a magic scroll?

    At my question, Hans, who was reporting, pauses for a moment and looks at me with amazement.

    "Why do you see it that way? Wrong?"

    " No, that''s right "

    Hans answered in a very shaky voice. Today is too much of a yangban.

    It''s scrolling anyway.

    What about the things you bought from Solertia?

    The extent of the damage is that part of the main building of the mansion has been destroyed, and there are quite a few casualties. The exact number is currently under investigation.

    Main building?! It must be quite a distance from the entrance of the mansion to the main building?

    " but that''s what I was going to talk about."

    I cut in the middle again, and Hans gives me a sneak peek.

    Serpence is also listening quietly, so that must be why he keeps cutting his own words.

    If you have any questions, after listening... . Oh

    ninja? Maybe it''s just the eyes telling you to shut up.

    It appears that the wagons that regularly deliver groceries have been hijacked. The perpetrators were caught on the spot.

    Didn''t the soldier guarding the door recognize the change of delivery person?

    Or maybe they thought it was a new employee, checked the groceries in the wagon and just let them in.

    ''You didn''t tell me you were crazy, didn''t you?''

    When something like today happens, the most

    The first person to be suspicious and responsible is the gatekeeper.

    Magic scrolls were basically paper.

    If you unfold a rolled-up scroll and wrap it around your body, there is nothing you can''t bring in secretly.

    And the owner of the magic scroll shop you invested in, ; Distortion of Phenomenon , was arrested.

    Mr. Solertia?! What the hell, why...?

    Hans glares again.

    go on. Yes, I''ll be really quiet.

    It was only a few hours earlier this morning.

    Even if there are remnants of a used scroll, there is not enough time to find out who made it.

    The culprit pointed at her and said that he was just doing what he was told. And the biggest problem is that black magic was detected from the remnants of the embodied magic and the scroll.

    The words, You''ve made a decision, came out of nowhere.

    When I first met Solertia.

    Serpens said that if there are many samples to compare, it can be distinguished whether the scrolls made by the same person are correct.

    That''s right.

    ''Even if there is no signature or something... .''

    It means that if there are many samples for reference, it can be made to look like a scroll that she made, like mimicking a typeface.

    To guard against such counterfeiting, I made a signature.

    That''s probably why the demon worshipers were trying to figure it out for perfection.

    ''It''s been about a month since then, have you figured it out?''

    Wait, before that... .

    Solertia-san doesn''t have black magic.

    The nature of the magical energy contained in the material used for crafting also affects the finished scroll.

    Although not a wizard, this is the answer of Serpens who has a knack for magic.

    Even if you are not a warlock, you can apply black magic to a magic scroll.

    �R

    A gentle knock sound was heard. it was mine

    I received a call to convene an emergency advisory meeting.

    It was dawn when the incident occurred, and now the sun is already in the middle of the sky.

    A problem arose in the residence of the Duke of Argento, who served as the head of the advisory council, so it must have been too late to deal with it.

    Sir Zion, let''s go.

    Serpens stood up. me

    I got up and followed him.

    When I came out, the carriage was already ready.

    As soon as Xeon received the call, he went up to the office and apparently instructed the attendant to keep the wagon waiting.

    As we got into the wagon, the coachman familiarly set off the horses.

    It would be great if the alleged terrorist was brainwashed like it was back then.... Serppens can unravel that and make it clear that they were all lies!

    "Well.

    When you hear the testimony, do you think people will believe it? You''d think it was calculated from the beginning.

    Say this in the state of brainwashing, and point out who the culprit is after being released.

    It is said that there may be people who misunderstood that such instructions were given.

    Today''s advisory meeting will be led by Your Majesty, but the words of the Duke of Argento, a victim of terrorism and the head of the advisory council, will give the most weight.

    do.

    Then it won''t be a problem!

    Sir Falsum knew that Count Ferraris was a demon worshiper, and he was hostile to him.

    And the Duke of Argento was quite swayed by Sir Falsum''s opinion. Things might be easy.

    If that aide hadn''t suddenly changed his mind, it wouldn''t be a big deal.

    " if you suddenly hear those words, you won''t be on fire again!"

    It won''t be a big deal.

    This child is giving me a bottle and medicine now.

 CH 141

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 141

    31. Duke''s Dream (4)

    The fact that the Counts of Ferrarius have acted so hastily means that the Dukes of Argento have oppressed them that much.

    Haste? Oh, that''s right. The Argento door has been attacking the Ferrarius door recently...

    If we look only at terror itself, excluding black magic and scrolls, the first person to be suspected would be Count Ferrarius.

    Since they suppressed them to such a degree that they hadtily pulled out the other hand, the possibility that Lord Falsum would join them again is said to be very small or impossible.

    But the first thing you change your mind is Serpence.

    I said this because I thought Seonwoo was overly reassured. The Argento family''s aide now says that they are hostile to them, but the past that he was in agreement with the demon worshipers'' plans does not change.

    Even if they are in a boat now, Lord Eightsum is fundamentally an enemy.

    You can change your attitude at any time, so don''t trust him too much, and treat him with moderate caution.

    You just have to say it from the beginning. Why are you talking like a double-track device put in place to heighten anxiety in a novel? People confuse Lee.

    If I read the novel and came out with what Serpens said,

    ''Ah, what is it? It''s like the writer gave a twist for nothing, and it seems like he''s trying to twist the case unnecessarily.''

    I thought and clicked my tongue

    am.

    Because of that, I didn''t even think about turning the Serpensian interpreter.

    Come on! Apologize!''''

    Uh, uh... I''m sorry?

    It''s okay to know. I''ll skip this one, so be careful in the future.

    Serpens tilted his head.

    I apologized reflexively because I was asked to do it, but I don''t know why I had to do it.

    Now, say thank you to me.

    What does Seonwoo want to do?

    "I just want to receive an apology for what deserves an apology, and to be grateful for what deserves an apology."

    Serpence sticks out his tongue with an expression of disbelief, whether those words are plausible in the current situation.

    What are you sorry for? If you''re sorry, that''s it? If you knew you were sorry, why did you do that? Etc. You didn''t drive Serpence away with those words! So, hurry up and tell me

    Thank you!

    That''s right, thank you very much.

    It was a great irony.

    * * *

    When we arrived at the meeting room, quite a few people had arrived first. It doesn''t seem like it''s been a while since I''ve been here, but it feels like I''ve just arrived.

    Shortly thereafter, the vacancy was quickly filled.

    There is no advisory meeting today

    Despite the work, everyone attended the meeting on time.

    ''Well, there was such a commotion at dawn.''

    He must have been preparing for an emergency convening. And as soon as I got the call, it would have started right away.

    A seated member of the legislature and a standing aide, all of them had their faces hardened.

    The involvement of demon worshipers was similar to last year''s event on Semita Street, but much more serious.

    At that time, I worked in a place where there were no people.

    Unfortunately, the only casualty was a demon-worshiping warlock.

    On the other hand, today, an incident took place in the mansion of the Duke of Argento.

    ''Besides, the magic scroll used in the terrorist attack belongs to the shop Serpens invested in.''

    At that time, we argued strongly that we would not fall for the attempt to frame Serpence.

    I hope that attitude hasn''t changed.

    "It looks like everyone is here, Argento.

    The Duke will tell you the case.

    Yes, Your Majesty.

    As soon as the emperor entered, he looked around.

    After confirming that everyone was present, he immediately called the Duke of Argento as if he had no time to waste.

    around 4 am today. As usual, a wagon delivering food materials passed through the front door of the mansion. According to the words of the soldier guarding the entrance to the mansion at the time, he was not an employee who usually came, but a person he was seeing for the first time. The person who originally came was seriously injured, so for the time being

    He said that he had come instead, and that he showed the power of attorney stamped with the seal of the merchant he was trading with.

    It''s the seal of the upper class. Have you checked that one?

    The degree of wear and damage of the seal stamped with the �� �� was different from the original stamp on the document received for transaction confirmation.

    Was it a forged document?

    Fake documents, falsify scrolls. Very just forged master delivered.

    Whoever hears it will think he''s a counterfeiter, not a demon worshiper!

    They were dressed in light clothes with no place to hide anything, and the carriage they drove was no different than usual. Without much doubt, only the items on the carriage were checked and passed.

    Huh...

    "And while moving to the grocery store, there were eyewitness testimony that he suddenly took out magic scrolls from the inside of his clothes and used them without even having time to dry them. A knight standing guard immediately subdued him, but the magic had already been activated. As a result, part of the main building was destroyed, resulting in one dead and seven wounded.

    It happened early in the morning, so most of the users stayed in the dormitory.

    Some of the buildings were ''destroyed,'' fortunately, the number was small.

    ''Even so, it doesn''t change that people die and get hurt .''

    After hearing about the number of victims in person, I finally realized it and my heart became heavy.

    "The embodied magic was an attack magic of a scale that was forbidden to be sold to individuals, and I also felt black magic.

    I was told that it was a woman with long wavy hair who handed her a scroll and did it. She said she was threatening her family, so she had no choice but to do what she was told.

    A woman with long wavy hair in light purple. It''s all about referring to Solertia.

    According to his words, when I checked his house, I could only see two bodies that had been burned and unrecognizable. Also, I could feel the energy of black magic there.

    That''s... .

    ''Killed?''

    Why? You didn''t have to kill me right away, did you?

    Or was there a reason why he had to kill him?

    I do not know. Except for the fact that demon worshipers are really motherfuckers.

    "The woman he was talking about is presumed to be the owner of a magic scroll shop called Distortion of Phenomenon, and her name is Solertia Reseratus. After staying in, store in the capital

    opened. We have secured a new recruit and are currently in custody.

    At the words of the Duke of Argento, the emperor''s head came out and turned in the direction of Serpens.

    There are murmurs from all over the place.

    I could see other lawmakers sitting next to them, or people exchanging opinions with their aides.

    " Then can you both bring them here?"

    Yes. I prepared it in advance. Also, the remnants of the expired magic scroll and

    Items sold in her shop have also been recovered and submitted.

    The emperor''s head nodded as if he was satisfied with the quick work done.

    After a while, three people entered the conference hall.

    One is the first man I''ve ever seen, and the other is Solertia. Another one... .

    ''Are you a court wizard?''

    He was wearing a long robe that seemed to be dragged to the ground, as if anyone could see him saying, ''I am a wizard.''

    Analyze the two scrolls, and fire a fire to see if they were created by the same person.

    seems to have come

    Listen, sinners. Is it the woman next to the person who ordered you to commit terrorism?

    "Yes, that''s right. That woman she threatened to kill my wife and son if I didn''t do what she told me to do. The way to get in was prepared by me, so just do it "

    "When did I ever do that?"

    Obviously, you did what I was told! By the way, why did you kill them?!

    Because I''ve never been like that!!

    It''s Ham!

    The two of them raise their voices.

    The emperor did not hide his discomfort and coughed in vain.

    Then Solertia, who remembered where this place was, shut her mouth with an expression of injustice.

    But the man didn''t care, and sat down with a wailing sound.

    " how do you feel? Is there any sign of being brainwashed or anything like that?"

    I leaned my upper body slightly and whispered in a small voice in Serpens''s ear.

    asked.

    His head shook from side to side.

    ''Aren''t you brainwashed? So what the hell happened?''

    As I was about to frown, Serpens turned his head to look at me and raised his hand to cover his lips.

    If you have something to say, put your ear to it.

    "I think it''s like acting."

    If that''s what the acting fence says, whose years of life and acting career are almost identical.

    either voluntarily terrorized, or threatened by someone.

    ''The family... dead... Ji? Am I right?''

    In this case, the two bodies that were found in the house are highly suspicious.

    What are you going to do? Aren''t you going to just sit and watch?

    I don''t intend to just watch, but...

    It''s not the time, this is it.

    Serpens''s head moved slightly.

    In the direction he is looking, the court mage has one hand used,

    He was holding a torn scroll and a healthy scroll in his other hand, examining the contents.

    ''After listening to the wizard''s words, it seems that he intends to move.''

    I straightened my bent back.

    Sir Herond. What a wonder.

    Hmm... I don''t know who''s right, but looking at the magic scroll, it looks like it was made by the same person.

    A court wizard called Sir Herond

    At those words, Solertia''s mouth widened with a face that looked like she had a lot of things she wanted to say.

    But she was never given a say.

    If the signature sentence is confirmed, it will be more certain... But if there is, I wouldn''t say it myself. If I take the time to find it... But it was made for terrorist purposes, so it''s possible that I didn''t include it in the first place... Hmm.... No. Still, it would be better to analyze it a little more first. If you look a little more closely, something will come out... Ah!

    different? Maybe someone else... . oh no What if you deliberately used a different method of expression in consideration of the situation like now?"

    Because the wizard Herond started talking to himself.

    Everyone focused on his constantly moving mouth, and listened to his every word.

    Currently, it seems that the scroll written by the same person is correct, but I cannot say that there is no possibility that it is a forgery.

    It came down after such a long agony

    In conclusion, it was almost as good as saying that I didn''t know.

    If it''s true, you can shout ''After all, my eyes aren''t wrong!''

    It is a conclusion that is cleverly drawn on both sides.

    What do you think, Duke of Argento?

    Recently, the strange affiliation with the Dukes of Prasidus is very questionable, as if someone wants them to be against each other. Demon Worship last year.

    The case of an unsuccessful attempt to frame the Duke of Prasidus in the military comes to mind... .

    "I didn''t know that the victim, Sir, would come out like that."

    When I was stating the case earlier, I was trying to come out with the feeling that I was only conveying accurate facts, excluding thoughts and emotions... .

    ''thank God!''

    Lord Palsum standing behind the Duke of Argento, making eye contact, and blinking his eyes wide in gratitude.

    Sir Armsam''s brow furrowed. Jeon

    moon error message

 CH 142

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 142

    31. Duke''s Dream (5)

    I''m just telling the truth by looking at the facts calmly. That woman may have cheated on her identity and approached it, but at least I think the Duke of Prasidus is innocent.

    Suddenly, things went strange.

    The line of sight of the Duke of Argento, who was looking at the emperor, was toward me. I looked at Serpent precisely.

    ''I''ll help you, all sins are Solerti''

    Oh, you mean to drive it to one person and pretend you don''t know?''

    Members who filled the seats affirmed his opinion and can be seen shaking their heads.

    at first glance.

    Then you''re saying this was planned a year ago?

    Duke Prasidus must have been deceived for being too naive.

    Words like that were heard.

    ''Is this bad?''

    You can get a sympathy vote right now and move on

    It may be, but in the long run, it''s never a good thing.

    Although there is no problem for a single human named Serpens, it is not so for the duke, the highest noble of the empire.

    Invested by being deceived by a demon worshiper?

    Until now, it may have been said that it was only highly valued as the nominee for the master of the holy sword, but in reality it is not.

    This case was a scheming of the demon worshipers to confuse the empire by estrangement between the two dukes, are you saying that?

    Yes, it is.

    The reason why the Duke of Argento is now supporting Serpens is that he has heard from Sir Falsum that the real enemy is Count Ferrarius.

    Because he knew that Serpens couldn''t possibly be a demon worshiper.

    However, that was not the reason why the Duke of Argento believed Solertia.

    He may be suspecting that she really is a demon worshiper.

    Knowing that the demon worshipers had bought her scrolls in bulk

    It''s me and Serpens, Winston, Soller Tia

    And .

    ''Oh. What was the name of that fake stalker back then?''

    Come to think of it, I didn''t even check the name. Anyway, there are only five of them.

    The Duke of Argento is unaware of that fact.

    ''Or do you think it will be difficult to prove that the scroll is a forgery?''

    If the Duke Serpens took his side for nothing, and couldn''t prove it.

    They may be doing this because they are afraid that the empire will be in turmoil if they get caught up in rumors and gossip together.

    ''So, even if you want to deny it, just quietly close your eyes and pretend you don''t know... .''

    If I had to ask who the most anxious and anxious person in this situation is, it would definitely be Solertia. you could say she

    At this rate, he might be branded a complete demon worshiper.

    According to her personality, she would have set out to check the magic scroll used.

    And how is it different from yours? I should have explained the differences step by step.

    But .

    ''It''s not like Solertia is biting her mouth right now.''

    The sorcerer Herond''s monologue made it impossible.

    Possibility of deliberately mixing different expressions with the intention of being designated as the creator of the scroll.

    That was the problem.

    If you defend yourself with your own mouth,

    It was only heard as an excuse prepared in advance.

    ''...Isn''t that bastard a demon worshiper too?

    His remarks were clearly justified.

    Still, that kind of doubt arose.

    ''Was it written on the dark side of doubt? .''

    As well as Sir Falsum, Count Ferrarius and his assistant Sir Stein.

    When I came here to learn that some of the people I knew were related to demon worshipers,

    If you can see even the slightest bit of shading, you are suspicious of everything.

    It is a world where even trusting people is difficult.

    The fact that the two duke families are separated... Then doesn''t that mean that the woman was purposely captured by leaving behind evidence of herself?

    An unfamiliar voice was heard.

    Everyone''s attention was focused on the direction the voice came from. The speaker is Count Ferrarius.

    ''wait for a sec. Secretly confirming that Solertia is a demon worshiper

    sounds like?''

    Pretending to raise a question, it lays it down as a natural premise.

    ''How long is this guy going to sleep, Serpence? After hearing the wizard''s point of view, weren''t you going to jump right in?''

    It seems that the Duke of Argento decided to keep an eye on it... .

    With a frustrated heart, he lowered his gaze and looked at Serpens who was sitting there.

    Naturally, the expression on his face cannot be seen, and instead, the ponytail of his head catches the eye.

    come on Even the top of the head is needlessly clean.

    ''What kind of face are you trying to make... .''

    I can''t even stick my head out in front of him.

    Is Solertia making up a worried face, or is she pretending to be betrayed by the thought of abandoning her, or is she acting on her determination to believe?

    ''It won''t be the second time anyway.''

    Serpence hands the demon cult to imitate her scroll

    I knew I wrote it.

    You shouldn''t create an unfair victim by overflowing with a sense of justice, even if it''s not for that reason.

    ''If I turn away from Solertia now, and she is found innocent, I might be condemned.''

    There is no such thing as later Me and Winston knew her innocence.

    Does that mean you suspect the Duke of Prasidus?

    Who said that? The two dukes.

    I said this because I thought it would be an illusion to say that there is a separation between families.

    Seeing the Duke of Argento asking a question with his face hardened, Count Ferrarius answered with a non-smiling tone.

    The question was whether you were the one who misunderstood and was hostile to the Duke of Prasidus.

    I didn''t know that the Count, no one else, would say such a thing.

    The Duke of Argento snorted as if it was plastic.

    This time, Count Ferrari''s face hardened.

    "What does that mean?"

    It is said that you should do as much as you can when peeling shichimi.

    " do you mean that I was estranged between the two dukes?"

    You haven''t been saying that before.

    Wow, it''s really hot and bursts without hesitation.

    Why is this yangban being swayed by his aide?

    What are you talking about? I know you hate me lately.

    However, there is no need to even make such a nonsensical plan. Are you saying that with evidence?

    Count Ferrarius spoke as if he had been unfairly slandered.

    He was very proud, so he had an attitude that seemed to be dignified.

    Evidence...

    The Duke of Argento drew the horse with a meaningful smile.

    Count Ferrarius, who had been looking at him, turned his gaze to another place for a moment. probably next to the duke of argento

    You must have seen the standing arm breath.

    Roughly, maybe he didn''t tell the duke that he had a close relationship with the demon worshipers, didn''t he?''

    ''Oh, right! They don''t know we did drug investigations, don''t they?''

    If you check the ingredients of a drink you haven''t even drank just just in case, you are a terminally ill patient.

    Even more so if it was done in a hectic situation like the day of the aides meeting.

    I lost my soul, so the clothes I wore that day

    I don''t even want to look at any worn clothes, I''d think they threw it away right away.

    "Did you think that I was driving a decent person without any evidence? It must have been really unfair."

    The Duke of Argento said arrogantly, raising the tip of his chin.

    Count Ferrarius, who realized that there was something real, made up an expression that he did not understand, but his tense facial muscles could not express it properly.

    Hey huh-! What the hell does all this mean?

    The emperor coughed heavily and showed a sign of discomfort.

    Looking around at those words, everyone had a puzzled expression on their faces.

    The explanation will be given by the Duke of Prasidus, not me.

    The Duke of Argento handed the baton to Serpens as if he had done enough now. Everyone''s eyes, including the emperor, fell on Serpens.

    There are two pieces of evidence I can present. The evidence I just mentioned is in the mansion, so I will order someone to bring it.

    Okay. And what about the other one?

    It is a person. I am requesting as a witness Kroman Verom, who was imprisoned in the capital prison about a month ago.

    I think his name was Croman.

    Solertia is seen clenching her fists when she realizes that Serpens is about to move to clear her name.

    He also saw Count Ferrarius and Sir Stein exchanging whispers.

    The Count had a rather serious face, but

    Sir Stein whispered in his ear, and he felt more at ease.

    ''I''m probably dead anyway, so you''re saying there''s no problem.''

    Naturally, he is alive and well.

    If you want to read information about those who are imprisoned in the capital city, of course there are records of them, so you may not have been able to check them.

    A criminal? I''ll approve, but... Now it seems that the two dukes are pointing out Count Ferrarius as the mastermind behind this, is that right?

    I do, Your Majesty.

    Yeah. That''s for sure.

    The Duke of Argento and Serpens answered the Emperor''s question without hesitation.

    I thought everyone would be buzzing, but on the contrary, the silence filled the conference hall to the extent that even the sound of breathing could be bothered.

    It was the emperor''s lament that broke it. Heh heh, he let out a long sigh.

    He beckoned to his assistant.

    Send someone.

    I omitted the object, but where is it? No one knew what they were sending for.

    "Can I tell you what to say to the peacock?"

    If you ask the deacon for materials related to what happened at the aides meeting, he will hand it over to you.

    When the emperor glanced at his aide, he bowed politely and walked out of the hall.

    Now, let me explain. Even if there is no evidence, can you explain the circumstances?

    will be able to.

    Yes. But the witness needs the testimony, so I''ll explain the evidence first.

    The emperor''s head nodded slowly.

    The reason that made me and the Duke of Argento suspicious of Count Ferrarius was because of a meeting of aides a month ago.

    I heard about that. Wasn''t it that the lord''s aide had an accident at the Duke of Argento''s mansion? That was the work of Count Ferrarius.

    go?

    Yes, it is.

    At Serpens'' words, Count Ferrarius and Sir Stein looked at each other with bewildered expressions.

    Roughly what you did, I didn''t. what a feeling

    "Why do you think so?"

    After the incident, Sir Zion to return home.... When my aide got on the wagon, there was a card there. It is one of the evidence to bring, but I am not here, so I will write it down first.

    So much.

    The emperor''s permission was granted.

    Instead of saying Serpens right away, it seems that even putting it in his mouth is a terrible thing. He placed his hand on his chest, took a deep breath, and opened his mouth.

    [Lord Palsum has taken a drink for you with the intention of harming you. If you don''t believe it, as soon as you get back, check the composition of the drinks on your clothes.]

    Everyone''s eyes were focused on Sir Palsum.

    ''But except for two people.''

    The gazes of Count Ferrarius and Sir Stein were directed towards me.

 CH 143

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 143

    31. Duke''s Dream (6)

    There was talk of estrangement between the two dukes in Count Ferraris.

    It was obvious to anyone who had heard that the story was going to proceed in such a way that the person who sent the note with the memo was also that person.

    ''But since they have never sent such a thing... .''

    It was natural.

    According to their plan, I''m a duke

    He had to be seen as an idiot who had lost the face of being an assistant to the government and was drunk and acted like a bastard.

    It must have been that Sir Palsum, who showed the will of reconciliation, was unraveling the apocalypse, and suddenly, excited by himself, rushed to him and violently tried to drive him to the two arches.

    ''In that way, you will be able to lower the prestige of the Pracidus family by figuring out how to behave in an unseen place.''

    Therefore, there should not be any cards with the contents of what Serpens said.

    Nevertheless, it is in the process of being brought in as evidence.

    It would be a welcome surprise

    As the first discoverer, I understand that it may have been tampered with, and my eyes looking at me get sore.

    ''But what? Do you have any evidence?''

    It is true that they secretly tried to feed me the medicine they bought.

    How would I know that and did the ingredient test?

    There is no evidence, of course, and it makes no sense under the circumstances.

    I didn''t want to believe that it was true. I couldn''t believe it. But... if the intruder''s attack that day was not actually an assassination, but a warning to announce this fact. Argento risked it for that. If it had been hiding through the guard of the duke''s house, I heard a question about whether it would be okay to ignore the sincerity.

    Even though the only thing I could see from my side was Serpens''s head.

    With just that desperate and heartbreaking voice, he must have felt . No, the agony that I did not feel is transmitted,

    side was not

    It''s such a powerful voice.

    ''I''m like this, but other people looking at my face will do more.''

    Even Count Ferrarius and his aide had expressions on their faces that were a bit gloomy.

    As the suppressed emotional expression became more natural, his acting must have risen even more.

    Her acting skills are lacking even to say she''s excellent, and her beauty and beauty to back it up.

    It''s a perfect composition that doesn''t miss anything.

    And as a result of the investigation, it was really detected. A kind of drug that deceives the mind by causing illusions... It wasn''t poison that kills, but how shocking it was...

    When Serpence recalls the memories of that time, his emotions intensify and it seems that it is difficult to continue speaking. He blurted his lips and lowered his head to an oblique angle.

    There was silence for a moment, but no one hired him.

    It was silent, but at the same time it was lingering.

    In the afterglow,

    ''Sir Zion has gone through something he shouldn''t have been through because he became my aide. All this is because of my immorality. I almost hurt the people around me.''

    in. There was a sense of guilt that had never been spit out.

    At least the listeners felt that way, and seeing Serpens blaming himself even though it wasn''t his fault, he couldn''t help but feel sad.

    "Ummm I''m sorry. Back to the point, the drug''s name is ''fog of delusion'', and to maximize its effect

    Drugs with arousal effects were also detected.

    Slowly, I was about to ask how Sir Falsum led me to Count Ferrarius from the card with the drug in my cup, but everyone listened quietly, paying attention to Serpence''s words.

    ''Everyone is watching a lively 3D movie, but it feels like they are only listening to the audio, so it''s unfortunate.''

    Serpence showed what it was like to act with absorbing power and continued explaining step by step.

    Hey, this is a carrier!!

    As the false information exchanged between me and Sir Falsum flowed out of Serpens'' mouth, Count Ferrarius shouted.

    It was just that his name was on the list of drug buyers, and since he didn''t distribute it, it wasn''t fatal.

    In fact, anything compared to demon worship.

    Moreover, his assistant is not the only one who bought the drug.

    But the problem was what Sir Palsum had told me that day.

    Do you have any proof?! Evidence that I sent the intruder! Also, is it different from what I said about the intruder before!

    "At that time, he had no choice but to take his own life. If he had disclosed the truth, it would have been more thoroughly hidden and hidden, wouldn''t it?"

    To the words of Count Ferrarius, the Duke of Argento answered leisurely.

    "And thanks to that, didn''t we have circumstantial evidence like this now?"

    Ah, no... This is a carrier!

    Is there any evidence that it''s a conspiracy?

    Count Ferrarius never sent me a card or sent an invader to the Duke of Argento.

    It must have been the first time I heard such a story in the first place. Evidence would have been ready.

    Even if you''ve heard of it before, it''s not the kind of thing you can prepare for.

    And the information about the drug purchase hasn''t arrived yet... Seeing that he doesn''t deny it in the slightest, I think his evidence is solid.

    Cuckoo.

    Looking back, a question arose.

    ''Doesn''t the Duke of Argento know the truth about the invaders? You wouldn''t know?''

    Even if you don''t know that it''s a Serpence, you probably know that it''s a lie to say that Count Ferrarius is a member of the demon worship force.

    Because I didn''t catch it.

    Serpens wanted to ask what he thought, but he stopped.

    Compared to his abilities, he could not even follow his toes in this position, but there were a number of people who possessed hearing that surpassed normal humans.

    You won''t get the right answer.

    ''but. Even me and Serpence have already arranged the words.''

    I explained the message card idea to Roberto Josson and Xeon, who knew the truth, as my own.

    It must have been put together somehow.

    What kind of ''somehow'' this is, I

    I can''t feel the tongue.

    Stop admitting it. Count Ferrarius, you have now stumbled upon your own schemes.

    At Duke Argento''s sneering remarks, Count Ferrarius put on an unjust expression on the face of the world.

    Behind him comes Sir Stein, grinding his teeth, taking turns examining his arms.

    ''Sir Palsum was right, but on our side, Duke Serpens made it up, right?''

    I hope you don''t catch a living person

    I will

    You''re right that I bought the drug recently. But that alone doesn''t make me a demon worshiper! It''s possible that the dead intruder lied... Or the fact that the intruder existed is a lie. Couldn''t it be something?

    Looking at the current situation, it looks like a living person, but in reality, Count Ferrarius, who was in a collusion with the demon cult, rushed out with excuses.

    I''m rather suspicious of the Duke of Argento. Both this scroll terror and the last aides meeting are Argento.

    It happened at Duchess Toe''s house, didn''t it?

    Surprisingly, the theory was quite plausible.

    You mean I''m accusing the Count of demon worship, blowing up my mansion? Say something that makes sense.

    well? The Duke may not have done that, but there may be such a person inside. Isn''t that written on the card? Your assistant, Sir Falsum, is on a drink.

    What did you do to him for doing such a thing?

    There are benefits... .

    Then what good would it be to have the Duke of Argento blow up, and to quarrel between the two Dukes? If the Empire faltered, I would only become a prey for the demon worshipers! Isn''t it!

    Wow, I almost thought for a moment that I was really good at talking.

    If you listen closely, all the words Count Ferrarius said were surprisingly based on facts.

    ''At this point, I just confessed to the truth.

    Can''t we all see it?''

    And Cro-Roman, who became a stalker due to brainwashing.

    It seems that this kind of confession is a trend these days.

    There was a small adaptation that it might have been the death of the Duke of Argento''s terror, but other than that, the historical evidence is plentiful.

    It can''t be profitable. Most of the businesses that the Earl had touched were frozen, and the mines, the main source of income, were also taxed like that.

    I guess I didn''t know.

    Damn, why did you do that to me...!

    It''s clear that Count Ferrarius has teamed up with a demon cult, but you can''t get that money into the demon cult.

    What should I say?

    ''Should I call you a jaw-dropping fighter in power?''

    When he made such noises with the power of the family, Count Ferrarius opened his mouth.

    Anyway, I got it unilaterally

    It''s sad, but the fact violence is added to it, so it seems like he''s lost his mind.

    Ah, you''ve been ignoring the discussion since a while ago...! Don''t forget that today''s seat is to judge that demon worshiper who made a scroll imbued with black magic!

    "I heard you were bullshit from a while ago, but you seem to have misunderstood the place. The purpose of this place is not to catch a single demon worshiper, but to defeat the evil scoundrels of the demon worshipers and do the same thing in the empire again. to keep this from happening

    is at At least so that they cannot operate within the Empire. The real goal is to completely reject it.

    " " said a person who served as an aide to the person who helped the duke.

    Hearing that kind of sound, I wondered if he wouldn''t be stabbed, so I looked at the complexion of Sir Armsom, but he didn''t blink an eye.

    ''By the way, it''s the first time I''ve seen the Duke of Argento actively express his opinion like this.''

    As the head of the advisory council, I always spoke a word or two in a neutral position.

    It''s about losing, so I didn''t know you had such a temperament.

    Even raising an agenda to put pressure on Count Ferraris was to the extent of hinting at a positive opinion.

    It must have been close to the fact that the nobles who wanted to look good to him had agreed on that alone, so there was no need for that.

    ''I heard that he was being swayed by Lord Eightsum, so I thought he was an old man with a lack of energy and indecisiveness... .''

    It has a strong tendency to fly around without being able to fix it.

    ''Yes, the Duke of Argento is the only family that can be compared with the Prasidus family in terms of divine power, isn''t it?''

    Serpens is exceptionally good even in such a Prasidus family... .

    In any case, if the Duke of Argento was also divine, it would be a shame if he was the second, and his body full of divine power could not lose his energy.

    First, let''s start with the nature of the case! There''s no direct evidence that I''m a demon worshiper? Yeah, I bought some drugs!

    Come on! So I did some!

    Count Ferrarius began to sound like a drunkard man on the street. If you just twist your tongue over there, it''s perfect.

    ''Are you sure you''ve been secretly drinking from somewhere?''

    No matter how hard you try to assert your own innocence, there is absolutely no way that innocence will be created.

    The Duke of Argento doesn''t even listen to his words, so it seems he''s just going out.

    Face and whatever to the Heretic Inquisitor

    If you are caught and taken to the temple, it is of no use.

    Let''s keep our face right now, because we can''t lose our body.

    At the same time, I am framed and pressured! In addition, at this time, the demon cults terrorized .

    Since there are no decisive clues, it seems like they are trying to argue.

    And you''ve been flirting with each other since before! Then, shouldn''t that woman have confessed to her sins as soon as she came?

    Did you get support from Duke Prasidus to make it? Isn''t it right to say that?

    Yes?! What are you talking about?!

    Count Ferrarius, a true demon worshiper, is being driven hard, and a witness who has been brainwashed by black magic and delivered his scroll to him may be coming.

    With that thought in mind, Solertia, who was watching the war, was startled and stuttered until the end of the night, astonished by the bomb delivery ceremony.

    Look, when I''m driven to be a demon-worshipper, I''m so relieved that I''m stuttering in embarrassment at how reasonable this is!

    It seems to me that Count Ferrari''s exaggerated attitude is more questionable. And that woman ... .

    It doesn''t seem like it was meant to be, but Count Ferrarius scored an assist.

    thank you so much

 CH 144

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 144

    31. Duke''s Dream (7)

    She''s actually innocent, so it''s no wonder she feels that way.

    The remarks now. Can you take responsibility?

    At Serpens''s words, he asked with a tone that the Duke of Argento was very concerned.

    ''When is the time to be aggressive with the Duke of Prasidus... .''

    Now that I see them pretending to care, it''s just ridiculous.

    If the two dukes collide, it''s probably not the only time you''ve learned that it''s going to hurt each other.

    ''Because the goddamn eight breath said so much... .''

    He attacked the Prasidus family while enduring chaos in the Empire, and now his attitude can change so much.

    ''Didn''t you tell me that I was controlling the Serpence from behind, taking as a hint that I had roasted and boiled the Duke of Argento?!''

    It was very plausible.

    Well, if you only see something in your eyes, it''s just that.

    Lord Rivelon must have deceived the Duke of Argento by saying that he is a demon worshiper and is controlling the Duke of Prasidus.

    Then he realizes that the demon worshipers are trying to slap him in the back, and casts a change of stance.

    ''I was deceived by them. Stop falling for the demonic whispers of the demon worshipers, misunderstanding Lord Ribelon... . I''m stupid, now I realize that all this was their gimmick

    had to close. Because of that, I even blurred the Duke''s eyes, so all of this is my karma.''

    He said the same thing and appealed to the Duke of Argento with tears?

    I haven''t heard it myself, so I''m not sure, but what about it?

    Anyway, the important thing is that the Duke of Argento was worried about Serpens. It is a clear sign of friendship that he will no longer be hostile to the Prasidus.

    "Yes, it is possible. The time for witnesses to come is coming soon, so if I start explaining from now on, the time is right.

    looks like it will fall If it''s okay with you, can you explain right away? Or after the witnesses come... .

    "Hmm . Are the evidence you were trying to submit include clothes stained with drugs and a history of purchasing the same kind of drugs from Count Ferrarius?"

    "Yes, that''s right."

    Before moving on to the next agenda, the emperor asked if he was trying to make sure of what was said before.

    And Count Ferrarius must have purchased the drug.

    That''s right.

    Count Ferraris hesitantly affirmed.

    The answer was addressed to the emperor, but his gaze continued to glance at Serpens.

    Hmm... Okay, then I''ll try.

    The emperor''s permission was granted.

    The Count smiled softly.

    It is a face that asks what kind of rice cake it is to walk into the trap on its own.

    Serpens is stalking Kroman... Rather, he defended Solertia by explaining his suspicious behavior, but also

    The good thing is the news of his obituary, not a witness.

    ''Are you going to question me, saying, ''Isn''t it because I knew that he was already dead and started explaining on purpose before the witnesses arrived?''

    There was no such thing as a witness from the beginning, out of luck.

    After seeing the connection between Solertia and the demon worshipers, it was said that he had sent an innocent person to prison and then took measures so that neither rats nor birds could die there without knowing it.

    And die that poor soul

    With the intention of insulting him until the end, he ends by saying that he eats it until the end.

    I''ll try to unravel that repertoire, and I''ll be thinking of more plausible lines.

    ''That''s because I didn''t prepare in advance on purpose.''

    It is not for nothing that Serpence came without any evidence.

    You don''t know how things are going to go?

    Thousands of words.

    So excitedly running the happy circuit, even if the real witness survives

    when it was good

    How will the Count react?

    Big or small, there will be some degree of difference, but it won''t be completely unacceptable.

    " Duke Prasidus, wouldn''t it be better to explain after the Witnesses also arrive?"

    The Duke of Argento, who sensed the ominousness of Count Ferrari''s smile, expressed his objection.

    Why are you hesitating? It looks like you have a corner somewhere. We don''t know who the witness is.

    Rena, I''m proud! Duke of Argento. Now, let''s just hold on to the situation like this and tell a story with solid evidence that is the only thing that drives Amon people.

    I don''t know what you''re up to, but it won''t turn out the way Count Ferrarius wants it to be.

    I don''t know what you''re talking about, decorating. Wasn''t the witness requested by Duke Prasidus?

    Don''t argue with just words. If you want to argue more, you should present a proof, and if you make up something, it means that you are the Duke of Prasidus, not you.

    Even if the Duke of Argento was a Duke, he could not hang by the tail of the horse in the presence of the emperor because it was ''I feel bad to laugh.''

    In the end, he took a step back.

    The Duke of Prasidus must also have an idea. Talk to us.

    Thank you for your trust. I think it would be better for the person involved in the case to tell the story in person rather than me.

    Everything I''ve been through has been heard and seen by Serpens himself.

    There was no problem with this, but Solertia''s case was different.

    I heard about the simple situation, but for a more detailed explanation, Serpens gave the right to speak to Solertia.

    It was the moment when she finally got the right to speak, after quietly examining her eyes, as if a mouse had died in the bone of a cat.

    It started last month... No, ''That person, appeared for the first time two months and a month ago. On the first day of his visit, he bought a variety of scrolls that were available for sale. Even though he bought so many, he made custom scrolls separately. I was very puzzled by requesting

    in the heart . Oh! As everyone here knows, usually, to check if the scroll works well, you buy one or two, try them out, and then place an order. It was the first time I had purchased so many scrolls from the first day of my visit, so it was very memorable.

    From the day she first visited Croman, the story progressed in chronological order.

    So I just felt it. Oh, this guy is trying to copy my scroll! At first, I was sent from a rival store who had my customers stolen.

    I suspected this might be the case, but soon came to the conclusion that it wasn''t. I don''t know if it''s the Prun�� Kingdom where the tower is located, because in an empire centered on divine power, there is no scroll maker who can compete with me.

    Also, in the middle, she explained the reason why she became serious about Kroman.

    Even though it was half the pride and half the reasoning, there was no big problem as we arrived at our destination in a round and round manner.

    Rather than blindly suspecting that he is a devil worshiper, he is proud of himself to the extent that the face of the listener is burning.

    However, it was easy to accept in that the stream of consciousness was natural.

    Certainly, scrolls with this level of perfection are rare to see in the Empire...

    Herond, the court wizard, nodded his head, so he said everything.

    I bought dozens of those expensive magic scrolls, and I was like, ''You asked about the sentence . It''s definitely suspicious. And custom-made? If so, I''m going to use a little bit of the necessary components for the scroll I made for this case. To that extent... umm, it seems possible

    I''m sorry that I suspected that he was a demon worshiper, so I guess he was just the type of self-talking and thinking-heavy type.

    He murmured constantly, lost in thought.

    ...and the Duke attached a knight, so I was able to capture him safely!

    "But a little there''s one very strange part that makes me wonder if I can even call this a little bit."

    While Solertia''s words continued.

    Count Ferrarius, who had heard something in a whisper from Sir Stein,

    I wondered if it was at this time, so I stopped talking to her and expressed my doubts.

    There was a smile that grew thicker than before on his lips.

    He wasn''t the only one who noticed the ''weird part'' that deserved it.

    The nobles, as well as the members of the church, looked suspicious.

    Has anyone here heard of a criminal who has recently been arrested for suspected demon worship? Or is it a scroll theft case?

    There was silence inside the conference hall.

    Duke Prasidus. What''s going on with this? What crime has he been charged with? And didn''t you just believe everything that woman said? I believe so.

    It''s an obvious mockery.

    He was so anxious to eat the serpenes, he seemed to think he had a chance.

    It is rumored that Serpens is not a good person, but a being of mercy and kindness itself, and that he has broad generosity.

    This is because of me.

    Even if I thought that a few word mistakes would not be forgiven, I would not have been able to do it, even if I was concerned about the gaze of the people around me.

    ''In the first place, Serpence doesn''t make mistakes, so there''s a reason why there''s no such opportunity.''

    The more perfect an existence, the bigger a small flaw can appear.

    Maybe it''s because they claim that Count Ferrarius is being framed, and everyone is like, ''Oh, that''s a bit "I want to, but loudly criticize him for being frivolous.

    couldn''t

    Intentionally invading the other person''s personal space, showing obsession and invading their private life, threatening and threatening when they were rejected. Due to the act that made the other person feel threatened...

    "Are you talking about the threat of trespassing, stalking, and blackmail?"

    Poor Croman has added various charges to create a more perfect and long-term prison life that he doesn''t know how long he will keep.

    Serpense''s lengthy explanation of Ferrari

    Count Uss said briefly.

    It must have been a big deal, but you still think that you are a devil worshiper... No matter how much life you have lived to become the master of the Holy Sword, isn''t it too innocent?

    that''s .

    At the quivering Count''s words, Serpens blurted his lips. Like someone who is speechless.

    His head turned to the side, as if avoiding his gaze.

    In that direction is the door leading to the conference hall where the advisory meeting is held.

    The evidence has arrived from the Duchess of Prasidus.

    I think the evidence has arrived. I don''t know who the hell was drugging the drink... but hey. I forgot for a moment that there was a message card left by someone. My only crime was using drugs prohibited by law. The punishment will be sweet.

    Count Ferrarius said with a smile, with the brightest expression on his face he had seen today.

    ''Wow, really... . No matter how good it is, how can you laugh like that]]. very

    You look suspicious!''

    If you insist that it is the joy that comes from relief, who managed to get rid of the falsely written frame, then it seems like it... .

    Is it because you know the truth?

    It was only the joy of those who succeeded in covering up their crimes without being discovered.

    Even his voice was so excited that Sir Stein, who was standing behind him, was staring at him with terrifying eyes.

    It''s the expression I want to say, please, shut up your mouth.

    ''He said he was a devil worshiper... .''

    It only maintains upper and lower relations only in external affairs. Perhaps, internally, they are equal to each other, or they may be up and down.

    But the eyes of Count Ferrarius did not go to the back of his head.

    And it was too early to say a toast.

    The Witness, Kroman Verom, has also arrived.

    what?

    Then the Count turned around and looked at his aide.

    Sir Stein clenched his chin with a stiff expression.

    trembled slightly. It was a body language that told me to look forward instead of looking this way.

    That meant that it was the setting that was brainwashed by black magic.

    As if Serpens couldn''t find any words to refute, he resumed what he had cut off.

    And Croman, who arrives after harassing a young business woman who is struggling alone in a distant land to realize her dream, becomes a rare puppy who hides in her house .

    I, I...! That bastard! That bastard!

    brainwashed me, ordered me to buy a scroll!

    As if he had gone through all sorts of hardships in prison, he was so thin that he pointed at Sir Stein, with only his eyes shining brightly.

 CH 145

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 145

    31. Duke''s Dream (8)

    At the choice of frivolous words that could only be used in the author''s street, nobles and priests alike coughed and felt uncomfortable.

    However, his words were not buried.

    Again, because of that strong remark, I hoped it would remain strong in people''s minds.

    Me, the author is now lying

    There is!

    That''s right! You shouldn''t believe what such an ignorant person says!

    It was so urgent that Sir Stein, who only spoke through the earl''s mouth, spoke directly.

    Count Ferrarius forced himself to fix his head in front of Sir Stein, who was standing behind him.

    At first glance, his expression looked like he had been framed and distorted with anger.

    ''It''s a face I want to ask how the hell happened.''

    It would have been a spectacle if he really looked into it, but it must have been that he wasn''t that indecisive.

    Rather, the fact that Kroman is still alive means that someone has safely unleashed his brainwashing in the right way.

    ''I heard it was great, but didn''t you know it was this much?''

    Sir Stein looked at Kroman with a confused expression, and said, ''I can''t ?'' He turned to Serpence.

    And Serpens who received that gaze

    Is..

    "It''s okay that''s not enough that''s a lie Yes, I knew that accusing an innocent victim with false charges and sending them to jail it was an act that deserved criticism . However, it was an inevitable choice in order to protect the victim from the demon worshipers.

    He was doing that, knowing clearly that he wasn''t talking to himself.

    Although I was not looking at his face, I could fully imagine what kind of expression he was acting through his lines.

    ''You must have opened your eyes wide and covered your mouth with one hand, with your eyes wide open as if you were shocked by the insulting remark you heard for the first time.''

    Unsurprisingly, I could see his left shoulder slowly rising.

    Then, he slowly half-closed his wide, startled eyes, and cast long eyelashes around his eyes, and must have made an expression full of regret and pity for Croman, who must have suffered.

    You know! I am only grateful to the Duke of Prasidus. If it wasn''t for the Duke, I would...!

    Ah... Thank you for thinking that way. But whatever the reason, I had to lie.

    You mustn''t listen to those demon worshipers! That''s clearly what they''re after! Damn you bastards!!

    It is said that a good actor immerses not only himself but also the other actors.

    ''Croman, why are you adjusting to that again]?!''

    Like someone who tells a lie for the first time.

    At the words of Serpens, who complained of pain in his conscience and muttered mournfully, Kroman became completely engrossed and the road ran wild.

    ''I can''t imagine the expression on Serpence''s face, but I''m still going crazy to see it!''

    I know what kind of expression he is making, but the difference from what he actually sees is negligible.

    Where is his face that can only be realized with imagination?

    ''My child is performing passionately at the curatorial meeting], am I the only one who can''t see it! Does this make sense?!''

    Taking today''s lesson as a lesson, I thought to myself that I shouldn''t even have to carry a desk mirror with me.

    F, this is not what I said to Duke Prasidus...

    A voice of perplexity was heard from somewhere.

    It was Sir Stein who suddenly became a curse for being a liar who could not be eaten by Serpens.

    In the eyes of those who looked at him, Sir Stein was all wrong. That bastard who worships the devil.''

    Mr. Kroman here has been brainwashed by black magic, and in a completely different way than is commonly known. Dark energy has penetrated deep into his brain. It could cause fatal damage to the body, but if it wasn''t cleaned right away, it would have resulted in death.

    Sir Stein tried to correct his words, but Serpence, who knew everything and was doing a live show, could not listen.

    "Fortunately, it was within my ability range, so I was able to cure it, but

    If I hadn''t awakened, even that might not have been possible.

    Divinity was sufficient. The important thing was control, so that must have been a lie.

    Those who have been through that, now that the brainwashing is over. Now, there''s no reason to point out someone else as a lie.

    "That, that, that "

    He muttered, forgetting that Sir Stein had to refute.

    Like him, what Serpens had to say was not to be known so easily.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], it was information that I learned through experience.

    Didn''t you say this to Sir Palsum?''

    If he did, he would have given him a glance at least once, even reflexively, but there is no sign of that.

    If possible, I hope you misunderstand that there may be spies among the demon worshipers... .

    I''ve never heard of brainwashing like that!

    "I also came to know through this incident. So my brainwashed

    When he finds out that he is still alive, he fears that the demon worshiper, who only believed in brainwashing and showed his frivolous face, would harm him... . It was unavoidable that he was sent to prison."

    Well, then you want to say that my assistant is a demon worshiper right now?!

    Instead of Sir Stein, Count Ferrarius took up the objection, but was struck with a fatal blow.

    His face went red when he realized that the frivolous demon worshiper was referring to his aide.

    "I can only think of that under the current circumstances."

    Isn''t that enough, Duke Prasidus? It''s fair to say that he, as well as his assistant, is a demon worshiper.

    Yes. I think what the Duke of Argento said was correct.

    Serpence answered in a bitter voice. The saddest and most complicated feelings have been conveyed.

    Well, then I... Who is the author! Isn''t the family dead?

    Isn''t it the same?!

    The anxious Count rolled his eyes and pointed to the person who had caught his eye. He was the one who perpetrated the scroll terror on the Duke of Argento.

    Actually, I have been questioning it from the beginning. If, as Count Ferrarius said, it was just a simple terrorist incident, not an alienation, I don''t know why I had to work while threatening ordinary people.

    "There is a convenient trick called brainwashing, which idiot shows his face to a sane person and sends him away.

    go. Duke Prasidus seems to want to say something like that.

    you''re right.

    The radical words Serpens could not bear because of his external image, the Duke of Argento spoke instead.

    ''I mean, this guy has a really hard life... .''

    It''s not a conspiracy you made up, it''s someone else''s plot, but it''s so hard to talk about it.

    "The purpose of this case is not terrorism itself, but rather to create confusion and antagonism.

    I think it is in Everyone knows that no one will believe anything you say while you''ve been brainwashed. So, in order to create a situation where they were forced to commit a crime .

    Serpence wanted to play the emotion that was too tragic just by imagining it.

    As if forcibly suppressing the emotions that were rising inside, ''Ummm .'' and swallowed the hoarse voice with difficulty.

    . The dead are the original people who lived in the house. And really the author.

    is the family of I think we should investigate.

    The fact that the family was taken hostage was not of their own will, but of others. So, to say that Solertia ordered Duke of Argento to be baptized with scroll magic.

    ''What killed them''.''

    They''re really family, but that''s the only thing they worship the devil, so they didn''t get cooperation to give false testimony.

    The real family stole it and took a stranger and killed it.

    If it''s not me, I''ll just live with one family

    Years later, I acted like a family member... .

    ''Wow, either way is the real bad guy, right?''

    It is a very cruel story to be accepted by the external version of Pure Fence, so it is understandable that the acting fence is doing that.

    He raised his bowed head.

    ''With the rising tantrums and rage in your eyes. But are you trying to make up a terrifyingly sad face that makes you cry at any moment?''

    Serpens''s head moved.

    The mansion bomber that started this case

    Starting with Sir Stein. Then he glanced at Count Ferrarius.

    Hey, this is a carrier!

    A fool who knows nothing but conspiracy. Count Ferrarius, the carrier, shouted.

    Hey, isn''t it just a matter of buying one drug and putting it together?! Hearing that purchase,

    Stop it. Now..., isn''t it now? Mr. Croman has been completely cut off from the outside world and has only been in prison.

    I found out after that. It was then that my aide met with the aide of the Duke of Argento to learn that it was Count Ferrarius who sent the intruder. And I believe you will know without needing to say that I was called straight from prison to the Imperial Palace.

    ...that, that!

    Also, I heard from Sir Sion that the Duke of Argento had pointed out Count Ferrarius before mentioning those who bought the medicine. Among the buyers, Count Ferrarius was there.

    I''ve been asked if I don''t.

    This means that nothing is forced into place.

    ''Of course, the testimony from the Duke of Argento is a fake lie... .''

    did we It was the Argento family.

    Me and Serpence don''t know anything about it. externally.

    Ha, this is true. That''s right, all.

    What, what?! Sir Stein! What the hell is that!

    Even if I hold on to it any longer, there is no meaning

    was it sloppy?

    Unlike the Count who persisted until the end even if he showed an ugly appearance and tried to get rid of it, Sir Stein was obediently admitting it.

    At his words, Count Ferrarius''s complexion darkened.

    "Don''t be too afraid, Count Ferrarius. You have done your part, Sir Falsum . Unlike that crafty traitor, have you not been with me to the end?"

    Somehow, I said that I was acknowledging the result. In the end, I think he''s going to drag him into Operation Water Ghost, even to Sir Palsum.

    all.

    S, Sir Stein? Saying that sounds like we worshiped the devil!

    And this still negates the result.

    The Count jumped out of his seat in bewilderment, and shrugged the shoulders of his aide and demon worshiper, Sir Stein.

    "Death is only temporary. When the demons overthrow this continent and the Demon King comes to this land, the Count will offer them as sacrifices and efforts.

    You will never turn away from all your wealth. We will have a body again by his power, and we will have eternal life!

    "Ah, no I just want to live well now.

    The world today is only suffering! After a brief rest, when you wake up, you must be in a real utopia! It cannot but be said to be the grace of the Count who recognized the effort of the Count!

    Who said you wanted something like that?! You said you didn''t get caught! It was brainwashing or something, they said that it would never be resolved... When the ''day'' came...

    Even if the country collapses, not only will you survive, but you will also gain more power and wealth than you have now... !

    The Count is still lacking in learning, so he must be afraid and bewildered right now. But I understand. He will forgive you too!

    No, what is this, I''m scared.

    Suddenly mood fanaticism, what is it?

    The sight of Sir Stein, who suddenly smiles brightly and makes strange noises, gives me goosebumps.

    Reflexively, with both hands, place the upper part of the back of the chair where Serpens is sitting.

    He grabbed hold of it, and then stood close behind him.

    ''It''s different from believing in the Tao... .''

    If they''re scammers, they''re really crazy. It looks like the hairs all over her body are crouching.

    Then something clicked, and something touched my finger.

    It was the back of the head of Serpens.

    ''boy !,

    It''s weird.

    He changed his posture and pretended to be sitting, his back

    It seems that he sat deep in the chair so that his back touched the back of his head.

    ''Because it''s okay, it means to be at peace... .''

    Instead of leaning forward as if to get up right away, he leaned backwards.

    It just means to watch.

    ''I had to catch my breath anyway, so let''s watch it, right?''

 CH 146

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 146

    31. Duke''s Dream (9)

    But Nerus Falsum! That traitor will never be forgiven!

    You''re flirting until the last minute. It''s so ugly.

    At the cry of Sir Stein, who took off his aide''s disguise and revealed his bare face as a fanatic, the Duke of Argento clicked his tongue as if he was pathetic.

    How much did we do so that you, who was nothing, could find a place in the duke''s house?

    Did you forget that I helped you? You seem to have won the trust of the Duke of Argento on your own!

    Whether the Duke of Argento heard it or not, the fanatical steadfastly shouted out my opinion.

    He didn''t seem to trust them because it was the last word that the demon worshiper caught and uttered while trying to flirt, but he could see that people''s eyes were drawn to Sir Arm Breath because of the content.

    Hahaha! I guess you''re not really good at this kind of thing. You used the power of demon worship to eat and play? What could be more enjoyable than that!

    If that''s the case, I think it should be rewarded.

    Instead of being shaken by the fanatic''s words, the Duke of Argento burst out laughing.

    It was a provocation to bring up a more flashy story if you were going to flirt.

    The sound of laughter was loud, but what was contained in it was clear oolong and arsenic.

    Even the fanatic I saw a while ago felt like a clown''s exaggerated performance until Stein''s maddening words.

    A demon worshiper who threatens the continent

    In an instant, it became the object of ridiculous ridicule.

    The whole story of this case will be revealed, and there is no need to fight the fear of the unknown any more.

    Loud laughter erupted from all over the place.

    ''Now, don''t you think the demon worshipers are going to bow down not because they''re bad guys, but because they''re ugly?''

    Apparently, the Count also has a lust for power, but when the power of the demon worshipers grows and the Empire is threatened. I tried to survive by changing camps like a bat

    I guess... .

    It was unlikely that such a noble would ever appear again.

    What can I trust with my life from these poor-looking bastards?

    Duke of Argento, you are being deceived! Your aide...!

    I know you want to grab someone on the way and bring them down, but I hope you don''t insult innocent people any more.

    What the fanatic disguised as an aide was true.

    They''re really holding their breath away from behind.

    I don''t know if he came or not, but he probably got something from them, so he must have cooperated with them.

    It is certain that there was a connection point.

    ''And yet, for nearly 20 years, have I not seen a single suspicious figure?''

    There may be one or two things that are suspicious.

    Seeing the Duke of Argento not even blinking an eye, it seems that he usually trusts Lord Falsum.

    There was no doubt, not even the slightest agitation.

    Unknowingly, I was like, ''Wow... .'' to the extent that exclamations came out.

    '' Huh?''

    With the fingers holding the chair, Serpens'' round back of the head rolled.

    As its center of gravity stops at the index finger of my left hand. It is felt again, going to the middle finger, this time through the index finger of the right hand, and then returning to the initial position.

    '' Did he do anything right now?''

    It was a small movement, but it was clear that the intentional jig was meant to convey something to me through the movement.

    Shaking one''s head is used to reject or deny something.

    I haven''t asked Serpense anything... .

    ''denial? What?''

    The Duke of Argento believes in Lord Falsum, doesn''t he?

    So what is that, acting?

    The devil worshipers

    How long do I have to listen to... . His Majesty, the author shows no sign of remorse even now that all his sins have been revealed. It is right to bring the author out right now.

    That reaction that makes you feel crippled to hear that nonsense anymore?

    Certainly . I was hoping that I wouldn''t leak any information to the atmosphere by talking hard, but I''m afraid I won''t listen to you anymore.

    The emperor affirmed with his characteristic relaxed but slow tone, and raised his hand in the air.

    Behind him, he moves like a rock

    When the commander of the Imperial Guard Corps, who had been standing still, sent a hand signal, some of the guards who had surrounded the entire meeting hall at regular intervals moved.

    The terrorist, who cried as if saddened by the memory of his dead family, was caught quietly with a cold expression as if he had cried as soon as the truth was revealed.

    Count Ferrarius had lost his mind and did not even have the strength to resist.

    It was us who bought the drug, but it was Sir Eightsom who rode it! And we never sent such a message card...! Eup, Eup!!

    With the end of the fanatic Stein, who had been shouting like a madman until the end, the demon worship trio was all subdued.

    ''Somehow, I accepted the fact that he was a demon worshiper neatly, but he behaved poorly until the end, so I asked why... .''

    The large-scale project he participated in was ruined by a dagger and a mysterious card thrown by an unknown person.

    It''s not like it''s usually embarrassing.

    Because of that, I was in a hurry to use the manipulated scroll that was being prepared with great care, without being able to completely copy it.

    The reality of the brainwashing magic that the warlocks of the demon cult had worked so hard for over a long period of time was revealed.

    ''When the indoctrination of the warlocks is unleashed, they either die or become almost dead. You''d be talking about only one of the two... .''

    The warlock, who directly used black magic and summoned demons, was an idol to fanatics who had no power like Stein.

    So believe their words

    And, showing his bare face to Croman.

    It was just embarrassing to look at it this way and that way. There were too many unexpected external variables.

    The back view of the fanatic Stein, who clearly admits what he has to admit, but clearly points out what was unfair, was really ugly.

    Am I not the only one who thought so,

    After all, did they just want to deny their crimes...

    After all, it''s hard to listen to the demon worshipers.

    What else did I say... it was all nonsense.

    no one believed

    According to the words, Sir Palsum himself took drugs, used cards, and even rescued people and flew a dagger.

    ''I can''t believe it, that''s it. Who the hell would believe?''

    I wouldn''t believe the 4th of the Rivelon family, who was born a little over a month ago.

    If that''s how you got the demon worshipers out, then you can''t even call him a demon worshiper.

    It had to be seen that he risked for the continent to hide among them and act as a spy. Some kind of definition implementation.

    Hmmmm... by the way.

    The truth of the incident was revealed and the demon worshipers were also arrested.

    I thought it was all over, but suddenly the emperor opened his mouth and broke his luck. The chairman became quiet again, and everyone''s eyes turned to him.

    Based on all that has been said today, it seems that the two dukes have been aware of the coalition between Count Ferrarius and the demon cult for at least a month.

    In a nutshell, it means ''Dude, why are you ignoring me and only you guys know each other?''

    Why did you proceed with such an important matter without saying a word to yourself, this is it.

    I asked the question as if it were an official question, but a sign of disappointment could not be hidden and was revealed.

    ''Oh, this is wrong!''

    It was sad for anyone to see.

    The three of us decided to eat together, but the two of us set a date and time and said to the other one, ''He''ll tell you.''

    a situation where they implicitly handed it over to each other as a thought.

    The two arrived at the meeting place on the same day in that state and said, ''Why didn''t you come? Are you late?'' It''s like sending a Kakao Talk.

    Because there is no solid evidence...

    Until we find clearer evidence... ''

    The Duke of Argento and Serpens tried to make excuses for the tour ahead of time, but they stopped when they realized that their voices overlapped.

    After a brief exchange of glances, the right to excuse

    What was obtained was the Duke of Argento.

    Kerham! Since this is a case, I was afraid that if I reported it without any solid evidence, it would be considered a conspiracy... First of all, I decided that it would be better to touch Count Ferrarius to induce a reaction. I was going to make a report.

    By the way, the reaction was supposed to be a big event like the bombing of a mansion, so I missed the time to talk.

    "I was told that I found a witness, but only after purifying the black magic I was able to hear what was behind it.

    The energy of black magic had already disappeared. If all the magic scrolls purchased were handed over to the demon cult''s black magician, even if they investigate the mansion, instead of finding evidence, they cut off their tails and run away... .

    Serpence, who had already searched the mansion and confirmed that the scroll was not in their hands, pretended he hadn''t checked it yet.

    ''By the way, you missed the Warlock again... ?''

    It is the second time after saving Winston from the Kingdom of Bastul.

    Maybe he made contact with the warlock at a time when Serpens couldn''t watch.

    Or was it that Count Ferrarius, one of the sources of funding, was in a corner and offered to help out there first? .

    ''I wonder if the empire was completely awakened by taking advantage of the commotion... , isn''t it?''

    It would not be easy for them to give up the empire.

    If that''s the case, I could understand it well enough. It''s no one else, can you not believe the words of the two dukes?

    I''m sorry...! I''m sorry. I''ll be more careful in the future.

    Ummm... I''m sorry, I''ll correct it from now on.

    I''m sorry, but what can I do? It''s not like I''m hiding anything bad.

    The emperor looked at the two dukes apologizing for each other, and told them to report it immediately, as it is okay to have small doubts in the future.

    Somehow, it reminded me of a teacher scolding a student who had been in trouble.

    Even so, Serpens did not fit in with the Duke of Argento, who was older than the emperor.

    * * *

    By the way, what''s going on with them now?

    After the emperor''s declaration of adjournment fell. As I walked out of the meeting room, I asked Serpens a question.

    Unlike the previous Semita Street incident, there was no quarrel over who was in charge of torture, so I wondered if he was treated differently as an aristocrat.

    "Probably led by the Holy Father

    You will be taken to the Inquisition.

    Are you going to trial again? Didn''t it just come to light?

    In response to my question, the external version of Serpence said, ''Whoah-.''

    Facing his acting as if he was dealing with a curious child, I feel a bit regretful.

    ''Did I just ask right away?''

    Ask a question after you get on the wagon.

    As soon as I remembered it, I immediately put it in my mouth, and this side effect would occur.

    Conversations with internal fences are more familiar than conversations with external fences held in public places, so there is no sense of humility.

    ''Somehow, I feel like I should do something, but there is no script given... .''

    Does it feel like you''ve been instructed to do everything with an ad-lib?

    It''s just a formal procedure. You can think of it as a procedure for officially revealing this case and conducting a public execution.

    In the Holy Lumen Empire, instead of holding a separate trial for any case,

    dealt with at the door.

    There is a reason that even if a separate trial is held anyway, the person who comes is there, but depending on the severity of the case, it is a security aspect to prevent it from spreading outside... Should I say this?

    In fact, there are many reasons for the closure.

    Therefore, minor matters were left to the courts separately, and important matters were handled by the advisory council under the guidance of the emperor.

    ''But it seems that the inquisition held in the denomination is separate.''

    It''s a formal procedure, are you going to just stand up and say the sins one after another?

    Just thinking about it, I think it would be an incredibly boring place.

    By the way, I think I just heard some suspenseful words... .

    A public execution?!

    It''s not necessary. You don''t have to worry.

    When I asked her questioningly, Serpens answered in a friendly voice as if to be relieved.

    It''s hard for me to watch people die right in front of my eyes...it''s a little hard...

    Yeah? Who said what?

    ''Oh, I just asked. I''ll ask you after you get on the carriage, why are you asking right away!''

    I thought it wouldn''t matter because it was a public question, but it wasn''t at all.

    What is the appearance of Serpens shivering while adding words that he does not dare say.

    It was truly amazing and stuffy.

 CH 147

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 147

    31. Duke''s Dream (10)

    I know for sure that it''s each other''s acting. Isn''t it shameful to exaggerate like that?

    How could he be so carefree, even his footsteps stopped because it was ridiculous

    Why all of a sudden..., ah.

    Serpens, who stopped following me in the middle of the imperial palace corridor, did not speak, but responded as if he had discovered something.

    His gaze was not on me, but on the other side.

    ''What''s behind it?''

    Looking back, the Duke of Argento and Sir Falsum came into view.

    Everyone had to go through the same hallway to get to the place where the wagon was parked.

    However, to simply pass it on as if the roads were overlapping, the Duke of Argento''s gaze was focused on Serpens.

    Duke of Prasidus. If time permits, I won''t talk for a while.

    peel?

    Unsurprisingly, he spoke to Serpens.

    There''s no way a person equal to a duke would ask you to go out to eat just because they made eye contact. There is no doubt that there is a purpose.

    If I hadn''t stopped, I''d have called Serpence.

    Yeah, that''s fine.

    In my heart, I wanted to invite you to the mansion and treat me to a meal, but as you know, the mansion doesn''t make sense...

    What is it, we''re talking about eating real food... It''s not just about it, but it''s saying that you want to get some food?

    When I looked up at the sky, the sun was already setting in the middle of the sky when I left the peacock''s house.

    I understand. Then to the Prasidus family mansion...

    Heh heh, isn''t it polite to go there without contacting me in advance? When I asked Sir Palsum, he said that the restaurant I visited with Lord Ribellon the last time was quite good.

    How about sharing a story?"

    It wasn''t that it wasn''t, it was right that there was a purpose.

    It''s not that I''m telepathically making a reservation for someone''s restaurant, I just came out from a meeting, when did I make a reservation?

    All I could see was that it had been done before the advisory meeting started.

    The Duke of Argento''s dinner invitation had a clear purpose.

    ''Anyway, regarding the attitude the Duke of Argento showed at the council meeting earlier,

    I was going to ask Serpense properly... .''

    This is how you will be able to sign up right away.

    It wasn''t pleasant at all.

    Yes, that''s good. I heard about it from Sir Zion, so I was going to visit someday, but it went well.

    Since you made a reservation at Prasidus Street, I thought you would have visited, I think you have yet.

    "I didn''t have much time, so I put it off for the next day, so it happened."

    Too lazy is a problem, but it''s not good to focus too much on work at a young age like Duke Prasidus. Isn''t youth a waste?

    It''s not about giving you a bottle or a medicine.

    Considering how much Serpence ran while the agents of the Duke of Prasidus were tied up, I''m sorry.

    But there was nothing wrong with the word itself.

    Demon worshipers are already on the rise. A little more time passes

    teda

    Before that, Serpens needed to relax and get enough rest.

    Still, you just came across such a great opportunity. It''s not a waste or easy at all if you think that you''ve saved it for today.

    It''s because I''m sad and sorry.

    How can a person live life looking forward every day?

    ''Sometimes when I look back and do that, how big is the difference between having memories and not having them?

    I miss you more because I have something to remember

    There were times, but without even that, how empty and lonely it would have been.

    Because I have happy and enjoyable memories in the past, I can live with the belief that it will be possible in the future.

    It''s an honor to think so. You already know where the store is, so let''s meet in front of it.

    Okay, I''ll see you later then.

    I wonder if we could go there together in a wagon, but that doesn''t seem to be the case. Each family has a wagon 1,

    There was no need to wear it inconveniently.

    It is not wide enough to feel cramped or uncomfortable with only four people on it, but it is mentally uncomfortable.

    ''I have something to talk about with Serpens... .''

    As soon as I got on the carriage, I lifted the cover of the chair, took out the soundproofing scroll hidden under it, and tore it up.

    The Duke of Argento might have noticed that the magic was activated, but it was better than revealing the contents of the conversation.

    What did you shake your head for? I wonder if the Duke of Argento is an eight-breed wonder demon?

    Did you even close your eyes knowing that you were colluding with a worshiper?"

    Perhaps.

    He said he couldn''t make a decision, but there was certainty in his expression.

    "Really ? Does Serpense have a lie detection function? Do you know if it''s acting or not?"

    If it is a contrived expression of emotion that does not contain the true intention at all. To some extent, it is not possible to distinguish all lies from the truth. If such a thing were possible.

    Serpens spoke well, then suddenly shut his mouth.

    He looked at my face like that for a while, then opened his mouth again and continued talking.

    "Sunwoo, I would never have been deceived by you."

    After all, there was a past like that.

    Isn''t it because Serpens wanted to be deceived half way? Now it''s all beautiful memories.

    In the case of the Duke of Argento, it''s not about acting, it''s about whether it''s true or not.

    It doesn''t really matter, so I can''t say that he showed such an attitude... .

    Serpence pretended not to hear me so naturally, I thought I was just thinking.

    If it hadn''t been for his expression trying to hide his embarrassment, he would have said it again.

    "Come on, I''ll move on. Should I look, so what?"

    " don''t you know?"

    I let it go, but he doesn''t seem willing to say anything.

    all.

    With a look that said, ''Why don''t you know that?'', he blinked as if asking if he really didn''t know.

    Oh, what is it?

    It''s similar, isn''t it?

    Frustrated, I hired Serpence once again, and he tilted his head with a strange expression.

    Nonsense sounds are a bonus.

    Similar to what?

    "Sunwoo''s . If you look more closely, in ''Semita Street,''

    Your behavior towards your worshipers and... ?

    Where the hell are you going?"

    I reflected on the appearance of the Duke of Argento that I saw today.

    He has a strong mouth fighter temperament, and he can easily scratch the insides of his opponents with his relaxed words.

    What about when you sarcastically say you don''t have a knack for epilepsy?

    If I had been a demon worshiper, I would have been very upset.

    I have no idea!

    " Sunwoo has a conscience.

    Don''t you?

    "Who is asking whom is conscience regards now?"

    I will tell you.

    Ever since I heard from Eugene about the name Serpence called, I have been paying attention to it, and I have come to realize .

    Serpense uses the title of ''you'' in nine out of ten times when words go through the brain less. Do you know yourself?

    There are cases in which there is no time to think deeply because of great emotional agitation, or to spit out anything as it is now.

    It is true.

    If I had to find an exception, it was about when I felt deeply annoyed by the influx of proposals and baptisms?

    ''is not it? Can it be seen as an emotional agitation in its own way?''

    Then there were no exceptions.

    "I don''t know about that, but I am well aware that Seon-woo lives in a different way during a conversation."

    Anyway, I don''t say a word.

    Still, his point was valid. It doesn''t matter if you go back to the mansion and share these jokes.

    all.

    So what do you think I was like the Duke of Argento?

    For now, the priority is to understand the inner workings of the Duke of Argento.

    Since the conversation came from the other side all of a sudden, you need to know that much in advance so you won''t be swayed by it.

    He was overly calm. Just like when Seon-woo heard a story about his former aide from a demon worshiper. There was no sign of embarrassment or doubt at his words, so why? What, what?'' like you say

    was seen.

    Did you just copy my tone and say that? Doesn''t that sound too gritty?

    I wanted to argue, but it was only a minute ago that I was pointed out that I kept talking nonsense.

    Just keep your mouth shut.

    Moreover, didn''t you try to justify his words because he was a stranger, but at the same time, you couldn''t cover them up?

    No, well. It''s true that my predecessor was the bad guy.

    "Why are you making excuses all of a sudden?"

    It''s proof that my conscience is alive.

    Serpens rolled his eyes. Let''s pretend we didn''t see

    After hearing about it, it seems a bit similar.

    "Isn''t that a little bit?"

    Yes. So what do you think of Serpence?

    Perhaps the Duke of Argento''s arms were bent inward, closing his eyes.

    If not, maybe he was also one of the demon worshipers... .

    is a horn. It seems like it was just covered?

    If you''re going to give an answer by yourself like that, why did you wake up asking me a question?

    He complained as if he was dissatisfied, but since he did not respond, it seems that Serpens came to the same conclusion as me.

    In fact, considering the attitude of the Duke of Argento today, there was no room for concern.

    I''m in trouble.

    Serpens said with a displeased expression, as if chewing on me.

    But it''s better than the Duke of Argento being a total demon worshiper.

    "But there is a big difference between taking a side without knowing and covering up knowingly."

    Yeah, I know, but is the Duke going to change his attitude now?

    The best solution in the present situation is that the Duke of Argento is the victim of being deceived and used by Sir Falsum as the perpetrator who deceived him.

    The two were separated from the one fence called the Dukes of Argento, and separated from each other.

    ''The honor of the Duke of Argento will be tarnished, but that''s about it... .''

    In this case, it is the issue of the current Duke of Argento to the last.

    Since he has children and grandchildren, if he blindfolds him to the extent that he resigns as head of state, he will be able to calm himself down to some extent.

    But in this world, treason and devil worship are held by sorority.

    If the current Duke of Argento is driven as a devil worshiper, the Duke of Argento will also be sold as a wholesaler.

    If the duke collapses, the trouble is evil

    It is an empire, not a demon worship force. Officially, since he was so blunt in front of a lot of people, even the emperor would have to cover it up."

    Does that mean that the Duke of Argento is holding the Duke of Argento hostage?

    "By the way, in [Master of the Holy Sword], wasn''t it a half-confirmed fact that the emperor tried to suppress Serpens?"

    What''s the equivalent of internally suppressing and isolating and having a whole family blown away by demon worshipers?

    " it''s different."

    If it were the former, it might be possible to steal that power and force and absorb it slowly.

    In the latter case, the great power the duke had had lost its owner and was released in an instant.

    ''Not to mention that the status of the Holy Empire is declining.''

    To pick up the fallen beans and eat them, you and I will flock to each other and fight each other fiercely.

    Even that may not be fully recovered and most of it may be lost, or the demon worshipers may take advantage of the chaos to swallow it up.

    go.

    "What do you think?"

    You know that.

    Am I?

    "Didn''t you do the same thing?"

    Just because the behavior is similar, the result and purpose cannot all be the same.

    Isn''t it different from that time and now in size? A whole duke''s family is hanging!

    Isn''t the continent hanging on my side? If it''s the scale, Sunwoo, you are much bigger.

    "I heard that it''s not like that!"

    I was almost taken aback by his words.

    "Even if it''s not, you will know that the Empire cannot abandon the Duke.

    Actually, I''m just saying this, because I don''t know how long I''ll have to live in this world on Semita Street. If possible, I just want to live in a peaceful world, so I just shut up and covered it up!

    ...I''m not just talking about that time.

    When I denied myself, Seonwoo took the side of me that even I had turned away from.

    Ah, that.

    don''t tell me like that

    I thought it was limited to the stories I had with the demon worshipers on the streets of Semita... . People are insecure.

    If that''s the case, I''ll just go to Serpens...

    it was very sad

    In fact, he still does, even if the day comes when he can express his emotions and live his life like everyone else.

    His past will not disappear, so it will remain as a sore finger.

    '' I didn''t mix a drop of blood, but at this point, shouldn''t it be said that I raised 50% of the Serpence?''

    The remaining 50% is still a lesser share. You have to grow up well.

    But Serpens doesn''t know why I did that now, don''t you already put the answer down in your head and don''t try to pass it on to me?

    Sir Palsum''s father was a man who was addicted to gambling and tried to sell his son.

    all.

    Would he have given the children anything similar to affection in any other way?

    ''If he had been mentally driven enough to accept the help of a demon worshiper, it wouldn''t have bothered him.''

    If the Duke of Argento treats him like a child, he''s said it all.

    It''s a sore finger for him.

    If Nara too, Serpence is in trouble due to past karma.

    And if I had the power to help him, I wouldn''t hesitate to help him.

    will be.

    ''I''m just now getting to know the joys of living in the world... .''

    even though it''s even more sad. to the best of my ability.

    " if that''s the case, I don''t understand anymore.''''

    Yes?

    Remembering what has happened so far, it''s safe to say that the Duke of Argento was being used by him without knowing anything until recently.

    Considering the fact that the Dukes of Argento checked the Dukes of Prasidus,

    as he said

    By the way?

    And he''s still using the Duke of Argento for his own safety, isn''t he?

    Oh . I only thought about why the Duke of Argento did that, I didn''t think of that.

 CH 148

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 148

    31. Duke''s Dream of Dongsang (11)

    Before he could say anything about it, the carriage stopped.

    Come on, come on. Serpense. Don''t be angry, calm down.

    ''Woah''?''

    Serpens'' hand, which was heading toward the handle to open the carriage''s door, stopped.

    You don''t even know your face? It''s not that I don''t understand, it''s that I can''t forgive you.

    is the expression?"

    I don''t care if you''re going to just go out with the serpent after you''ve beaten the external fence, but if not, why don''t you straighten your eyebrows?

    At my words, Serpens touched the forehead with a look that he didn''t really understand this time.

    ''Are you able to empathize within the range you can perceive?''

    In the past, when we talked about Anima''s ''sister'', there was a misunderstanding, but this time it''s someone else''s story.

    has been aware that

    Knowing this, he substitutes himself for Sir Palsum and gets angry with the thought, ''I wouldn''t have done that.''

    Weird, and proud. Above all, it was exhausting.

    It''s not quite clear yet. Let''s hear what you''ve been called to. Then, let''s talk about Sir Eightsom or ask openly. It''s okay to get angry then.

    " I guess so."

    The hand that Serpens used to caress his forehead

    I got off, and I opened the carriage door.

    "You must have had a lot of conversations to share with each other."

    As we got off the carriage, I saw the Duke of Argento and Sir Falsum getting off first and waiting for us.

    I''m sorry. I''m sorting out the things that came out at the advisory meeting today and discussing the future...

    Serpence suddenly became an external fence, and he apologized with a humble expression.

    I didn''t mean to be offended. Where is the day today and what is the usual day?

    was it? It''s just that. More than that, I''m worried that I may have summoned a busy person for nothing.

    The Duke of Argento smiled kindly, saying there was no need to apologize.

    It wasn''t for a day or two for Serpence to do that, but the aggressiveness that the Duke of Argento had also seen at the advisory council had disappeared.

    After all, who in the world lives with only one face?''

    In the case of Serpens, the difference is huge, but everyone has a different face.

    there is a law

    No. Duke Argento must be more concerned about the mansion than me...

    Hahaha, there''s nothing wrong with thinking about remodeling on this occasion.

    When it comes to remodeling, isn''t it basically following the frame of the building?

    I don''t know if the distribution is big or just saying.

    It''s not like this here, let''s hear it first.

    As the Duke of Argento said, Gil Hanbok

    You can''t keep talking on the board.

    We entered the building. The private room we arrived at following the guidance of the staff was a little more spacious than the place where we had dinner last time.

    From the beginning, he must have intended to call not only Serpense, but also me.

    ''For what reason?''

    The aide didn''t even tell me to come with me, but he didn''t tell me to let him go.

    Even if you don''t say it out loud

    Just sending the Lord back was enough to convey that intention.

    But the Duke of Argento did not.

    After seeing the size of the reserved room, if I had said I would go back first, wouldn''t it have been prevented by saying that there was no need for that?

    ''That''s either me or Sir. Or maybe I''m just going to talk about both... .''

    I think Serpens saw it right.

    The Duke of Argento knew that Lord Falsum had colluded with a demon worshiper, and it was clear he wanted to talk about it.

    Maybe he noticed that we were suspicious of Sir Falsum.

    That''s why I''m trying to ask you to pretend you don''t know .

    '' Why am I thinking about this?''

    After all, it''s something you''ll hear right away, and the choice is up to Serpence. If you think about it, only your head is complicated.

    After coming to this world, I have so many things to do with my hair that it seems to have become almost like a habit.

    Today''s meal is the same as last time

    We ordered from the recommended menu. The difference from back then is that today''s meal is a full course.

    ''Hey, it''s my first time to cook a full course properly... Huh?''

    It is a fantasy world with a Western background.

    The owner of the body, Shion, was a decent noble, and moreover, he was an aide to the Duke Serpens.

    Still, you''ve never eaten a full course meal in over a year?

    ''The world is in vain, it''s in vain!''

    Even if you are on a diet, there is cheater

    But, wouldn''t it be okay to have a full course meal at least once a month?

    In the first place, don''t other nobles usually eat like that often?

    "By the way, may I ask why you suddenly asked to see me?"

    The main dish hasn''t even come out yet. It seems that Duke Prasidus is surprisingly quick-witted.

    To Serpence''s question, the Duke of Argento postponed the answer and spoke slowly.

    He calls and wonders what he is doing, and this is what sets the mood

    I wonder if it''s a matter of politics to get things done.

    The business must be over there, so Serpens asked first, even though there was no need to ask first, because of the conversation he had with me in the carriage.

    ''Did I just talk about it and make you nervous... .''

    Still, since I could roughly guess what the Duke of Argento was thinking, it wasn''t much of a loss.

    Thanks to this, I was able to glimpse the growth of Serpens.

    "I heard that the main building was damaged.

    I heard Are there any problems with your stay?"

    Anyway, that''s why I''ve been instructed to move the documents required for work to a villa outside the capital city. I''m going to go there right after dinner is over.

    Because the Duke of Argento avoided bringing the subject up right away, small, personal and miraculous conversations took place.

    Then this is the topic that came up. Since the main building of the mansion was partially blown away, the question of his residence was naturally addressed.

    "Then are you going to stay at the villa for a while?"

    Yeah. I''ve never used it, but who would have thought that it would be so useful if I left it unsold as a hobby of my ancestors. That''s why I think it''s useful if you have anything.

    Speaking of the predecessor of the current Duke of Argento, how many years ago?

    The management fee would be quite expensive, but it seems like the money is rotting like a duke of the empire.

    ''Since it''s a vacation home, it reminds me of when I used to rent a pension with my family to play .''

    Is it because the world is messed up?

    Rather than the memories of having fun with friends at the pension, the memories of having fun with family members come to mind first.

    "By the way, did I say Lord Ribelon?"

    Yes Yes?!

    As I recalled my memories, I cut a small piece of Meuni��re and put it in my mouth and murmured, when suddenly the Duke of Argento called me. He quickly handed over the food and answered.

    I heard it''s been a year since I became an assistant.

    Maybe this is a part of the chatter, or is it a base meal to lay out before taking out the main topic?

    Slowly raising his head, he pressed the alert inwardly.

    You], it''s already happened. Time seems to go by so quickly.

    I couldn''t understand the intentions of the Duke of Argento, so I was looking for an answer cautiously, and I came up with a saying that made me wonder how such a clich��d sentence could exist.

    "It goes without saying that the Duke of Prasidus is a good boss, have you adjusted to the job well?"

    Yes. Thanks to the great consideration from our duke, I think I got used to it sooner than I thought."

    I''m lucky. Maybe it''s because of the times these days, so I''m having a lot of trouble as an assistant to the Duke of Prasidus.

    "Ahaha .

    I felt like I was listening to an adult who I met in a big house on the day of the holiday, a distant relative who I didn''t know how many villages they were in.

    In a word, it''s awkward and I''m going crazy.

    The Duke of Prasidus lost his former aide like that, and it was very difficult.

    Who loses what, and what?

    Confused, his head naturally turns toward Serpence. His eyes met and he smiled bitterly.

    Of course it was smoke.

    "Oh, didn''t you hear?"

    Yes?

    Sir Zion. This is a story about the drug distribution in that dark district.

    Ah, ah-! Yes. I heard.

    When I asked what the noise was, I rolled my eyes and asked Serpens next to me, adding an explanation.

    ''Did the Duke of Argento also know?''

    He knew what he was saying, but he did not understand why the Duke of Argento had expressed that Serpens had a hard time.

    He should''ve known sooner. So I should have led him on the right path], so I blamed myself for leaving him that way.

    Whether my thoughts were clearly reflected on his face, the Duke of Argento immediately answered the question.

    I would never know if he hadn''t told me

    it wouldn''t have been possible.

    Ugh, such a setup fence.

    The aide is closer to serving than others, so it feels more like a family than a vassal.

    You], I think so too.

    When I nodded in response to the Duke of Argento''s words, he gave me a puzzled expression.

    know. how he would feel

    I was hired for a part-time job with the phrase that I was looking for someone to live with like family, but the part-timer I hired is very important.

    all.

    Wouldn''t he feel similar to the boss who was confronted with slurping half-talks back and talking back to his parents?

    ''In a word, why do you agree with it, this is it.''

    Now, the Duke of Argento was pretending to be talking to me, trying to indirectly convey what he was trying to say to Serpens.

    I understand what the Duke of Argento is trying to say.

    It was Serpence who noticed it

    seems to be the same He said looking straight at the Duke of Argento.

    It wasn''t the expression he usually pretended to be weak, but he was making a pretty strong expression.

    I''ve been thinking about it for a long time, but I guess you all knew it.

    Yes.

    "Why have you warned your majesty through your aide instead of reporting it to your majesty right away?"

    Because the Duke of Argento knew he was simply being taken advantage of. But now...

    Serpens swallowed the tip of his tongue.

    Even if I didn''t spit it out, the meaning was conveyed enough.

    In order to prevent the Duke of Argento from being branded as worshiping the devil, he even gave a warning, asking why he was taking the side of Lord Falsum.

    What I said about the former aide was not that I wanted to cover up the sin and pretend not to know. His death was sad, but I thought it had to be paid.

    Serpens opened his mouth seriously.

    I was acting, but there was only one word

    Except for Jang, everything was true and sincere.

    The problem is that the lie is part of ''his death was sad.

    Lord Falsum has not yet committed any major wrongs, so I think there is still room for conversion.

    Seeing that there are still big mistakes, there are quite a few small ones. If it had been really clean, I would have said, ''There''s nothing wrong with that.''

    That said, Sir Falsum revealed all the things he had done to the Duke of Argento... .

    What do you mean? I know that it was Lord Falsum who took the medicine in Lord Zion''s drink. Just because it ended in an attempt doesn''t mean that he did it.

    "It was, after all, of Count Ferrarius .. Was that message card prepared by the Duke of Prasidus? An intruder?"

    When Serpens was convinced that it was Lord Falsum who had been drugging my cup, the Duke of Argento asked in amazement.

    In the atmosphere of revealing everything, I''m a party

    I thought he was going to apologize to me for that, but the attitude that he didn''t want to tell me until the end is surprising.

    Unfortunately not. In fact, Sir Zion found two cards.

    It''s the first I''ve heard of it, but let''s say so.

    After all, there is one thing or two that did not exist from the beginning, something you will find out.

    Another card states that they are ''Illuminati'' and that the aide of the Duke of Argento is a demon-worshipping faction.

    It was written that he was following the poem. And Show them the first card first, and if you confess, show the second card and cooperate with each other. If the answer is false, discard the second card. That''s how it was written.

    Yes. Illuminati is what is used in such cases.

    Secret organizations are very effective at falsifying evidence.

 CH 149

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 149

    31. Duke''s Dream (12)

    ''Yeah, it''s all good. Anyway, me and Serpens are members of the Illuminati...

    It''s a bit cringy, but anyway, it''s not a complete lie.

    but.

    I think I''ve already given you enough chances.

    Opportunity sucks. While I was filled with only the thought of messing around.

    Serpence said bitterly to the subject, who had not considered the possibility of eyebrows that Lord Falsum would confess.

    But, far from repenting, didn''t the author try to hide his sin with another lie?

    Does anyone in the world confess that they have been involved in a plot of a demon worshiper that is not any other crime?

    No one would do that unless their lives were wasted.

    Even though the aide of Count Ferrarius admitted to the worship of demons,

    Denying it is probably because it is the truth. If I hadn''t kept my mouth shut, I would have also mentioned that on the day of the aides meeting, I didn''t infiltrate anyone into the Duke of Argento''s residence.

    The person who hid on that day must have been one of the Illuminati''s beings, so the testimony about him is a lie of Sir Eightsom to blame Count Ferrarius for even his own sins.

    It is the same now. If you want to reveal the truth, please tell me at the advisory meeting held a while ago, not here.

    you should have At the very least, he should have revealed it with his own mouth and apologized to Sir Zion, rather than indirectly asking for mercy from the Duke of Argento in this way."

    In other words, the question was whether Sir Falsum had no intention of paying the price for his sins... .

    I can only think of this as trying to preserve my own safety by taking the Duke of Argento as a hostage.

    It was such a thing.

    Serpens made an expression of infinite sadness and regret, saying, The author is

    We are just using a small one," he added.

    ''He talks like that with the person in front of him.

    I looked at Sir Palsum''s face, but I don''t know what that expression was.

    He frowned as if he had drank bitter liquor, and looked uncomfortable as if he had eaten bitter persimmon.

    "I became a duke of the empire and fell under the advice of a person who is like a limb, and I was treated like a limb.

    It is not, and it is my responsibility."

    Why is it the Duke of Argento''s fault? Also, this method cannot be called responsible.

    I''m thinking of retiring once this is sorted out.

    The Duke of Argento has announced his retirement with a solemn expression.

    ''No matter how much responsibility you feel, how can you decide to retire for an aide... !''

    and was almost surprised.

    However, if you think about it again

    His retirement is a responsibility that should be taken for granted.

    As it is not revealed that he was deceived and used by Sir Palsum, it was only an advantage in that he could even take his honor.

    No, this inspiration?!''

    Some people can''t even rest properly, but thinking that those who did wrong will enjoy a luxurious retirement life with everything they need makes their stomachs twist.

    "Since he entered the family as an assistant to the Duke of Argento, he is a member of the Argento family and part of the family.

    It is right to correct wrongdoing and strictly handle right and wrong, but... . Since I couldn''t do that, I grew up in his sin, so I''m not responsible for Lord Falsum to follow their advice and help them plan, right?

    He''s very responsible and seems genuinely regretful.

    Since each person has different values, he may have felt genuinely guilty and decided to take responsibility by giving up all power and position.

    But what I''m actually talking about is later.

    ''I think I did something wrong, so I will be punished, but I will decide the punishment.'' It''s like saying

    ''It''s not that I don''t understand why you''re talking like that... .''

    Duke of Argento, an apology must be rare in his life.

    As equals, there is Serpens, the duke of the same empire, and only the emperor and the pope are consoled. When did he even make a sincere apology?

    Just being able to say that such a person can apologize on behalf of others and take responsibility is a wonderful thing.

    I don''t know why you''re saying this to me. It''s better to report to the Emperor rather than me... Seolmu, are you doing this because you want me to cooperate in persuading His Majesty?

    " I have no face."

    The Duke of Argento looked at him earnestly and earnestly, whether he was going to use the setting of Serpens, who is known for being weak and merciful, as a weakness to use his sympathy strategy.

    ''what. It''s not even a water ghost, so why did you bring Serpence into it?''

    Even caring for my own person

    I have no intention of saying anything, but I must not cause harm to others through it.

    The Duke of Argento alone is enough to get a mortgage.

    I can''t.

    As if the external fence was painful, he frowned and closed his eyes, and said firmly.

    His voice was so cold that I thought it was suspense for a moment, but it was also within the setting range.

    I know that the Duke of Prasidus hates demon worshipers because of his parents.

    Just this one time, even if you look at my face... .

    It''s not just that.

    Hating evil and taking the lead in destroying it is also one of the settings of external serpence.

    The setting of the external fence was based on tenderness and compassion with wide inclusion, but it was not the only one-sided figure.

    The Duke of Argento, remembering this, once again appealed to him, and Serpens shook his head.

    The variable called Illuminati has appeared

    Their scheme could have been thwarted, but the thought of how things would have gone otherwise is dizzying. They are cruel and vicious.

    Lord Falsum made a deal with them, but that doesn''t mean he''s a demon worshiper.

    Even before the aides meeting, I heard that the author went about demeaning Lord Zion''s personality. And then, he tried to use drugs to dishonor him in front of others. And do you think they ended up there? "

    The Duke of Argento did not answer Serpense''s question.

    I don''t know if he received any further orders or not, but the number must have gotten harsher and harsher. Their ultimate goal was me. If the blows even hit me behind Lord Zion, how much pain and wounds he must suffer. After wearing it "

    As if it was his own pain, Serpens said in agony, clutching her sternum with one hand.

    Crava that was clean with no wrinkle

    Wrinkles were formed on the t-shirt, and it was wrinkled without mercy in his hands.

    Suddenly, I got goosebumps and chicken meat came up.

    ''What, what, I... . I was exposed to more danger than I thought... Hey?''

    I wanted to pass it on thinking it was for this device in the fight against the Duke of Argento, but I quickly realized that it wasn''t.

    Twins that look perfectly alike to others are the same as twins that look different to their parents.

    all.

    I can''t tell the difference between the serpens I''m playing and the ones I''m not.

    ''I pulled it out on purpose to fit the current situation, but that anxiety is a real emotion.''

    Apparently, the Serfence was so strong that he suffered from insensitivity to safety.

    At the time, I felt my own threat, but it seems that the threat Serpens imagined was more than that.

    "I treat my aides like family.

    did you? So am I. As a homeowner, if you know the agony of not noticing that your family is going the wrong way. As a head of state, can you imagine how I feel when I see my family at risk because of me? If only the Illuminati didn''t step in and break the chains of the demon worshipers'' plans... . Thinking about it... .

    Something made my heart flutter, so I almost put his name in my mouth without realizing it, but I fell right into the sound of the Illuminati.

    ''No, what. Yes . thank you, ilumi

    Natty''s aide, Serpens... . That''s right.''

    I felt this trembling. This guy''s smoke fence. Oh, really.

    Aside from my cold emotional lines, Serpense''s emotional lines were well connected, and the air in the room calmed down.

    ''The Duke of Argento didn''t do well in the competition.

    Serpence, who has sublimated sadness into beauty today, without regret .'' And just by making the sound of holding your breath, you can make your opponent hold their breath.

    caught it

    ''Who wins that?''

    It was no one''s voice that broke the silence.

    Incongruent with the stagnant atmosphere, a clear bell rang, ''Tinkling~.''

    After a while, the staff came in, cleared the plates from the table, and placed a new dish.

    In the meantime, Serpens chose to breathe in a small way, as if to control his intense emotions.

    "That well I''m sorry for Duke Prasidus and Sir Lee Bellon "

    It''s fine now, Duke.

    What kind of trick is this again?

    As soon as the staff left, the Duke of Argento hesitated and stopped him from opening his mouth.

    You don''t have to cover me any longer. I didn''t reveal the truth to embarrass the Duke in this way or to prolong my life. I thought that if things happened like this, they would risk me and fall. Because, at least, I thought it was the last thing I would do to reveal it with my mouth."

    So, Sir Falsum was going to end it with his mouth clean, but the Duke of Argento stopped it.

    ''What kind of new wave is this?''

    Maybe it''s because I''m too accustomed to acting fences?

    I''m not sure if that statement is true or if it''s one of the pre-directed scripts.

    I was relieved to receive forgiveness on the subject of deceiving the Duke for a long time. I said it wasn''t meant to be forgiven, but I guess I actually wanted to be forgiven. But that was not for me.

    It was too much. The duke said that it is difficult for a father to forgive his child, but I am not the duke''s child, and even though I am a child, I am just a disobedient disobedient person.

    Sir Palsum said in a calm voice.

    I forgot that the Duke is not the only one I need to ask for forgiveness. Thank you. Thank you again until the end.

    While I was watching a comedy movie in the middle of a giggle, I suddenly felt like a forceful new wave came out at the end.

    Bewildered, he turned his head to look at Serpence.

    ''how about it? Is that serious?''

    When I looked at him with such a question, Serpens made a glance as if saying, ''To what extent?''

    I don''t know exactly how much, but... .

    It''s good if you close your eyes like this and move on, if you don''t, there''s nothing you can do about it. I guess that''s kind of what it feels like.

 CH 150

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 150

    31. Duke''s Dream (13)

    "What do you think, Sir Zion?"

    Serpens asked with his voice, not his eyes.

    Honestly, I can''t believe it. It felt like an over-the-top conversation...

    To be more specific, I''m pretty pissed off right now.

    A person who has been in politics for a long time and has always been at the center of power.

    Even taking that into account, this is not the case.

    ''Is it that hard to sincerely apologize and ask for help?''

    No matter how you try to understand it, it becomes more and more difficult.

    It is a great burden to help those who have been involved in the work of demon worshipers.

    In the subject of asking for such a thing, I tried to take advantage of Mr. Serpence''s weakness and generosity.

    ''It''s a shame because it''s just a setting, what if he really was that kind of person?''

    There, cleverly, it dragged me in

    I took the introductory part to bring out a sense of unity.

    After all, it''s family.

    It would be an overstatement to say that the Duke of Argento truly thought of Sir Falsum as a family member and considered him like a son.

    ''Knowing that Serpens has no family... .''

    As the Duke of Argento once said in his own words, it is known that Serpens still harbors a grudge against the demon worshipers who killed his parents.

    Even if it''s not publicly known.

    In fact, Serpens has never been able to feel the true sense of family and has grown up.

    ''Are you trying to take advantage of such a child by making calculations about the family?''

    The sense of unity that had been felt until the beginning of the conversation disappeared rather than artificially inducing it.

    Serpens even got angry at the thought that he might have been taken advantage of by Lord Falsum.1 How could this be?

    whether

    I even felt betrayed.

    It''s good that the Duke of Argento takes care of his family. I respect the magnanimity of forgiving even though he knows he''s been taken advantage of for a long time. But that''s not it.

    "Did that sound like that?"

    Yes. How worried about the Duke of Argento and rarely even got angry... How can you do this?

    When I opened the lid, I expected

    tongue was different.

    The Duke of Argento is trying to use Serpence, but Sir Falsum is halfway to giving up.

    I was talking about that in the wagon earlier.

    "Ah, um. Well it''s an extension of the advisory meeting, isn''t it?"

    I wondered if it was a mistake, so I looked at Serpens next to me, and he made eye contact and closed his eyes in a blink and then opened it.

    That means it''s fine.

    Looking back, I saw the Duke of Argento''s finest red with steak.

    In front of the wine, I dared to drink fresh water.

    I''m sorry, Duke of Prasidus. I knew you were that kind of person, but I thought of using it first, rather than being honest with you.

    Fine.

    With a face that looked like he wasn''t okay with Serpence, he made up a smile that looked like it was going to break and was sad.

    It''s as if he''s saying that he''s dull now because he''s seen people who try to take advantage of him.

    Somehow it makes me reflect on the past

    There was something that stimulated and elicited a sense of guilt that was not there.

    Of course, that something must be a face.

    Kerham, heh heh! It''s true that I was deceived by this naughty guy in the past, but this time it''s purely my will. He reveals the truth first, blames everything on himself, and apologizes in advance to prepare for his escape... I have to forgive you, what should I do?

    There were many punctures, the Duke of Argento humbly said, coughing in succession.

    The Duke of Argento had expected it to a certain extent, but he did not know that Sir Falsum''s thoughts were so.

    If even that was based on high-level calculations, there would be nothing to say, but .

    yeah i don''t see it

    He bowed his head as if he was stingy. The tail of the tightly closed mouth drooped down.

    "May I ask why? The Duke of Argento is the author . Even if he''s not an aide, he has a real family. But why ."

    As long as there is no blood, in the meantime

    How much time and sincerity have you taken care of me? How difficult would it be to give one of those things to a lonely guy? It doesn''t seem like the past was in vain if you look at the things that normally would have been rushed to hide, and that you brought them up first. Yes, I forgive you.

    Among the children, he is the only one who has not been able to take care of me yet. This is the first and last accident I have ever had, so I have to help as far as I can.

    Even though the accident must have been accumulated over a long period of time, is it considered as one?

    Yes, the distribution is also large.

    "I would like to ask the Duke of Prasidus to help persuade His Majesty, but when disposing of the Ferrarius family, if there is any information related to Sir Falsum, I would like to ask him to dispose of it as well."

    Why are you doing that to Serpens?

    It''s so absurd that before my will was reflected, I was like, ''Huh... .'' There was a sound of the wind falling.

    In this case, ''filial piety isn''t self, but what should I say right? Self love too?

    Well, since the Duke of Prasidus usually handles these things... Hmmm! He has a ruthless aide.

    Sir Sion is very loyal...

    Serpens said ''Ahaha... '' and let out an awkward laugh.

    It''s kind of subtle to hear of loyalty, but there is no other assistant in the world who is as devoted to a boss as I am.

    That is loyalty, is there any other loyalty?

    It''s not that it''s bad. Rather

    For a finite person like Prince Prasidus, it seems more balanced to have such a person next to him.

    Yeah, he''s been very helpful in many ways.

    Look, the two dukes of the Empire admitted it.

    Anyway, what I said earlier is just the first plan. What I ask for is silence and concession.

    "Is it okay if I tell you that I am not opposed to persuading Your Majesty, and that I want you to get rid of this case?"

    That''s right.

    Serpens sighed with an expression of concern at the Duke of Argento''s words.

    It is up to your Majesty to make judgments.

    I will never forget this grace. Thank you so much, Duke of Prasidus.

    At the words of the Duke of Argento, Serpens sighed with a complicated expression on whether he had made the right choice.

    "I it is a shame, but if your Majesty does not tolerate it, can you help me to make sure that my disposition is done in secret ? Really?

    I know it''s a reckless request, but... .

    Those were the words of Lord Palsum. Next to him, the Duke of Argento was seen holding his forehead.

    You don''t have to worry about that. Your Majesty will want it to be the same. If that happens, we will have to negotiate with the denomination, but since the Duke of Argento has shown sincerity to the denomination, I will listen to that.

    thank you !

    You don''t have to. I''m just looking at the Duke of Argento''s side.

    I''m just going to give it a go, and I''m very sorry for that. Isn''t there anything I should do before making this request or thanking me?

    Serpence was polite, but answered in a slightly cold voice.

    Perhaps he didn''t understand what he said, ''what should be done first'', and his arms trembled.

    ''Hey, are you mad again?''

    It wasn''t that he sighed openly, but just like that, Serpens''s breathing became deep and long.

    When inhaling, your chest

    He swelled up greatly and his shoulders were lifted slightly.

    I guess I didn''t really like the arm breath.

    Isn''t there something to apologize to Sir Zion?

    It''s a tone of voice that makes it questionable whether he really reflected on himself.

    I''m sorry, I''m preoccupied with the work in front of me...

    Sir Ribelon, I''m sorry to have caused you trouble. I''m sorry for the malicious rumors about you or trying to get you on drugs... Seriously.

    I apologize.

    Sir Falsum reflexively spat out excuses, then flinched at Serpens'' eyes and swallowed the words he was saying.

    Then he turned to me and bowed his head apologizing.

    ''By the way, that setting is very convenient... .''

    If you''re a demon-worshipper, you''re like the friend of the enemy who killed your parents, so there''s also a suspense mode... , I think it''s okay to pour two or three tablespoons on it.

    I''m really sorry, I don''t know how I''m going to repay this...

    No, that''s fine. It''s fine!

    If that''s the case. If it happens later, please tell me.

    I kept my mouth shut while contemplating on the acceptable point of the suspense mode, and I realized that the apology was not accepted, so I apologized again by offering a reward for the wonder of Palsom.

    If you leave it alone, the reward will materialize and one day, the gift will suddenly arrive at the duke''s house.

    Instead, can I ask you a question?

    do it.

    Suddenly, in a certain way, Argento

    Did you tell the Duke that he had deceived you? It''s not certain that it''ll be revealed, but you don''t take it off until the end.

    Yes?

    Was the question too blatant?

    Sir Palsum looked greatly perplexed.

    I knew that Lord Falsum would do his best to attract demon worshipers, and as a reward, he would apply for protection to the cult, or something like that.

    . It doesn''t matter to me that I pay for the sins I have committed, but our

    There''s nothing wrong with the little guy. I learned a lot from him, and I also received things I didn''t get from my real father]. After making full use of it and having already caused a lot of damage, I couldn''t put a great stigma on it, such as worshiping the devil.

    Unlike his usual expression of arrogance and dignified appearance, when he said that, he looked old and weak.

    " can I ask you a question too?"

    Serpense, who had been watching me and Sir Palsum talking, opened his mouth abruptly.

    "Anyway, how are you going to convince your Majesty?"

    When I asked if there was something to be felt in Sir Palsum''s answer, it was just a different sound.

    If the Duke comes forward and confirms the author, even if it''s because of the Duke of Argento, I''ll skip it for now, but he''ll be very angry.

    Dare to use the duke''s family as a hostage to threaten the emperor.

    The demon worship related to Lord Eightsum may be forced to ignore, but in the long run, it will lead to great wrath.

    Duke of Prasidus. I know that the dark district has not yet been found.

    " Yes. It''s embarrassing, but yes."

    I just asked a question, and suddenly fact violence flew in.

    ''uh? is not it? Because I pretended I didn''t find what I found in the dark... .''

    Surely, Serpens didn''t notice that he was chasing behind the scenes while pretending that he didn''t find the dark side on purpose, did he?

    There is nothing to be ashamed of. It deserves it.

    Fortunately, that doesn''t seem to be the case, but I don''t know what else this means.

    Did you say that our kid is incompetent now?

    ...It means that such information is not easy to reach to a clean person like the Duke of Prasidus, so relax your eyes.

    Sin, I''m sorry. I didn''t know...

    It''s a shame because we were the first to be at this place today, but normally, it wouldn''t have ended up like this.

    I quickly closed my eyes.

    I heard from Lord Falsum that the demon worshipers plan to summon demons into the dark.

    "You mean demons are going to be summoned from within the Empire and nowhere else?"

    Serpens knew everything, but pretended not to know, and was startled.

    Yes. Sir Falsum also knows how to enter the Dark Side, so if you share this information, your Majesty may be able to take good care of you.

    Let''s talk easily.

    An evil that might do great damage to the Empire

    Since you have asked about the conspiracies of the demon worshipers, it is safe to say that they have followed their instructions so far to extract such important information.

    Wouldn''t that kind of talk come and go?

    ''If that''s the kind of exchange condition... .''

    Now, rather than needing Serpense''s help to convince the emperor, it must have been the idea that Serpense had to oppose it from the beginning.

    It seems that the duke of the empire is not something anyone can do.

    "Does the demon worshipers know that this information has been leaked?"

    It''s just that I accidentally overheard their conversation, I guess.

    At Duke Argento''s words, Serpens nodded as if he understood.

    It was obvious that he was thinking about how to fit this situation with the plan he had originally made.

 CH 151

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 151

    32. The Duke and the Count of Rivelon (1)

    In the end, the most important main dish got cold and I couldn''t even eat it properly...

    "I''ll buy it for you next time, so don''t be too sad."

    As I got on the carriage going back to the duke''s house and grumbled with regret, Serpens said in a taunting tone to a young child who wanted a toy.

    It was quite dissatisfying, but still

    I''ll have to take care of the road.

    "No bite?"

    Yes, yes.

    Serpens pulled out the crinkled cravat and answered roughly.

    For some reason, the hand that folds and folds cravat is more sincere than the answer to my question.

    It was nicely folded and fit in his bosom, but I doubt that what I said went into his ear hole.

    ''That bastard, I hate getting my clothes wrinkled.

    Didn''t you catch that on purpose?''

    The evidence is undoubtedly right in front of you.

    Someday, even secretly frying some red tomato sauce on his clothes will make him feel a little better.

    " what are you staring at? Is there anything you want to say?"

    Serpens asked curiously.

    This plan was done secretly without Serpens knowing. Also, it had to be done in secret.

    So, I have no intention of telling him that. head of the secret society

    As such, it must be done.

    I mean... Come to think of it, why did you forgive Sir Eightsum?

    It''s not that I forgave you. I just let it go.

    Anyway. I thought Serpens would insist on giving him over to the church no matter what.

    He said ''from the side of the Duke of Argento.'' I said that, but I have no intention of believing it right away.

    " are you upset that I didn''t finish him?"

    What do you end up with? life in this world

    To put the lines of suspense in your mouth with the face of a pitiful fence that shines patheticly in your eyes. What the hell kind of crazy collaboration is that?

    A strange variation arose.

    No, not at all! It seems that the Duke of Argento would have persuaded the emperor well, even if Serpens hadn''t helped.

    Oh, that''s not what I''m hoping for, so don''t think about it.

    Are you going to put it back at the speed of sound?

    Serpens was startled with an expression of ''No, how did you know that?!''

    It''s not even the cat that got caught trying to slide the cup on the table without the butler''s knowledge... .

    It''s just a literal question without any indirect intent, so please feel free to tell me. I''m just curious.

    " Is Seon-woo okay? Is it okay to let the existence that threatens you be free?"

    Thanks to Serpence, I don''t feel much of a threat.

    This is an ambiguous expression, meaning that he never felt threatened because of his attempts, and at the same time, it also meant that the dagger he threw made him feel the threat of life more directly.

    ''You don''t have to put it in your mouth. Be dull again.''

    Serpence was proud of whether he interpreted it positively.

    "In the long run, if you have Prince Argento as your enemy, there are a lot of problems you will have to endure.

    The power of power is getting stronger day by day, and demons are going to be summoned from all over the continent.

    When that time comes, it will be difficult to stick with the Empire alone, so it would be difficult to lose to the Duke of Argento.

    Then, wouldn''t it be better to help actively at all? Even now, he seems to have some regrets and gratitude, but it would be helpful if he made sure he was in debt...

    There is a saying in the world that there is only one thing. You should be prepared for when things don''t work out properly.

    That would not be entirely false, but Serpens did not hide his face that he was unwilling to help Sir Falsum.

    Yeah, there''s nothing I can do if you don''t like it.''

    I have no intention of forcing a child I hate to do something, and it is right to avoid even the smallest risk factor if it can be avoided.

    "What are you going to do now?"

    I''m going to look at the papers in the office tomorrow, wash my forehead today, rest in the study, and go to bed.

    Finding and answering intentions that were not there before

    So I told him not to do that, but this time he answers what it seems so obvious.

    Other than that, this is a very satisfactory answer.

    As soon as I get home, I want to make a stamp plate for praise and stamp it.

    That''s a great answer, but isn''t that the point of the question?

    That''s right. The Duke of Argento took care of this, so it''s time to go down to the Count of Rivelon.

    that''s also a concern, but other than that.

    Pierce me with a sad expression

    Serpens, who had been looking at him confusedly, had a face that he realized immediately.

    Are you talking about the demon of the Darkside, as the Duke of Argento said?

    Yes, that is the correct answer! Please continue to work hard like you are now!

    Serpens made a face as if arguing, ''Did I really need to add the last word?'' To that, I responded proudly with a natural expression.

    As if to listen to it openly, the decibel he could never talk to himself, ''Shameless long... . muttered.

    Anyway, if that''s the case, we''ll have to go to the Imperial Palace tomorrow to discuss it, but... if only about the dark district is known, there''s also a rumor that a demon will be summoned there, so there won''t be much change.

    That expression is interpreted as ''I''m not going to do it,'' rather than ''I''m going to do it'', am I wrong?

    " If you go there after it is known that the Evil Demon has been summoned, it will have already taken a lot of damage by the time you arrive. It is more advantageous to know the exact summoning location than a demon who doesn''t know where it will appear.

    We will be able to cover the old troubles of the Empire at once."

    Serpence confuses and puts into his mouth a story that I knew well enough.

    In other words, if the dark area is cleared in advance, the devil will be summoned somewhere else, and pretend to be concerned and induce them to leave it alone.

    In the case of other countries, if there is even a slight possibility that the devil will appear, I would put it aside and think about it, isn''t it different from the Empire?

    "Yes. Serpens are there, and it''s possible to tell Humanus, the master of the Holy Sword, to come at any time."

    The Empire did not have to stop the demon itself from appearing.

    Where and what are they summoned as sacrifices? It just matters.

    The Emperor and the Duke of Argento have an idea, too, so I''m not going to let it go, let alone first. I''m not going to leave it alone, but I''ll keep an eye on it and follow the demon worshipers who will soon appear.

    I say there''s no problem with that, the dark side

    What about the boss?"

    It would be great if a manager who worked in the dark district was lucky enough to be a member of the Illuminati, so it would be great if he could cooperate with our work. Isn''t it?

    The setting fence grinned.

    " Serpens, to be honest. Did you like the Illuminati setting?"

    * * *

    Finally, the day has come.

    Today we go down to the counties of Ribelon.

    is the day

    Why can''t I feel this way?''

    A blonde young man who entered the train''s special room with which he was now accustomed. If it weren''t for Xeon''s existence, I could have mistakenly thought that I would have gone down to the Prasidus Spirit as it is.

    Unlike the Duchy of Prasidus, the Count of Rivelon did not have direct trains from the capital.

    For that reason, I plan to take the train I normally ride for a day and then get off midway and change trains.

    The crew members are me, Serpens, and Xeon. Only three of these.

    " the aide."

    Yes?

    As I laid down my luggage and leaned back comfortably on the sofa as usual, Xeon called me.

    In his hand was a file folder.

    What is this?

    Among the actions of the aide and the younger brother, I focused on seriously different actions.

    If it''s different, it''s different. Another thing that''s seriously different.

    When I took it and opened it, things like Zion''s basic profile and behavior pattern were written on it.

    Some are even underlined in red.

    The things about hyung are organized based on memories, so it doesn''t fit perfectly, but I think it''ll be fine because what I feel is no different from that of my family.

    "Uh, that''s thank you?"

    I hope Xeon will cooperate in hiding that I am not Zion.

    I thought about it, but I couldn''t imagine doing it this way.

    At best, I thought it would be eye-catching.

    The Serpense sitting across from him also noticed that it was strange.

    By the way .

    A little creepy, isn''t it?

    I didn''t analyze it because I liked it.

    As I was writing this myself, I must have felt that this was not the case.

    The one who frowned as much as he was

    From the expression on his face, he felt a bit of a strange feeling.

    You don''t have to follow everything written there, just pay attention to the underlined parts. I''ll take care of the rest.

    The way he spoke with a calm expression and voice seemed to be quite reliable.

    If you ask me how much... .

    ''I''m dying of curiosity about the documents in my hand, but more than Serpense, who pretends not to be watching Zeon?''

    If anything else, I''d only do serpense

    There is no army, but Rivelon is not Zeon''s home ground.

    I admit that Serpens is a gaze stealer.

    However, as he was the youngest, he had to coordinate with Zion''s father, Count Ribelon, so he had to be absent from work.

    I told you through a letter in advance that my self-confidence increased as I became Duke Prasidus''s aide, and my personality became much more active through social activities, so you don''t need to worry about your tone of voice or your expression...

    As I was looking through the documents that Xeon gave me, he continued to explain more as if he was posting a report.

    I don''t know when I did that kind of work. It is more reliable in its thoroughness.

    But? What next?''''

    Please refrain from expressing strange sentences with unknown meanings or showing excessively friendly appearances with the Duke. And I would appreciate it if you could show a calm and dignified attitude.

    Sentences with unknown meaning

    I don''t know what you''re talking about. Did I say such a strange thing?

    And the distance from Serpens... .

    ''If I could call him by my name comfortably in private, and find out he was doing me a favor, I would be very upset.''

    Not Zeon, but Charon, the eldest son of the Rivelon family.

    That provision must be due to Charon (29 years old) who has a lot of respect for Serpense (25 years old).

    As an assistant to Serpence, there must be a lot of things you want to ask me, but if you increase the number of questions there,

    There will also be more anger.

    Lastly, I have a lot to say about my calm and dignified attitude, but I won''t say it.

    Heaven knows my dignity, Earth knows it, Ador knows it, and Serpens knows it well.

    Also, please be careful not to cause misunderstandings or look suspicious by making sure the subject and object words are clear when speaking.

    You just have to speak plainly.

    I thought I was going to say something strange like that, so I took my eyes off Zeon, who was standing in a diagonal direction, and looked at Serpens who was sitting opposite him.

    He was nodding his head as if possessed by Zeon''s words.

    '' Yes, the subject part is accepted!''

    Let''s admit what we have to admit

 CH 152

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 152

    32. The Duke and the Count of Rivelon (1)

    In order for a train to run, railroad tracks must be laid, and precious iron cannot be scattered on the ground casually.

    As a result, infrastructure was formed centered on large estates with frequent traffic, and Ribelon was excluded from it.

    Because of that, we had to get off at the train station in another territory adjacent to the Ribelon Territory.

    F, Prasidus Go, Duke Nim? Ma, it''s an honor to meet you!

    Charon, who was walking around the train station to meet him in advance, found Serpence and hurriedly jumped out to greet him.

    Since Serpens wanted to visit quietly, we decided to skip the reception, but it was not polite to just sit and wait in the lord''s castle of the Count of Ribelon.

    For that reason, in addition to sending the wagon, it was promised that Charon would meet him at the train station.

    Yes, it''s nice to meet you too. Confucius Charon of the House of Lee Bellon, are you okay?

    No, that''s right! I should have introduced you first...!

    It''s okay. Without an introduction, I could recognize you enough.

    Watching Charon go back and forth because she was so nervous and didn''t know where to put her body, Serpens smiled softly and replied.

    Olive hair and auburn eyes.

    Not only the color arrangement but also the face were very similar, so anyone could see that Charon and Zion were brothers.

    Don''t be too nervous, please be comfortable with me.

    Oh no! I, how can I, how dare you!

    According to Shion''s memory, I know that she wasn''t like this... . If I had to choose between timidity and hobang, which one would be better for hobangbox?

    Seeing him stutter like that and crouch like that, I think it''s usually a pleasure and an honor to meet Serpens.

    ''It''s true, isn''t it that you don''t even notice the younger brother you''ve met in three years?''

    If I had been the real Zion, I would have felt sad.

    Big brother, where''s the carriage?

    Ouch!

    Zeon, who couldn''t see it, turned to Charon and asked, ''How long are you going to keep it up?''

    Only then did Charon come to his senses, apologize to Serpens, and guide us to the carriage.

    Shion, you have become Duke Prasidus'' assistant, how can you not have a letter?

    Charon, who had calmed down as if he could only see me after getting on the carriage, started talking to me.

    Rather than arguing with dissatisfaction, it was the tone of asking, ''If it were me, I would have gone to the local room to spread rumors about it, how did you endure it?''

    "Ah, haha I can''t feel it either."

    Yeah, just do it.

    "Did nothing happen during that time?"

    If you''re curious, why don''t you contact me and live? Xeon has been sending me letters every month.

    Uh, um... that''s...

    Charon said this time with a really dissatisfied tone.

    The thought of asking for nothing crossed my mind.

    How about the fourth?

    When I made a confused and perplexed expression on my face, Zeon quickly intervened and asked Charon.

    Ah, that? He doesn''t contact me and he doesn''t come down, so I''ll have to do that.

    You made a strong argument."

    Charon was trying to get the word ''mom'' out of her mouth, but the presence of Serpens sitting next to me hastily changed her name.

    Seeing this, Serpens smiled at Charon with a smile as if it was good to see the conversation between the brothers, meaning that he didn''t mind.

    If the Duke is going down anyway, I''m sure I''ll follow him, why?

    It''s like a little revenge, huh?

    Even if you were curious about my news, there was no reply at all, so please be curious about it too. I guess that''s how it feels.

    Suddenly, only Xeon became pitiful. It''s not usually a question.

    Anyway, if it''s Vivi, she''s growing up well and healthy.

    "Is your name Vivi? Not Bion?"

    Xeon asked in amazement.

    I was surprised too. If I were to name it, of course I thought it would be in the form of ''-on'' or ''ron''.

    Did you give me a change ball for being the youngest?

    "Vivi is just a nickname, and her official name is Levi-Visionio."

    ...Levy, what?

    On the other hand, my mouth was closed at the name of the six-character that came out of nowhere, and my mouth, which had been closed, opened in a temple.

    "Levi Vicentio. Vivi for short. There were several candidates for nicknames such as Levi and T.O. When I called Vivi, there was a lot of reaction, so I decided to call her Vivi because it was cute."

    As if he was going to die of cuteness just thinking about it, Charon said with a big smile.

    No, but now the nickname is important

    Isn''t it?''

    After Charon, Zion, and Xeon, what''s next? Levi Viscentio?

    I had to hit the ball as much as I could, and it was the name of a completely different world by myself. When I looked at the names of the four, it was even worse.

    Why the hell did your name become that way?

    "Why, your mother was sure that this time your daughter would be born. After you went up to the capital, you came up with a name for yourself. Originally, it was ''Levy Sentia, but she''s a boy . bar

    It was written by me.

    It turns out that even in Zion''s memory, she sang very much because she wanted her daughter. But I''m sure he''ll be my 4th son in a row.

    Even Luxmea is indifferent... .

    "The name says so didn''t you buy the crib and clothes for girls?"

    At Zeon''s next question, Charon kept her mouth shut.

    no way?

    As my mother said, I wouldn''t even remember when I grew up anyway, and it''s easier to change diapers with skirts than pants...

    "It''s not like your mother is going to grind it yourself."

    right.

    Charon smirked and turned the dog out the window to answer.

    It was not unusual for the countess'' wife to change the baby''s diaper herself, unless she was usually poor.

    In fact, by that time, the family just disappeared.

    There is money that Xeon and I send each month, and above all, Serpens served as the baby''s escort and assigned one of the armed forces to serve as a dedicated maid.

    The Rivelon family would know her as just a capable maid, but... .

    '' Xeon, look at this guy?!''

    Obviously from her, Levischen , I must have received a report about Vivi, and I was reacting as if it was the first time I had heard of it.

    "Why don''t you just buy a new one? Me and the little hyung sent me a lot of money."

    "Don''t be fooled. When you get married, if you don''t want to look down on the nobles of the capital.

    They say you are collecting them all."

    " for what. You have money to set aside, so just use it."

    Even if it''s not, it''s a waste to buy it and just throw it away. It''s really cute more than anything else.

    At Charon''s last words, Xeon made an absurd expression on her face... .

    ''It can''t be helped if it''s cute.''

    The most important function of clothes is to protect the body. And the second most important thing is whether it goes well with the person wearing it.

    If only those two are satisfied

    I don''t have

    ''Where are children''s clothes usually expensive?''

    When you are young, you grow up every day, so it seems a bit plausible to throw away the new clothes you have for a short time and buy new ones.

    If you see it yourself] Yahh], will you change your mind?

    At Charon''s confident words, Zeon smiled weakly.

    After that, the two continued to talk, and Serpens did not occasionally make eye contact with Charon, who was sitting opposite him.

    Everyone smiled, and I just looked out the window.

    It''s fortunate that Shion isn''t the one who takes the lead in the conversation.

    The carriage with the design of the Count of Rivelon passed through the gates of the outskirts of Ribelon without any restraint.

    The carriage, which had been running for a long time, stopped in front of the lord of Lee Bellon.

    Welcome to Rivelon''s estate! My name is Kyle Belon, the lord of the Rivelon family.

    Nice to meet you. This is Serpens A. Prasidus.

    As we got off the carriage, Zion''s father, who had been waiting in advance, welcomed us.

    He naturally extended his hand with a greeting, and Serpens took it and shook hands lightly.

    Seeing this, Charon''s pupils shook greatly.

    ''I was so nervous that I blew up the chance to shake hands.''

    It''s very sad that the expression on his face is filled with regret to the point that he is close to crying.

    Shake a hand with Charon on the way back, tell Serpens

    I have to

    This is my wife Arlene Ribel Ron, and next to her is my daughter-in-law Mirea Ribel Ron.

    At the introduction of Count Rivelon, the two bowed their heads to greet Serpens, who, too, smiled softly and said that it was nice to meet you again.

    And this is the youngest son born this time, Levisentigio.

    When Serpence''s gaze touched, the baby said, ''Oh... .'' I murmured and dug into my mother''s arms.

    Big, double eyelids and blue eyes

    Dry, greenish-brown pear hair.

    Babies who resemble both parents equally are very cute, as Charon said... . The pastel-colored light green dress was well digested.

    I''ll take you inside.

    Saying that, Count Rivelon stepped aside and gestured to go inside.

    His gaze, which they met for a moment, changed wildly for a moment, then smiled brightly again, as if it had ever been.

    ''Now that the Duke is here, I am patient,

    See you later... . Is that so?''

    Anything you say is fine, so I thought I''d send you a letter.

    The structure inside the permanent residence was probably because of Zion''s memory, even though it was the first time he had come, he was familiar with it. Even if you go to Zion''s room by yourself, you can find it.

    But I didn''t feel like I was missing or happy at all.

    I arrived at the drawing room and sat down, and soon after, a maid brought a cart loaded with teapots and teacups.

    Did you notice beforehand, Serpense''s

    It was evident that he was trying not to squint his face.

    The maid was in a stiff position, not being upright, and placed the teacups one by one on the table.

    I could hear the rattling noises over and over, probably because I was nervous, but I want to give a full score to the fact that I did my duty without losing my mind by looking at Serpens''s face.

    It is an honor to have personally come to the territory like this.

    No. You can''t tell me to go a long way with a little baby yet.

    peel. Even if it wasn''t, I was curious about what Rivelon''s estate was like, so I wanted to visit at least once.

    It''s not like there''s so much to see or great places.

    Whoah... It''s a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, so to me, it looks much better than the glamorous and bustling capital city.

    Serpens closed his eyes slightly and smiled and said in a soft voice.

    Charon was overjoyed at the sight, and his wife, Mirea, noticed that she was ashamed of her negligent appearance.

    "By the way, has your child ever exhibited divine power?"

    Serpence, who was exchanging a few pretentious words with the Count, asked if he thought this was enough, looking at the baboon in the Countess'' arms.

    I wonder what it means for a young baby to express the divine power, but it seems that there are cases where it emits the divine power without meaning because it is the power that was born with it from the beginning.

    At the same time, I instinctively learn how to use the divine power.

    By analogy, it''s like flipping

    I can see... .

    Yeah. It seems like they''re trying to flip it over these days, but maybe it''s because I don''t have enough strength, so the light flickers every time.

    You''re already flipping?!

    When I heard that my baby, who was less than two months old, was trying to turn over, I was surprised and asked a question.

    Perhaps it meant to be careful, Xeon, who was sitting on the left, bumped into the side of the shoe.

    It''s probably thanks to the divine power. Still, it''s not completely over yet.

    I wonder what''s the relationship between Holy Power and Flip

    I looked at Serpens with a dog.

    Children with original divine powers develop behaviors a little faster.

    If Serpence is like that, it must be.

    It doesn''t seem like it''s at a slightly lower level, but Vivi''s divine power isn''t even at the level of a bit, so this seems to be the case.

    This makes me wonder... .

    "Since when did the Duke start flipping, and when did you take the first step?"

    Even me, I can''t remember my childhood that much.

    Serpens smiled awkwardly, hiding the light of his eyes in a smile that asked if it was a question now.

    And I heard a ''chin-.'' from the side. It was the sound of Xeon touching his forehead with his palm.

    ''Now I really have to shut up.''

 CH 153

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 153

    32. The Duke and the Count of Rivelon (3)

    The atmosphere was about to go down for a moment, but Serpence smiled and showed interest in Vivi again, so it was somehow overcome by a small skit.

    Even so, it is quite surprising that the divine power has already been used for a special purpose.

    Oh, is that so?! I''ve already raised three children, but this is my first baby with divine power...

    As a parent, it was a story that would open your ears.

    The Countess couldn''t hide her admiration, ''My kid is a genius!'' The tone of her voice also rose with a fuss.

    If it''s not rude, would you mind taking a closer look at the child?

    Serpens made up a friendly look and looked at Eo Vivi, and asked in a soft tone.

    The relaxed expression on his face was very natural.

    Anyone who sees a baby would think he''s so cute and adorable that he can''t stand it.

    Okay. Oh, it''s not like this, would you like to hug me?

    "Can I?"

    "Of course , oh my. Why does he keep talking like this today?"

    As the Countess tried to pull the baby away from her arms, Bibi grabbed her clothes and pushed her even further into her arms.

    It''s like I never want to fall, ''Wow... .'' And is it a babble mixed with grudges?

    was doing it

    I''m not really that kind of kid... I''m sorry, what should I do?

    It''s okay. I think it''s a little strange because it''s the first time I''ve seen him.

    To the bewildered and helpless Countess, Serpens smiled lovingly and said:

    She thanked her with her eyes, and with her mouth said, ''It''s okay, it''s okay.''

    ''How could that be?''

    How many times have you stopped by Serpens and the orphanage as part of your volunteer work?

    I''ve never seen a child reject him. It had nothing to do with the age of the child, even when it was placed in the facility.

    Everyone followed him well.

    I''ll let the divine power flow for a while, so please hold it as it is.

    Instead of forcibly dropping the child she disliked, Serpens placed her hand on Vivi''s head while she was in the countess''s arms.

    Vivi''s body shuddered slightly at that touch, but when a gentle, silvery divine power flowed from his hand, I

    It seemed to loosen up slowly.

    A mother holding a cute baby in her arms and a Serpense emitting a silvery brilliance with her hands on her baby''s head.

    The figure was a sacred painting itself enough to decorate one wall of the temple.

    "This is quite surprising."

    Serpens raised his hand and gave out a short, exclamatory voice.

    At his words, everyone in the seat lit up their eyes and waited for the next word.

    "The quantity of divine power is quantity, but it

    I think I''ve already figured out how to deal with it.

    I''m really?!

    Yes. I feel like I''m trying to consciously oppose the force coming from outside.

    He seemed to be genuinely surprised now. Actually, I am very surprised.

    ''Consciously? Not reflexively?''

    No matter how great the divine power, Oh, it''s a fantasy world.

    It is reasonable to assume that babies under 2 months of age do something consciously.

    Did you do that?

    ''People in this world say I have no common sense, but this world itself is not common sense at all?!''

    In a world where there are many abnormalities, it is said that normal people are abnormal. It''s just that pair.

    Master, it''s time to nurse the youngest Confucius.

    The maid, who had been standing quietly behind the Countess, took out a watch from her pocket and checked the time.

    Maybe it was the maid that Serpens had given her.

    The Countess is holding her horse

    The boy was placed in the arms of another maid, who appeared to be a nanny.

    Surprisingly, Bibi quietly entrusted herself to the nanny''s hands, unlike what she had been murmuring before. The nanny and the maid took the baby and went out of the drawing room.

    It''s dinner time soon, so I''d like to share more details about the guardianship after dinner...

    Count Rivelon carefully took his luck while watching Serpence''s eyes, lest he be compelled to ask for his guardianship.

    Oh, it''s already time... Baby is too much

    She was so gentle and cute that I didn''t realize the passing of time. It is better to do as the Count said.

    Serpence said something that didn''t make sense to her, and affirmed.

    The dinner was so extravagant that it could not be compared with the table of Count Rivelon, which came to mind in Zion''s memory.

    Of course, it was only a relative comparison, and it was not enough to say that it was extremely luxurious.

    I wrote that I care, but I don''t know if you''ll like it.

    Thank you, just looking at it makes me happy

    It looks sultry.

    Serpens replied with a smirk.

    I know. That those words are not word of mouth.

    ''Are there meatballs?''

    Guess who doesn''t like children''s tastes.

    Even thinking about it now, the fact that the first meal I ever gave him was ''Meatball Tomato Risotto'' was an outstanding move that even Shin Luxmea went with a knock on his knees.

    "Come to think of it, I was so busy that I forgot to thank you for the gift you sent me. I did send a letter, but

    I should have said it face to face... .

    I received a lot of help from Lord Zion, and it was a sign of my sincerity towards him. It makes me feel uncomfortable when I express my gratitude for that. Please do not do that.

    While Serpence smiled softly, it seemed that she was slightly bitter because she was conscious of Zeon, and showed a sign of difficulty.

    To those who do not know the truth, it would be considered as humility that is shown in excessive gratitude.

    Also, in the eyes of Xeon... .

    ''I didn''t know that at the time, but now that I know that I am not Zion, it must seem that I feel guilty to even say thank you.''

    Seeing Shion''s parents and eldest brother, Karon, who looked at me and smiled, my heart became heavy.

    Why? The food doesn''t taste good?

    Perhaps she noticed such a sign of mine, Shion''s mother spoke to me in a worried voice.

    Ah, that''s what...

    It''s been a long time since I''ve had a meal together with my family, so I guess it''s because it''s nice.

    Xeon said in an indifferent voice, as if throwing it away.

    Serpense''s worried gaze touched me.

    You], it''s nice to have the whole family eat after returning home after a long time."

    "He if he missed it so much, wouldn''t he come down at least once?"

    "Ahaha I will. I would."

    Did Shion regret it that way?

    If I had known that I would be separated from my family like this forever. During the two years of living in the capital, I hoped to go back to my hometown at least once...

    ''Is that what you thought?''

    In comparison, what a happy person I was, who saw the faces of my family until the very day I came to this world... .

    But, unfortunately, this thought only made the heart heavier.

    Wow, these meatballs are delicious! Duke

    Try it too!

    Yes. I was eating even if I didn''t.

    Serpens had answered in a four-quarters voice, but somehow it felt like a bruise.

    ''Can''t you help it? So shall we cry here?"

    With that thought in mind, I looked into his eyes. Serpens pretended to continue eating and turned his head.

    Serpense''s gaze was withdrawn, but on the contrary, Zeon''s gaze was fixed on me.

    ''What is it, anxiously... .''

    When he stares at me, it scares me the most.

    Fortunately, there was no further conversation going to me, and I was able to finish the meal safely.

    Serpence followed Count Ribelon to his office, as was said before the meal.

    Except for Zion''s father, the Ribelon family gathered in the inner chamber. Vivi, the youngest member of the Rivelon family, also returned to her mother''s arms.

    Before eating, I almost bury my face in the countess'' arms,

    I didn''t mean to show you. Now his eyes were wide open and he was staring intently at me.

    Now it seems that you are interested in the second brother. Do you want to go to our baby, the second brother?

    Agh...

    As if in response to the Countess'' words, Bibi made a choking sound and grabbed her by the front.

    ''Why are you so sure of your assertion already?''

    It''s like she''s staring at me with her small forehead closed

    It seems to be giggling

    I wasn''t the only one who thought so, so the Countess laughed out loud.

    "Oh my, is our Vivi mad?"

    Aww~!!

    "Do you think I''m very angry because the second brother never came to visit while I was in the boat?"

    He pretended to be talking to Vivi, but apparently he was scolding me.

    Until before, I couldn''t even scold myself in front of him because Serpence was there, so I guess I just watched it.

    "Hey, it''s a bit busy "

    "Anyway, how can you not have a letter in a year?"

    Uh?

    "I didn''t even tell you about the fact of getting a job."

    Uh?!

    "One day, all of a sudden, the pay envelope is less bruised Can''t we just send a one-line letter together?"

    Aww!!

    ...what is this.

    For some reason, it felt like I was being nag twice, so I got tired of it.

    Well, I was wrong...

    "In the future, will you or will you not?"

    I won''t.

    A letter?

    When I do not answer, the Countess writes! and inhaled the air.

    Mom, don''t be so. I''m going.

    I saw that he was very busy. Instead, I''m good at writing letters. The news of my brother... .

    "Zeon, you should have come forward and write a letter. You don''t have time to write a single line in a month?"

    That, over there... I''m sorry.

    This time, Xeon also bowed her head, as if she couldn''t remember the words to put a shield on.

    Looking at me and Zeon, who had to take a humble stance, Charon giggled and laughed as if he was suing.

    "Really he''s a bad older brother, right?"

    Aww! Boob!

    Look at this, our baboons say so too.

    Aww-!

    As a mother who has already raised three children, she is adept at switching between dealing with babies and not.

    Come on, come on-.

    Aww!

    The Countess grabbed Vivi''s hands and pretended to hit me... .

    Come on, wait! Ah! This really hurts Ah, ah !

    Oh?

    Bibi kicked me as hard as she could and grabbed my hair and pulled me back.

    Abbvv! Whoa!

    Rain, Vivi. Won''t you let go of this, huh?

    Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!

    I tried to say it softly, but it seems to have had the opposite effect.

    Ruby grabbed Shion''s quivering green-brown hair and shook it violently as she cried as she left the world.

    Now I live less than two months

    How can you cry and rejoice like you''re so sad... .

    In my 50+ years of life, I''ve never seen anyone cry more sadly than this, except Serpens.

    ''What the hell?! You were meek when Serpence was there!''

    The Countess panicked and tried to pull him off, but she didn''t budge because of how strong she was in the subject of a baby.

    Feeling strange, looking closely at Vivi, white divine power was weakly flowing from him.

    And the light is getting stronger in real time.

    Come on, wait a minute. Vivi, Vivi-sama! Levi Viscentio!

    No, this is a foul, isn''t it?!

 CH 154

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 154

    32. The Duke and the Count of Rivelon (4)

    ''You say you haven''t been able to turn over yet?!''

    I can be sure.

    Now, with this power, it would not be enough to turn over, but it would be enough to roll around the corridors of Rivelon''s lord''s castle from end to end.

    Aww-!

    Levi Viscentio cried out.

    In front of this mighty power, I can

    All I have is not resisting his ruthless tyranny and surrendering me completely.

    He shook his head vigorously to protect even a single strand of hair.

    Rain, Beaver] Hey! Aren''t you nice?!

    Maknae Confucius, calm down!

    It is unknown whether or not it will be able to be removed even if it is torn off with force, but it was difficult to touch the baby''s small, fragile fern-like fingers, because even a little force seemed to break them.

    ''What the hell is this!''

    Meanwhile, get out of Vivi

    The light grew bigger and bigger, and it was hard for me to open my eyes properly, right in front of him.

    It seems to be even more so because it is shaking violently.

    I''ll cut my hair!

    Come on, hold on a second! I''ll bring you scissors!

    I heard the door slam open.

    At Mirea''s words, she didn''t even think that Charon had hired a servant, so she sprinted out the door.

    My head started to get dizzy, and I started to get sick at speed.

    In the midst of humming the sound of Bibi''s cries, the family and Yongin''s voices stopping him... .

    Stand... Sir Zion!

    Serpense''s voice, which could not be heard in this room, could be heard clearly.

    And at the same time, Vivi''s hand stopped.

    Uh, uh... Duke?

    Yes, I fold.

    Even with my eyes closed, the light that had stood out over my eyelids subsided. The power that held my hair

    after it disappeared.

    When I slowly opened my closed eyes, it was true.

    Serpense''s worried face came into view.

    Are you okay?

    "Ah, woman , what. Except for the pain in your head that is a bit throbbing and ringing?"

    Now that I see, the light has not gone away.

    It was simply that the baboons fell off, and Serpens entered through them and blocked them. Beyond that, a dazzling light is still exploding.

    ''It''s just that the baby grabbed his hair... .''

    If it''s funny, even in a funny situation, the guy was steadfast and had a serious expression on his face.

    Anyone who doesn''t know what just happened will think I''ve been attacked by demon worshipers.

    That''s how serious he was, holding my head and carefully ripping it through my hair, taking a closer look.

    Every time my hair is pulled back, it somehow feels bitter.

    '' I''m not sure I''m crazy, right?'' A, no way.

    I quickly erased the terrible thoughts that came to my mind.

    I think I have a bruise... Can I treat you?

    "Yes, please."

    I said it was painful, but it must have been because of bruises.

    A silver brilliance that was brighter than the white light emitted by the baboon was transmitted to the head through Serpens''s hand.

    ''I''m going to live for a while .''

    The headache gradually subsided, and the refreshing feeling was full.

    "I , Duke. Vivi is still shining, is this okay?"

    On the other hand, I wondered if the comedy-like situation was over just now, but it seems like it is still there.

    Serpens turned behind her at the Countess''s voice. I also raised my hand and looked at it.

    There, the countess holding up even the sacred relics, the baboons still radiating light.

    There was a maid who covered her to protect her eyes.

    Oh, my. Excuse me for a moment.

    Serpens sighed and reached out and embraced Vivi.

    She stably supported Bibi with one arm, and the other hand lightly placed on top of her small head to generate divine power.

    The dazzling light gradually faded away, revealing the baby in Serpens'' arms with a more relaxed expression.

    Again, a needlessly sublime scene was produced.

    In comedy (��) alone, he deviates from the genre and is filming a sacred play.

    ''I see. Everyone has subtle expressions!''

    It seems that I''m not the only one who thinks that way, and everyone''s expressions don''t make sense.

    There was silence in the strange atmosphere.

    Meanwhile, a bunch of greenish-brown wavy hair hanging from Vivi''s fingers was very ugly.

    Unconsciously, the hand goes to the head.

    '' You seem safe?''

    I''m really happy. It''s not even my body

    Write carefully.

    "Damn, what the hell happened .

    There was the sound of clattering footsteps, and the Count Rivelon, who arrived late through the door Charon had left open, came in with a gasp.

    He ran so quickly that even drops of sweat were forming on his forehead.

    '' Come to think of it, where did this Serpence guy come from?''

    I was concerned about the wide open windows.

    You can also hang Serpence''s glasses on the fact that you came in through that way.

    How can I explain this...

    The countess gave her a perplexed look.

    I understand.

    How can I say that the youngest suddenly grabbed the second child''s hair and, somewhere between luminescence and luminescence, shook my brother''s head as if waving a rattle?

    Huh, Heo-eok-! Go, did you bring scissors...?

    Can things be so messed up?

    Charon rushed in with a pair of scissors in one hand, and Count Rivelon''s doubts grew bigger.

    Ah, suddenly, the Duke... Heo Eok, I feel a huge divine power reaction... Then he jumped out of the window...

    I''m sorry, I''m out of business, so stop...

    As the Count gasped and bewildered, Serpens secretly apologized.

    Now, you must have thought that you could sneak past the description of the situation.

    As a duke, no one would be able to criticize him anyway, but inserting an old apple into it was like an external fence.

    ''Did you come in through the window too?''

    Serpence''s glasses were safely protected.

    If you ask me what I was protected from, it''s a good idea to answer it, but actually, I don''t know either.

    It''s okay. Everyone in our family is safe.

    If you think that you are worried about me... , whoops. I would like to thank you again.

    I just did what I had to do.

    The Count straightened his back and said how much his breathing had calmed down, and Serpens shivered in humility.

    Charon gently placed the missing scissors on a nearby shelf.

    I''m glad that there doesn''t seem to be an external threat. But...

    Serpens looked at me with my ripped off hair.

    what the hell did you do to the baby

    The question was whether he was holding his hair.

    it''s very sad

    It''s my fault. I said it as a joke, but I really don''t know how to do it... I shouldn''t have done it..., ah-, I''m sorry, sweetie.

    No, it''s fine.

    I think the incident was quite shocking.

    Shion''s mother came up to me with an expression of regret and death, wrapped her head in her arms and hugged her. As if dealing with a new store

    He carefully trimmed his hair with his hands.

    The hand that gently stroked his hair was tender and somehow evoked nostalgia.

    By the way, how about Bibi?

    There had been so much chaos up until recently, but now I haven''t heard a single whimper.

    ''Yeah, the feeling of riding Serpens is great.''

    Recalling the unwavering comfort he felt in a dark place, he looked at Bibi in his arms.

    As expected, Bibi was stable in the arms of a comfortable Serpence .

    ''What, why is he like that?''

    Even when Serpence gave him divine power, he had a relaxed expression on his face.

    It was like the warm sunlight of a spring day that I felt for a while, or my body was stiff as if I had met the cold of a flower spring.

    It looked very uncomfortable.

    Tension beyond discomfort... . No, he seemed afraid.

    '' Is that strange?''

    Why would I have given Serpense nicknames like Serland, Serbus, and Servelt?

    That''s because his ride is great and comfortable.

    But Bibi looked extremely anxious, holding her breath to hide it.

    Come to think of it, there is nothing strange about it.

    It has been that way since we first arrived.

    Basically, babies liked handsome faces with distinct features.

    Didn''t he turn away from Serpense''s face, which was not enough just to look at him, and bury his face in his mother''s arms?

    ''At the time when I was being scolded''.''

    I thought it was just Chuimsae, but looking back, it''s not unusual.

    Why is the kid who talks so well now? And when he first arrived, he was as quiet as a dead mouse.

    ''I thought it was a meaningless babble that only responded to my mother''s words... .''

    Once you start to doubt, the thought that it seems to have a clear meaning is not leaving your mind.

    There is no problem other than being tired due to consuming a lot of divine power. Even this will be enough to recover if you take a deep breath and wake up.

    Serpens smiled kindly and gently stroked Vivi''s cheek, then handed him over to Countess Lee Bellon.

    I let go of the hair she was holding on to me and hugged Vivi.

    Vivi looked at me for a moment as if shedding a little, then dug into my mother''s arms.

    At that moment, as if he was relieved, he fell asleep as if fainting.

    '' Are you sure it''s Zion?''

    It wasn''t the point at which I was possessed either, but because I was killed by Serpens.

    I wanted to ask if it was ''that'' Zion.

    But he was already asleep, and now his family is in this place.

    I couldn''t afford to ask.

    ''If I''m right... .''

    The story of [Master of the Holy Sword] actually happened . It becomes a matter of the past, not the future.

    It''s not that I was possessed by the continuous time spanning from the past to the present.

    It means that I put my soul in the process of bringing the world to life by cutting the axis of time.

    And it must have been that the soul of Zion, who had lost a place to return to, was returned to her parents through Bibi''s body.

    ''this , this incompetent mother... ! Is this the best? Are you sure?''

    If it was the best, the incompetence would burst out with a sigh of relief. If it weren''t for that, I''d be on the verge of going tongue-in-cheek at that irresponsibility.

    At this point, wouldn''t it be a good idea to just call it a trollmea?

    What color is your blood? Reverse poetry or green?

    Sir Zion? Are you all right? The complexion doesn''t look good.

    Serpens called me with a more worried voice than before.

    I looked around and it wasn''t just that one person, but the faces of others as well.

    worries faded away

    It was then that I realized that I had been squeezing my temples and frowning my brows as I was.

    "Ah I was shaking so hard that I felt dizzy."

    Yes? It can''t be... Are you very dizzy?

    Embarrassed, he placed his hand on my head again and poured out his divine power.

    The warm energy rushed in and I was able to get a warm feeling, but it didn''t make me feel better because I didn''t touch it mentally.

    His expression darkened as he looked into my complexion.

    Or maybe it''s because I''m tired from the long journey. Come to think of it, are you two finished talking?

    ...I have already decided on the important decisions. After I contact the denomination tomorrow morning, a priest will come around the day after tomorrow to notarize.

    I seem to have realized that I have something to say to myself.

    Serpens said so and looked at Count Rivelon, and the Count nodded with a bewildered expression.

    "I''m sorry, you must be tired I was thinking about a hasty schedule, so I didn''t have enough consideration."

    It''s okay, isn''t it my schedule?

    Maybe he still couldn''t judge the situation, and Count Rivelon, who looked more tired than Serpence, was concerned about his fatigue.

    Acting tired without a serpence that is sure to be full of physical strength, he created a ''slightly tired but hard-working smile''.

    Then I''ll show you to the room right away.

    NS.

    I''ll guide you...!

    No, I''ll guide you! You''re more comfortable with that, right?

    As soon as the Count''s words fell, Charon wanted to intervene, but I had no choice but to cut his horse''s waist in half.

    Charon looked at me with fierce eyes that seemed to ask if he was like this.

    ''I''m sorry! I''ll tell Serpense to shake his hand before I go back.

    Teni, please make some concessions today!''

    I sent her eyes in the sense of , but Charon just looked at me with eyes that no one in the world could trust.

    "But you look tired, are you okay?"

    This means that if I am resting comfortably in my room, I will come to you.

    Yeah, it''s okay! Thanks to divine power, I''ve become lively again!

    If you go back to your room like this, Charon might come and ask you questions.

    There is a possibility that he won''t do it as much as he said he''s tired, but if he doesn''t have a chance, he may not have a chance to talk with Serpense until the day he returns.

    In that case, I will ask Sir Zion.

    Serpence affirmed with an expression that he had no choice but to deny the world.

 CH 155

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 155

    33. The Duke and Zion Rivelon (1)

    Perhaps it was thanks to the advance notice that Serpence would come from last month, the scenery in the guest room was very different from that in Zion''s memory.

    ''Have you ever spent money?''

    That being said, it cannot be compared to other nobles in the capital, but considering the circumstances of the Rivelon estate, it is needless to say that it was a considerable expenditure.

    Serpens, who did not know such a thing,

    I tore the soundproofing scroll as usual today.

    Now, the sound of the thick, tearing scroll could only be heard as the torn sound of Solertia''s heavy pockets.

    What do you mean to tell me? What is the situation earlier... And the headache still doesn''t go away? No, is it a headache? I''ve noticed something wrong since dinner... I shouldn''t have brought you here...

    Serpence took off the mask of external fence and asked me with an anxious face

    shot them

    His green eyes flickered unsteadily over the glasses.

    I''m coming to his hometown to see Shion''s brother, and if I fall out, Serpens must fall, so why am I missing out?

    Even if I thought about it, whether what I was saying was right or not, Serpens couldn''t resist and made a squeaky sound.

    Anyway, I''m going to be straight-forward.

    When he calmed down and opened his mouth, he nodded with a heavy expression on his face.

    "It seems that he has been reincarnated."

    " Is the language system in this place very different from the world where Seonwoo originally lived? So, do you feel any difficulty in composing a proper sentence?"

    I think I said too bluntly.

    Serpens asked the question with a very serious attitude. He was genuinely concerned, not joking or joking.

    Ahh! Come to think of it, there was no concept of reincarnation in this world, right?

    That''s not the only problem with Serpens.

    I made a face like Nira, but I decided to pretend I didn''t see it.

    He was the one who said first to stay as me.

    I''ve said the word ''reincarnation'' before. I remember talking about it in a fictional way back then...

    He also went into the main topic without further arguing as to whether he had any intention of arguing with one mouthful.

    It''s just a subject often used in novels, that''s what I was talking about.

    Instead of delaying the time by uttering the words, ''You used to talk about useless things,'' Serpence lightly chinked as if to tell him to talk.

    It''s a word related to one of the religions that exist in our world. Yoon-hwan''s former life and anything else, I think I''ll have to dig too deep to explain it, so I''ll pass it on and explain it briefly.

    Do what you feel comfortable with.

    "It refers to being reborn in a different body after death."

    "Is it something like a generational change of the ''Apostle''?"

    I was worried that it was too simple, but soon he brought out a concept that was most similar to it in this world.

    "No, it''s similar, but it''s completely different. If you think of it as the opposite concept, would you like it closer?"

    They were a continuous being, but at the same time separate beings.

    Memories, names, and appearances follow those of their predecessors, but their selves are so different that their hobbies, personalities, and tone of voice are often different.

    The illusion of erasing all memories of the same existence and being reborn as a different being from the essence

    It''s different with life.

    Ah! But mainly reincarnations in subcultures are reborn with complete memories...

    Ummm..., yes. Everything] I think I know perfectly well. That reincarnation and how Seon-woo brought the word back into his mouth.

    really?

    "Isn''t Seon-woo saying that the youngest member of the Rivelon family is the result of the reincarnation of Zion Rivelon with its self and memory intact?"

    "It''s a bit wordy, but I got it right.

    I did!"

    He frowned as if dissatisfied with my clear answer.

    "Why are you so sure?"

    In the honor of the Department of Child Welfare, I assure you, the behaviors Bibi showed today were not consistently the reactions of an ordinary baby.

    ...child?

    You], child! It''s my major!

    Serpens was speechless.

    Somehow, with an unfamiliar expression,

    After staring at him, he closed his eyes for a moment and nodded.

    You must have compromised with something inside.

    Is it because of the thing that grabbed your hair earlier?

    That''s also one of the reasons. If he were Zion, I would pretend to be himself and deceive and play tricks on his family. He may have thought that I had taken over my body through black magic, so I might have used divine power to drive him out.

    ...Ummm.

    "After driving out my soul like that, I thought that I could return to my original body "

    Is that so...?

    "Maybe it was simply because I was confused, because I felt quite impulsive."

    If he had been looking for a chance from the start, he should have jumped right in when his mother tried to hug him to me.

    ''Isn''t it a golden opportunity that Serpens was not present?''

    Shrug your shoulders and say, Serpens

    gave a slightly disappointed expression. You seem to be asking if that''s all.

    Why, do you often pinch your cheeks to check if it''s a dream or real life? It feels similar to that?

    Not when I was possessed, but if it was Shion who was killed by Serpens in the original.

    Comparing how far the conversations he had with his mother must have been with his memory, this was also a possibility.

    He discovered the gap between the reality he wanted to deny and the reality he knew.

    Well, it may have felt like the only way out.

    I can''t say it''s nonsense or nonsense.

    ''It''s been a dream since I attacked the Prasidus family aide... .''

    I was destined to draw such a wind.

    It must have been desperate and desperate. However, that hope would also have come true in an instant.

    Whether it was because they saw me as a demon worshiper, or because they denied reality. Whether they were complex and tangled.

    If he is Zion, that kind of behavior

    You can bring any number of reasons to show it. I must have been anxious, confused, and afraid.

    I did just that.

    Then, from your shoulder in front of me...

    That''s the biggest problem, that''s it!

    Under such meticulous calculations, Zion in his memory was not of the personality to judge the strong and the weak.

    It was just weak.

    A person who was originally docile has no answer when he gets angry, and a cornered mouse bites a cat.

    But for Serpens... .

    ''Through death, fear engraved in instinct I can''t explain anything other than that.''

    At the time when I was possessed, to Sion, a serpent was a high-ranking noble who would soon become a boss. The one who will become the master of the holy sword. An infinitely kind and merciful Duke.

    It had to be no more and no less.

    ''But Shion was reluctant to use Serpence and was afraid.''

    It wasn''t like he was nervous about making a mistake due to his prestige of being the Duke of the Empire.

    His touch and even eye contact with him. Weren''t you embarrassed and avoided it?

    Couldn''t even show the hostility and held my breath.

    When I first became possessed by Zion''s body, I didn''t avoid Serpence that much.

    Contrary to the vague fear I felt, something much more distinct was felt in him.

    ...isn''t there really no chance of an illusion?

    "Why are you like this today?

    If there is any talent, leave it open and examine it more calmly than anyone else... .

    Serpens kept her mouth shut and avoided her gaze.

    Now that I see it, it wasn''t that he didn''t believe what I was saying.

    Does Serpens want him not to be Zion?

    I wonder if Shion knows her true nature. It will not be a denial of reality.

    If you''re worried about that, you''ll try to solve the problem somehow.

    The guy was moving quite emotionally now.

    I want to ask the opposite. Why does Seonwoo want to believe it?

    I just made a cold judgment based on what I saw. Moreover, there is nothing strange about having a reincarnation while the possessor is so well-behaved, isn''t it?

    So, you''re asking why you can judge so soberly. If that existence is ''Zion Rivelon, what does it mean. You don''t know...''

    Well then.

    If he is Zion, it means that he will not return Zion''s body to him.

    It could also be interpreted as meaning that he would not send me back soon.

    Why can Seonwoo be so calm? You always miss the place and want to see the precious people who will be there.

    He''s really... .

    With a face that says you will be lonely if you leave. If you''re going to make a face asking you not to throw it away, don''t even say a word.

    Still, it is ironic that I do not show any joy in the possibility that I will not be able to return.

    There''s no certainty that this will happen. It may just be that Zion''s soul cannot be kept on standby forever, so it may have been sent down. How do you think it is because Luxmea can''t communicate? You can see that they care. Who knows? In fact, the world I used to live in has stopped time, and is it a system that returns to its original body when Zion finishes her life?"

    " I don''t know you."

    Despite my hopeful words, Serpence still had a melancholy look on her face.

    Usually, the main subject of good posture is "

    You''re talking nonsense again.

    Were you keeping your mouth shut?"

    Didn''t you say it with an expression on your face? As usual, you must have been mumbled inside your mouth.

    It''s not a mumble, it''s a gossip.

    In the words, I can clearly see how disrespectful he usually thinks of me.

    looked ahead

    Haha... Seonwoo. Even if you have come up with such hopeful thoughts, on the other hand, aren''t you still anxious. That''s probably the answer you desperately found to deny that anxiety. Am I wrong?

    He let out a long breath with no energy, and stabbed him in the face with a bitter voice.

    We''ll talk about that later. There''s something more important than that.

    "This is also important. At least for you, it should be more so.

    Ji.

    "That''s right, but first, we have to solve the problems we encountered "

    please !

    At that one word so desperately, the door was shut.

    Please, even at this time, if you can honestly tell me your anxiety, if you lean on me... Can''t you just cry? So that I can comfort you .

    Uh, that''s...

    "Every time something like this happens, my incompetence rushes in so badly.

    Do you know how powerless I feel when I can''t do anything? So please... .

    The only thing I did for him was mental comfort.

    It is not that he directly ripped out his past. Nothing has changed substantially. The scars of the past are still there.

    But that alone gave him great comfort.

    Since he doesn''t have the strength to bring me back, so that I can take even a little comfort from myself.

    Hoping to find even a little bit of stability. That he wants to pay it back."

    I don''t know why it''s me. But this time, it''s really important. I''m not going to bury it at all, I just want to put it off for a while.

    "I know. I think I will soon understand what Seonwoo is trying to say . So, for now, focus on your own problems."

    Even though I know...!

    There was no further discussion of how this could be done.

    Serpence is very small, ''Shh... .'' He made a sound and raised his index finger.

    It wasn''t that he covered his mouth or threatened him, but he had no choice but to keep his mouth shut due to some unknown pressure.

    Isn''t it enough to just talk to me today? I didn''t want to bury it, I just wanted to put it off for a while.

    So now:

    A quiet, quiet tone of voice penetrated my heart deeper than a sharp cry.

    A hoarse voice sounded like it was piercing the heart.

    "Then, wait I''ll lean on you for a minute."

    "How many times have I not told you to do that?"

    This means that you do not need to ask for permission.

 CH 156

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 156

    33. The Duke and Zion Rivelon (2)

    I didn''t look at my watch, so I don''t know exactly how much time has passed.

    However, this time too, it was certain that he did not exceed the unit of time like anyone else.

    A little , heh heh. I feel refreshed.

    Look at that.

    Serpens said with a proud face.

    It looks like they come to eat something delicious from anywhere, and they stick to it and go around recommending it here and there.

    ''Is it delicious? Isn''t that right?'' He said and smiled for some reason as his eyes seemed to twinkle.

    Wow! But I even cried like this], if it wasn''t for Zion, it would be really useless. Right?

    Stop talking nonsense...

    As Serpens''s fingers lightly brushed past his eyes, his heavy eyelids softened.

    Maybe it''s because I cried and brushed it off

    The pace was clear and refreshing.

    ''That''s why people say catharsis and look for sad movies?''

    I thought of it because I was doing a movie, but why didn''t I think of this when I was looking for a hobby?

    Of course there are no films in this world, but opera and theater bands do exist.

    While being able to indirectly experience various emotions for Serpens, it can be said that it is a very noble hobby in the eyes of others.

    As the demon worshipers run rampant, cultural students

    Before the bows are finished, as soon as I have time

    "Sunwoo? Are you thinking of something completely unrelated to the current situation?"

    Hot! How did you know?!

    When he announced that he had given the correct answer in surprise, Serpens frowned.

    Sometimes I doubt that Seonwoo''s acting like this is because he doesn''t feel real in this world, or if he''s just escaping from reality.

    No. It''s just that my original personality is like this.

    Is it?"

    Yes, yes. That means that I have regained enough free time to think about something else, so I''m really glad....

    The words ended with a period, but somehow it sounded like a question-form, ''Are you lucky?''

    Even if the words are positive, it''s good to see them!

    "You acted like you had to start talking before, but now why do you keep leaking the other way?"

    Serpens was right. I

    I was in a hurry because I was so anxious. Anyway, all we need to do is finish talking before the night is over! The more important the issue, the more relaxed we need to think and talk about it!"

    I am glad that you have found peace of mind.

    Haha When I smiled and spoke brightly, Serpence looked like a guy with flowers in his hair. Even that wasn''t enough.

    Now that it''s done, it''s an indirect expression to tell the main body or something.

    Assuming that Bibi is Zion, a

    The biggest problem is the attitude towards serpens... . What do you think?"

    It''s not a normal reaction. I''m used to it sometimes.

    he said with a bitter smile.

    Unconsciously, like a person shivering in the cold, he shrugs and grabs his arms as if embracing him.

    His gaze was also lowered.

    ''What is that reaction of reluctance, fear, and turning away? Why are you so familiar with that?''

    When I was young, I had to be rejected and turned away from helping people around me.

    It didn''t look like he was saying anything.

    It was the same as turning away, but the underlying emotions were different.

    Serpense''s reaction to the topic is also different from what it is now.

    "Who did that?"

    His head was raised again.

    Serpens stared at me, who had become an axe-eye, and took a small deep breath, releasing the power in his hands.

    Dark creases remained in the area where the hand fell off.

    "Uh , uhm."

    Serpens rolled the word over and over again in her mouth, and in the end picked out the dry expression, "The former Duchess of Prasidus," and spit it out.

    "I know there was no nanny, but isn''t there even the least amount of recognition for breastfeeding yourself?"

    Ummm... It''s not clearly stated or established by theories, but in the Empire, there is a kind of superstition that the divine power of a sucker also affects babies.

    Former Duke of Prasidus

    He was a man who used all sorts of things to make him the master of the holy sword.

    If I could increase my divine power even a little bit more, it would mean that I accepted it at will, even if it was an uncertain method.

    ''Even so, the reason to be afraid of serpens... , Oh.''

    She originally wanted to become a priest.

    Although he did not want to, he married and had a child for the sake of a cause. I got married in a hurry, and the same goes for pregnancy and childbirth.

    Everything went in a direction she didn''t want to go.

    Even when depression came, there was nothing strange, and he was not even given time to study himself. The condition must have gotten worse.

    ''Postpartum depression... . Maybe he went to postpartum mental illness.''

    The ex-duke and wife had a thorough business relationship, and there was no consideration, interest, or love for each other.

    A relationship that imposes only responsibility.

    The same applied to Serpens, who was a child.

    ''When I saw the Duke of Prasidus treat Serpence, I felt my feelings.

    Are you trying to justify

    What''s his holy sword? What is the owner of the holy sword, and why does Idaji make people suffer?

    ''No. What is the reason that the Holy Sword came down in the first place?''

    I wish I was a demon worshiper, a bastard, and just been out of this world forever.

    If you like demons that much, you will hold hands with them and live in the demon world hahaho, I don''t know why people keep recommending demons to people on the continent who don''t like them.

    The devil is spam, what?

    Come back to the point, in the first place

    If I had been afraid, I wouldn''t have even flowed in as an assistant.

    Yes.

    If it''s so scary and terrifying... is it true that you are considering the possibility that the reincarnated is Zion Rivelon, who was ''killed by me''?

    Maybe I was pretending to know without knowing in order to divert my attention from the outside to the inside, but there was a slightly suspicious corner.

    ''I really did know that.''

    No matter how much Bibi turns her head and tries to avoid it, it just passes by and her eyes

    There must have been this moment when we met.

    It cannot be noticed by a third person''s eyes. There must have been such a moment

    As long as it''s your job. As much as there are traumas from the past. I could have noticed it more agilely.

    Is there no possibility that he is not ''Zion Rivelon''? For example, because he is a messenger of the gods, he knows my ugly nature... I can''t...

    What''s the nature of Serpence?!

    ...Oh!

    Serpens was startled like a cat surprised by the cucumber, and covered his mouth with his hand.

    It''s already too late, bastard!

    "Seo, Seonwoo ! Mi, I''m sorry. I won''t do that again."

    "I really can''t afford it! They said raising children is no use!"

    That''s not the kind of thing you say.

    "Ugly is not the word for that!"

    Serpense shrugged with an expression that he had only lost money after arguing for nothing.

    He seems to have learned the truth of life that when he gets scolded, he can get to the middle of the road if he stays quiet.

    Wrong.

    Only in words?

    O.Uh

    , , ��

    I knew it wasn''t something that could be changed overnight.

    I thought I''d improved a lot, but seeing it coming out of my mouth unintentionally

    The road was long.

    sigh comes out

    Sunwoo-...

    Serpens dragged the last of my name and called me.

    It''s very sad to see you look at me, doing more than a sullen cat with droopy ears.

    Where else in the world can a gentleman like this brainwash such a terrible idea?

    You''re not going to use those words again, are you?

    I won''t even think about it.

    Right, right.

    After my mind calmed down, I was belatedly wondering if it was okay to treat a 25-year-old adult man like this, but what?

    Seeing the guy breathing a sigh of relief, it doesn''t seem to matter.

    "Anyway, how do you think Serpense should solve this situation?"

    I don''t think I''m doing it sanely, but once I ask if it''s right for me, and if my assumption is right... I''ll have to convince him.

    Trying to have a serious conversation with an infant less than two months old who is not even two years old.

    Sure enough, I could only hear someone say I was crazy when I heard it.

    ''Still, you don''t sound like annihilation of murder.

    It is the evolution of the family.

    The problem is, how do you separate the baboons, that''s it...

    If that''s the case, I think I''ll be able to solve it.

    He lamented himself to be incompetent.

    However, the universal fence did not go anywhere.

    how?

    Wasn''t there a holy power runaway a while ago? Using that as an excuse to scare you moderately and take a closer look...

    "Yes?! Was that a runaway?"

    "Then what did you know?"

    When I was startled, Serpens put on a strange expression on his face.

    If you can''t control yourself, is it a runaway or other runaway?

    It is, though.

    The divine power is a stable power, so runaway is not common. Unlike other powers, it can be easily stabilized with external help like I did.

    It is one of the common clich��s for the main character to receive a great psychological shock, to run out of power, and to overcome it and grow one step further.

    ''I didn''t know that kind of content was coming from [Master of the Holy Sword], so I thought there was no such thing as divine power.

    Humanus This guy, one mental

    you were strong

    Then you look at the dick, what is it? That on the day of choice. If you think about it, you can''t help but have a better mentality than me.

    Also, the main character didn''t do anything.

    Even in very young children, it''s very rare.

    It seems that anyone can do the main character these days. Don''t you know if I''m going to be the main character like this?

    "The problem is that there are usually adults around who can use divine power.

    In the case of expression unrelated to heredity, the power is weak, so it does not matter... .

    "It''s different with Vivi, isn''t it?"

    Serpens nodded.

    I''m talking about being different, isn''t the one in the rain rain an adult?

    In terms of forcibly dragging and using the divine power without knowing how to handle it, it might be easier to cry than a normal child.

    I got a rough idea of what it felt like.

    For example, when drowsiness comes.

    If it is common to hold on for a while and then fall asleep naturally, Bibi drinks a special drink that says she will use up her stamina for tomorrow and falls asleep like a savage after holding on forcibly.

    To achieve the goal with extremely low efficiency, I used the power that was beyond my control, so it''s worth running into a runaway.

    You''re just holding your head, do you do that?

    In terms of the amount of divine power used...

    Serpens, who had been looking into their eyes, looked slightly upwards.

    Zion''s olive-colored hair must have been located where his gaze touched, and the meaning is .

    Words become seeds. It''s not okay to say things like that.

    Yes.

    Until now, I had a lot of dissatisfaction with the lack of divine power in Zion''s body.

    he is accustomed to using divine power

    If you''ve been sleeping, by now... .

    let''s not think

    Anyway, didn''t the body emit light as evidence that the divine power was wasted?

    The divine power that should have been completely used as kinetic energy was consumed as light energy.

    "By the way, when you use your divine power, it emits light, right?"

    "When acting externally, have you ever seen me do that when strengthening the body?"

    To be honest, he has divine powers.

    There is no way for me to tell whether the body has been strengthened or not.

    Even if you don''t use that, don''t you run with one arm around me?

    When did you use it?

    "You didn''t think that it was possible to jump over the wall in one month with the pure physical strength of a human being, right?"

    What do you know at the point of transition between the limits of the full physical abilities of superhumans in the fantasy world and their enhanced abilities?

    But, why are you talking about such an important thing now? Isn''t that something that should have been announced earlier?

    "I thought the story would be long ?"

    For that reason, the kid ran out and melted down, but he kept his mouth shut?

    With an absurd expression on his face, Serpens opened his mouth as if he was unfair.

    I have something to tell you, isn''t it Seonwoo who sent the signal that the two of us should fall asleep?

    Whatever happened, I''ll only talk to you today

    Where did the person who said it was over went?

 CH 157

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 157

    33. The Duke and Zion Rivelon (3)

    I arrived at his room, tracing the memories left in Zion''s body.

    Why the light again?

    There will never be a day when the light is as tired as today.

    Light leaked through the crack under the door, leaving a long trail in the dark hallway. Its appearance is like a shadow made of light

    all.

    When I slowly opened the door and entered, I found that On was putting away the teacup and the like.

    What are you doing here...

    I was trying to use respectful words as usual, but realized that this place was Rivelon''s territory and looked around.

    If it''s the older brother, he''s tired of waiting and just went back to his room.

    "What time is it now, have you been waiting all this time?"

    Did you not come late on purpose to avoid hyung?

    From what I saw, Xeon heard that Charon was waiting for me in my room, so it must have come to tune in the middle.

    "I said I was going to rest because I was tired "

    Didn''t you take the duke with you saying it''s flimsy?

    This guy''s mouth is square.

    I didn''t aim for this kind of situation, even if the conversation was a little short

    I almost ran into Charon inside.

    By the way .

    Yes?

    it''s nothing.

    Jeon, who seemed to say something, hurriedly moved the teapots on the tray and lifted them up.

    It seems that there was a slight ray of concern in that figure.

    Since something like that happened before, he must have been worried about Zion''s body.

    I just want to scratch and make a crumb

    Since I didn''t, I didn''t have to ask.

    Then I''ll go out too.

    Xeon passed me by, giving me an official greeting.

    there!

    Yes.

    "Uh, uh "

    Say it.

    As if I had something to say urgently, I called him and stood up and hesitantly,

    Xeon said as if urging.

    But it didn''t come off easily.

    It was quite impulsive that I summoned Xeon.

    ''Should I tell you about the possibility that Bibi is Zion?

    Because that thought suddenly came to mind.

    But sooner or later, may I say something that is not certain? Even if it is certain, if Zion does not want to reveal it, etc.

    Several thoughts crossed my mind and I was speechless.

    In the end, all I could say was this one word.

    it''s nothing.

    Was it because of what he said a while ago came back exactly as it was?

    My On''s expression frowned as if I thought I was playing a prank to get back the same thing.

    If you don''t have anything to say, I''ll really go D.

    With those words, Xeon left the room without even hearing my answer.

    I stood and pondered in the empty room.

    ''Should I wash and sleep, or should I sleep and wash?''

    Up until now, I''ve come to confide in Serpence about my fantasy anguish and discuss fantasy issues.

    As if shouting that this is also a reality, suddenly realistic worries came over.

    It was late at night, so I simply washed my face, got up and showered, and headed to the bathroom.

    "Anoe, Jinchi. Serpens, and ."

    The two suddenly checked my reflection in the mirror I looked at], there was no way I could stop being absurd.

    He asked himself if it was enough to treat the swollen eye area, and washed away the white tear marks from his face.

    ''You shouldn''t have told me before you left the room!''

    At the brief teatime that started after breakfast, Serpens brought up the story of Bibi as he had already decided with me.

    With good timing, Bibi struggled with the drowsiness that had been pouring in throughout the meal, and then ended up falling asleep.

    "How is the condition of the youngest Confucius?

    are you?"

    I am very healthy. Thank you for your concern.

    The countess replied with a smile of relief to his expression of concern for anyone who saw it.

    "How about Sion?"

    Yes? I''m fine too. Thanks to the Duke''s divine power...

    I''m glad you did. I was so busy yesterday that I couldn''t pay much attention to you, so I''m sorry, Mom.

    "No, the youngest is still young, so of course we have to take care of the youngest first."

    At my answer, the Countess smiled at her eccentricity. Even Count Rivelon looked pleased.

    Anyway, I thought that it would be good if Vivi and Zion were right.

    "Based on what happened then, I have something I want to tell you."

    When Serpens opened his mouth again, the eyes of the Rivelon couple separated from me and turned to him.

    Yesterday''s event happened as the divine power ran rampant.

    "Hey, maybe something really wrong?"

    No. In the case of divine power, external help can control it instead, and if you have a certain amount of control, you can easily subdue it.

    At Serpence''s calm reply, Count Lee Bellon had a relieved expression on his face.

    And that reassurance soon turns into a mystery

    It changed, and Serpens, who noticed it, spoke first before he asked.

    "Actually, I should have told you right away yesterday, but things went by without a hitch, and it was not possible to say anything right away . NS.

    I''m sorry! Rather, I''m just grateful that you took such consideration into consideration.

    You think so, thank you so much.

    At the expression of regret of the smoke fence assigned to the hotkey number 2, Count Rivellon was at a loss for what to do.

    "But when it comes to external help or self-control "

    There was no one in the Rivelon family who possessed divine power, and it was absurd to seek control over a baby less than two months old.

    However

    "In the case of the child, even at a young age, when dealing with the divine power, he did not rely only on his instinct, but recognized and used it to some extent.�[�� Considering that, if I could give you a little help, something like today will never happen again.

    Oh, oh-!

    It is possible that your child is a genius

    It is. And the one who guarantees it is Serpence, no one else.

    Something fresh and something to know.

    ''My child is a genius.''

    It was a magical keyword.

    Hot...! Khuh, if it doesn''t bother you, can I ask you a favor?

    Of course. Haven''t you already promised to donate? If you can help, feel free to ask.

    Hey, I''m not that careless. Even so, I''ve received so many favors, I don''t know how to repay it...

    "Don''t feel burdened. If you are in a situation where you can help, isn''t it natural for you to help?"

    Really, Prince Prasidus is...!

    With the face that the smoke fence had unleashed, he spoke in a friendly voice with a benevolent and warm smile placed on shortcut number 1.

    It was the inner acting that I was really happy to be able to help.

    It has an excellent effect in winning people''s hearts and forcing them into the crucible of emotion.

    The people of the Rivelon family were no exception, and they were busy floundering there.

    In the meantime, Serpens was conscious of Zeon, and did not forget to show a lonely and splendid look in their eyes.

    "That''s why I''m saying this, but quietly with your child for a while um , Sir Zion?"

    Yep!

    Given the situation when I arrived, the youngest Confucius seems to have reacted to the lord... Sorry for the trouble, but would you like to help?

    Sure!

    Me and Serpens. And Bibi suspected of being Zion. It was a conversation that the three of us had planned in advance to create a three-way face-to-face composition.

    Things went as expected.

    No, I thought so.

    "Is the purpose of creating the same situation as yesterday?"

    Until the Countess of Rivelon, who can be said to be the protagonist of the firefighting case, intervened.

    I can see that. I don''t know exactly why he acted like that, but he aids in the control of the divine power in an exasperated state and indirectly shows how to control it.

    I''m thinking of learning it.

    "Then, shouldn''t I be there with you?"

    Ummm... Sir Sion has been around for a long time, so it''s okay to get used to it, but it''s hard for me to concentrate when there''s other people...

    As if Serpens was in trouble, he blurted out the end of his speech.

    The Countess also had a troubled expression on her face.

    I''ve been thinking about it all night, but it''s still the same.'' called

    I think the word was the problem. Isn''t Rain and Rain excited about the harsh pronunciation of continuous sounds?

    It cannot be proved logically at all, but at first glance, it was an opinion that sounded quite scientific.

    ''If that''s the case, would a sentence like, ''Dussey, a hamburger, a mutton, ''will cause a lot of competition?''

    Reliability converges to 0%.

    But the Countess has no doubts that I will be right.

    it looks like

    I wonder if the baboon sleeping in my arms might wake up, omitting the word and saying it.

    "Shion is like my father and older brother, so I don''t think Vivi will be unfamiliar with it."

    Thank you for your kind comments. We will refer to it.

    Are you okay?

    Yes?

    "When, that can you do it?"

    It wasn''t something he really had to do, but Serpense''s eyes fluttered slightly.

    Could it have been that he unconsciously remembered himself holding Vivi''s hands in his head and saying, ''Dttchi, Dttchi!''?

    That''s what I do:

    Hey! Then the Duke''s hair won''t get caught!

    Is your son''s hair okay?!

    To my question, she answered with an awkward smile. but do this

    By the way, if I had to donate either Serpens''s hair or mine, I''m willing to give mine.

    Considering the cost the world has to pay, that''s right.

    If I had to choose between Serpens''s short hair and my shaved hair, it would be quite difficult, but in the end, I chose a shaved hair.

    wouldn''t it?

    We will try.

    As if he had made up his mind in the meantime, Serpence said with a determined expression on his face.

    No matter how much it ends in the sing-sing phase, if I had to choose between grabbing my hair and saying goodbye, I think the latter was better.

    shameful guy.

    Then, as soon as he wakes up, we''ll start right away.

    Yes, please.

    There was a small happening in the middle, but the desired picture was drawn anyway.

    Serpens reached out to the Countess, and she put a baboon in his arms.

    Vivi was still asleep, unaware that she had fallen into the hands of Serpens, who was so reluctant. As he was unconscious, he fully felt the comfortable ride and was seen smiling comfortably.

    So, we were handed Bibi and headed to the inner room where the incident took place yesterday.

    Serpence was of the opinion that it would be good to have a place.

    "Are you going to do it?

    I will never do it.

    Will Serpence, who is watching Vivi, be distracted by any chance?

    Thanks to the people of the Lee Bellongi who vacated the entire floor, Serpens has been able to speak comfortably.

    "Hey, why don''t you try it?"

    hate.

    The expression on his face when he said that was very firm and determined. The world couldn''t be so stubborn.

 CH 158

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 158

    33. The Duke and Zion Rivelon (4)

    I was worried that I would have to wait endlessly for Bibi to wake up, but that ended in rain.

    Serpens woke up with a whimper as if she was complaining of discomfort, terrified of putting Vivi on the seat next to the sofa she was sitting on.

    ''He was growing up really nicely.''

    It looks like I''m putting it down somewhere

    have never seen

    Ugh..., ah?

    After waking up, Bibi mumbled as if asking for a hug and stretched out her arms and found Serpens''s face looking down at her and froze.

    How cute is the way he blankly opens his mouth and rolls his blue eyes.

    It is highly likely that the soul contained in it is Zion, and now is not the only place to confirm it.

    Otherwise, they might have hugged and rubbed the cheeks right away.

    "Zion Rivelon, right?"

    Huh?! Uh-huh, woo-woong .

    In response to Serpence''s question, the baby, presumed to be Zion, flinched. In fact, it is like admitting that Zion is right.

    Perhaps it was to make a fuss about it, he licked his mouth and pretended to be an ordinary baby.

    But, maybe he couldn''t make eye contact with Serpens, and he shook his head.

    After turning and making eye contact with me, I couldn''t convince myself at all because of the stiff expression on my face.

    Huh, uh-!

    When I woke up, I couldn''t see anyone in my family, and the only people I saw around me were me and Serpens.

    Whether he was the real Zion or a baby who knew nothing. It is a situation worthy of fear.

    "If I had cried, I would have doubted that I was an ordinary baby "

    I was sure of it as I swallowed it again.

    At my murmuring, he realized his mistake and took a deep breath. frightened,

    "Is that right?"

    Seeing the baby unable to even make a crying sound and shedding tears, it seems that he has become an irreplaceable piece of garbage in the world.

    My heart was so heavy and sad, I only laughed bitterly.

    I, maybe...

    Yes? Why?

    All of a sudden, Serpens spoke to me. It was as if he had seen something monstrous.

    It''s nothing. I''m that, poem... no...

    Just call me by my real name. It''s confusing for nothing.

    That , umm. I see.

    He seemed a little hesitant, then nodded as if he couldn''t be sharp.

    nodded.

    "Anyway, why me?"

    I thought Seonwoo was intentionally creating a horror atmosphere, but I just... he didn''t have much of a thought...

    I didn''t even give him time to judge the situation, and he wanted me to go through my identity verification with a person who had a dream and nightmare.

    Who are you talking to now?

    "Anyway, Zion is right.

    It seems obvious, so what now?

    When my eyes met, the baby trembled, not knowing whether to call it Vivi or Zion.

    He was so frightened that he looked like he was going to run out of breath at any moment.

    Three, Serpens!

    Confused, she called out Serpens''s name.

    Serpens realized the meaning and placed a hand on Zion''s forehead. city

    On shook his head desperately as if trying to shake off his hand, but it was not enough.

    A silvery light flowed into Zion. The breath that had been barely chugging quietly subsided as if it had ever been.

    I didn''t know you''d be so scared...

    Even when I was with my family, I felt anxious, but except when I grabbed my hair, I was pretty calm.

    As soon as there is no place to turn to, this dodge will be afraid.

    "First of all, I think we should explain why Sunwoo entered that body."

    "Ah that''s right."

    That way, it will be possible to argue about Serpence as well.

    I am the messenger of the god Luxmea...

    Still, a lot of the feeling of shriveling is gone because I''ve said it before.

    all.

    Previously, it felt like time and space were shrinking, but today it was only to the extent that my hands and feet were shrinking.

    If you do this a few more times, you might be able to put an iron plate on your face and gossip around the neighborhood.

    I know it''s going to be hard to believe, but you''ve noticed that to some extent, too, right? All the time you''ve had since you became a member of the Pra Sidus family is gone and turned upside down.

    I gave you, who was already dead, with divine power, and made you reborn, and made my soul dwell at an earlier point in time. It is absolutely impossible to perform such a miracle by magic. Zion is a man of this world, so you can do better than me. You know.

    it n

    I don''t know if the conversation is being established properly or if I''m just talking to myself.

    Raised and seated a 2-month-old baby... It''s not like I''m lying down, what are you doing with this? Suddenly, a sense of weirdness creeps in.

    Oh, hey, hey !

    Huh, man?

    Child!

    No? Oh, a lie...?

    Is it because you think your identity has already been revealed? He opened his mouth to convey my intentions.

    the fact that the conversation was accepted

    means there is room for persuasion.

    Although the content of the speech was negative, I decided to take it as a positive reaction.

    ''And the fact that I reacted to these words is not the time line that I possessed, but the original standard... .''

    I was expecting it, but after checking it myself, I was filled with worry and relief at the same time.

    I''m at a loss as to how to get him to accept serpenes.

    it was felt

    But it was nothing compared to what would have happened had he not noticed that he was Zion.

    ''When he opens his mouth, if he says that it was Serpens who killed him... .''

    My mind was dizzy.

    It''s a shame because ''Bibi'' was born with more divine power than normal.

    Without it, there would have been no reason for Serpens to come down to Rivelon''s estate like this, and if

    I was almost unaware of this fact.

    ''Even if I only think about Xeon... .''

    How can I be with the person who killed my brother with my brother''s body? Knowing that, I would have criticized him for taking the side of Serpens.

    Even though I only thought of the possibility for a moment, a cold sweat ran down my spine.

    ''I have to convince you somehow.''

    in what way

    Even if he was murdered by , the memory will not be erased. The fear will continue to haunt him.

    It would be best if you could forgive me, but is it really impossible?

    If that''s the case, then at least it''s a silence.

    I''m not lying! For the sake of this continent''s well-being... Oh, of course, I''m not in a position to be armed, but that''s because Zion''s body is... Oh, no. I don''t mean to blame.

    yo. This .

    The suspicious eyes kept staring at me. It was the first time I realized that the eyes of a baby can be bitter at times.

    Uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh huh?

    I r)n

    (

    How to interpret the babbling of a baby less than two months old was not taught even in college.

    ''If I had been in the Department of Early Childhood Education, not the Department of Child Welfare, I would understand.

    Was there?''

    Hyeonta came to major for a while.

    Also, learning at school and on-the-job training are different.

    ''Maybe Serpense would have understood!''

    As if Shion is two months old physically, but mentally is an adult.

    Serpence is an adult in the body, but not a child in terms of mental age.

    Hey, with those eyes full of anticipation

    Even if you look... .

    Serpence had a troubled expression on his face and blurred the end of his speech.

    I guess it can''t be done either.

    Unknowingly showing disappointment, his expression became noticeably pale.

    "Woah, whoa, baby ?

    I still don''t know what it means, but I''m sure it''s something I''m puzzled about.

    View the current situation with an objective eye

    Let''s take a look.

    It may seem that I made Serpens do a nonsensical task and bruised him, saying that I was disappointed when he couldn''t do it.

    ''I''m not even a disappointing company commander... .''

    You should also get a decent grip. No matter how hard a company commander is, only the parts that can be fixed with at least effort... , was it?

    stop thinking

    "We have already disclosed the situation to Serpense and are getting cooperation.

    all. I am a messenger of God... I can see a little bit of the future as a character, but I don''t have the strength to change it, so I''m getting help from him.

    Mao ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah ah!

    " Yes?"

    It''s not!

    Isn''t that too harsh a denial?

    " Siaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah?"

    You seem to be saying something very seriously, but I have no idea.

    Also because of the fact that he died by Serpens... come

    It''s hard to remember, but by any chance, when he died... No, can you tell us about the cause?

    Huh?

    "Oh, that''s because I was dispatched in a hurry, so there were a lot of things I didn''t hear.

    [The], because of various circumstances, the order was suddenly issued... .

    uh?'',

    That''s pretty absurd even I think. What kind of work are you going to do afterward, or something like that?

    But is it true?

    And the future I know is from the Day of Choice and beyond. Zion did not exist in that future. �[h Serpens had two assistants, and the second

    After the death of the aide. There were no more assistants. No, should I say no?"

    You''re afraid of serpenes. I think the two facts have something to do with each other.

    Ah...!

    Shion''s gaze turned to Serpens.

    Serpens killed Zion himself at the time line where I did not come.

    knew that

    Serpence had a nervous look on what he felt in that line of glance.

    "Ah ? Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh?"

    uh... .

    Two pairs of eyes, fearing each other, intertwined in the air for a short time.

    '' What do we do? It''s a big deal!''

    A problem I''ve felt before

    all.

    I tried to turn away, but now I had to admit that it was impossible.

    The fact that it was absolutely impossible for me to be serious when a cute baby in a blue dress frowned and clenched his mouth over and over again... !

    ''Why are you so cute and angry? Who wants to dress up a kid like this? Who else hung the ribbon?!''

    I can''t understand the words, just

    All I could hear was a cute babbling.

    In this case, look at Serpens with a sad expression on his face.

    He''s visibly frightened again. And knowing the cause all too well, it breaks my heart.

    ''By the way, the object of that fear is a baby about 2 months old, this is another... .''

    It''s crazy to me that all I see is two little children staring at each other.

    It''s not a situation to be taken lightly, but because it looks cute. I was just wondering if this could really be the case.

    Ai, ah, Shugyeom .

    Ah, I think I know this. You said you killed me.

    Suddenly, my heart went cold.

    Ah Pua Aia! Lose Poya Gyao Sugar Ginger! Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

    Shion released the resentment she had been holding down with fear.

    ,...Perhaps.,

    I don''t know in what spirit I asked him to explain the situation.

    With what kind of baseless confidence did I believe that I would be able to understand everyone?

    ''Should I come back later?''

    Because of the divine power, it is difficult to predict when a relatively accurate pronunciation will be possible.

    I got the timing wrong. What if everything was revealed when I came down to the Counts?

    Should I go to the duke''s house and ask Hans how many months Serpence spoke his first word? do you want to know

    Uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh uh !

    flaw

    Serpence is terrified of what he''s listening to, or is he just reacting to a cry of resentment.

    I shrugged my body.

    I suffer too.

    I am so distressed and sorry for not being able to concentrate on my own in this situation.

    Oh, what to do with these poor babies?!

 CH 159

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 159

    33. The Duke and Zion Rivelon (5)

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], he met many eyes.

    Most of them were gazes like resentment, fear, hatred, and burning. He laughed as if he was enjoying it beyond the extent of not paying attention to those gazes.

    But.

    In the last moment of his recollection, he was afraid of the gaze of others.

    As a result of struggling to get out of it... .

    ''Do you think that fear turns into madness, and in the end, even that becomes dull?''

    Therefore, the Serpence before the Day of Election would at least not have killed the innocent.

    I know it now.

    A sense of self-doubt in the eyes filled with hatred and disgust.

    A sense of guilt in the gaze of fear and resentment.

    In the meantime, Serpens endured them.

    They were able to take their lives because they were wicked people, and therefore could use the pretext of a ''necessary evil''.

    Therefore, I believe that there must have been a good reason that he killed Zion.

    ''But if you ask if Zion is a person capable of committing a bad thing .''

    The biggest problem is that it isn''t.

    The most likely cause is the incident on Semita Street.

    It''s really disgustingly mentioned,

    If what I experienced here could be made into a novel like [Master of the Holy Sword]... .

    ''Are the readers going to shout ''again''?''

    But it was good to be half sure.

    At that time, if Zion had believed in Serpence to the end without being deceived by the devil worshipers, Serpence would have trusted him even a little bit.

    Serpense was like that when I first met him.

    Constantly doubting and pushing. Acting as if living alone, but

    It was so heavy I was looking for a place to lean on.

    ''Anyway, it''s not what I''m doing right now, so it''s something I don''t even remember''.''

    The self-hatred that had permeated to his bones stimulated Serpence''s sense of remorse and instigated suffering.

    From his point of view, the person he killed appears sadly and shouts, ''You killed me!''

    ''It''s a horror movie, what is it?''

    Just imagining it gives me goosebumps. enough

    I was terribly afraid.

    Even so.

    ''You don''t need to be scared of a 2-month-old baby who is babbling at your helplessness!?''

    These words came up to the bottom of my throat, but I couldn''t get it out of my mouth, so I pressed it in.

    I have a conscience too.

    It had been less than 24 hours since the baby grabbed the hair and shook it. I have no right to say anything to Serpense like that.

    ''If you look at me like that

    It''s a bit complicated... .''

    Even though I grabbed the collar once, it was my child who I cherished without lifting it every once.

    I feel a little bit upset because it feels like I''ve seen a child raised so finely at kindergarten beaten up by another family member.

    It''s stronger, but even more so in that it''s been kind to me.

    ''You''re so kind and gentle, what would you have done without me? How did you live in this harsh world alone? .''

    how to live

    They overturned and slaughtered everything, and lived as a harsher suspense than a harsh world.

    Ah hye Deweyyag!

    Shion, who was reborn as a baboon, once again shouted an incomprehensible voice.

    If you don''t think deeply about what you''re saying, you''re just a cute baby.

    However, it seems that the cuteness is not contained in Serpense''s eyes. He still has a pale face.

    The way I looked in the mirror when I was young was so cute,

    Have you ever developed immunity to a lower level of cuteness?

    I don''t know what happened... but I''m sorry for everything.

    Sion burst into tears as if she was overcome with sorrow at Serpens''s words.

    As I watched the two of them go back and forth between cruelty and cuteness, I started to get confused.

    "Hey, both of you, calm down and talk again slowly", sweetheart, talk ."

    talk is bullshit.

    I can''t do that, so I''m doing this now

    That''s right, I''m really excited!

    When I asked Zion about the situation at the time, it was not my intention to see such a taunting feast.

    It was to clear up misunderstandings about Serpence and to let Zion know that he was not a bad person.

    Even though I was the first to speak of the incident .

    ''Didn''t you also get fake documents about Serpence? I was on my way to reveal that, and I was snatched away by Serpence. Right? In fact, the people who gave the papers were demon worshipers!''

    I also want this to be a little off.

    When I say this, doesn''t Serpence seem like the kind of guy who doesn''t even have an excuse?

    Even though he knew that Zion had been deceived by the demon worshipers, he felt as if he was just plain without hesitation.

    Of course it''s true.

    Hey, how can''t you do that with divine power? I''m going to stretch out the muscles around the tongue and mouth, yes?

    It is possible to compensate to some extent, but

    I don''t think it''s going to make much of a difference because of the structural issues.

    Anyway, isn''t that going to happen?

    However, Serpence hesitated and gave a negative opinion unlike the positive introduction.

    Somehow, even though I had already thought of that possibility, I doubted that he hadn''t said anything.

    ''If you listen to it, you will be resentful and blamed, is this something you don''t want to hear?''

    Yes, nothing can be solved. It is simply procrastinating.

    Negotiate or persuade only through dialogue

    to do or not to do

    The main problem is that, given the divine power control we saw yesterday, I don''t think I''ll be able to do it alone.

    To my questionable gaze, Serpens quickly added whether it was an excuse or an explanation.

    "Will Serpens help me?"

    I don''t know what he''s talking about, but I can clearly feel that he is very hostile and reluctant to me.

    Zion will push away his divine power

    It means that it won''t be easy.

    Having said that, Serpens had a sad expression on his wounded face and trembled sadly.

    ''Things like that should be done while looking at Zion, not me!''

    If you reject a serpent even after seeing such a figure, you don''t have the right to be called a human anymore.

    I quickly looked into Shion''s eyes.

    He had his eyes closed.

    ''Since when?''

    The fact that he, too, was once an aide to Serpens touched me anew.

    There must have been a way to avoid it by closing your eyes.

    Would you say this is the wisdom of a sage? It''s not? In terms of career alone, would I be longer?

    Uh, ooh

    Zion started to glow again.

    It didn''t just glow, it started blinking.

    I, I''m fine... Nuoong. Si, Siong...

    Hot! Ma, I said! Serpens, listen! Shion spoke!

    Is it because of my fuss?

    A feeling of not knowing what to say crossed Serpense''s face, who looked depressed.

    Shion, who was emitting light, turned off the lights, and looked at me with absurd eyes.

    "Ah, no, that''s , because I''m kind of moved ?"

    Mah...''''

    Today, I learned for the first time that a baby can make an expression that asks if he''s got it all.

    However, contrary to Shion''s strangely distorted face, Serpens'' expression improved even more. As he regained his composure, he said, ''Who... .'' and let out a sigh, not knowing whether it was a sigh or a laugh.

    You did well though.

    Whoa?!

    Probably, if I left it as it was, the divine power could run wild like yesterday.

    ...Oh?

    Sion''s eyes fluttered at the words of Serpens, who seemed to be relieved.

    I guess I didn''t even know it was a storm yesterday.

    It was said that ignorance is bravery, so I must have forcibly raised the divine power without fear.

    If you are a child who has not yet established intelligence, it would have helped control it in that state and induce learning by instinct, but since you have intelligence, it will be much more helpful to learn it calmly.

    At the sound of Serpens''s infinitely good-natured voice and the expression on his face that looked down at him worriedly, Shion had a confused face.

    Ah, ah, Aisha Ashoa!

    Zion''s voice, the light of which had faded, returned to its original state.

    Talking right now is a problem, but for the sake of future safety, can you please allow me to help Confucius?

    Eww

    I don''t know what happened or why you hate me so much,

    If you hate me so much, I think there must have been a good reason for that.

    The smoke fence, who had completely found her own pace, mourned her green eyes and spoke with a sad voice as if pleading.

    Now, the blue eyes of Zion shook even more.

    ''Oh yeah. I feel like I''ve just become trash, and I feel like I''m all the bad guy. It feels like everything is my fault for being narrow-minded and petty, and it must be. It''s like I was slapped in the face from somewhere else and was just venting my anger on an innocent kid. well, that

    How are you feeling?''

    Once you get caught up in that technique, it''s not easy to get out of it.

    I don''t know why you look at me with such fearful eyes... I don''t want to hurt anyone.

    "Ah, child uh."

    I respect Confucius'' opinion, but the rest of the Rivelon family are also concerned. Can''t we just ignore that?

    Even thinking about the family that will be left behind, you have to go into surgery right away, patient.

    It sounds like you are saying that.

    I''m not...

    I''m sorry, but I know that even if I apologize like this now, unless you know the exact reason, you will only accept it as a word of mouth. Will you please give me a chance to apologize sincerely?

    Serpence apologized by making up a sincere tone that had already overflowed.

    The time that Shion spent as Serpence''s aide no longer exists.

    Even though it would be unfair to be resentful for something that doesn''t exist, Serpens, who says it''s his fault, shows a deep understanding, can be called a saint.

    ''Hey, this is over. I have no choice but to get over it.''

    At this point, wouldn''t even the memories of being killed by Serpens feel like a terrible nightmare created by the evil demon worshipers?

    Ooh, ooh... .

    Shion''s momentum, which was staring at Serpence, was shattered.

    Seeing this, Serpens smiled a little. made up a token of thanks.

    I think you''ve got a sense of what kind of power the divine power is now.

    Serpens slightly brought his index and middle fingers to Shion''s small forehead and opened his mouth. The silver power that rose from the tip of his finger permeated into Zion.

    Follow me slowly

    Please come. You don''t need that much power. If you are not used to it yet, it is recommended to start with a very small amount and gradually increase it. As the total amount of power is large, more delicate operation is required."

    Oh, uh !

    As if drawn by Serpens''s soft voice, a white light rose from Shion like a haze.

    ''It''s not booboom!''

    There was light leaking out, so I couldn''t say it was in perfect control.

    But it doesn''t feel scruffy

    It could be seen that the soft flow was definitely captured compared to before.

    About 10 minutes passed like that?

    Now it is.

    "Is that over?"

    It''s not like you''re learning a big skill. If you''re in control of your own body, simple tricks are enough.

    When I asked if it was already over, Serpence answered kindly with her hand away.

    Ah, uh.. ah... dae, dai dai, what should it be?

    Shion rolled her tongue as if awkwardly and spoke slowly.

    It wasn''t the right pronunciation, but it was comparatively acceptable.

    That''s what we want to ask. You''ve already revealed about me? Now that I''ve been able to speak to a certain extent, please tell me Zion. Why did you take such a hostile to Serpens?

    At my words, Zion slowly opened his mouth with a complicated face.

 CH 160

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 160

    33. The Duke and Zion Rivelon (6)

    Zion''s talk went roughly in the same way as I expected.

    On the way home from vacation, an unknown person sitting next to him handed him a document and encouraged him to read it.

    ''What''s the content... . Those fake papers you tried to show me on the streets of Semita

    Serpens covering his teeth

    Unbelievable content that he killed his predecessor for the sake of it.

    When I wanted to ask more detailed questions about it, I think he handed me a first-class ticket with a private room for the train returning to the capital, reminding me that this was an open space.

    Zion was troubled throughout his stay in the Ribelon Territory.

    They were reluctant to believe at first, but the seeds of doubt they planted grew and sprouted with time.

    only once.

    Thought we''d only hear it once

    So, I stepped into the train car of the ticket he gave me, and there I met a pair of men and women.

    ''How credible are you in falsifying alternate data?''

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], wasn''t Humanus also deceived by their fake documents?

    How artistically manipulated it was, I thought I''d read it at least once.

    Anyway, it is said that Zion met them once more and heard the story.

    A thin-eared and naive rural young man

    Two cults and cults were talking to each other... .

    ''What, why did you treat Shion so mildly? I didn''t back then. Just threatening, threatening, threatening! Is it because of the lucky letter? I''m a strange person who can''t communicate, and Sion is a person with whom conversations can be established. What is that?!''

    don''t need it all

    Where can I use it only through words with demon worshipers?

    Are they flirting with the cause?

    Woo-woong . Grunza is a young Jew, so it''s not worth it. Daeryu and Go to the future. You can''t get rid of it, so you can''t get rid of it.... Because Hyeopjoja is so old, she''s going to get out of there. I won''t let her do it. Be sorry.

    Hi, be kind to the demon worshipers subject. I''ll guarantee the puck or safety.

    At the same time, I got a similar offer. Oh, of course I got the paperwork.

    Hey, Grun, why are you so crazy...!

    From the demon worshipers.

    what ?

    Shion''s eyes narrowed. The small mouth, which had been biting continuously, stopped moving and opened slightly.

    I want to hug her in my arms and hug her right away, but I have to be patient.

    Instead, I imagined.

    I drew the same expression in my head with the face of Shion I saw through the mirror.

    The effect was awesome. cold heart

    Cooled down.

    "Zion was deceived by them. Why did you believe such nonsense?!"

    Ah, no! Oh, bee!

    The matter has been formally addressed by the council, and the capital has documents proving that they were demon worshipers.

    OMG .

    I didn''t believe what they said until the end. Then they revealed their true nature and tried to threaten them with hostages, and in the end they tried to kill me.

    It is."

    Goo, gourm, how are you disappearing?!

    The Serpence saved them from being chased.

    Shion uttered a sound with a shocked expression on her face.

    It deserves it.

    I believed in Serpence until the end and was saved by him, but he who didn''t was killed by him.

    '' Come to think of it, did you see Serpence when you died? You''ve seen it, right?''

    Of course, knowing that Serpens had killed him, I naturally passed on it, but suddenly a question arose.

    After the accident, he did not die immediately, but died watching Serpens come to retrieve the documents.

    The wagon accident itself may have been used as a way to forge an already dead body.

    I''m curious, but it''s not a topic to be explored out of interest.

    If you don''t tell yourself, let''s cover it up.

    Goo, goo, goo, goo, goo!

    "If it is a holy sword, the Crown Prince has received it."

    Damn it! Because it''s self-sufficient, you''re all sucked in!

    I don''t know what his holy sword is and what everyone is saying about his holy sword.

    Aren''t people in this world too dependent on the Holy Sword?

    The Serpens are powerful enough even without the Holy Sword. Demon worshipers have accidents from all over the continent, so this is far better in terms of efficiency than giving power to one person. Then, when a strong enemy appears holy sword

    Isn''t it enough to fight with the master?

    that that .

    I came here to assist with that. Otherwise, why would I have become Serpens''s aide?

    ''''Woah, ooh... . Not enough !

    Shion cried as if it was unfair.

    I know you want to deny it, but please stop. Do you still believe what they say?

    Ah, ooh... that''s-.

    You won''t believe it until you see the evidence yourself, right? So did you believe the fabricated evidence?

    I struggled to catch up on what had almost weakened my heart, and I closed my eyes tightly and opened my mouth fiercely.

    But I guess it was too toxic.

    It was strange that there was no sound, so when I opened my eyes, Zion couldn''t even make a sound and her mouth was twitching.

    Did you mean to subtract some of the last fact violence?

    "Sunwoo, don''t be too harsh."

    All of a sudden, Serpens sneaked in and patted Zion.

    I''m not really advocating that you don''t do that seriously, so I looked at him, wondering what else he was trying to do.

    All of this is largely my fault for not being able to trust me. There must have been a lot of problems with my usual words and deeds...

    Serpens said with a sad expression on his face.

    Shion was weeping, and small tears formed around his eyes, probably because of this strategy for an eye for an eye.

    "Otherwise . So there''s nothing I can do , suck."

    As if he could no longer speak, he turned his head, covering his mouth with the palm of his hand, as if to stop the cry that was leaking out.

    It''s like this fox fence.

    It is not for nothing that the saying that I hate my sister-in-law more than my mother-in-law who scolds me.

    ''Is this the line I taught you?''

    A little bit of ad-lib was added, but it''s definitely right.

    When I said let''s practice together, I guess I remembered it.

    Ah, woo, dae, what the hell! You keep coming back to that time , Gong Jian-mi, you say your wounds are changing .

    "Yes? I, I ? That, that !"

    To the fact that Serpens had already known, he responded in denial as if such a thing could not happen.

    I''m glad you let me know in advance.

    If it hadn''t been for it, he would have been looking at me in embarrassment and crying and shaking.

    I''m afraid! I''m not judged as such a person! Even when you''re harassing me, get rid of it before...! Don''t you know what''s wrong with you? !

    Serpens remembered the ex-duchess in the eyes of accusation and hatred of Sion looking at her.

    He spoke in a way he was used to, and expressed his suffering.

    It''s like that now, but it''s different from back then

    I would rather have done more.

    So he couldn''t bear his own wounds without realizing it. Perhaps it was an expression of fear.

    Ji, Jigum too... I''m trying to buy Mideum from that self-proclaimed Shini Saja..., pretending to be a car...

    Slowly, he seems to have begun to accept that he had been deceived by a demon worshiper.

    Zion''s voice trembled, and the divine power rising from his body shook unstablely.

    Me and Serpens didn''t reply.

    Zion needed time to think alone.

    "Gurum, the reason you gave me was because I misunderstood that I was Anma Choongbaeja Is it Immi?"

    "It seems it seems."

    Shion, who had been contemplating alone for a long time, carefully opened her mouth.

    Serpence replied with a sad expression on her face, closing her eyes.

    "Perhaps ''Sir Rivelon was a good aide. That''s why he trusted me a lot during that time for a little over a month, and he gave me affection, knowingly and unknowingly.

    I thought it was god... . I guess that''s why I lost my cool.

    He began to mutter something that didn''t even sound like a serpence.

    In order not to let Shion find out about my bewildered expression, I, too, made up a terrible feeling, put my hand on my forehead, and secretly turned my head.

    I should have believed more, I should have listened to the story . Instead, I was in a hurry to cover up the case . I . Such a thing . That''s right, I may not have been qualified to be the master of the Holy Sword from the beginning.

    Why all of a sudden it''s self-blame again?

    Worried about whether the magnetic fence had appeared again, I looked at his complexion.

    What I was worried about was nothing but acting.

    If it had been referred to the Inquisition rather than a summary judgment, the innocence of the Lord would have been revealed.

    It was felt that Serpence was starting the engine slowly.

    "I should have believed in the Lord until the very end.

    However, it could not be done, and a fair judgment could not be made on such a subject . I was swept away by personal feelings and wondered if I could save my family if I pretended to be an accident. . Perhaps he made such a decision impulsively."

    I think the self-deprecating remarks a while ago were just to gain momentum to sell drugs.

    If I were to break it down and explain it, it would be something like this:

    You don''t believe me and you fall for the devil worshipers.

    I felt betrayed, but with the least amount of acknowledgment, I would have done something wrong to save even your family.

    Other than that, I cannot explain my behavior.

    because?

    Even if the other person does not believe in me and betrays me, I am so kind that it hurts my heart that I did not trust the traitor until the end.

    ''Hey~, you are the ultimate self-defense king!''

    Pretending to blame himself, he gives justification to all his actions.

    From there, ''It was an inevitable choice to protect your family.''

    It''s an amazing idea that I can''t even knock on my knees, so I can beat it with a good street rhythm.

    Maybe that''s why the Holy Sword chose His Majesty the Crown Prince and not me...

    Now that you''ve finished defending yourself, it''s time to pass all the blame on to someone else.

    Because of you, I have cheated, and because of that, I have been disqualified from being the master of the Holy Sword.

    I guess it''s roughly like this.

    ''Serpens, you scary child... .''

    Sending one person away was instantaneous.

    "Hey, that skirt , tell me not to fold it "

    Even though I had reached this point, I wondered if it was still not enough, but the words that followed were quite meaningful.

    Do not touch the holy sword...? What else do you mean?

    Mom, I don''t know.

    I asked a question out of curiosity,

    He also answered with a questionable expression.

    Seeing that the tone of voice has changed to John, it seems that I have completely passed on it, but the content of the answer itself is not very good.

    Since I was born and wrote Gu-Nyang, Marie Gu-Ren comes to mind naturally.... I''m a nerd, Gu-Ra-Sher, Gong-J-N-I-Mi, Sharami-Ra, I''m a young owner.

    "I was born after all the days of choice, so what kind of bullshit is this?"

    "Ah, ahh , tea, are you going to go?"

    Whether he was embarrassed even thinking about it himself, Shion couldn''t even ask what dog rice cake was and covered his face with a small palm.

    A message from the god Luxmea?

    You know that old Julie..., you''re talking about Aning...?

    Shion tilted his head for a while, and took it as ''there was a confusion of memories in the process of dying and coming back to life.''

    The idea that the Holy Sword shouldn''t become the master by misunderstanding Serpence as a villain remained strong, and it seems that it was distorted and remembered... .

 CH 161

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 161

    33. The Duke and Zion Ribelon (7)

    The ending was awkward, but all the important issues were resolved.

    Woah, woo-woong . It''s thin and thin, Gong-jae-nim.

    No. It was the deceit''s fault. What''s wrong with Confucius?

    The acting fence was really great.

    I thought it would be nice to receive forgiveness

    Gunman, on the other hand, accepted the apology.

    Hey, Shirnew? Your hair is long and you miss it.

    It''s fine, after all, it''s basically Shion''s body... What would you say when you said you''re going to rip off my head?

    Yeah, Apatzana...

    Did you see Serpens healed you right away? Oh, didn''t you see it because it was shining?

    Shion looked at me and Serpens with a confused expression at my words.

    Ah, girl! I saw two Boonie Mani Chinasinga.... I just sang Irumdu...

    Ahh, by the way, I was calling you by name!

    Serpens called me Seonwoo, so I forgot the name without realizing it.

    Still, seeing that Serpens didn''t give me a glance, I wonder if it would be okay.

    As an aide, we spend a lot of time together and there is not much age difference, so we decided to just be friends in private.

    " Isn''t it Shini Sazara?"

    What does being a messenger of the gods have to do with being close to a serpent? I already had a friend before I revealed that. Right?

    As he looked at Serpens as if asking for consent, he smiled slightly and nodded.

    It seems like yesterday that I denied friendship, but now I think it would be okay to introduce him as my friend.

    The only problem is that I don''t have a relationship that doesn''t overlap with the serpent, so I don''t have a chance to introduce myself, ''This is a serpent, my friend!''

    Gulkuna...

    Shion muttered in a melancholy voice.

    I said it in a muffled tone, but perhaps it was due to the excessive use of divine power, the voice resounded clearly regardless of the owner''s will.

    Manyage, if you don''t get enough of that shit...

    At his words, Serpens just smiled bitterly and sadly.

    Of course, it was nothing more than acting, and it seems to be thinking inwardly, ''Are you like that?''

    ''Isn''t that a bit harsh?''

    But Zion did not know it. His face was stained with regret.

    I don''t know, but it seems that he thinks he has ruined the relationship that was running smoothly.

    Oh, more than that! Are you okay with Shion? Losing your body from me it''s like wearing something.

    "Wow . Now, the beautiful eyes of the Eishang are open ."

    Yes ?

    You fail that eye, you get another chance like this

    No matter the rule, I''m a widow.

    No, what will he do? Are you fully digging into the ground?

    With a bewildered heart, his gaze naturally turned to Les Serpens. He looked at me with a happy expression on his face.

    ''Would you like to praise him for what he did well?!''

    Yes, he did well.

    You did a good job at solving the problem, but it''s a bit too much to praise... much so

    Jigum Shioni is disappearing, and it is your Immi who is connected to it. Buy a better life than me.

    Because Tio''s life will disappear properly.

    Vivi said to herself with determined eyes.

    I thought he was struggling with a sense of self-blame, but it was the image of a person who reflected on his past mistakes and moved forward using them as a stepping stone.

    I looked at Serpens, wondering if he had even calculated this.

    He had an unexpected expression on his face.

    , like such a savage bastard... !

    Bibi just blames herself and goes to Zion

    I must have thought only of giving up the life of Seo and handing it over to me.

    Grunica, ''Shion well butakapmi.

    thank you.

    At least, it was an admission that the life of a person called ''Zion Rivelon'' was entirely my own.

    I still felt sorry, but I was able to get rid of the guilt of taking someone else''s life.

    "Are you going to tell your family about this by the way?"

    "Do you know more about Jotie at the time?"

    Actually, that was already discovered by Xeon...

    "Ah, haha .. My younger brother is very sharp!"

    I am a person too. Well, you might get caught.

    Even so, I felt as if the temperature of Vivi''s gaze looking at me had dropped.

    "Why, there is a saying that blood cannot deceive.

    go .

    Isn''t it a useful word to make a wish, ah me?

    In the world I used to live in, this is a word I use at times like this. There is nothing hidden between family members, so it means something like that. Isn''t it amazing that the same sentence is being used with so many different meanings?

    I think a similar word already existed here.

    But that''s not a problem at all. Is it enough to just cry?

    I said quite plausible

    It was a story, and even though he became baboon, he still had thin ears. He looked as if he had attained some great realization.

    I want to talk to you. You won''t get caught anyway...

    I am against it.''''

    Yes? Why did Serpens do that...

    It''s too dangerous.

    At his words, I and Vivi''s eyes turned to Serpens.

    "The deputy butler has already been found out, so there is nothing you can do about it, but the fewer people who know the secret, the better.

    You may be aiming for it yourself.

    Even if it''s not, you''re going to be targeted anyway, and if you do, Serpens will protect you.

    Of course I would, but there''s nothing wrong with being as careful as possible. Besides, you may not be the only one being targeted.

    Serpence''s gaze turned to Vivi.

    ''By the way, he''s like a spirit from God, isn''t he?''

    On the surface, it was the existence that Luxmea sent directly into a body full of divine power.

    Whatever the circumstances, there is no way the devil worshipers would understand all of that. It didn''t even make sense to be considerate of them just because they were babies.

    Of course, I don''t think the people of the Rivelon family would go around talking about it. But hidden ears are everywhere, and you can see it in the way they treat each other without saying it.

    Oh .

    "Even if it is discovered one day, it is better to postpone that time as much as possible.

    all.

    He was right.

    You may be comfortable with it right now, but that convenience will lead to mistakes, and eventually you will end up taking risks.

    It would be safe for me to be next to Serpence, but Vivi wasn''t.

    "Then, can I just tell Xeon?"

    Yes. That seems to be the best.

    "What do you think of Vivi?"

    That''s better, ginger flavor.

    If it is not now, it is unclear when Vivi will be able to separate from his mother and nanny again.

    ''Should I call Xeon?''

    Even if I tell you directly, you might ask me what kind of trick this is, so I think it would be better to have Vivi confirm it directly.

    Previously.

    I, and I have one request... I''m sorry, but can you keep your death a secret?

    "Don''t worry.

    It was the horses who betrayed Gongjangnimul at Durge cows.

    From what I heard, there was nothing he could talk about anywhere he went.

    We matched the first day before work that I possessed as his last memory.

    So, a month or even a fortnight, when the real Zion became the assistant to Duke Prasidus, only existed in his memory.

    Then I''ll call Xeon right away!

    "Wait. What are you going to explain?

    are you thinking?"

    I have an idea!

    For some reason, Serpense''s eyes fluttered anxiously. ''So what do you think?''

    I''m going to say that Serpence''s ''squeaky voice is so sweet that Vivi doesn''t get excited. And if it''s Zeon, who resembles the Countess and is the deputy butler of the Pracidus family, Serpence''s concentration is perfect, reproducing yesterday''s situation. I don''t think it will be disturbed either...

    To my words, Serpens said, ''If you

    Is that so?'' and I asked for nothing!'' He made a mixed expression.

    Vivi tilted her head with an expression that she didn''t know what that meant.

    Anyway, I''ll be back! The two of you are waiting patiently!

    Yes, please go.

    Huh?

    * * *

    As soon as Xeon entered the inner room, Libel

    The part of the wig that Countess Ron had forcibly attached was removed carefully so as not to damage it.

    I wonder what kind of wig it is, but it is a fashion wig that she uses for hair setting when she participates in a party where they gather together in a local estate.

    At first, she was given permission to wear a dress, but Zeon strongly objected and agreed to a wig in moderation.

    You really couldn''t have called me for that, did something happen?

    It''s so sharp that it looks like a veil.

    I even doubted whether Xeon had received all the notices that should have gone to Shion. I guess it just doesn''t look like it.

    Zeona, it''s me.

    " Oh my God. Vivi is talking?!"

    Xeon''s mouth widened.

    When I followed his gaze and looked at Vivi, the divine power flowing from him had changed considerably.

    The light that fluttered like a haze was so soft that it was hard to notice unless you looked closely.

    There is no way that delicate control could have been possible in a short period of time.

    ''It was half-empty, but it must have been a really friendly wait?''

    It seems that Serpens gave a buff instead for him, who has a hard time maintaining his divine power for a long time.

    For some reason, my heart warmed and I felt happy.

    According to the deputy butler''s thoughts, the firewood was just an excuse to call in.

    "I was a little surprised, but in a case like this, calling the whole family "

    No, please listen first. There''s no way that only the deputy butler could have been called by just talking.

    At my words, Xeon regained his composure and looked into his eyes to tell him the correct reason.

    Because of this, Bibi was able to properly handle the divine power, but suddenly she spoke up and claimed that she was Zion... That''s why I called her.

    "Yes? What else do you mean?"

    Jingjaya! I''m your older brother!

    Hey, what the hell is this?

    peel?!

    The calmness I had been looking for was gone again. Zeon vomited his flagship and looked at Rain and Me in turn.

    Calm down. It may be hard to believe, but what you two say is true.

    At Serpens''s words, Zeon went back and forth in the inner room with a thoughtful expression on his face, then approached Vivi and asked questions.

    " Bibi, you''re the little hyung? Really?"

    Xeon asked again in a voice in disbelief.

    Even after carefully examining not only the answers to his questions, but also the reactions and facial expressions, it seems unbelievable that the younger hyung turned into a ''little + hyung''.

    ''Still, I knew I wasn''t the real hyung, so I thought it would be quicker to accept it... .''

    if so

    He seems to want to deny the appearance of his older brother becoming a baby, wearing a blue frilled dress with a ribbon on his head.

    I miss you so much and miss you

    Dunn''s brother

    Today, Xeon looked salty.

    Jeona, in the meantime, Maum Gochang Manat. Thank you.

    Small tongue...Is it okay with the ass?

    Because I have a lot of new teeth, I just lose Ikshke and take care of it without moving or talking, hoechana.

    really?

    Jingjjaru! It''s so much better than the previous version! This room is cool too, it''s a new one!

    As if trying to understand the true meaning of those words, Zeon, who was glaring at Vivi, took a deep breath.

    It seems that he has now accepted the fact that he is Zion.

    Ah, the nickname Bibi Ra-noon and Orson Joo...

    What Charon said, ''If you call her Vivi, she responds cutely'' must have been an extremely reluctant reaction.

    Even if you are like me, if someone calls me by such a cute name, I think it will be a little burdensome.

    Aren''t you going to tell your parents?

    I''m going to keep my eyes closed until the Angma Shungbaejas are dealt with.

    Yeah, I thought about it.

    Well, don''t say too much to Sir Shiong. We''re all together as a family...

    what else is this talking about?

    Xeon''s gaze turned to me, and my gaze turned to Serpens.

    '' What the hell have you been talking about?!''

    Seeing myself in embarrassment, Xeon Deng

    Daly was perplexed.

    Sir Zion... What does that mean?

    Anyway, I''m going to tell you, Levi, Tian, old! Thioranun Irumi Itzanna. As Apuro is coming, I''ll be gone. But Sir Shiong is going to disappear to Apuro Shiong. If you don''t know if I''m going to call you, don''t you think I''m going to disappear because I''m splitting up?

    Thank you.

    I am really grateful to Vivi.

    soars Yes, but .

    Before starting a new life, worries about what to do with those thin ears first raises her head.

 CH 162

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 162

    34. While the Duke was away (One)

    Zeon''s opinion at Vivi''s request was quickly discarded.

    When it comes to clothes, he said that he would buy a new one when Vivi grows up a little more, and he just moved on, and the nickname problem .

    ''Do you think about it later when Vivi starts talking and complains?''

    Bibi was acting like an ordinary baby.

    Behind the scenes, he had already spoken and expressed his dissatisfaction, but his family had no way of knowing it.

    Still, Vivi held the hope that she could change it someday and seemed to come up with a cool nickname for the day that would come one day.

    ''Somehow it seems like it''s going to be blurry... .''

    When she expressed her dislike from the beginning, the reaction was cute and she decided to become Vivi.

    It didn''t seem like that would change even when I spoke up.

    Other schedules in the Rivelon estate went as planned.

    Unlike when they came, not only Charon but other family members also got on their own wagons and went out to the train station in the neighboring territory.

    We boarded the train to the capital, leaving behind the figure of Vivi in a canine-colored two-piece in the Countess'' arms.

    ''Oops, I forgot to tell Serpens to shake hands with Charon!''

    By the time I realized it, it was already too late.

    The train had left the station, and so

    I ran and ran and arrived in the capital.

    And we returned to the duke''s house.

    The huge Western-style mansion that I thought I would never get used to for the rest of my life became comfortable like my own home because I couldn''t get used to it.

    It was not only the mansion that was happy to meet there.

    "Master, how are you?"

    No, Hans, I''m not happy with this gentleman at all.

    Serpence-sama, Sion! Nice to see you after a long time!

    Eugenes welcomed us.

    "Have you been well, Eugene?"

    you], thanks Was Zion okay?

    It was there, but it''s gone.

    Sion''s words are always difficult to understand.

    Perhaps it was just a meaningless joke, she replied with a light smile.

    But isn''t it always? I wonder if it''s because the words I say very rarely remain strong in my memory.

    place .

    Ahahaha-, Shion seems to be really good at joking around!

    As if to say this was really funny, she said with a bright smile. A clear and transparent laughter resounded.

    It''s like seeing someone who said, ''I''ve never lied in my life'' in a lie contest.

    "More than that, did your work go well?"

    Serpens, knowing that what I said wasn''t a joke, was sincere.

    He asked a question while calming Eugenes, who was laughing timidly.

    Okay! There are many things I want to talk about, but you must be tired today, so shall we do it tomorrow?

    It''s okay to rest in the carriage. I''m sorry that I couldn''t properly welcome guests because I was away. It''s late, but if Lydia-sama is okay, I''d like to serve you a cup of tea now.

    It was a talk about welcoming guests and serving tea, and in the end, he wanted to hear a report on what he had been to.

    "Rather than tea, there is a drink I bought as a souvenir to drink with the two of you, how about that?"

    Also, Eugene knows something.

    It is different from Serpens who went to Argento by himself and returned empty-handed.

    ''If you have been to a distant place, of course, souvenirs should follow!''

    Like the [Master of the Holy Sword] filled with all sorts of clich��s, the Dwarves of this world were addicted to alcohol.

    As a result, souvenirs that symbolize the Kingdom of Terrarum are naturally made of dwarves.

    (�u) It became goods and alcohol.

    Yeah, then I''ll do that...

    Serpence''s eyes turned to Hans.

    There is no need to run the Serpence Behavior Analyzer. Since Eugenes brought alcohol, it means to prepare snacks to accompany them.

    Hans recognized it too, left a message that he would prepare it right away, and headed towards the kitchen building.

    We moved to the drawing room.

    If Winston-sama sits with you, the Illuminati will all gather...

    He said he was sorry that Euges seemed to be stalking only Winston.

    It is said that it is no wonder that I am the closest person and that I have it by my side at any time, but Winston was still not being properly recognized as a Serpence escort.

    Serpence''s power was so great that it was practically impossible to outrun it.

    However, there was no law that forced only those who were superior to themselves to be escort knights.

    Pgnuto, who has excellent body power

    The Count also had as his escort a loyal knight who was willing to sacrifice his life for himself, even if he was weaker than him.

    ''And even though his name is a peacock, it takes at least one or two escorts to be pompous!''

    Now Winston is on par with the duke''s knight leader.

    According to Serpence''s official, there is still room for growth, unlike the general manager, which is in the completion stage.

    However, what has not yet been recognized is that of ''performance'' rather than ''skills''.

    problem.

    Just taking Serpence''s orders and protecting Solertia''s shop was weak.

    I''m sorry, but what can I do? Let''s just think of it as a meeting of Illuminati executives today!

    I guess so. It would be nice if Winston-sama could settle down sooner rather than later...

    That''s right.

    Me and Eugene''s eyes turned to Serpence.

    Feeling the pressure of silence, he put on a shaky expression on his face.

    " Anyway, I was planning to participate in the upcoming Volta Mountains subjugation."

    "Ah, that''s nice. You can prove your skills in real battles, not in battles, and if you fight together, you and the knights of the duke family will build up some friendship , yes?!

    Just thinking about it, I heard the news that my mobile fence was going to be empty.

    You must be anxious without me.

    "Of course! My confidence comes from three sources.

    It''s the Lepence Shield!

    Serpens laughed and shook his head.

    I''m serious, am I laughing now?

    When he frowned and expressed his dissatisfaction, he gestured his chin to point to Eugenes.

    How about a temporary Eugese Shield? Is it not enough for me?

    she said with a smile.

    Was it possible that Eugene was brought into the duke''s residence in preparation for a situation like today?

    No! Very reassuring!

    Better than Serpens-sama?

    "There is a saying that a neighbor who lives near is better than a cousin who lives far away."

    Shion knows a lot of strange words!

    With admiration, Eugenes affirmed that I was right.

    Serpence seems to have gotten a little duller. He didn''t go because he wanted to go, but he sent glances saying that it was too much.

    As you go, what you said before

    I''d like to investigate that too.

    Somehow, it sounded like they were claiming that they were more reliable even if they were far away.

    "Is that what Shion said?"

    According to his words, the demon worshipers are planning to break the barriers of the Volta Mountains and release the demons within them to the world.

    Oh my God !

    As if unbelievable that such a terrible thing could happen, Eugese let out a sigh.

    That shouldn''t happen. If the monsters there spread, a lot of ordinary people would be harmed!

    I''ll look for it as much as I can... The schedule of the regular subjugation is known externally. If they use their hands, I think it will be after the subjugation is over.

    They will try their best, but if nothing comes, it is not their fault.

    ''If that''s the case, why did you bring up the discussion about the investigation earlier?''

    What I felt about his remarks a while ago must have been a mere misunderstanding.

    all.

    I don''t want to lose my affection to the newly born second, so it''s like seeing the first one who keeps trying to attract attention.

    If we can''t find any evidence, we''ll try to reduce the number of monsters as much as possible, even if it''s a little more than usual.

    Then what''s the use if the serpenes go wrong?!

    Okay, don''t overdo it!

    Oh.

    Serpence must have been moved by the words of concern between me and Eugenes.

    He hesitated with a slightly embarrassed expression on his face, and opened his mouth gently.

    Then I will force only the knights under my command in a line that is not a burden to me.

    Seeing Serpence speaking with an embarrassed expression, I and Euges couldn''t say anything.

    This does not mean that we will push it to the limit of life-threatening.

    "It''s okay, you don''t know."

    Yes, if they are in danger, Serpent-sama will be able to save them... .

    It''s just saying that you want to deplete your stamina right before you die. why don''t you know that

    It just makes Winston feel sorry for him, who will experience his limits from the first subjugation.

    Still, if I can do my part next to Serpence, I wonder if by the time the subjugation is over, I won''t be properly recognized by the knights of the duke family.

    ''It would be enough if Serpence gave me a word or two that seemed to acknowledge me as an aide!''

    If you think of it as your debut as a personal escort, there is nothing wrong with that.

    Perhaps.

    - smartly

    It seems that snacks are ready while we are having a conversation.

    Stewed meatballs cooked in a sweet taste without being spicy, and various types of cheese and canapes were placed on the table one after the other.

    Lastly, the sake that Eugene had bought and thinly sliced citron. And on the table up to a bottle of unknown yellow liquid

    After putting it on, the maids retreated.

    You like sweet things. I thought it would be a bit useless if I just ate it, so I asked in advance to prepare it with me when the table was set up.

    With that said, Eugene poured the clear liquor that looked like distilled spirits in small portions into their respective glasses, added a yellow drink, and left out the thinly sliced citron.

    The strong smell of alcohol was hidden in the scent of fresh citron.

    ''If I sip on this without thinking, I''ll just hook it up, right?''

    Serpens was drawn to the sweet scent and tasted it slightly. And then his eyes lit up.

    An idea came to mind when I saw it.

    "It''s been a long time coming, but don''t drive away your drunkenness, let''s just get drunk, shall we?"

    There are still things to report.

    Was there anything worth seeing?

    It would be great if only Ladrava''s treasure was handed over. It was a lame excuse.

    What about it, as soon as I drink it, I swear right away

    I''m not going to shut up! I don''t have any divine power or anything, so I''ll take it alone, so what''s the fun? Besides, it''s a waste! Euges had prepared it with so much sincerity]! Eugenes thinks so too, right? Look, you''re right. And honestly, isn''t it delicious? right? Did you like it? If you like... .

    Ah, okay, calm down.

    This is a serpent that doesn''t show a single point of disturbance even after waking up.

    Seeing him nodding his head reluctantly, he vowed that he would surely see his disheveled appearance by burning the night down.

    And he took a sip of the cocktail Euges had made.

    ''Oh, this is really delicious?!''

    Alcohol is also alcohol, but this citron base is no joke.

    After the hot alcohol had passed, the sweet sweetness touched the spot.

    I was able to safely take Ladrava''s treasures. There are several subspace pockets, so I sorted them by type and put them in one place.

    Eugene took out a subspace pocket from his chest.

    There were 6 in total, so there must be 5 more pockets in there.

    At first glance, it looked like a pocket made of plain leather, but upon closer inspection, it was embroidered with intricate patterns in a darker brown color than leather.

    Thank you. Thank you for your hard work.

    And they went into Serpens'' arms as if it were natural.

    When I looked at him with absurd eyes, he took out the subspace pocket he had in his arms and handed the outermost empty pocket to me.

    And Wilydia-sama?

    Yes, tell me.

    If you post a report on the expenses spent on this business trip and the expenses spent on the last arena-related investigation, I will pay you right away.

    It''s okay if you don''t.

    It''s better to be sure of your calculations.

    With the money Euges had saved through the information I gave, Serpence was sympathetic to him.

    It got even more ridiculous.

 CH 163

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 163

    34. While the Duke was away (2)

    Next, the order to investigate the Argento family, which is investigating the Ferrarius family.

    When Serpence said he had more reports to get, I thought it was just an excuse because he didn''t want to take it.

    Now that I look at it, it seems that he had ordered Eugese to do something.

    "When did you do that again?"

    Can''t we just trust the person who helped the devil worshiper and the person who defended him even for a moment and let the work be done? Before we left, I left the sealed documents with the butler.''''

    Somehow he said he quietly retreated. Again, the fence of distrust did not go anywhere.

    For that reason, Euges was not only able to run from mountain to mountain to investigate, as a competent sin, but as soon as he returned, he was given a new assignment and ran again.

    Yeah?! I said why did you give me this kind of mission... You can just skip it.

    are you?

    It has been decided to close our eyes instead of giving out any information that would interfere with the work of the demon worshipers.

    When it comes to information... Ah! I''ll finish the report first.

    If it were me, I would have asked questions as soon as I had questions and then fell into a side road].

    The diligent Euges put his doubts aside and prioritized reporting.

    "Actually, it was embarrassing to even report it, and it seemed that there was no suspicious action . The Duke of Argento stayed.

    They infiltrated the villas and even the mansion under construction, and now I know that they were involved in the work of a demon cult.

    "Did you ever think of infiltrating there?"

    It wasn''t too difficult as the cost was split in two.

    I didn''t mean to ask like that.

    To the question I asked with terrification, Euges calmly answered.

    Serpens hoped that Eugenes would get some good water, but he

    I was pouring bad water on her.

    Yuzu juice seems to be the only water that comes from the Eugenes side.

    In that sense, I refilled the liquor full of yuzu flavor.

    Anyway, after hearing the story, I thought about it . I thought it was just for filing a report to the imperial family because they kept the documents separately, but it seems they were trying to destroy the evidence related to them.

    If that''s the case, your Majesty has also accepted it, so there''s nothing we can do about it.

    Certainly, get out of hand with demon worshipers.

    It''s broken right?

    I can''t cut my hand, I''m in a state of loss.

    What kind of wind suddenly blew and did you change your mind?

    The wind was blowing.

    A small wind that started from the flapping of the wings of a butterfly named Serpens became a violent gust of wind and tore between them.

    I will call this the butterfly fence effect.

    "And as you will soon find out, it seems that the Ferrarius Territory will be transferred to the Imperial Family and directly managed by the 2nd Prince. The Ferrarius Territory has abundant underground resources and the Duke of Argento has made Edo debt, so the Imperial Family I think I will gain more than I have lost through this incident."

    It was publicly known that there were demon worshipers among the nobles of the Empire. I can''t help but call it an international disgrace.

    But they quickly found out their identities, there was nothing to avoid except the explosion of the Duke of Argento''s house.

    The job was completed without

    It was safe to say that there was no civilian damage at all.

    ''I mean, this is something worth mentioning again... .One

    Besides that, I got extra income, so it''s worth calling it a phone call.

    The imperial family did nothing and swept away the profits.

    "Even so, it must be an additional reason."

    "Then is there another main reason?"

    It is related to the ''information'' given by the person I mentioned earlier.

    I think that was the end of the report.

    Eugenes changed his posture and looked at him as if he was going to listen to what Serpens had to say from now on.

    ''At that time, the Duke of Argento said, ''Lord Palsum knows how to get there.''

    The fact that the imperial family declared the Ferrarius Territory as a direct control of the imperial family was also consistent with the story that the ''method'' that Sir Palsum knew was the gate installed there.

    Information that demon cults are summoning demons from the dark side.

    If that''s the case, you already know.

    Not only that, we''ve also provided information on ''How to Enter the Darkness''.

    "It''s already , ah!"

    As Euges reacted that the steam was leaking, he realized something, and made a sound of surprise.

    And the imperial family made a judgment that ''manage the dark district and monitor it.''

    Wait a minute, if that''s the case...!

    Since this happened, it was obvious that the imperial family would come into contact with the ''ruler of the dark house'' and try to convince him or remove him altogether and set up another person.

    Instead of putting the exact solution in his mouth, Serpence put a sweet drink in his mouth.

    You seem to have an idea.

    "I am going to go out with the setting that the current ruler of the dark district is one of the members of the ''Illuminati''."

    Then you''ll need a fictional character!

    Kungjjak was really good at making settings.

    As the two of them drank alcohol, the talk was quivering, and around the same day that Eugene''s bought alcohol was almost gone, ; a figure holding the pain of a tragic past and commanding a dark house for a cause suddenly popped out.

    Yes.

    Over time, Eugenes was reborn from being a prey who was deceived by others, to a predator who deceived others.

    ''I can''t tell if this is an association or a scam!''

    Because it was a scam, I remember Serpens cheating Vivi in Rivelon''s estate.

    He blamed all the crimes on an innocent child and cosplayed himself as the victim.

    ''Wow, it''s because I''m in front of the kid, so I can''t speak up... .''

    It was really too.

    Of course, I apologized enough before that, but was it even necessary to receive an apology from Zion?

    Sherty...

    Well?

    Go ahead, get down on your knees, raise your hands, and stand.

    what?

    Raise your hands! Get down on your knees! Stand up.

    Serpens'' face hardened. He thought deeply about something with a serious face.

    Due to the structure of the human body, it is impossible to stand on one''s knees. Please choose one of the two.''''

    Is that the only conclusion you have come to after serious consideration?

    It seems that he was drunk after drinking continuously while sipping from a while ago. It must have been that he was drunk because his face was slightly heated.

    I''m a person who doesn''t usually make such promises, and if he''s not drunk, you can mix cinnamon candies into Serpence''s candy bottle.

    Are you going to talk to me now? Well, you did a good job!''''

    Ummm... didn''t you do well?

    Is this the best? Are you sure?

    I don''t know what you''re talking about, but I''m sure you''re sure.''''

    Uh-huh!

    is not it?

    He muffled his voice as he said he was not confident, and tilted his head with a depressed face.

    Even if you make a face like that of an innocent kitten that no one knows about, you can''t get over Onul!

    When did I .

    Uh-huh!

    If you pass on your guilt to others, your heart

    It would be nice and comfortable. Then what if you get used to it and taste it?

    It''s just going to be an unparalleled pair in the world.

    ''I was worried because I was suffering from excessive guilt, what kind of mess is this?''

    Anyway, he''s a guy with no middle ground.

    "So, are you going to apologize or not?"

    Okay. I''m sorry. Don''t apologize.

    Right, right! Good Ser, Good Pence.

    He gently scratched his chin under his chin as a compliment, and he shook his head to shake it off.

    It''s like an angelic meow.

    "Did Serpens-sama do something wrong to Shion?"

    "No, what are you talking about?! Uh-huh, is there anything wrong with the kid?"

    While we were playing with the meow fence, all of a sudden, Eugese made an unfamiliar sound.

    ''Did Serpens do something wrong to Zion? Who did it wrong first!''

    When I first came to this world, how kind Serpence was.

    Even if it was an external appearance, he was kind enough to make me think, ''Isn''t this a bit too much?''

    Even if he was inexperienced in his work, he didn''t say a word, and he kept his work hours like a sword.

    I thought it was a cut on that sharp day.

    You wouldn''t have treated Shion the same way!''

    Where is that?

    Give him a job at a decent job called a duke, who has been living alone for over two years without a job, and pay him a high salary.

    If you look at it, even the boss who looks healing enough to blow away the work stress.

    I don''t envy Jarin Gobi, who eats a bowl of rice after seeing gulbi.

    ''is not it? Is it normal to not be envious of such a jarin gobi?''

    In any case, there is no end to the list of how good Serpence must have been for Shion.

    Still, where did you roll to eat?

    To have been tricked by a dog-bone-like guy I didn''t know and aimed at Serpens'' round and pretty head.

    ''Wow, the more I think about it, the more angry I get!''

    Even if they say that if you go away from your eyes, your heart goes away, you can''t see your face in front of you.

    While Serpens was away, could he be swayed by what the demon worshipers were saying and stare at the child so harshly?

    This is an area that I will never understand.

    ''How timid and innocent my child is.

    He''s so naive, how frightened he must have been!''

    Even so, it was too much to say that he killed him.

    The suspense wasn''t good. I should have listened... .

    ''Isn''t it? Where did Shion make such a decision after listening to Serpence?''

    It was the same with Zion who misunderstood without even having a proper conversation.

    It was very

    ''But it must have been difficult for Zion even because of the memory of being killed .''

    Looking at Serpence, I remembered his fearful figure.

    Still, considering the way he acknowledged his mistake and apologized, he was such a nice guy, he couldn''t blame him for anything.

    He told me things that comforted me, and he also told Xeon about defending me.

    ''Yeah, cheating is bad, what''s wrong with cheating?''

    Like bad demon worshipers.

    I feel so very sorry for the Serpens who are constantly being targeted by them.

    What the heck Serpens didn''t do to them!

    For some reason, the Holy Sword was also passed to Humanus, but I don''t know why he keeps messing around with the Serpences.

    Gayeopson Scherfensch....

    - Ball muggle?"

    I was very drunk. Today, I go back to my room, inhale, um...

    When I stabbed the meatball with a fork and put it in his mouth, he chewed it well and swallowed it.

    What, are you two drunk?

    yo. This?

    Saying that, Eugeus was so drunk that his red-red ears were constantly popping.

    Are there two drunken customers I have to deal with today?

    The good news is that both of them are quietly drunk, so you have to be very careful about it, so it''s not at the level of a heel.

    Okay then, let''s go one more!

    This is not the level of drunkenness, it''s crazy , sleep, hap!

    Hey, my son is eating well!

    "Don''t do this , um, uh "

    As I shoved each of them into Serpense''s mouth, all of a sudden, the meatballs were gone.

    Even if I dig into the bowl with a fork, there was no new meatball.

    Why?

    Ahahahaha-!

    It seems that Eugene''s drinking habit is smiling.

    What''s so funny, she hugged her tummy and laughed out loud

    all. It''s a spectacle to see them move all the way to the legs.

    Wow, Jiying-ja~. I''m not the only one who didn''t get it! Uh-huh~, it''s always up to me to clean up!

    When I got up, the world suddenly shook and the floor swelled up.

    ''Attack of demon worshipers?! When everyone is drunk like this... .''

    The world was dyed in darkness for the last time with that memory, and the thought circuit stopped.

    * *

    When I open my eyes, I see a familiar ceiling.

    I realized I was lying in my room right now.

    And I had to admit it.

    I was drunk.

    It''s not just a little bit cheesy, it''s very sassy.

    I used to drink alcohol yesterday, so why do I have to bear the embarrassment today?

    I don''t know how to look at Serpens.

    ''Still, I couldn''t speak... Ji?''

    Let''s look back.

    Did you mention Serpence''s baptismal name? No.

    Did I mention that I''m from another world? No.

    Did you disclose the contents of [Master of the Holy Sword]? No.

    Did she give any hints that Bibi was Zion? No.

    I grabbed my pounding head and checked the important things, but everything was ''No''.

    Okay, nothing was a problem!

    "What happened and what?"

    I turned my head toward the window at the voice I heard without warning.

    Sure enough, it was Serpens. With his arms crossed, he was staring at me with piercing eyes that seemed to speak of a spectacle.

    "How are you doing in the morning?"

    Sunwoo, I''ve been here to see if you''re suffering from a hangover. I can''t see any signs of remorse.

    Seeing that he came to visit us without hesitation, even if we let him suffer from a hangover or whatever, he is definitely a soft guy.

    By the way, Serpence was a little drunk yesterday, didn''t he?

    Not at all.

    "Then why did you take it all?"

    "Hey, if you turn your head, you''ll get the sauce on your face or clothes.

    I''m drunk, I''m drunk

    Other than his blushing, he didn''t show anything, I think he had a good taste.

    Even though I was drunk, my ''analysis of serpent status'' was accurate.

    Why? You can eat as many meatballs as you want, so it won''t be a waste. Were you sorry for the meatballs lying on the cold floor?

    Ugh-.

    Really?

    "Won, when you''re drunk, everything that doesn''t really matter looks pitiful, and I agree.

    Not that much.

    Isn''t it? I didn''t have an eye for meatballs, but yes. It can be pitiful. I think he was more serious about meatballs than I thought.

    But no matter how drunk you are, meatballs are pity for those who cannot properly sympathize with themselves as well as others.

    is a bit .

    Could it be that there are several problems?

    What did meatballs mean to him?

 CH 164

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 164

    34. While the Duke was away

    We no longer talked about what happened that day.

    If it were me, I would have been anxious not being able to make fun of you. Eugene only showed a small smile and walked over without saying a word.

    The three of us ate together or had a cup of tea in the garden in the sunshine of June, and peaceful and quiet days continued.

    Eventually, the day came when the Serpents would go out.

    Serpence-sama, have a good day.

    Please take care of me while I''m away.

    Hold on to your worries

    To Serpense''s words, Euges responded with a fresh smile like a citron.

    The calm answer without being overly shy or withdrawn is very reliable.

    He felt that way as well as Serpens, so he nodded slightly.

    ''Hey, if you look closely, you''re saying you''re secretly trusting Eugene too?''

    If we compare it to a cat, he seems to be saying with his whole body, ''You allowed me to feed it, but it''s still too early to pet it.''

    Did he not admit that he was being tamed or did he not become aware of it?

    He approached his feet and ate a snack, keeping a close eye on him and measuring the distance.

    Go carefully, Duke.

    At that thought, I smiled

    As I said goodbye to him, I saw his eyes telling me to be careful.

    ''Who is going to a dangerous place now?''

    Was it because of the incident last year when a demon worshiper hid and left a letter when I was away?

    Assuming that he and the elite knights were missing, he checked the security of the duke''s house several times, and even Euges was attached to the mansion as the main keyword].

    ''Yesterday I was told not to crash and not to follow a suspicious person.

    After begging wealth over and over again... .''

    If anyone hears it, they''ll think I''m a trouble maker.

    Oddly enough, did Eugenes start to look at me like he was thinking and looking at me? I''m going to die of embarrassment

    Anyway, Serpens left the expedition, and even if the duke vacated his seat, the duke''s time passed. Of course, it''s all about work.

    As before, I worked in the administrative office.

    Meanwhile, Eugene... .

    Kind and gentle, friendly to everyone

    bow down all good But don''t you think it would be cooler to judge the wicked in a cool way?

    No. The Duke''s sad eyes, killing a demon worshiper, silently weeping, mourning the loss of another life suits him well!

    Still, I... ah, how can I express this? With that warm face turning cold, wouldn''t that be a lot more valuable? I think so.

    I came out of the hallway to go to the bathroom for a while and came across a sight I shouldn''t have seen

    I felt like

    She was preaching Serpence''s Gap Moe.

    What seems to be quite friendly seems to have passed the duke''s declaration ceremony very well, which exhausted Zeon and made Solertia tremble.

    " Is that so?"

    you]. He is infinitely cruel and sharp to those who are to be punished, so the warmth and tenderness he shows to those who are to be protected stands out even more."

    Oh...!

    It just doesn''t seem to go through.

    Suddenly, I remembered the severe Otaku senior I had met in the military.

    He said that it is the law to pretend that you don''t know, even though you know the virtue of being ignorant.

    I don''t know what happened before he joined the army, but he said that whenever he had a chance.

    "Shion, where are you going?"

    I''m going to the bathroom. Don''t worry, let''s keep talking.

    For that reason, I decided to pretend I didn''t see the sight I had just seen.

    ''Yes! In the meantime, Serpense''s image has been too biased.''

    It would not be bad to create a more colorful image this time.

    However, I am worried about whether the traditional peasant family''s clash with the Shinheung Yujis faction will cause a bloody wind to blow over the serpent''s clash.

    ''But since you are the one standing at the center of it, is there no such thing? I''ll take care of mixing it well, well.''

    Guberno administration outside business hours

    I read the book that the coffin pulled out and wrote a report.

    Unlike last year, this time it was a liberal arts book, not work-related. It is proof that I am doing well with the job.

    Eugene seemed to borrow a book from the library for the first two days or so, but he got tired of it.

    Mainly alcohol with high alcohol content.

    Rather than being interested in the original, it seems that they are starting to pay attention now.

    it was

    ''Looks like the last party was fun.''

    Having a drink with the elves only adds a little bit of extravagance.

    It''s no different than having a cup of tea.

    From what she heard, it was the first time they had left the Kingdom of Arche alone and came out when they met us.

    ''Before that, all you had to do was visit a foreign envoy?''

    For that reason, they moved in groups with other elves, and exchanges with races other than elves were all about public social gatherings.

    Says

    It was a new experience for her in many ways.

    ''no wonder. He''s so adaptable, quick-witted, and his age... .''

    anyway.

    So, why did she say it was strange because she seemed to have had a strangely inexperienced social experience back then?

    It must have been because I had really little social experience.

    Yes.

    She''s never had a winter

    It must have been a citron tree that was sent and grown dearly in a greenhouse!

    If Serpence is passively experiencing new experiences, Eugenes is actively creating new experiences.

    ''I wish I could learn such an enterprising attitude... .''

    Could it be that the only way for self-improvement is to learn academic literacy and to develop armed forces?

    Hobbies, rest and interests.

    Even walking down the street and looking at the sky once.

    That all of them are the foundation for self-growth.

    Why didn''t anyone teach him?

    So, he needs to break the seemingly perfect frame and break free from the obsession once in a while.

    It was an experience for him to relax and sag as much as possible, and to let go of himself in a tangled mess.

    For that reason, I threw away the book I was reading and went through the catalog with her.

    " Didn''t I say that I had to read it all by myself earlier?"

    "Oh, come to think of it, how about a whiskey bonbon?

    If you don''t finish the report by tomorrow, the amount of homework will double...

    I heard that the kingdom of Prune is a cold country, and there are many alcoholic drinks. I''ll try to find that catalog later.

    It''s not that I never want to study.

    This is all for Serpens. No matter what, no matter what!

    Shion, aren''t you too passionate about it?

    No? Absolutely!

    I never got stabbed.

    It''s bad for Euges to see something like that next to a person studying.

    It''s late and I don''t think Zion will study anymore, so I''ll just go back to my room.

    Her room is right next to mine. It''s the perfect location to jump through the window.

    It is clear that Serpens and Eugenes are thinking of windows as a second door.

    He quickly organized the catalogs that Euges had spread out.

    Fortunately, it wasn''t an emergency, so she had no intention of going out through the window until now, and she took the last catalog in my hand and left the room normally through the door.

    I''ll leave you with one...

    My self-talk must have reached her.

    but no answer came back,

    I got up from the empty table and sat down at the desk.

    And how long has it been?

    - Knock, Knock, Knock.

    There was a knocking sound in the empty bathroom.

    It would have been terrifying had I not known that there was a secret passage there.

    Even as he entered through the secret passage, Xeon was the only one who could knock on him politely and politely.

    Yes, listen...

    It''s dangerous!

    The one who disobeyed was not Zeon who came into the bathroom, but Eugene, who came in silently through the open window.

    The series of processes of gently stepping down to the floor and carrying, pulling, and releasing an arrow from her bow were almost simultaneous.

    - Pak-!

    The first step is for containment, opening the bathroom door

    and passed by Zeon''s cheek as he was about to enter the room.

    The arrow went straight across the bathroom and locked into the tiled wall.

    The arrowhead vibrated resiliently, and pieces of broken tiles fell to the floor.

    Surprised, Xeon stumbled and fell to the floor.

    ''How come he doesn''t fall when he comes to my room... .''

    That look is very sad

    "Were you the deputy butler?

    Are you hiding?"

    As for when the new arrow was loaded, Eugese said, this time aiming directly at Zeon.

    He gulped dry saliva at the gleaming cold metal arrowhead.

    Well, I just have something to tell you...

    Xeon wisely said, ''I thought you were back in your room, but how ?'', which seemed suspicious, did not come out of my mouth.

    "Then, can''t you come in through the proper door?"

    Jeon, who knocked politely and opened the door facing the floor, asked Jeon, who came in silently through the window off the floor.

    It''s a very personal story.

    After watching for a few days, the two of you didn''t seem close enough to talk privately. What''s going on?

    Surprisingly, while interacting with the people of the Duchess, no one seems to have informed her that Zion and Zeon were related by blood.

    Of course I talk to them a lot

    I thought I''d heard it, but they must have thought that I was talking to her because I''m close to her.

    Me, Eugene?

    I''m stepping back. The armed forces I have are not good enough, but maybe there''s something like a hidden weapon!

    Suddenly, I''m asking this out of curiosity, but this time, the duke and the deputy butler and the three of you came back together, didn''t you?

    Yes, I heard. Zion''s younger brother was born with divine powers and went down to his hometown to protect him.

    "Then who is the deputy butler?"

    "I went back to my hometown "

    The strength in Eugene''s arm, who was pulling the chord, loosened slightly.

    Didn''t you meet by chance on the way back?

    It was a very common sense reaction.

    I was worried that a conspiracy-theoretic story like ''Then you had contact with someone at that time!''

    The deputy butler is my younger brother. My full name is Xeon Rivelon.

    "Ah Rivelon."

    And the reason we haven''t been close in the meantime is that Xeon came in after [I] got a job at the duke''s residence, so we''re keeping our distance on purpose.

    Of course, it was true that he came by blood. This is the part that Serpens meekly acknowledged.

    Also, no one questioned it.

    Even with Hans, the position of butler has been passed down from generation to generation, and even Governor Guberno has not put in his grandson.

    go

    Ah, ah-- yes. I understand.

    Eugene, who had not yet had the time of the world, quickly retrieved the arrow and raised Zeon.

    I''m sorry, I didn''t even know that... You came up to the room through a strange passageway, so stop being suspicious...

    It''s okay, it''s okay.

    Zeon, who got up from her seat with her help, calmed her startled heart and calmed her breathing.

    But what happened...?

    Little I have something to tell you about my brother.

    Yeah, yeah. A baboon, cute and cute like a little fairy, right?

    uh.

    Stop trying to calm me down somehow... .

    Suddenly, Zeon makes a fuss about the little fairy every time he calls his younger brother. My younger brother was so cute that he was in serious trouble without knowing what to do.

 CH 165

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 165

    34. While the Duke was away

    (4)

    Eugenes smiled warmly and looked at Zeon with friendly eyes.

    "I think your brother is very cute."

    That''s right.

    It''s true that Bibi is cute, but Jeon couldn''t just love him.

    Nevertheless, Xeon was unable to make an excuse and had to admit it.

    all. His face flushed red with embarrassment.

    I''m going to talk about family affairs, so I''d appreciate it if you would leave the room.

    Okay. I understand.

    I must have not understood anything.

    In her head, Zeon said, ''I will be reborn as the best eight-year-old who came to my room secretly because I wanted to discuss how cute my brother is.

    Eugene''s lips are soft again

    He drew an arc, and Zeon struggled to raise the corners of his trembling lips.

    I''ll just leave. Have a comfortable conversation with your family.

    As she left the room, Xeon covered her face with both hands and took time to calm herself.

    "Uh, um I didn''t mean to do that on purpose, but that''s "

    "Do you have any leftover stock of the soundproofing magic scroll you used last time?"

    Whether or not he was conscious of the elf''s sensitive hearing, Zeon asked half-talkingly.

    ''Have you finally made up your mind?

    After learning that Vivi was Zion, Zeon seemed to keep thinking about something.

    Therefore, it was not difficult to predict that a day like today would come.

    Once he ripped the scroll to his liking.

    Since you just introduced me as your little brother, Yulydia-sama doesn''t seem to know that you are from another world, right?

    "Yes? Yes, it is, but I am just pretending to be receiving a revelation from God. Ah! Really real-time communication

    I''m not becoming a god, I''m just unraveling the future little by little based on the future I knew before coming over, but the reason I didn''t tell her the truth is... .

    It must be because you have an idea. There is no need to explain it.

    Feeling that the words were going to be long, Xeon cut my words relentlessly.

    "The person who knows the details is Ser, no, Duke . For convenience, I will refer to it as Serpens from now on."

    Xeon made an absurd expression on his face.

    but so what

    Anyway, it''s a name I''ve already called out in front of Vivi. There''s no reason I can''t sing in front of Xeon, who knows I''m from another world.

    Anyway, it''s only Serpens. Oh! There are three including my Bibi and the deputy butler.

    [Master of the Holy Sword] Uh] I didn''t talk about it, but that''s tmi, so to speak.

    For them, this world is real, and it was the same for me now.

    Moreover, the time when Shion died was the beginning of [Master of the Holy Sword], ''before the day of choice, but it was a corner of history contained in it.

    Considering that Vivi remembers her time as ''the duke''s assistant'', the history that flowed in [Master of the Holy Sword] could not be called fiction.

    ''There''s no need to confuse you by bringing up a story about old novels.''

    I can assure you, the only person who can accept such a thing casually is Serpens.

    "And there will be more to come.

    There won''t be.

    The same goes for Eugenes.

    Even if the day comes when I tell her more, it will be just that I am from another world.

    Unlike Zeon and Zion, she was the main axis in the history of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Receiving the events that will happen in the future as a revelation is different from the fact that there was history connected with a single flow.

    How much less is the end of the marriage with Huma-Nunsae.

    ''Our Euges is not worth it, cancer!''

    It was a secret that had to be taken to the grave.

    "Does anyone else know about it?"

    Not at all. Do you mean you only know three?

    I thought I was going to get to the point quickly because they even cut my horse''s waist, but somehow Zeon bit the wrong thing and drooped.

    He even sent a glance that he might have been suspicious because he secretly leaked suspiciousness.

    "Didn''t you say we were talking about Vivi earlier?"

    In the end, impatient, I brought up the original topic first.

    I''m not here because of Vivi, but because of my younger brother.

    "Are those two different?"

    Isn''t that what it is? It sounds like the same thing?

    It doesn''t mean that Bibi has already admitted that she is Zion, and now she''s going to deny it... .

    The reason for separating the two is different

    is there

    Would it be said that I met a suspicious person while out for work during the day or that I was taken away...

    "Yes? What else do you mean?"

    Literally.

    It took me a while to understand what he was saying.

    Literally, that''s why I didn''t understand it any more.

    Without realizing it, I was like, ''Uh... ?'' came a stupid sound, and the head automatically tilted to the side.

    "If you say that, it sounds like you were kidnapped on the street by someone you didn''t know and then returned. Did I misunderstand you?"

    You understand correctly.

    Earlier, I completely cancel the statement that I expected a day like today to come.

    I didn''t expect this?!''

    If anyone expected it, even a one-time serpence voucher (ȯ) would be tempting to give as a gift.

    Serpens would reject it, but this is a situation that even the most imaginative Yujis could not foresee.

    no problem.

    How did you get here , ah! I''m really glad you escaped safely. It''s not that it''s wrong...!''''

    Okay. That''s not what''s important.

    If you just want to say something from a while ago, you cleanly pass it on with an attitude that it doesn''t matter.

    ''What is the most important thing to him? Are you family? Is it possible that he doesn''t care about anything other than his family?''

    Eugene was not wrong.

    However, it wasn''t just for his younger brother, but for the entire family.

    The current aide is not my real older brother, so he sent me back to go back and try it myself.

    When I asked how the fragile Xeon got out, it wasn''t that he escaped on his own... .

    What?!

    I was so surprised that I even twisted my tongue.

    Seeing me idling, Xeon asked if I would say it again, and I declined the offer.

    "What happened?"

    "How do I know what you don''t know?"

    "Yeah, right."

    Well, it makes me speechless to be human.

    I kept my mouth shut and listened to him.

    Anyway, he said, now the younger brother''s body is inhabited by two souls.

    " You only have one?"

    I called to myself, looked in the mirror, and tried everything.

    I did my best, but other spirits

    I have never felt the existence of a soul.

    Moreover, what did I say to Serpens, who gave the name ''Zion'' as a pseudonym when I first went down to the Prasidus Territory?

    If there was a soul of Zion in my body, it should have popped out when I spit out a word that said that Zion was so absurd.

    While feeling the shrinkage of space and time and trembling with shame, even screaming, "Aww!"

    Two souls fight each other, spit

    It is said that the spirit of the particle has triumphed and is oppressing and weighing down the soul of its master.

    I''ve never done anything like a battle of souls, and I don''t even want to do it. If I had done that, I''d have noticed!

    It is said that the soul of the owner of the body will be eaten soon if it continues like this...

    "You don''t believe that, do you?"

    "If that was the case, would you have brought it up like this?"

    It seems that the only thing that had a thin sphere 1 was Zion.

    You''ve been chewing my words strangely ever since

    When I stabbed with anxiety, Jeon clicked his tongue with a rather pathetic expression.

    Even after confirming that Bibi is the younger brother, even if it''s not, no one will listen to what such a suspicious person is saying.

    no. exist. also very close to him

    I swallowed the word that he was your little brother.

    If that were the case, wouldn''t that raise some suspicions? I may have cheated.

    are you?

    " Aide, is it even a hobby to buy and be suspicious?"

    No, absolutely not!

    He denied it right away, but Zeon''s questioning eyes were still there.

    I remember one day that Serpens misunderstood me for ''a taste for being bullied.

    If you add the two, would you become ''a person who deliberately buys suspicious behavior because he wants to be harassed''?

    very dangerous person

    Do your hobbies in moderation.

    Because it''s not!

    Anyway. For that reason, they told me that we must drive the intruder''s soul out of the little brother''s body quickly, and they told us to lure the aide to their place this weekend. Of course, without an escort.

    this is it

    I was escorted by Eugenes, and I didn''t even step out of the mansion, so I resorted to Zeon to kidnap me.

    And introducing themselves as the ''Prophet of Tenebrio''...

    "Te, what?!"

    The prophecy of Tenebrio...

    Crazy? Why is that name here? And what else is the Prophet?!

    Yes?

    At the sudden harsh words, Zeon was startled and looked at me with his eyes wide open.

    A name that has yet to be mentioned suddenly popped up, and I seem to have gotten excited without knowing it.

    But it''s inevitable... .

    "Tenebrio. That''s right, the Demon King himself.

    It''s your own divine name.

    The Demon King''s new name...?

    The Demon King is not a god.

    It was not enough to say that he was a god, but he had reached the level of a demigod.

    He wanted to be perfect and at the same time to be unique.

    Its name was first known when demon worshipers gathered to form a denomination.

    The beings of the continent simply called it the ''Devil Church, but they called it the ''Tenebrio Church''.

    Maybe it''s because it''s a freshly made warm name, or because it''s a name that''s been hidden like a honey jar.

    I don''t know that far, but anyway, there was an explanation in the work that this was the first time the name was known to the world.

    Anyway, it is not a name that will come out now.

    "Let''s keep talking for now. What about introducing yourself?"

    Ah, yes...

    Zeon, who had calmed down for a moment, shook his head to shake off his thoughts. And brushing away my messy hair

    got it back

    It is said that the Holy Sword was directed at the wrong person, not its original owner, because of the devil''s minion... now wearing the body of the younger brother.

    Oh my, the devil''s minions are theirs! Serpens didn''t get the Holy Sword because of me, so even if you make up your own words, you''re oily! The Prophet tells you not to talk dog-grazing? No. What do you say? Tell me? It''s best not to get involved with those guys!

    Even if I did not come, the owner of the Holy Sword was not Serpens.

    It''s the first time in my life that I''ve ever felt so miserable.

    And what kind of power do I have to intervene in the will of God who chooses the master of the holy sword?

    ''Or what, did I even corrupt the Serpens?''

    When I cried hard for repentance, I cried out, but I never once encouraged corruption.

    When I picked up a kitten the size of a palm that had been left alone on the street and touched it, it felt like rumors had spread that it was misunderstood and abused for some reason.

    heard this

    In a nutshell, it''s sad and embarrassing.

 CH 166

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 166

    34. While the Duke was away

    It''s like these bad guys.

    As long as Serpens leaves far away, he is anxious because he can''t do his best.

    Why are you mad at me?!''

    Considering the externally known image of Serpence, whether it was me or Xeon

    His use as a hostage is there.

    Xeon should have been imprisoned

    That doesn''t mean you did, it just means that you don''t have to make an ambiguous order to bring in another kid while releasing the fish you''ve already caught.

    ''Or are you going to take revenge on me now?''

    I was involved in two events organized by the demon worshipers in the Empire. If anger is the purpose

    I would curse for being petty, but it was a reason I could accept and move on.

    But two is better than one.

    If you can take two hostages, you can use them more reliably than one.

    could eat

    ''For example, killing one person or making them disabled, then trading with another person?''

    It wasn''t something I just invented, it was the method they actually used in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    If there is definitely a way to get another hostage, there''s no reason not to try it.

    ''Do these guys really know something?''

    You must have remembered that their specialty is manipulation.

    It seems to have been worn out.

    Probably they did some research on me.

    Based on the change in personality or behavior between past and present information, ''Ah! What if you thought, ''Is it going to be enough to make it up like this?''

    So, what if you''ve floated the odds?

    ''It''s plausible, but they''re talking about the self-proclaimed ''Prophet of Tenebrio''... .''

    But for them to be true prophets, I am not the original Zion.

    I got everything wrong except for you.

    Before that, I don''t know what the relationship between being a prophet and knowing that I''m not Zion has anything to do with it.

    Okay... this, really.

    The sound of pain comes out of nowhere.

    There were no such people in [Master of the Holy Sword], but suddenly I got a headache.

    Then, by ignoring it like this...

    Wait a minute, that''s not much.

    Yes?

    I knew it because I told you not to get involved

    At my sudden change of words, Xeon showed a question.

    If I asked for just one more week..., wouldn''t they listen to me? Wait, to talk like that, you have to meet them first... But that''s not enough to just pass on as if nothing had happened...

    "Of course we have to go through it."

    Could it be the sweet pumpkin soup from tonight''s dinner menu?

    Xeon is so determined today.

    "Serpens even told the deputy butler, if you think I''m going to go buy something and hit it, stop it.

    Did you say something different?"

    There was no such order.

    Xeon made a blatant expression as if he was scolding what he was doing on a regular basis.

    Or is it just drinking, there''s no need to look at it that way?

    As a result of checking, you were right, and everything they said was nonsense, so they dismissed it as a mere happening. That''s good enough. I''ve only seen one person, but I don''t know how many people are hiding. It''s too dangerous to move around.

    NS.

    He was a hundred times right.

    Even if he asked Eugenes for his cooperation, he could not step into the enemy line, leaving all safety to her in a situation where he did not know how much the enemy''s strength was.

    Also, Serpens must have entered the boundary of the mountain range by now.

    Even if the worshiper who claims to be a prophet succeeds in sending a letter unnoticed, it will not be in the hands of Serpens who came out of the barrier until next week.

    There was no such thing as the last time.

    That''s what I know.

    If you know, what are you hesitating about? Even if the aide''s identity arises in the future, it''s enough for me as a family member to defend myself, and it won''t matter if a demon worshiper makes such a claim. .

    I know that too.

    Xeon narrowed his eyes at my answer.

    Like, what''s wrong with him? It''s like saying, ''Is it a problem that I left this god''s piece of shit on the other side of the dimension?''

    got stuck

    I never really thought so, but it seems like I have a roughly similar thought.

    "I''m just asking, just in case you''re worried about me right now aren''t you?"

    "Why do you think no?"

    Yeah, umm... Zion has already acquired a new body, isn''t it?

    Xeon frowned at my answer. It was a very disliked and unappealing expression.

    Suddenly, I think it''s been a long time since I''ve seen his expression so closely.

    It was.

    I don''t think I''ve seen his face right away since I found out I wasn''t Zion. All I could see was passing by.

    Is that a reason why I shouldn''t worry about you?

    No, I can''t. Why in the world people shouldn''t worry about people? Come on, come on! Don''t worry!

    " it seems that my worries just disappeared."

    It''s such a sad thing...!

    For some reason, he overdosed it a little bit, and Xeon put on a puzzled expression.

    Now, stop talking nonsense and answer my questions.

    If that''s the case, I did it because it was a pity. As if to say, ''I''m one of the core of the demon cult. I know a lot.'' Doesn''t it look like something great will happen no matter what happens?"

    It is different from the pyramids that have appeared so far.

    They were those who knew the name of the Demon King. I feel like a giant.

    Since he drank hardships one after another, it was highly probable that he would send a high-level person with a big heart this time.

    I don''t want to do anything that threatens my safety, but I can''t help but feel regret.

    "If it''s such a problem, shouldn''t we just report it?"

    Report?

    female].,,

    How like that?!

    I guess I was too tainted with fantasy thinking.

    If there is a suspicious person, it is natural to report it first.

    It is a shame for modern people to think of it only after hearing it from Xeon.

    I had a time to reflect in my mind for 3 seconds. If you are a Korean, it is basic to know three times, so three seconds of reflection is enough.

    ''Security report is a security guard]! Report heresy to the denomination!''

    The Heretic Inquisitor is not for nothing.

    To deal with demons and their worshipers.

    In the yard where there is even a specialized department dedicated to it, if you don''t report this to the denomination, where are you going?

    "How are you going to report it?"

    I''m going to talk to Ollen, select a suitable person from among the informants, and pretend to be a believer who came to worship and deliver the letter.

    "If it''s Eollen , ah! Are you talking about the butler''s granddaughter? But last time

    ''Didn''t you give me your name?

    I will write a letter asap.

    Seeing Xeon''s tired expression, I quietly got up from my seat and took an empty paper and pen from the drawer.

    "What are you going to write?"

    Why do I put on an anxious expression when I try to convey something?

    I couldn''t understand it at all.

    I belong to the Self-proclaimed Tenebrio denomination.

    These guys approached the deputy butler, said they thought something was on me, brought me here, and said bullshit that I had to swear at an unheard of Tenebrio.

    When the Tenebrio Church was first launched in [Master of the Holy Sword], no one knew that ''Tenebrio'' was the god of the Demon King.

    When the Luxmea Church was shaken, and as a result, many pseudo-religions took over. I could pretend to be one of them.

    Thanks to that, it is possible to attract ordinary people and increase the number of followers and increase in size in one breath.

    there was.

    When it became known that they were a demon-believing group, ordinary people had already turned into mad fanatics or had been sacrificed.

    ''But not anymore!''

    If you know from the beginning that Tenebrio means the Demon King, your words will change.

    If there is a person who says that he accepts the demon king as a god and worships him, most people who can think and judge normally will run away before they even hear the details.

    ''If you''re the one who can''t do that, you''re already a devil

    You are worshiping or will be worshiping in the future, so there is nothing you can do about it... .''

    Even so, just by making it impossible to openly attract people, its power will definitely decrease compared to the Demon Cult of the [Master of the Holy Sword].

    "Isn''t this a little bit of pseudonym?"

    Just writing the name of the denomination is already enough heresy.

    No, that alone does not fit the heresy!

    Where is that pseudo-religion?

    It''s just an ordinary religious group that spreads out flyers on the street.

    They said to the deputy deacon, ''I am sorry for your brother''s brother, and I am just trying to give you relief, and I am not trying to get anything.'' They are also said to have said, ''Let''s break down all the order established on the continent and move forward together in the new world that will follow soon.''"

    Also, if it is a pseudonym, the word ''fate,'' and the title ''brother, sister''. And then he said, ''I want to share good things with you.''

    talk shouldn''t be missed.

    It would be perfect if we added the story of what the ancestors were saying, but it''s a concept that doesn''t apply in this world, so let''s move on.

    It''s a new world, so that sounds like a dangerous word...

    That''s what a demon worshiper is talking about. That''s what Genee says, huh.

    As if convinced by what I said, Xeon kept her mouth shut instead of adding more gata buta.

    After all, her skin looks like this

    How was the crab?

    My body is dry and my skin is empty, so I think I need to feed him a lot. What did Shion do without even eating her younger brother?

    "And it would be nice if there was more evidence to confirm that the Tenebrio Church is a demonic religion, wouldn''t it be nice to have a better way? The Lux Mea Church will run rampant even with the infidels, but if you don''t see it as an ordinary heresy, you shouldn''t be turned upside down. Because...

    " I don''t know."

    If the person in this room was Serpens or Eugenes, ideas would have been pouring out.

    Even now, I wondered if I should have summoned Eugenes.

    "Ah, yes! ''Ma , no, Tenebrio-sama is the true God and order.

    Si, it''s a god...

    "The future hope of the Demon King is ''God. Didn''t you know?''

    Plans for the future .

    I''ll prepare the sacrifices and tools needed to raise the chivalry, so should I use the saying that you bring money? No, this is too ugly and it''s like another pseudonym pretending to be a demon worshiper. Right? Let''s just leave this out.

    If it''s a serpent, you''ll be like, ''That''s right .'' He would have nodded his head.

    Xeon''s head didn''t even move.

 CH 167

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 167

    34. While the Duke was away (6)

    I read through the letter I wrote once.

    There was a group with a dangerous smell.

    Okay, great!

    At this level, we can say that we worship demons wherever we go.

    I can''t help but admire myself. Even Euges is moved by this,

    Even Serpens sticks out his tongue.

    He handed the letter to Xeon with a confident attitude, filled with a sense of pride.

    Then I will make arrangements to deliver it to the denomination as soon as the sun rises tomorrow.

    He swung while reading the contents, then simply folded it up and put it in the inside pocket of his shirt.

    "Think about it. At this level, people should be wary of the name Tennis. However, the fact that the Luxmea Church has been declared a cult

    How ridiculous would it be to change your euro name? All the believers who were there will fall away!"

    Ah, yes...

    It was a disrespectful answer, as if someone was asking who it was.

    And the conversation was cut off.

    "Hey, aren''t you going out?"

    I still have more to say.

    Zeon, who had more to say, remained silent without saying anything.

    The calm blue staring at me

    Colored eyes are very annoying.

    Why, why?

    Why does your aide look at me like that? I must have been recognized by my older brother, who was the original owner of the body, doesn''t it matter now?

    "I will, has it become a habit ?"

    Xeon never came forward and said anything to me, but I couldn''t help but notice.

    It''s been almost half a year since I''ve been avoiding him like that.

    Just because the situation has changed, it is difficult to fix it in an instant.

    The person who can do that must be a brazen guy with several layers of iron on his face.

    It is impossible for a person with a delicate mind like me.

    You don''t have to do that anymore.

    "Well, it will get better over time. Was that what you were going to say?"

    that .

    I just said that the silence in front of me was too long to say not to notice.

    I guess there''s more to say.

    Xeon hesitates, then relaxes

    He took a long breath and opened his mouth again.

    It''s the same as losing a family, but it sounds a bit strange to say that the aide shifted the responsibility even though he knew he wasn''t at fault. It doesn''t matter where you are.

    Yes?!

    Another unexpected word came out.

    To be honest, I was more surprised than the demon worshipers found out that I wasn''t Zion.

    Little As the older brother said, ''Zion Lee Bellon'' is you now. You can''t replace your real family, but it''s like a relative. Here, it''s okay to regard you as your family and your side.

    "Uh, that''s Even if the deputy butler and Vivi are like that, the other family members who don''t know anything about it "

    I think everyone will accept it that way if they find out about the situation.

    It didn''t sound like something impulsive. It''s a conclusion I''ve been thinking about for a long time.

    I feel very confused, and this

    I want to know what

    Since his family has a lot of value in him, he must have felt sorry for my situation.

    Are you accepting me?

    "Didn''t you say that you would do it after finding your brother''s whereabouts from the beginning?"

    The words I wanted to ask when you said those words rose up to my throat.

    However.

    '' I did.''

    After listening to him, I looked back and

    It seems like he really said that.

    However, at the time, it must have been a problem that the only nuance heard was ''I will not treat you like a family from now on, and let''s live like men and women except for public affairs''.

    I can''t tell if I''m crying because I''m out of breath, or if I''m really misinterpreting.

    Ha-a.

    I looked at Zeon from afar to find out what he meant, and he let out a long sigh.

    Keep being open like you are now

    Others approaching may be suspicious. Just like Wilydia said earlier. I know I''m embarrassed, but even in front of others as much as possible... .

    No, no! It''s just that I don''t know how to react to this. It''s my first time getting a family offer.

    " I''m going to try it for the first time."

    I guess so.

    This is really, really disappointing.

    Maybe I wasn''t the only one who thought so, so Zeon patted the back of his hand with the palm of his hand, avoiding his gaze.

    You just have to think that you have a younger brother and treat him comfortably.

    Uh... I, ��

    "Then I''m done talking, so I''ll just go out and see. So hyung."

    That''s right... Goodbye, little brother.

    I waved awkwardly, and Xeon smiled awkwardly and went back to my room through the secret passage.

    You just have to say you''re sorry for noticing, to go round and round...

    In order to blow away the suffocating awkward air, Eugese is very considerate.

    I opened the window that had been closed.

    * * *

    next day.

    Xeon informed me that a person from the temple would secretly visit in the middle of the night.

    The matter was dealt with very quickly.

    I had time to explain to her in advance, fearing that Yu-Jis would break in just like I did to Xeon yesterday.

    "After I came to the capital, I went through a lot of things, so my personality changed a lot from before "

    I know, I understand.

    It was very easy for the demon worshipers to excuse themselves for speaking as if they were convinced that I was someone else.

    As soon as he lifted the fortune, Eugez''s eyes lit up with a faint light.

    ''There was no change in personality, but it''s true that you''ve been through a lot here, isn''t it?''

    He pushed his remorseful conscience to a corner of his chest, and proudly opened his shoulders.

    I can''t even imagine that Zion is timid and shy. ''

    Wow, how the hell do you look at me!

    I''m just looking at Zion.

    Euges smiled brightly and answered without hesitation at all.

    Somehow it reminds me of Serpense''s saying, ''Because you are so much.''

    Oh my gosh, is it true that words to express myself do not exist in this world? A sigh comes out of nowhere.

    By the way, I didn''t know that there was such a conversation yesterday.

    I''m sorry. There were a lot of personal stories coming out because I was going through various procedures for self-verification... It''s not that Xeon doubted me, it''s just that he likes certain things.

    It''s okay. At the same time, you must have reminisced about the memories together and strengthened the friendship between the brothers, but it just makes me uncomfortable when I''m involved.

    It''s really maintenance.

    How did you know that we looked back on our past memories and strengthened brotherly friendship?

    Oh, I guess you''re coming now.

    She interrupted the conversation and looked towards the bathroom.

    Moments later, a knock was heard, and Xeon and a man in a hooded robe entered the room.

    Nice to meet you. Is that the person who sent the letter, Sion-sama?

    Yes, it''s nice to meet you too. So...

    My name is Luxmea-nim''s faithful servant, Eilei T. Lanchea.

    As I ended my speech, he introduced himself with a faint laugh.

    In this world, the only person who introduces himself as a ''servant of the god Luxmea'' is the ''This Dan Inquisitor''.

    As expected, I was able to pass it on by simply saying that it was so.

    Yes, nice to meet you. Eirich-sama. This is Shion Rivellon, the Prasidus family aide.

    After the formal introduction, he reached out to me. It is an expression of intention to shake hands.

    He grabbed her hand without thinking. Suddenly, a warm energy flowed through my hand and swirled around my body.

    A familiar yet unfamiliar feeling.

    ''Did you scan now?''

    When Serpens poured divine power into me, it felt as if he was gently embracing me, but it just felt like I was checking every corner of the house.

    excuse me?

    The letter said something was written on it, so I tried to check it without any excuses. I''m sorry.

    So what''s the result?

    Clean.

    Of course it should be.

    Even Serpens could not find any abnormality.

    Before that, it was put in by God and no one else. If you can recognize it with divine power, you must change the positions of the god and the believer from that day on.

    "More than that, I think Eirich-sama is still ignoring an example?"

    Yes?

    "Now that you''re indoors, do you still need to hide your face?"

    "Oops, sorry!

    I''m used to hiding it... .

    He took off the dull gray robe he was wearing, revealing the pure white robe he was wearing.

    It seems that it is not a lie to say that they are used to covering their faces. The priest''s uniform also had a hood, and he was wearing it inside again.

    When the hood attached to the priest''s uniform was removed, his shiny blue-silver hair and clear green eyes were revealed.

    '' Serpense?''

    correct it

    Reminds me of serpens for about 0.3 seconds

    But... . No, actually, I still remember Serpens.

    However, considering his short hair, age, and degree of brilliance, he was a completely different person.

    ''If you lower Serpence''s crazy beauty to the level of a human, and then make her age, what would it feel like?''

    Even so, it does not change the fact that he is quite middle-aged.

    In a word, it looked like a deterioration version of Serpens.

    That person...

    Yes? Oh, yes. My name is Eugenes. Oh,

    This is Eugenes Wilydia.

    Nice to meet you, Euges-sama.

    you], yes! Nice to meet you too, yes.

    Perhaps I wasn''t the only one who was surprised, and Eugene was also gibberish.

    In the midst of this, Xeon is the only one who is calm. It must have been that he knew it secretly by himself.

    "I think everyone was very surprised."

    Yeah, well, uh, um...

    "Oh, I''m sorry. Such disrespect".

    No. I should have explained it first, but I didn''t expect you to be so surprised.

    It was.

    He smiled kindly. Her eyes were softly curved into a half moon, and natural wrinkles were formed on the corners of her eyes.

    The confusion aggravated.

    Who the hell is this guy?

    Before joining the Church, my name was Eilerich T. Prasidus.

    When you enter the church and become a priest, the first thing you do is cut off the relationship you had built up before.

    Origin is no longer important, and the priest who gave up his old surname and gave his baptism

    Priest Relations A similar ties is formed and follows his surname.

    Of course, if you are excommunicated, your castle as a priest will be recovered and your original castle will be returned:

    ''It''s not that important right now, isn''t it!''

    He captured the spirit that had run away and brought him back.

    Anyway, it''s not like it''s the Serpence family.

    This was information that did not come out of [Master of the Holy Sword], and it was a story that Serpens did not hear either.

    How can you hide this sensitive information

    are you going

    With his mouth wide open and feeling some kind of betrayal, Eugese sent a glance that seemed to ask if you didn''t know either.

    Well, then the relationship with the Duke is .

    The body that has already dedicated all its life to the god Luxmea, the relationship in the world doesn''t matter.

    I can''t tell if the person in front of me is a heretic inquisitor of the Luxmea Church or a monk from our world.

    I''m important!

    With a frustrated heart, I ask him and listen to him

    As I tried, I felt a tingling pain in my side.

    Xeon guy, let''s have a good time... . He must have said it for his own convenience.

    Just like the day we first met, he grabbed my side and twisted it.

 CH 168

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 168

    34. While the Duke was away

    "What are you doing with a busy person?"

    Even though you could hear everything anyway, Zeon lowered his voice and slapped me.

    "Before talking about work in earnest, it was also mentioned in [Must read book for growing young nobles ~Basic etiquette] that light socializing is recommended?!"

    That''s something that only holds true among nobles. And lower your voice.

    Even if it''s not just for socializing, this is a very important issue!

    "I was just curious."

    no it''s not?

    Is that right?

    Now Xeon is greatly misunderstood. It seems that they misunderstand that I am doing this simply out of curiosity.

    [H] But, by all means... Not so far, but anyway.

    ''What kind of relationship is it with Serpens? when

    After entering the Luxmea Church, have there been any interactions with the Dukes since then?''

    Whether the heretic inquisitor in front of you is just a good religious man who knows nothing, or a bad guy who is as bad as a demon worshiper.

    Will his name become ''Eilrich'' or ''Erai!'' in my mind?

    That was a very serious matter for me to decide.

    ''There must have been someone who became a priest... .''

    Why didn''t I think of that?

    Even though it is a natural thing to think about, there was a strong perception that "the only person who uses the Prasidus surname is Serpens," so I couldn''t think of that possibility.

    Hmmmm...!

    As Zeon and I were arguing, the Heretic Inquisitor showed an uncomfortable look and coughed in vain.

    It''s a completely gloomy face.

    ''If it was a Serpence, he would have kindly answered my question with a smile as if it was difficult to pretend to be nice... .''

    There was no such thing.

    There was no answer, and there was no question about the safety of my side.

    I suddenly missed Serpens. When you come back, you should have a whirlpool lollipop in your hand.

    " I''ll tell you later, so let''s move on for now."

    That, yes...

    It seems I wasn''t the only one who was under the influence of the Heretic Inquisitor.

    Xeon had first proposed a peace treaty, and I accepted the terms he offered.

    '' But how does he know that?''

    I''ll have to ask this too.

    You seem to have a good relationship with the brothers.

    When Xeon and I shut our mouths side by side, the Heretic Inquisitor smiled kindly again as if he had ever been in love.

    I felt a sense of pressure that was worse than the constant hardening of my expression. It may seem sarcastic

    We had to apologize to him.

    Then let''s start the real conversation now.

    With the attitude that no more Saddam will be tolerated, the heretic interrogator hastened.

    Still, I couldn''t stand and talk, so I offered him a seat, and we sat around a table with each other.

    I received the letter well. It is a very good thing that you did this report without paying attention to what Ethan is saying.

    "Ah, yes Thank you."

    Usually, ''Thank you for your cooperation'', ''No. It''s my duty as a citizen.'' Shouldn''t the same conversation be established?

    It''s my first time talking to a Heretic Inquisitor, so I''m not sure if this is a professional trait of a Heretic Inquisitor or a personal trait of this person.

    "Come to think of it, it was not the younger brother who faced the heresy, but the older brother, Zion, who wrote the letter. Is there any reason for doing so?"

    I think it was a professional characteristic.

    With a soft voice and a friendly tone,

    He was in interrogation mode as if breathing.

    "Since the Duke was absent, I thought it would be more polite for me as an aide rather than a deputy deacon to write a letter.

    Is that possible? I was just asking a question for confirmation in order to write a report.

    As if reassured, he said with a smile.

    "First, listen carefully to how they approached Xeon.

    I would like to.

    Oh, I didn''t write that down.

    They were busy emphasizing their pseudonym, so they omitted a proper contextual explanation.

    I glanced at Zeon asking if he would have told me, but he did not even look at me to explain the situation at that time.

    It must have been really bad!

    After Xeon finished the story, Eugese said as if he was really glad that he had returned without a hitch.

    Naturally, the gaze of the heretical inquisitor

    turned to her

    It had been a question for a long time, but I couldn''t help but ask, as if this elf was asking why he was stuck here.

    It hasn''t been long since the bombing of the Duke of Argento. In such a situation, the Duke was very worried about the Duke''s family because he was leaving the Duke''s house with the knights. The more is better, isn''t it?

    did it.

    understand.

    The Heretic Inquisitor nodded at my explanation. His gaze fell from Eugenes.

    Coming back to the case, I have one question.

    Oh, did they say something nonsense to me, like something was leaking?

    This time his head moved horizontally.

    "Is there anything more strange than that?"

    Didn''t you notice?

    The question returned to the question.

    I wondered if I was the only one who didn''t notice, so I looked at Zeon and Eugenes alternately, and they too shook their heads.

    It''s okay if you didn''t know. If it''s normal, that''s right.

    It sounded sarcastic at first glance, but his expression was the gentlest of all his expressions I had seen today.

    If the purpose is to summon Sion-sama, then you shouldn''t have released Zeon-sama. I''m not going to induce him to lure you out, but even Gui.

    If you want to save your brother while cutting him off, it''s much more efficient to tell him to sneak out to a designated place.

    Without realizing it, I almost shouted suspense.

    Is this a specific characteristic of the Prasidus family, or is this an occupational disease of a heretic inquisitor?

    ''It was a bit chilly, but it sure is.''

    I had a strong awareness that I could be a hostage to threaten Serpence, so I didn''t even think about taking someone else hostage and trying to bring me down.

    When I glanced to the side, I saw that Xeon had become hazy.

    He fiddled with my pinna, as if trying to make sure it was attached.

    "Do you have any guesses?"

    whenever there is

    I don''t know how the demon worshipers know, but I''m pretty sure I''m not Zion.

    Knowing that I''m not really family with Xeon.

    Therefore, even if he is in danger, I judge that my own safety comes first.

    So, if you thought you''d let him die.

    If so, that was a sufficient explanation.

    ''But I can''t say this .''

    While he was struggling to figure out what to make an excuse for, Eugenes suddenly raised his hand slightly.

    Ah! There is a point.

    Tell me.

    I''ve been watching the two of them get along, but I didn''t even notice that they were brothers.

    At her words, Inquisitor Heretic raised one eyebrow slightly.

    The reason that the two of them didn''t have any similarities in appearance also played a part, but rather, it was their attitude toward each other that was a problem. It was because they looked more like strangers than others by completely building walls and not saying anything other than office work.

    But the figure I saw a while ago...

    you], that''s right. You know, since you just saw the two of them having a casual conversation, there''s a lot of intimacy no matter who you look at.

    A happy smile appeared on Eugene''s face, and the question of doubt deepened in the heretical Inquisitor''s expression.

    Me and Xeon didn''t know English either.

    What the hell are you going to say?

    Actually, Shion has always been worried that people will devalue his younger brother''s abilities because of his existence. He is a talented person who deserves recognition, but he is so sorry that it seems like he was hired by the duke''s family behind his back. kept a distance

    He said."

    what?

    Xeon-sama must have noticed this too. So, he worked harder and tried his best to be recognized by everyone in the duke and duke and become a younger brother that he was proud of. , it must have taken time to confirm the friendship by going back and forth through the secret passage.

    The words that seemed to be spilled were sticking to each other, and Zeon and I became like two brothers in the world.

    It was frustrating.

    ''If I said that, wouldn''t Xeon be misunderstood? Don''t you look like the guy I lied to the elf... !''

    I''m worried about how to tell Xeon that Euges is a master of improvisation.

    If I tell you, will you believe me?

    Demon worshipers only know how to dig into and penetrate other people''s weaknesses and wounds, so they would not have noticed the deep friendship and trust between the two of them. I tried to deceive him by saying things like

    Joe. There is nothing like this kind of warmth and bond with them. So obviously you didn''t understand!

    It seems that the saying, ''I feel sorry for you who doesn''t know the beauty of love!'' is heard from somewhere.

    Is it because he exalted the sublime of the human heart while exposing a dirty heresy?

    Or maybe it was because he felt a deep appeal from the appearance of an elf speaking with his hands clasped in front of his chest.

    I''m used to the stories she makes up

    Unlike me, who sheds tears in one ear at sunset, the Heretic Inquisitor nodded as if he understood.

    Thank you. Thanks for clearing up my question.

    is it unlocked? Is that the only way to solve it!

    I don''t know whether I should lament the fact that the heretic inquisitor admits it so easily, or if I should exclaim at Eugez''s storytelling that he made that way.

    Xeon''s gaze turned to me.

    Was that gaze wrapped up in that way in front of others?

    And I felt like I was being slapped about how a person could do that.

    There was no one in this place who could share this feeling I feel right now. I felt alone.

    Now that your doubts are cleared up, let''s talk about the future.

    It was nice to hear that.

    The voice of the Heretic Inquisitor lifted me out of the sea of loneliness.

    First of all, please go to the meeting place.

    Yes?!

    If you are dragging time, we will mobilize the paladins to surround them to prevent them from escaping, and we will gradually narrow the scope.

    Just report it and we''ll figure it out! And with a stone, voila! And didn''t you catch it?

    It was very embarrassing to say that he was suddenly rushed to the enemy camp and wasted time.

    "Well, wouldn''t that be a bit dangerous ?"

    Carefully, with an expression of concern for Eugene, who has a duty to protect me

    I asked, but the attitude of the heretic inquisitor, who had neither blood nor tears, did not change in the slightest.

    That''s why we have to be more careful. This is the first case where the name of the ''Demon King'' is mentioned. In addition, their remarks are not something to be taken lightly. I know it''s dangerous, but you have to cooperate. .

    I realized.

    that I was overdoing it.

    ''Are you so excited? Is that so?''

    Thinking of messing around with demon worshipers

    It seems I was too harsh on

    The heretical Inquisitor''s expression was extremely serious, and Zeon quietly touched his forehead.

    Well, then, please join me in the operation too! Can you give me permission to escort the two of you on an undetected street? I can''t help but watch my dear friend and his brother go to dangerous places.

    If you do that, I''d be more grateful.

    Haha... I''m glad. I''m really lucky. I''ll definitely protect you!

    Eugene took a deep breath of relief and wiped his chest.

 CH 169

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 169

    34. While the Duke was away

    (8)

    The Heretic Inquisitor pulled out a map, pointed out a few places where Euges might be hiding and waiting, and informed us of the estimated time it would take for the charge and suppression.

    And for reference, the two of you''re helpless..., um.

    The Heretic Inquisitor, who glanced at me and Xeon, was speechless. Going beyond that, I''m sorry I even talked about it

    made a face that

    "However, I recently learned a little sword "

    We will do our best to establish a perimeter network as soon as possible.

    ''''I''ll be ready to shoot arrows at any time!

    Far from being reassured by my words, Inquisitor Heretic and Eugenes made up their minds with the expression that their responsibility was too heavy.

    It''s like witnessing a child who doesn''t know what to do with a kitchen knife and says he''s going to cook.

    ''How enthusiastically Serpens was

    I taught... .''

    Just think of it as exercising for your health. that would be better

    Now, instead of on the 4th floor where his office is located, it is not difficult to climb the stairs to the 5th floor, where his personal study is located. That''s it. Because physical strength is national strength.

    ''Besides, if you even know the name of the Demon King at this point, wouldn''t it be all about mana or black magic?''

    There is no point in wielding a sword from a distance against the warlock.

    The magic scroll I bought earlier

    take good care of me

    Then I''ll get back to you. I hope you keep quiet about them, including today''s conversation.

    The heretic inquisitor looked at us one by one and said that he would return only after receiving a definite answer.

    I''ll guide you outside.

    It''s okay. If there is a secret passage from the inside to the outside, I know. Don''t worry, it''s late, so please rest in peace.

    The person who was born and raised in this mansion

    What do you do when you say so?

    Above all, Xeon didn''t have the talent to follow this Dan Inquisitor who had already slipped through the secret passageway to the bathroom.

    I didn''t know it was going to be like this...

    Feeling sorry for nothing, I muttered shyly.

    Xeon said in a low voice, ''I should have stopped you then... .'' and lamented, Eugenes looked at me with the gaze of a bunch of accidents that couldn''t stop him.

    I''m sorry.

    Okay. Let''s talk about what has already happened.

    It''s only a waste of time if you hang around.

    That''s right. And Eirich-sama said that he''s trying his best not to harm the two of you as much as possible, so it''ll be fine. There''s me too.

    Have you ever seen such kind friends!

    Emotions come rushing in like waves.

    Instead, please speak well to Serpens.

    Oops.

    With a smile on his face, Eugenes pinpointed the problem I had missed and brought it right in front of my eyes.

    Yes.

    I had disobeyed everything Serpens had told me not to do over and over again.

    ''Should I be scolded?''

    How many times have you not been able to let go of things that may have caused you to be scolded?

    Still, in case I''m nauseous, I''ll prepare something sweet and try to calm it down by feeding it.

    Oh, come to think of it, what''s the relationship between Inquisitor Heretic and Serpens?

    The immediate problem must have been resolved, and I brought up the question that had been put off for a while.

    Zeon''s eyes, who received my question, instantly lit up with the same light as that of a younger brother looking at his pathetic brother.

    You should know the level of the family tree of the person the aide serves. What have you been doing without looking at the duke''s genealogy?

    "Hey, was there anything like that?"

    " Of course it is."

    "Oh, that''s right. There was. Hey~, if I had known, I would have read it right away, my

    Didn''t you know you were going?!

    If I had known, I wouldn''t have seen it.

    Noticing that, Zeon shook his head flutteringly.

    "I heard from Hans, that as soon as you entered the duke''s residence, you researched things about the duke? What the hell were you investigating?"

    "Serpense''s hobbies and tastes?"

    why?

    "I want to be friends."

    It must be very good for you to achieve your purpose.

    Very good!

    Zeon quietly rested his forehead and bowed his head.

    Because of that, I didn''t see Eugenes nodding his head enthusiastically with an expression of understanding what I was saying.

    Anyway, Eirich-sama is the older Duke''s older brother.

    Brother? Not the younger brother?

    Yeah. If the record isn''t wrong, I''m sure. There is a record that he even got the position of a minor duke, but he said he suddenly joined the denomination for some reason.

    Why?

    For a moment, Gozanus''s face flashed through his head, but he shook his head to shake it off, thinking it was too rude.

    Wait a minute. If you''re Serpence''s uncle, what''s your age?!

    "Certainly was it fifty-four?"

    With that face?!

    I vaguely thought that it might be my uncle, but no matter how many I saw, I could only see him in his mid-thirties to around forties .

    I don''t know if it''s the influence of divine power or family history, but anyway, it''s innate in many ways.

    is the bloodline

    At this point, isn''t it safe to say that the god Lux Smea bestowed divine power on the Prasidus family in the sense of protecting her beauty from external dangers?

    "Any more questions?"

    "Uh, um No, that''s fine. I think that''s all it takes."

    If you ask me anything else, it will be about the ex-dukes.

    To be honest, I don''t want to know anything about them.

    Knowing one makes them curious

    Even if you notice it, there is no other scrape.

    I''m a heretic inquisitor, so I can''t help it because I''m alive, but I don''t want to talk about dead people I don''t even want to meet anymore.

    Then I''ll go down now.

    I have to go back to my room, too.

    Xeon and Eugenes left me a good night greeting, and went back to their respective rooms through the secret passage and window.

    The door on the hallway side of this room is just for me.

    It was a door night.

    * * *

    A small mansion on the outskirts of the capital is today''s destination.

    When asked if he knew the owner of the mansion, the heretic interrogator replied, ''A few months ago, they were an old couple from the countryside.

    According to the records at the time of finding the mansion, the splendid capital that has been longed for since childhood when he retired after passing the wine business handed down from generation to generation.

    Are you a rich man from the countryside who came to Tokyo to experience life?

    Since we are always aware of outsiders'' access to the capital, it seems that it is not a problem to find out even there.

    However, it is said that they did not investigate the couple''s recent activities, in fear that the demon worshipers would notice.

    ''But it''s obvious, what... .''

    Either it was the disguise of a demon worshiper, or he was seduced by them, or he was killed by them.

    For these three possibilities,

    However, the interrogator did not mention it.

    "You said you have something to give me, so why are you here?"

    The Prophet of Tenebrio or the nerd of Lemonb Rioche may be watching us from where.

    As soon as he reached the front door of the mansion in the form of a steel grate, he showed off his innocent acting, pretending not to know anything and followed him.

    Xeon was nervous, so there was no answer.

    ''I wrote a script in advance and started acting.

    Did you mean to come even if you were wet?''

    If progress goes wrong. I was panicking and was afraid that the lines would be twisted, so I decided to just fill it with ad-libs from time to time, but I guess I was wrong.

    Zeon silently counted the bars of the gate one by one, and then dug under the sixth grate with a small penknife.

    It was a remote place and it was late at night, so no one was passing by. In the midst of the silence, only the sound of digging into the soil rang out.

    Somehow, as I was doing that without a word, I had a creepy feeling.

    "Je, Xeon ?"

    key.

    He took out a key that was shining from the pile of dirt, and answered briefly in a calm voice.

    At first, I wondered if I could call that an answer.

    Uh, yes. W, it''s a key...

    Why, why? It''s scary today...

    Oh! Any gift you gave me

    Is it this mansion? Have you already saved this much money? Hey, you''re proud of me!

    Or have a surprise party here... Oops, I''m sorry! I''ve been so reckless, you shouldn''t have noticed this! I''ll be pretending not to know! But what day is today?

    Xeon was still silent.

    Just look at me with cold eyes

    "Are you going to give it to me? Yes, yes. A present for our ''younger brother .''"

    Finally, Xeon wrote the correct sentence.

    exhaled

    It was a sentence with a lot of meaning.

    I think we should cancel the statement that Xeon was nervous.

    He was robbed of his brother by an unidentified being and was teased without noticing it, but eventually he found out the truth.

    He was playing the role of his younger brother who was able to face the day when everything would be right with revenge.

    It''s like saying that you''ve seen it in the meantime.

    It was incomparably colder than the eyes I had seen before.

    '' Acting, right?''

    If I were going to act like this, I had a mixed thought of resentment that I might have given you a notice in advance so that I could prepare my heart.

    I had to look for the script for a different reason than before.

    - Clap, clap. Cheol Keng һ.

    The lock was unlocked and it was tightly closed

    The iron gate opened.

    Wasn''t it a dream that I saw this Dan Inquisitor resembling a Serpence inside?

    So, I had time to reflect on whether I was walking on my own feet into the trap dug by the enemy without any preparation.

    "Come on, let''s go in."

    That, yes...

    It was far more frightening to see Zeon speaking in a blunt voice with only a smile on his mouth, than the jolda of sweets that have yet to be seen.

    Featured in the sudden cool atmosphere, what?

    "Why are you shaking so much?"

    it''s because you''re scared

    I wonder if I''m getting revenge now for having unintentionally scared me in the past... .

    I know this is the perfect way to distract demon worshipers, but it''s terrifying.

    Is it cold? Then let''s go inside. It''ll be warm inside.

    It''s like it''s preventing you from escaping.

    Xeon put one arm on my shoulder and led me inside.

    The garden, which was incomparably narrow compared to the peacock''s residence, was more like a yard than a garden, and reaching the entrance was instantaneous.

    Again, we tried to find the key, but as soon as we reached the door, it opened very smoothly.

    Come in.

    I was startled by the voice I heard from inside.

    Is it the same for Xeon?

    Lah, I could feel the strength in his hand holding my shoulder.

    "Well then, excuse me ?

    We quietly stepped into the mansion.

    I thought that they would create a horror atmosphere and put pressure on them in a dark atmosphere like a demon cult, but was it a prejudice?

    When I saw it from the outside, I didn''t know because the windows were locked and the blackout curtains were hanging down, but inside, the light was brightly lit.

    The brightly exposed interior is aristocratic

    It was not enough to say, but at the level of the common people, it was easy to see that the landlord put a lot of money and effort into it.

    Welcome. Xeon Rivelon-nim. And someone whose name you don''t know, Mr.

    A gentle-looking gentleman greeted us with a smile.

    But I couldn''t be distracted.

    Sir Stein, aide to Count Ferrarius, did he look like a fanatic? He was a little boy who seemed so cold-hearted in the world.

    I don''t know the name... Irasho?

    It''s no use taking them off. I already know that you are not Zion Rivelon. You cannot be Zion Rivelon.

    I have no idea what you''re talking about.

    For now, let''s be consistent.

 CH 170

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 170

    34. While the Duke was away

    (9)

    Xeon, how did this happen? Who else is that person?

    Instead of answering my call, Zeon took a step back and blocked the front door, loosening his arms around his shoulders.

    To be precise, he pretended to be in the way and secured an escape route just in case.

    How about checking? I said.

    Isn''t it Roy?

    Yes. As the Prophet said, the author was not my brother.

    At Zeon''s answer, the smile on the lips of the self-proclaimed Prophet became more distinct.

    So is it my turn to panic?

    It wasn''t that difficult. Me], Xeon... Ah?'' It seemed that the satisfaction of the demon worshipers had risen just by groping after Zeon''s name.

    Don''t use my name in vain.

    Well, there must be some misunderstanding! There''s no way I''m not your older brother? Look closely at me! Everywhere I look, your little one

    You''re my older brother, Shion Rivelon, aren''t you?

    I won''t be fooled anymore, this fake!

    No, you have to trust me huh. I''m not the one who doesn''t know who I am! You''re being deceived by him!

    As me and Xeon started arguing, the demon worshiper groaned and watched the spectators leisurely.

    It seems that we are very proud that we, who can be said to be on the same side, are fighting over our own differences.

    Or don''t bother me, the one who ruined their plans.

    you might have heard

    What matters is that the author thinks of me as a fish I have already caught.

    This might be a good way to pass the time.

    ''Isn''t that why the villains can''t do this?''

    You just have to deal with it right away... .

    It is a very typical clich�� to have fun while watching the other person suffer for nothing, and to get a big nose while giggling and playing.

    The main character, driven into a corner, awakens and says, ''Wow, shudder, ouch!

    Wow, wow-!

    ''Isn''t that my dragon that appears in many novels? Do you feel anything there?''

    It is a lesson that can be learned by going to a bookstore right away and reading any novel in which evil and justice collide.

    ''Aren''t they even reading books? Or do you not know the word "teacher"?''

    Either way, good is good.

    What if the villain decided to follow such a sad history?

    In the name of justice, we must take the time to help them meet the same end. That''s right.

    "Here, see the dot on the right wrist? And here, the dot diagonally below the navel . Oh, yes! Here! Here! Can you see the little dots on the index finger and little toe of my left foot?"

    I rolled up my sleeves and showed my wrists, and started to check the location of the dots on Zion''s body to Zeon.

    It is a kind of objection that there was no change.

    He took off his jacket, vest, and shirt one by one to show his stomach, and then slowly adjusted his outfit again.

    I took off my shoes and socks and put them back on. The process of untying and tying shoelaces is a bonus.

    After all, the body remains the same, only the kernel has changed.

    That this is a meaningless act is the king of all who knows.

    ''But it''s the setting that I followed without hearing anything?''

    It''s just like the last blow

    I''ll wait

    Zeon, noticing my intentions, watched me with a cold expression on my face.

    I frowned slightly when I put my foot in his face, but I was like, ''Is that all there is to pleading? Where would you like to try again?'' He succeeded in keeping his thick expression on his face until the end.

    Well, how about it! Do the points on your body have the same location?

    therefore?

    So what''s that? I''m

    You say that Zion Rivelon is right.

    "Only by dots?"

    At least? The location of a dot may be the same, but it''s not just one or two! What in the world could such a coincidence?

    No, okay! Don''t take it off!

    As I pretended to flirt and unbutton the button, Zeon hurriedly dried it with a look of disapproval.

    Anyway, I really don''t want to take it off.

    I re-locked the button that had been loosened because it wasn''t there.

    At most, I hid the magic scrolls in secret, so even at night, I came out wearing a jacket this summer.

    "Why do you think I know the location of all the dots on the younger brother''s body in the first place?"

    It is a wise word.

    But, knowing that I was talking to the last time just to pass the time, I would put on such a disgusting expression.

    Not until... .

    ''Is this the expression I''m making because I pointed out the points on Zion''s body one by one?''

    This is a misunderstanding.

    It was never deliberately searched for and memorized one by one.

    ''When you take a bath, if you wash thoroughly here and there, you can see all that, right?''

    Then, looking at the dots in unfamiliar locations, the thought of ''I didn''t have a dot here, but is he here?

    In fact, I don''t even know the location of the dots on my back. I was just talking vaguely thinking that there might be a dot on my back.

    I can''t explain it right now and I''m going crazy.

    Well, that''s a family, so of course I knew it!

    "Then do you know the location of the dots on my body?"

    "Uh, that''s what the one on the left near the front of the eyebrows?"

    "Not where you are now."

    " Right hip?"

    Don''t take pictures.

    Isn''t it filmed? Why don''t you check it out now?

    I diligently traced Shion''s memory, recalling the memories of playing in the water while bathing with me as a child, and answered.

    Then the hatred on Zeon''s face grew even stronger.

    ''Why are you doing this to me? Yes, go to your real hyung and check it out! To Vivi in her hometown!''

    I''m so sorry I''m going to die

    Ah, anyway! I don''t know what the hell that guy was talking about.

    But, you know now that it''s nonsense, right?

    No, you probably don''t know.

    No matter how funny a comtra was, it would look childish and boring if it was continued.

    It''s time for quick control.

    We seriously changed the mood of the play again for the audience in front of us and for those who might be hiding more.

    "The only thing that has changed is the soul . You entered the second hyung''s body and pushed out the real hyung''s soul and took it!"

    "Hey, what does that mean?"

    Don''t take it off! It''s not enough to steal your body, did you think I didn''t know that you''re also devouring your soul?

    I, I really don''t know what you''re talking about. Zeon, please come to your senses!!

    It''s Xeon, it''s enough to keep expressionless or frown, but the problem was me.

    But the problem was also easily solved.

    It was because of the fact that Xeon had retreated a while ago to secure an escape route.

    Looking at him and pretending to convince him

    He turned his back on demon worshipers.

    It was a bit of a risky move, but I was relieved because my On was checking my back.

    ''Even if it''s not like that, wouldn''t it be weird if we didn''t look at each other and quarreled while looking at Amon together?''

    So Zeon finds his younger brother, who had been deprived of his brother by a demon worshiper. I am a brother trying to restore the spirit of a brother possessed by a demon worshiper.

    We did our best for the role we were assigned to.

    Why are you saying I''m not your brother?

    The font is different.

    shamefully.

    Even if nothing comes to mind, it is a foul to bring facts here.

    But there was nothing to refute.

    I had a lot of paperwork to do, so I couldn''t help it! As the papers flutter and flutter, the typeface can also fly away! The Duke and the duke''s administrators are the same. awesome

    It''s insanely fast, you know. I had no choice but to keep up with their speed! do you know my heart The duke, who saw the handwriting that was gradually becoming a new development, smiled awkwardly and said, ''I''m happy that Sir Sion''s work speed has accelerated 7]... .'' When you say something like, you know how crazy I am!

    Actually I don''t know either.

    Because Serpens didn''t say that.

    It was just an added word to pass the time.

    "Then why did you remove the framed table with family portraits?"

    I didn''t remove it, I didn''t take it out! It''s just that I haven''t unpacked it after moving it into the dungeon.

    What? Don''t say nonsense! That''s one day and still...!

    After procrastinating, I thought I had to organize it! It''s much faster and easier to talk to the duke than to unpack and get what you need...! The duke bought you new clothes, so winter coats and the like are still tucked away in boxes under the bed. , Actually

    I don''t even know where the frame is!

    When I asked him how he knew I wasn''t Zion, there must have been a reason for this.

    "Then that one he hid under the bed matrix since he was a teenager "

    Hey!! It''s not a good idea to bring that up!

    Instinctively, he succeeded in stopping Zeon in haste.

    However, as soon as I heard those words, I couldn''t stop the memories of Shion passing through my head,

    heard this

    ''Damn it, Shion. You mean you hid such a valuable thing somewhere? Why hide, why? Shouldn''t it be too late to go look for it now?''

    Considering his timid personality, he was a decent enough guy, but it''s a shame he didn''t think of that possibility.

    I only thought that Shion was an innocent child who didn''t see such things.

    I just got into the habit of hiding it somewhere else after knowing that I was caught by you. So let''s talk about that...

    Swallowing tears of regret, he continued his excuses.

    "Anyway, did you just suspect me for those things?"

    I don''t really care about that! The important thing is how he treats me! He keeps avoiding me and doesn''t even talk to me if I don''t visit him...! And something... I can''t explain it, but he keeps feeling unfamiliar Tell me what to do!

    It seems that the distance to catch up has gone down.

    He lacks creativity. You should also know how to properly make up what you don''t have.

    I have no choice but to prepare for the second act.

    Hey, that''s obviously ! I, the author must have done something to you!

    He turned and pointed to the demon worshiper in his neat business suit.

    There was no doubt in his face when he looked back now.

    ''Yes. How could you have imagined that I was after this, after I discovered my identity a long time ago and revealed everything to Xeon?''

    First come, first served is one of the main laws of the world.

    So, I should have acted a little sooner, and I''m slowly beating my back, so I''m watching a play without knowing that the Heretic Inquisitor is leading the paladins to narrow the border.

    ''If I had written my heart out at the very least, this wouldn''t have happened, right?''

    If we had a little more humanity and had compassion on brothers who slander each other, this would happen".

    no. If I had, I wouldn''t have practiced devil worship or anything like that.

    ''That''s what all demon worshipers do, what the hell.''

    Not knowing I was biting my tongue, he had a satisfied smile on his face, as if he was so satisfied with our play.

    I started to get excited when the audience enjoyed it so much.

    ''Ah, that''s why people who have tasted the stage once can''t leave this place!,

    The feelings of Eugese, who writes novels every day, and Serpense, who writes the setting, begin to fade.

    When Serpence comes back, I''ll get a script somewhere, and then I''ll get it from him in earnest.

    I don''t think it would be bad to get an acting coach.

    Oh no! He''s the one who''ll let me know you''re fake and get my brother back!

    I am your brother!

    Lie! You are nothing more than an evil spirit that has been put on my older brother]! My older brother isn''t as weak as you, don''t insult the younger brother any more!

    Are you the one who dishonored me?! Where are you trying to sell your brother by being tricked by a guy dressed like a multi-level scammer like that?

    You''re a swindler!

    It''s because you don''t know the fear of the capital city! Everyone wears neat and trustworthy clothes like that and deceives people who come from the countryside like us! , you will know what I mean.

    Suddenly, the capital of the Holy Lumen Empire became a gathering place for swindlers, but compared to gangsters like Rivelon, it''s not a very lie.

    By the way, some time has passed

    Beggar?''

    I barely managed to keep my hands going to go to the pocket watch I had in my pocket.

 CH 171

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 171

    34. While the Duke was away

    (10)

    "Why don''t you stop acting now?"

    The demon worshiper opened his mouth with a mocking tone.

    It is an unavoidable instinct that I flinched at those words.

    ''Did you hear it? Then why are you talking so quietly? Maybe it was a double trap?''

    Thoughts like that filled my mind.

    Could it be that I underestimated the guy in front of me?

    We thought we were wasting time, but in fact, he was also wasting time for something we don''t know... .

    Unexpectedly, anxiety and worry came over.

    " Wo, acting?!"

    His trembling voice could not be hidden, and the corners of his mouth curled up and he laughed.

    Acting, I saw it very well. Anyone who sees you will think you are the real Zion Rivelon.

    Yes?

    Contrary to my worries, there was a big gap between the acting he spoke of and the one I was thinking of.

    ''Oh, that''s a surprise. Our audience, were you talking about that?''

    what else do i say

    My heart almost fell to the floor.

    Our play tricks the devil worshipers

    It was meant to pass the time, but the play I saw through his eyes was nothing more than my last struggle.

    But to deceive, I think you have to act more plausibly. You don''t feel any sense of desperation or embarrassment at all. It was a third-rate performance that only felt the urgency to cheat somehow, but... I enjoyed it quite a bit.

    To put it simply, it was the sound that only my smoke was caught.

    Although the interpretation of the work was unsuccessful, only the analysis of the actors'' performances was excellent.

    ''By the way, you''re saying that you enjoyed watching me shudder, don''t you?''

    It was utterly wicked.

    In case someone wasn''t a demon worshiper, he couldn''t hide his nature and revealed it implicitly.

    "What the hell did you say to my brother?"

    I really want to ask you. What was your idea of bringing a real family to your side? If it were me, I wouldn''t have even come close to thinking that I might get caught.

    The only thing I can say is that it''s great for the purpose. If I were a demon worshiper, I''d be tempted to offer a scout.

    Well, I can only see something in my eyes, and that''s just it.

    By the way, the last sentence is quite questionable.

    You''re going to get a scout offer from a demon cult. Is there a shortage of talented people there?

    If you see a ssaksu, it seems like you can''t take it with you.

    Gee! I made a mistake.

    To the one who, as a demon worshiper, corrupted the Duke of Prasidus so that he could not receive the Holy Sword.

    What nonsense is that?! Our duke is still innocent, and the demon worshiper isn''t me, it''s him!

    I see you''re still thinking of getting rid of it... There''s no point in doing so.

    The guy took one step forward.

    Unknowingly, I took a step back and almost fell. Zeon, who was standing behind me, grabbed my shoulder and supported me.

    Ma, demon king bastard, bastard!

    " what?

    "Ah, no , that''s, that''s it I''m sorry that you keep driving me to be a devil worshiper, so stop "

    The smile on the man''s face, which had been grinning all the time, faded, and his ears were distorted viciously.

    All of a sudden, I could feel the rustling of popularity here and there, and I felt a cool feeling as if the temperature had dropped.

    ''What, what? How many more are you hiding?''

    I turned off the lights and lay down on the bed, but I felt like I could feel the presence of Mr. It was such a creepy feeling.

    "Looking at what you''re saying, it can be said that he is also hostile to the demon worshipers Ji? There is a saying that the enemy of the enemy is an ally, so I wondered what it would be like to solve misunderstandings and get to know each other while fighting the demon lord together... .

    I tried to add words in a hurry, but his expression was still terrifying.

    The author''s treatment of us with a smile is nothing more than a joke.

    it was It''s not a big deal to catch me and Zeon right away.

    And now, it seems he no longer wants to hide that he is a demon worshiper.

    The eerie appearance of burning black magic from his body... !

    Even if there was a provocation to shout at the demon king, it would have been after he tore me to death.

    "Uh, uh What time is it now? I knew I was going to be back soon, so I asked the kitchen to prepare some late-night snacks . Please go back quickly before it cools down.

    Hey, can''t you just go back today and come back to my work? Ah, haha... .

    Pretending to be shy, I quickly checked the time.

    He looked at me like he was crazy, but that didn''t matter.

    After confirmation, the remaining time until the scheduled start time is about 15 minutes.

    ''Is this all over yet?''

    I have no choice but to trust the Heretic Inquisitor who said he would do his best to finish it as quickly as possible.

    Kicking inward, the pocket watch

    After closing the lid with a clicking sound, I put it back into my pocket.

    Do you think I''ll let you go like this?!

    Lee, now that I think about it, late-night snacks don''t seem to matter at all. No, it''s the same. Besides, I''ve been being rude so far? Let''s talk calmly again. How far have you been talking? He is an innocent and tender man, did you even say that God Luxmea couldn''t put a load on him, so he handed the Holy Sword to someone else?

    The tone was reversed.

    His anger stretched all the way to the tip of his head, and he threw away the mask he had been wearing before, and I was terrified and looked at him, so respectful words came out of nowhere.

    " ah, haha."

    I brought up the topic again before the bastard came out, but that doesn''t mean that time goes back to that time.

    He continued to smoke black magic with a face like a monster, and it drew a magic circle in the air, and it became magic with a clear form.

    Sharp made of black magic

    The blade flashed in the air.

    Zeon''s hand on his shoulder twitched, increasing his strength.

    I''m not going to kill you... don''t you?

    "Why do you think no?"

    Is it because I can use it as a hostage?

    "If you were an ordinary person, you would have done that."

    Does that mean that I was summoned with the intention of killing you from the beginning?

    I, I''m just an ordinary...

    -You don''t mean to say you''re a public person, do you?

    "Oh, you thought so?"

    I thought it would fit in the last play where you see someone dying soon, but you''ve crossed a line you shouldn''t have crossed.

    It''s a completely confident voice.

    ''I was going to kill you anyway, but what is Zen... .''

    Complaints surfaced, but he did not utter those words because he was afraid of the magic in front of him.

    Pretending to cringe, he gently pulled out the thread pin that had been secured to prevent the magic scroll that had been pushed into his left sleeve from falling out.

    "Yeah, that scroll."

    Uh...!

    A small sylpin fell to the floor.

    When the past became the present, at that point in time, the person who made contact with the Duke of Prasidus was you... and the wizard who made the scroll?

    What, can you tell where it started?

    He probably didn''t notice it, and it must have been what the Demon King had told him.

    ''The Serpens who stole the power of the Demon King

    I didn''t know anything... .''

    He said he was Junchi even if it rots, but it''s different because he''s half of it, and he built it himself, but he''s got a new name.

    "The day of choice. The Duke of Prasidus, who had to collapse amidst the criticism of the people, was praised as a hero for some reason, and the one who should have died earlier did not die, and a non-existent existence was created."

    I haven''t talked to Xeon until then, is that okay?

    As if surprised by his words, Zeon''s hands and ears grew a little stronger.

    I thought it hurt a little, but I''m trembling

    It''s pathetic, and I couldn''t help but think, ''I''m the only one who can rely on you in a situation like this''.

    When I heard from him, I was suspicious of her. I thought you were too weak to be a mere bait... But the more I look at her, the more suspicious it is, right?

    So, it seems like he was playing around with Solertia''s scroll.

    As if he had touched me, it must have been intended to damage Serpence''s image and deal with it at the same time.

    No matter how much you watched, the wizard didn''t seem to have any intention of approaching the duke, and beings who were supposed to be somewhere other than the imperial capital took their seats in the duke''s mansion, and he was associated with all of them.

    Without an excuse, it''s me.

    I was curious about how they shot me, but when I heard it, I guess I caught my eye.

    "But why are you explaining each and every word so kindly?"

    I admitted it!

    Oh!,,

    I thought you were sure, but I was just guessing. was very upset

    Even so, it was the same with each other that they found out what they were curious about.

    I had already been caught, and instead I found out what and how much the Demon King knew, so wouldn''t it be safe to say that I won?

    There he was talking to himself and wasting time.

    Well, I was just asking! Why would that be a confession, I don''t know.

    "It''s okay if you run away, I don''t know

    You don''t think it''s an advantage because you know the information you''ve never heard before, right?''''

    Oh!

    half right

    Didn''t you notice? The fact that his escape route was already blocked.

    His gaze turned over me.

    I removed Zeon''s hand from his shoulder and looked behind him.

    There was only a tightly closed front door... .

    What, when did that close without a word?!

    What, what? Why is it removed...?

    " removing it?"

    The only thing I removed was Zeon''s hand that rested on his shoulder.

    I''m sorry, but I''ve already told Xeon in advance, so there''s no need to hit me in the head or anything like that. Life is first-come, first-served, don''t you know...

    Again, Zeon''s hand rested on his shoulder.

    I took it off without difficulty, and he put it back up.

    Oh, hey! Why are your eyes like this?!

    Somehow I feel strange

    When I checked, his eyes tasted like rotten copper eyes, and his pupils were completely open.

    Since when...

    I got it right, but why?!

    Ah, my child is so weak, stop... That''s why you shouldn''t be playing around and betting on me.

    After lightly tripping over Zeon''s legs, he put his weight on him and pressed him down with his knees, grabbing his arms to subdue him.

    ''By the way, was this brainwashed, is it just a delirium?''

    If it were the former, I would have to keep him locked up until Serpence returns, but I don''t know if it''ll be okay.

    I took out the watch with my left hand and checked it to see that there were only 3 minutes left.

    ''Was it all a lie to say that I had to hurry?''

    I thought they would arrive at least 5 to 10 minutes early... .

    Except for Serpens, he didn''t believe in Prasidus.

    Why does the watch keep coming back... Wait, if I knew from the beginning that it wasn''t real, then, no way?!

    Like a villain, I was obsessed with explanations, so I guess I just realized I was wasting my time.

    At this point, it''s a disease, a disease.

    Even so, the only force you can mobilize is, at most, the Duke''s remaining army? Even if they secretly contacted the Church, how many Paladins are there?

    I don''t think there were a few... .

    I kept quiet.

    I already have enough preparations. Do you think I just asked to meet on the weekend for nothing?

    It''s no wonder that the demon worshipers had only weekends to do their own business on weekdays.

    He must have been preparing various magical defenses in the house.

    Still, it''s difficult to run away from the commotion, so I''ll have to kill him before the reinforcements come.

    As he beckoned lightly, a silvery-colored blade floating in the air shot at me.

    No, just about to be shot.

    An arrow flew through the blackout curtain with the sound of glass breaking

    I hit the blade that was flying at me.

    Starting with that, the sound of cracking windows could be heard here and there, and knights in pure white armor came rushing in from all the windows.

    Then, as if planned, it spread all over the inside of the mansion, subduing the demon worshipers who had been hiding in the blink of an eye, and gathered them one by one in their hands and gathered in the center.

    And the guy who seems to be the head of this case was subdued by the heretical interrogator with blue hair.

    "I''m sorry.

    It was planned, but the interest suddenly showed up at one time, so we changed the plan a little."

    Oh .

    Demon king bastard, dog bastard... .

    I didn''t want to shout in many ways.

 CH 172

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 172

    34. While the Duke was away (11)

    Black magic flew from here and there, and the brightly shining divine power cuts it off and blocks it again.

    There was no such thing as a flashy battle scene where darkness and light collide.

    '' Judging from what I had done to his mind in the moment when I opened my eyes from Zeon, it seems that he was not prepared for one or two things... .''

    By the paladins who disregarded the door and invaded, the demon worshipers were overpowered 1:1 without even using what they had prepared.

    Even so, there were no paladins left, and through the broken window, a few paladins stood vigilantly around.

    What the heck there are so many..., ugh!

    An empty voice could be heard from somewhere, but the last dull sound of a blow -!'' was not heard anymore.

    "It seems that I prepared more thoroughly."

    Ugh, uh-!

    The demon worshiper, whose hobby is supposed to be a play watching to myself, trembled and trembled while being crushed by a heretical inquisitor.

    ...what, haven''t you passed out yet?

    The others had already fainted, and were tied together like a gulbi by a mysterious rope that glowed whitishly.

    He''s in charge of leading this case, so I''m just trying to hear the story.

    It was only for a moment that I doubted whether it was set

    Beneath the silvery divine power emitted by the heretic inquisitor, I could see the black magic of it fluttering slightly.

    He was able to notice that he was barely holding on, pushing the divine power of the heretical inquisitor that was holding him down.

    The Demon King didn''t give out his name by taking random pictures, is this?

    "Hey, hey ! You have no conscience!"

    what?

    Why should I have a conscience condemned by a demon worshiper?

    You''re not real! Aren''t you sorry for taking your brother''s body and then stabbing him in such a brutal way?!

    At his words, Xeon, who was lying beneath me, groaned like a zombie and squirmed.

    Considering that she does not have the proper language skills, it seems that it was the brainwashing of Solertia''s fake stalker, who can no longer remember her name.

    Wow, I can''t use black magic anymore because I''ve been suppressed.

    It looks like it will be used, so do you see the trick on the other side? Do you think that''s a starter word that drives action?

    I''m sorry. I should have done it sooner, but I was trying to control it so that I didn''t die...

    you]? No, I was trying to blame Eirich-sama... .

    I wanted you to hear me saying no.

    Before I could finish my words, the Heretic Inquisitor, expressionless, thrust a silver spear into his shoulder.

    A divine power is formed on the tip of a sharply forged spear, created by a demon worshiper

    It pierced through the curtain made of the black magic it gave off.

    There was the sound of pooh, the sound of digging into the flesh, and the suppressed moan of a squeaky-huh.

    ''I''m holding on to that... ?''

    For a moment, the black magic shook unstable, but as soon as he regained his consciousness, he managed to hold on.

    Please hand over your brother this way.

    As if the other demon worshipers had finished cleaning up, one of the paladins approached.

    He''s very weak...

    do not worry.

    Yes, then please.

    The paladin, who took over Zeon''s life from me, lightly pressed the back of his neck to stun him, and then gently hugged his droopy body.

    It seems that someone is not a paladin, showing consideration for the weak.

    Shut up! Ugh .

    As I got up from my seat, my eyes involuntarily turned to the sound of pain I heard.

    Heretic Inquisitor with spear hilt

    I saw him twisting, and I turned my head again.

    Seeing him clenching his teeth and putting up with it even though he does that, he is an enemy, but I think he should acknowledge his mental strength.

    ''If I just accepted it comfortably, the pain would be less... .''

    At the end of the day anyway, what the hell is the Demon King doing?

    I get goosebumps just looking at it, and for some reason the area around my shoulders is tickling and I''m worried about it.

    Tried to kill me, in the conversation we had

    It was enough to see just how bad a human he was.

    I have no intention of sympathizing with him, but as a human being, I felt that I should ease the pain a little.

    ''I do a little bit of defense as well.''

    The Demon King knew more about the details than I thought, and he spoke about it well.

    You should refute it before spreading it here and there.

    " Well, as you said, say yes. Of course, I am Zion Rivelon, and that fact is my brother Zeon here.

    I''ll admit it right away when I come to my senses, but let''s say that we yielded a hundred times a thousand times.

    After thinking about what the heretical inquisitor didn''t know about the Demon King''s remarks, after that. There was a high possibility that he would not have heard the conversation about whether he admitted it or not.

    ''More specifically, haven''t you heard since ''After the Door Closed''?''

    That''s when I took my eyes off Xeon]. And it must have happened before he grabbed my shoulder.

    If possible, it would be better if you tell me that you didn''t hear the previous conversation because it was too far away.

    liman.

    I didn''t hide anything about it, especially under the Matrix, but thinking that someone had heard it made my face a bit flabby.

    Anyway, you''re mad that the demon worshipers couldn''t eat me anyway? Does that mean that I''m a big stumbling block to the devil worshipers'' plans, and that doesn''t mean I''m a terribly good-natured guy across the continent? Isn''t that the acknowledgment that he is, without a doubt, a very good man?

    If Euges was by my side, it would be a godsend.

    He must have confirmed my words, saying that he must check me as a person, but without it, there is no problem.

    No, I''m glad I don''t.

    I don''t know if it''s a Serpence. If I go around saying that I am a messenger of the gods, I may be arrested for blasphemy.

    And he said something very strange earlier... The Demon King said that people should criticize the Duke after the Day of Choice? Everyone in the world knows that he is the one who did it, a person with a good mind

    You can''t do that, right? Why did you say such a bullshit? The Demon King''s ''Is the king the king that the dog makes when the dog barks?''

    "Ugh , ah-ah-ah-! Yes, yes, oh no om-!!"

    I was just thinking of disturbing the mind of maintaining black magic.

    But maybe that was a little too much, the guy was more angry than he thought and struggled, grinding his teeth.

    I''m worried that I might not be able to beat myself up like that and commit suicide by biting my tongue.

    Hey, if you react like that, it''s like I''m sarcastic and teasing a guy who can''t even flinch... I''m just stating the truth, so calm down. Huh?

    They also go around swearing at Luxmea on a fictitious day, and it seems unbearable to be subjected to it in reverse.

    The black magic it exudes greatly inflated, and the heretical inquisitor also increased his divine power.

    The heretical inquisitor''s expression was very suspenseful.

    A feature similar to that of a serpent

    Jun, presumably, seemed to want to spit him out and tell him what he knew, without botheringly capturing him and taking him to the church.

    If it hadn''t been for Yujis and me, who was constantly hiding and checking in case of any possible danger, it would have been so.

    " Gee, can I keep talking?"

    Yeah, that''s an interesting comment, so go ahead and say it.

    For some reason, he caught his eye and you asked questions, and the Heretic Inquisitor put a gag in the demon worshiper''s mouth.

    answered willingly.

    Contrary to the words, the expression on his face didn''t show any interest.

    So, what I want to say is that devil worshiper... Ah. It''s a bit annoying because I keep saying I''m a worshiper and a devil worshiper...

    As a nation that cuts everything down, this was not right.

    It was something my pride wouldn''t allow.

    Even if I fell into another world, my identity was there. I protect my roots!

    I call it ''Devil'' for short.

    what. It sounds a little cute, but it''s like an abbreviation for ''Oh, that''s sublime!'', isn''t it pretty good?

    I thought it was a good idea, but the demons, the Heretic Inquisitors and the Paladins, no one agreed.

    Anyway, even that demon was deceived by the devil''s cunning tongue.

    There is no one to respond to.

    Out of so many people, what do I say?

    The only one who responds to Rado is the devil.

    Feeling like the world was lost, he gave up talking to the heretical inquisitor or paladin and tried to talk to the demon.

    Did you say that you were a prophet of Tenebrio? You''re going to tell the demon king not to talk about your wishes while pretending to be a prophecy..., ah! Are you unable to tell me now? Sorry.

    The denomination could not allow the demon to communicate with the demon king.

    "Anyway, everything the Demon King said was a lie? Come to think of it, he didn''t give it to someone who wasn''t a god, but he gave himself a name as if it was a god. , you are also very foolish. The stories you hear are all just a man''s delusion that reflects the wishes of the Demon King.

    For the honor of Serpens, the honor of the Demon King must be thrown into the trash for a while.

    So, if you knew the future, you should have kept your mouth shut like me, and if you talk about it in the neighborhood, use it.

    The original regressor should not go around talking about his regression recklessly.

    Believing in all that and introducing yourself with the title of a prophet or something . Uh-oh, manly, really. I''m embarrassed for everything.

    Keep, whoop-. Eub-beep, toe!

    As if he had just realized his shame, he twisted his body and squirmed.

    He seemed to want to say something, but he couldn''t understand because of the gag.

    Even before, the evil forces were under the command of the Duke.

    You''ve been working hard to disguise the example, haven''t you? That''s why, I can only think of this as an extension of that. You''re very suspicious of how you lure me in. I think I''ve got something, who the hell would believe that? From a listener''s point of view, it''s like, ''Oh, these sweet bastards. All I can think of is that I should report it to the denomination right now!'' Even if it''s not, I''m not a suspicious person like you, but I call the Luxmea Church and say, ''Isn''t it natural to say, ''Please take a look at my brother?"

    what? When I say this, does it really make sense?

    It didn''t work, but the Heretic Inquisitor didn''t scan me as soon as he arrived.

    In a normal case, if you hear what the soul is doing and what the corruption is, the first thing to do is to run to the Lux Smea Church.

    Ack, are you a bait? You think you''re a bait? Wasn''t this meant to lure you into the sect from the beginning, to shed false information made up of your own delusions? Packed with... Wow, this, really, wow! King of the devil, this bastard is a real bastard!

    I mean, sit still and tease!

    3 Uhh... , uh... .

    I''m really sorry, too. It''s a prophecy, and it was great when you received a message from the Demon King, right? It seems like he treats you more special than others. If you finish this job well, you''d be happy to be an executive...

    Even Luxmea doesn''t do this.

    It wasn''t that the people of this world were fools, so they believed in the troll Mea. Even if you are trolling, it would be better to serve someone who has a good heart.

    am.

    ''Are you incompetent, so you don''t touch what humans do or you can''t... .''

    Whether or not they make up their own rules, they just leave it alone, so from a believer''s point of view, it can''t be more comfortable than this.

    Under the name of God Luxmea, if you put it on your ear, it''s an earring, if you put it on your nose, it''s a nose ring.

    "After all, it was just a hand to throw away, I ?"

    He stopped resisting.

 CH 173

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 173

    34. While the Duke was away

    (12)

    The Heretic Inquisitor passed the broken demon over to one of the paladins and checked Zeon''s condition.

    While I was watching him putting his hand on Zeon''s forehead and breathing divine power, someone tapped my shoulder from behind.

    Ah, is Euges here?

    you]. no more need to be vigilant

    It''s like By the way, is your body okay? You don''t know how surprised I was that the door suddenly closed. I was thinking about whether I should shoot the bow right away, but suddenly the presence I felt inside the mansion suddenly increased... .

    Eugese said as he folded and unfolded his right finger.

    It was a story about waiting for the decisive moment, fearing that the arrows he had shot would make me more dangerous.

    Judging by her unconscious actions, perhaps she was vigilant with her bowstring pulled.

    I couldn''t confirm it because of the gloves, but I was sorry and thankful that I remembered her blushing fingers.

    Thank you. Thanks to Eugene, I didn''t hurt a single hair!

    If Shion wasn''t hurt, that''s it.

    she smiled roundly.

    By the way, how did you do it?

    "How are you doing?"

    "There''s no way they could have been hiding and revealing themselves without a reason.

    Didn''t On do something?

    Those words were filled with curiosity and an anxious expectation.

    But the moment I put the truth in my mouth, it disappeared and was nothing more than a feeling like a word, a mirage.

    "Uh, that''s it''s not a big deal, it''s just the devil king bastard, you bastard," he said."

    just as expected.

    Eugene''s lips, which had drawn a gentle curve, turned into a one.

    Zion .

    you].

    I''m going to get mad.

    Yes?

    I''m going to be scolded by Serpens-sama.

    Yes?!

    With a cold expression that Euges had never seen before, with a more determined voice than ever.

    It was confirmed in three steps.

    Seo, no way. Three..., the duke has a soft heart, so he can''t scold anyone and do things like that.

    "No. I can assure you.

    You''re going to get mad.

    At first I was like, ''Oh, you''re going to get scolded by this?'' But in the end, they just let it go.

    Somehow, Serpens-sama said he was overprotective of Zion, but now I understand. Wasn''t this the first time or two?

    That, that...

    You say that you take good care of your own safety, but at an important moment, you sacrifice yourself like this... How can Serpens-sama not worry about Zion?

    "Hey what is it?"

    If I had to pick a word that was not related to me, I think that one of the words in ToplO would be sacrifice, but Euges seems to have a different opinion.

    Serpense would be too excited to meow and pass by.

    "Is what you just said true?"

    Evil!! Whoa, that''s a surprise...!

    I was so absurd that I couldn''t say anything, and I was standing blankly, and suddenly, a heretic inquisitor appeared and talked to me without a word.

    I was really surprised at how hoarse her voice was.

    Absolutely not. I was intentionally trying to reveal those who were hiding...

    "I never thought there would have been such an intention."

    When Euges misunderstood it, it was very absurd, but it''s a bit disappointing that he doesn''t do it.

    Anyway, that means ''You mean demon king bastard, you bastard?

    I know I''m not talking about sending you to a dangerous place to take your time, but that doesn''t mean you''re asking me to kill you.

    I didn''t mean to stick your neck out.

    "Of course not."

    "Then why did you do such a dangerous thing?"

    The Heretic Inquisitor took a step closer, as if trying to press, looking down at me with a stern expression and said:

    Squeezed by the faint scent of blood from him and its momentum, I unknowingly took a step back.

    "Well, by the way, when I provoked the devil earlier, you didn''t say anything."

    "Of course, in front of an incapacitated opponent.

    I thought it was a rush.

    Then I''m going to be a rude person? I''m not that kind of person.

    Sometimes it''s better to be cunning than reckless.

    He frowned when he said that, like an angry person.

    ''Are you really scolding me right now?''

    As soon as I get a bunch of warnings that I''m going to be scolded by the serpenes, I''ll get scolded by the pseudo serpens.

    I feel so weird. It''s not a tasting experience... .

    But what should I do about the unfairness! The devil keeps driving me to be a devil...! I know that my opponent is a devil, but still being called a devil by a devil is like a dog to a dog that is worse than a dog. It''s like being insulted, you know what it feels like?

    I don''t know at all...

    Are you going to stay silent while hearing evil insults from the evil one? It''s because the person you''re talking about anyway? That''s not the case!

    Of course!"

    Well .

    That''s why I shouted. Demon king bastard, bastard''!

    Oh, I see. I understand Zion''s faith well, so please calm down now.

    ok, passed

    Serpence is at least convinced that it won''t hurt me, but I''m still not sure about this Dan Inquisitor.

    At least, I want to avoid being scolded by him even when I see the red blood of a demon splattered on his white uniform.

    "But the danger remains the same, and from now on, evil ah, no evil "

    "Are you a demon worshiper?"

    Yes. Do not provoke a demon worshiper.

    Yeah-!

    why?

    no.

    The Heretic Inquisitor stepped back Banbo with a look as if he was seeing something very bizarre.

    I was already suspenseful to what he did with his appearance resembling Serpence, so I guess I was treated too comfortably without realizing it.

    I need to restrain myself now.

    "By the way, how about Xeon?"

    It doesn''t have a long-term effect, but it seems to have been struck by a kind of black magic that allows you to perform simple commands. The magic has already been broken and the ashes of the black magic have been purified. There are no injuries except for minor bruises, so don''t worry.

    Then you are safe

    If there is any aftermath, he has no face to see his family in Ribelon.

    Before that, to the demon worshiper...

    " to the monkey, what?"

    It''s nothing. You''ll find out if you interrogate him anyway...

    It looks like there are still points left.

    I did my best to make everything the monkey said nonsense, but I wonder if it was a little lacking.

    It was.

    ''Should I just close my eyes and add more dill?''

    My heart was weak, so I couldn''t do it.

    Anyway, what he''s saying is nothing more than the devil''s imagination full of imagination, so don''t believe it too much.

    "I have that kind of discernment."

    So what''s the problem?

    In order to break the reverence and belief in the demon king that the evil one has, ''Tenebrio is the god created by the demon king himself.

    did you say

    But that''s part of what I think he told me.

    ''At least I''m a soul sent by Luxmea, doesn''t it make more sense than that I''m a messenger from God?''

    I have a conscience, so I have no idea that I am worthy of a messenger from God.

    If you are a messenger from God, you must have a divine and noble taste like Serpens.

    One day, Serpens suddenly came with wings on his back and said, ''From today onwards, God

    I am confident that I will not be surprised even if I say something like ''The first day of the doctor''s messenger''.

    On the other hand, what about me?

    Of course, when you get to know, no one is as deep and serious as me, but when you see someone you don''t know, it''s easy to misunderstand you as a gossip.

    Hearing that I am a messenger from the gods, the heretical inquisitor''s devotion will plummet and he may return to the world, saying that he will no longer be able to serve as a minion for Luxmea.

    Thanks for your cooperation. It''s as if the interrogation of the demon worshipers we caught today

    As it turns out, in addition to paying a bounty . I''ll see you again.

    It would be nice if you could tell me a little bit about what you''re going to do.

    Ah! Are you coming to see the Duke?

    "Um that''s right. The principle is not to meet as much as possible, but since I borrowed a person from the duke family, I think it''s right to say hello even after the death report."

    He was saying that there was nothing he could do, but he seemed strangely reluctant.

    As far as possible, it is recommended

    It is a matter, but there is no law that says it has to be.

    However, considering that the Heretic Inquisitor keeps that principle like a sword, I am concerned that he was in charge of this case.

    He''s a really unpredictable person.

    Why is Inquisitor Heretic?

    Yes?

    It''s just that Eirich-sama accidentally joined the sect. I heard that he originally belonged to the duke''s family...

    It''s like a crazy suspense family. Expression change takes less than 0.1 seconds

    doesn''t seem to be

    It''s not even breathing life, but just a frosty expression makes my spine shiver.

    I have no intention of threatening the position of Duke Prasidus. In the first place, I resigned voluntarily. If I had, I would have left the church 10 years ago and rejoined the duke''s family.

    I didn''t mean to ask like that...

    I wonder why he voluntarily resigned

    did it

    I have nothing more to say on the subject.

    "I was just curious, so I asked "

    what can''t i say

    Judging by his sensitive behavior, it is possible that many words were exchanged due to his young age when Serpens ascended the duke 10 years ago.

    Some of them lined up and went to the heretic inquisitor for nothing, wondering what to do to regain the seat they lost to their younger brother.

    I would have played li

    '' I guess I was too lazy to get the answer I was looking for?''

    Still, I got a sense of who he was.

    If you''ve already met, it''s nothing to worry about, but even if it''s still, I think it''ll be okay if Lee Jung Do-do Serpens meet.

    Surprised to grow up and surprised to see the lid of the chest does not mean that there is no worry at all, but it is not like looking in the mirror for a day or two... .

    Before we meet, I read that it''s okay

    Leave it alone, wouldn''t it be okay if I stayed by your side?

    We''ll take care of this after all, so you''re good to go.

    With those words, the heretic inquisitor called the paladin holding the zeon to us, and he turned to the other paladins.

    "Aren''t you awake yet?"

    I heard you were weak, so I didn''t wake you up on purpose.

    I heard that there was nothing wrong with Xeon''s eyes still closed.

    The paladin replied to the puzzled words.

    In other words, can it be regarded as a state of being asleep in a state of fainting?

    There is no other comfortable guy in the world.

    I felt some injustice, but that doesn''t mean I can''t wake up a sleeping child.

    A person who wakes up a person who sleeps well is eating well but is so bad that it can be compared to a person who steals food.

    "Come here. I will carry you home."

    No, please this way.

    Why Eugene?

    That''s because I''m stronger.

    There is no disagreement with that statement, but I wonder if it would be more beneficial to Zeon''s image to return to being carried by his older brother than to return to being carried by an outsider.

    It''s better for me, the older brother, to take responsibility here.

    I don''t mean to ignore Shion, but... are you really okay? Even the duke''s house?

    I don''t think it''ll be fine at all.

    "Then will it be half and half?"

    If it''s half and half as Shion says... Joe, okay! I''ll lift my legs, no, my upper body!

    When I said half and half I meant half the street. It was never meant to literally lift the body in half.

    So, this is a strange reaction from Eugenes.

    I know very well what she usually thinks of me.

    I''ll just take you to the duke''s residence just like this.

    Hearing Eugene''s words, he must have misunderstood, even the paladin who was holding Xeon intervened.

    It is strange to go back in the arms of an outsider, but it is also quite strange to go back in the arms of an outsider.

    I thought for a moment that I should have just woke him up, but I stopped because I hated seeing him sleeping so hard.

 CH 174

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 174

    35. Return of the Duke (1)

    Serpence returned to the capital earlier than scheduled, alone. It was the same last year, so I expected the sea to some extent.

    As soon as he comes back, he and Xeon. And he called Eugenes to the parlor.

    "Where is the Duke?"

    When I went up to the drawing room with Eugese, only Zeon, who arrived first, was sitting there, but Serpense was nowhere to be seen.

    He''ll be here soon. He told me to write a report on this matter while I wait.

    report?

    Yeah. First, I showed you what I wrote, but I don''t remember anything since I got black magic... Don''t worry about the format, you''re telling me to write as much detail and honesty as possible, whether it''s a conversation or anything that comes to mind? So, don''t show each other and write.

    Xeon replied.

    I think I know what Serpence meant when he wrote such a poem.

    Now that you''ve read Xeon''s report, you''ve probably heard the demons rumoured about my identity and what the Prophet has to say.

    There may have been a story about a person who lost Xeon''s mind, [Master of the Holy Sword].

    '' The number one reason is to receive detailed reports.

    And the second is".

    Euges, use that... are you?

    ''The Demon King, are you a dog?

    Hey, what is that?!

    I carefully asked Eugene a question, and she answered it very calmly. I felt the will to write.

    And at the harsh words that came out of her mouth, Zeon looked at me with surprised eyes.

    "Isn''t it just a magic sentence to prove my innocence?"

    " I don''t know what you''re talking about, but why don''t you cover up your words?"

    Even if it''s not, I''m groaningly regretting it now.

    I didn''t just scream, I was surprised by every single thing.

    She''s going to put those words directly into her mouth. From now on, do I have to pay attention not only to Serpense but also to Eugene''s language life?

    Don''t get scolded for taking it out for nothing, and just write ''honestly'' for Xion.

    It must be so, isn''t it?

    Anyway, this is the second reason.

    It meant that if there were any more accidents, you should voluntarily pay your taxes in advance.

    It must be because the saying not to be bound by form was just a report to Eugene, but to me it was a statement of reflection.

    Even if you regret the past, nothing will change.

    With the mindset to do my best at this moment, I rolled up my sleeves and lay down on the table to start writing the full-fledged flick.

    Just as I was filling one side of the paper with a small font size, Serpence entered the drawing room.

    Moist hair and clean clothes

    Judging from this, it seems like a good child of this age, after going out and washing up as soon as he comes back.

    He was holding something like a jewelry box with no decorations in his hand, but considering the places he had been to, it was certain that it was not a souvenir.

    How have you been, Duke?

    Yeah. It''s been a while..., umm.

    He got up from his seat and crossed his bow.] Now, Serpens tried to answer a question as formal as his habit, but stopped.

    It didn''t make any sense because I already knew there was a problem.

    Instead of going all the way to the end, he suggested that we sit back down.

    It''s been a while, Serpens-sama.

    Yeah, it''s been a while.

    And here, I wrote the report.

    Eugenes, who had just finished writing the report, handed it to Serpens.

    Sir Zion

    Come on, wait a minute! I''m still writing...

    Serpense, who had been looking at Eugene for a while while receiving the report, looked up again.

    returned to

    Compared to her, I had a wider scope to report, and I still had to add all kinds of excuses.

    He put his head back on the table, picked up a new piece of paper, and continued writing.

    I''m sorry. At the very least, I should have told you to be careful...

    No, because I know that I am not someone who will protect you just because I have heard such words anyway...

    While reading the report, looking at Serpens who put his forehead on a certain part,

    Suga cautiously apologized as if he had no qualms.

    And what Serpens said... .

    ''I have nothing to say.''

    I can''t speak even though I have a mouth, because I couldn''t keep both of the simple things he asked me to do: ''Don''t make an accident and don''t follow someone you don''t know.''

    There is nothing you can do other than keep your mouth shut and dye the white paper black.

    Wylydia-nim did her best. Thank you.

    You don''t have to thank Serpense for a request, but it was also voluntary.

    Ah..., umm...

    She rolled her eyes and looked at Serpens.

    He didn''t know what to answer at this time, so he let out a hoarse voice and just smiled softly.

    At the awkward-looking, perfect-looking smile, Eugene also smiled a little.

    " How much have you used Lord Zion now?"

    As if in a smile match with Eugene, he gave me a fresh look and spoke to me for no reason as to whether the Serpense, who was smiling and looking at each other, was getting hotter.

    Oh, wait! One last sentence!

    At the very end, I added a word of apology and held it out to Serpens.

    As soon as he received it, he skimmed it and covered it with the back side up.

    A person who worked hard as usual

    I kept my mouth shut at the sight of him who seemed to be saying, ''It''s only been delayed for a while, so be prepared.''

    And I was sure.

    I''m going to be really pissed off today.

    Deputy butler.

    you].

    "It seems that workers and administrators, such as those without armed forces, should come up with a way to protect themselves outside the mansion.

    It''s like... . It may not be a perfect measure, but please contact ; Distortion of Phenomenon and order a scroll.

    To all of the peacock personnel? Cost is also an issue, but there will be some who secretly resell it.

    Even if it''s a little cumbersome, you can manage it by taking the scroll every time you go out and returning it when you come back.

    Okay. Then I''ll prepare it right away.

    Zeon got up first to carry out Serpense''s orders.

    As he closed the drawing room door and left, Serpens took off his glasses and raised his hand to cover my eyes. There was a lot of tiredness in that look.

    Anyway, the devil... Oh, it''s an abbreviation for the devil worshiper. Anyway, all the demons that caused this incident were caught and finished safely, but there was no need to hurry back...

    "Even if the body is tired, it is better to have a comfortable mind."

    It is said that I returned early because I did not know when I would buy again.

    "Then], Xeon went out, so why are you respectful?

    say...,

    Before I could finish my words, Serpens placed the box he was carrying on the table with a ''tak-'' sound.

    Without even asking him to confirm, it was an act well-intentioned to keep my mouth shut.

    "What is that?"

    Found inside the mountain range.

    Serpens answered Eugene''s question and opened the box.

    Inside, between glass bottles filled with sparkling water believed to be holy water, a dark crystal presumed to be black magic stone.

    There were several things that looked the same.

    Perhaps it was a temporary measure to suppress black magic.

    But somehow it reminded me of a shipping box full of cushioning material made of cornstarch.

    "Before I came out of the barrier, I looked around the areas in charge of other subjugation teams and recovered as much as possible . Not to mention the deep mountains that I haven''t been able to visit, and even the places where the monsters are organized are full of black magic. I can''t be sure that I did, even if I hadn''t listened and paid attention to this in advance.

    I wouldn''t have been able to find it.

    Still, there must be a positive impact. But, you didn''t wander around alone, did you?

    Serpence, who had not given me a single glance and gave explanations only to Eugene, looked at me like I was bleeding.

    "Why, why ?"

    I went with Sir Redford. You may check with him when you return. And those who do not keep their promises, please be quiet.

    He packs and turns his head

    said coldly.

    Because of his Serpence personality, I wouldn''t recommend going with him first, and Winston would have followed him, saying he would visit the mountain full of monsters by himself.

    And it reminded me of a promise not to overdo it, so I guess I didn''t bother stopping him.

    Whatever the process, keeping the promise was keeping it.

    I didn''t even have the right to criticize, so I kept my mouth shut as he told me to.

    "What do you think about that black magic stone?

    yo. This?

    I was going to visit the denomination myself, but I heard that he was visiting the mansion from there.

    Eirich-sama?

    Serpens paused at Eugene''s words, as if he had not heard of someone coming.

    Is he coming?

    Yes. Are you on a bad relationship?

    Ummm... no. I''ve only heard of the name, never seen it.

    As Euges asked a question with a somewhat disturbing look, Serpens shook his head.

    If you were me, you would have looked around from a distance even if you were curious about what kind of person you are, but Serpens doesn''t seem to have even done that.

    You seemed like a good person.

    "Yeah are you?

    Yes. Just like Serpens-sama.

    At those words, Serpens'' brow furrowed.

    Where did he hear that he was a good person, and he seemed to feel rejected by Eugenes before we even met him because he was similar to him.

    Anyway, thank you for telling me in advance.

    I''m even thankful for this... Wasn''t there anything special other than magic stones?

    "Compared to last year, the monsters have become much stronger, and the number has also increased rapidly. Even considering the dimensional trajectory, it is outside the normal range."

    "Is it because of the magic stone?"

    It won''t have any effect, but don''t

    The fact that the stone was found means that there are demon worshipers hiding there. Presumably, he was hiding in the gap in the barrier that was temporarily opened for the entrance of the subjugation team. I don''t know when it was prepared, but I don''t know if something was installed in the depths.

    If I hadn''t told you not to overdo it, would you have taken the risk and went in alone?

    I''m really glad that Serpens is a good listener.

    It''s hard to even confirm that the demons have gotten stronger. Their purpose is alive.

    Since it was said to break the Mac''s barrier, I should consider the possibility that they might have put in place a device for that and strengthened the demons to prevent access.

    uh... .

    Even considering the possibility, there was no way to do it.

    In a place where all sides are full of monsters and black magic has taken over the atmosphere, there is no way to throw Humanus or Serpens, the masters of the Holy Sword, in the first place.

    In such a place, you will not be able to get a proper meal or rest, let alone sleep.

    Anyway, that''s what I''ve confirmed so far.

    Yeah, are you talking about leaving?

    It seems that Euges had started learning Serpensi.

    You must have passed the minimum basic level.

    "Well, then I''ll just... .

    You stay.

    Shion must remain.

    I too was caught trying to get up with her.

    Being scolded was nothing more than a confirmed matter.

 CH 175

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 175

    35. Return of the Duke (2)

    "Why did you do that?"

    Serpence said with a cold face that was an expressionless expression, except for the slightly frowned eyebrows.

    Not only his face but also his voice was as sharp and cold as the wind that blows in the middle of winter.

    If that''s the case, explain it in great detail in the report...

    He asked me to listen to my exhaustive excuses.

    it''s not.

    "That''s, uh I''m sorry."

    It was a bit unfair to ask why he did it and then to explain why he did it as an excuse.

    Of course, the excuses were right, but I can''t help but feel like I''m just reading it properly.

    "Are you upset right now?"

    "I didn''t even bring myself to myself, you know , yes. There are a lot of things, but there were parts that I couldn''t help but."

    The unavoidable part?''''

    Would you have known that I would come out of the church like that? If I had known, I wouldn''t have exaggerated it so much. It''s not my fault that a demon appeared in the first place...

    His voice crawled into his eyes, which were getting more and more bitter.

    Serpens let out a long sigh at my words, which had become murmurs in the end.

    Sunwoo sir.

    Yes?

    It''s a new name.

    It was the third series of sutras after Lord Ribelon and Lord Zion.

    "Why are you excited?"

    Rather than exciting, it''s just a little unfamiliar and sometimes unfamiliar... Ahaha...

    As he smiled mischievously, the goal in Serpense''s forehead deepened.

    I was worried about what would happen if there were wrinkles like that, but I was relieved when I remembered the heretical Inquisitor, who maintained firm skin even in his 50s.

    Assistant Seon-woo Yoo. The role I just called you with the title of ''Kyung''

    I''m not trying to play a game, I''m just calling you by a title that fits your job title.

    There was nothing wrong with that statement, but it couldn''t be helped that it was awkward.

    If a friend who used to call you by name every day suddenly calls you '' , everyone will feel this way.

    To be honest, if it wasn''t for the current situation, I would have thought Serpence was joking.

    "Who is Seon-woo''s assistant?"

    He''s Serpence''s assistant.

    But why did you make a promise to me?

    Contributor, did you follow the Heretic Inquisitor''s advice?

    In my head, the absurdity crumbled like a sand castle.

    In other words, he said that he did not like the fact that he did not listen to his own words to keep himself safe and went outside at the words of the heretic interrogator.

    It''s nothing else, you can''t ignore it, asking for your cooperation in catching a demon!

    Kyung Seon-woo is just an ordinary person without force. He has done all his responsibilities just by reporting it.

    But you''re the duke''s aide, right? Even if you''re an ordinary person, it''s hard to see them as civilians.

    Then, shouldn''t my orders be more important than anything else? You should have refused because I had an order that you couldn''t follow.

    So, did I even have to say to the Heretic Inquisitor, ''The Duke told me not to go anywhere, but to stay close to the Duke''s mansion and wait safely under Eugese''s protection!''?

    He heard that his nephew gave his aide an order that wasn''t like that.

    I should have listened to the heretic inquisitor''s heart, but I wish... .

    But even if I had said this, this guy would have reacted with something like that.

    If you reject it, and if it''s a heresy, even if it''s a decision...

    It is wrong to ask for cooperation without my permission as the owner of the state without going through the proper procedure. There are enough reasons to refuse, and it is impossible to have you summarily disposed of.

    How can I get permission when Serpens isn''t here...

    Are you saying that you have to live by saying you have to come and go?"

    "The ship, why the ship Why are you so careless about everything?!"

    Serpence opened her eyes wide at my abusive expression and flagged it.

    It''s not like it''s a real tummy tuck...

    It''s a world full of people who can really cut their stomachs if they hear that.

    It''s like this suspenseful world

    I gently pulled my precious boat into a hug.

    "Sunwoo-kyung. Kyung-eun, why do you think I''m angry?"

    I didn''t keep my promise.

    And?

    Are there more?

    Serpens wiped his face with his palm and let out another deep sigh.

    I felt sorry for the sight, and my shoulders automatically shrugged.

    For you to protect yourself

    It doesn''t seem like even the least amount of effort is being made. Were you able to say no at least once? Whether it''s accepted or ignored, you haven''t made even the slightest effort. That''s why I''m angry.

    It seems that the problem was that I followed Holadang without saying no once.

    He was speaking slowly and slowly, but it wasn''t difficult to notice that he was suppressing his boiling heart.

    Sorry, I''m sorry. But Eugez decided to protect him, and it''s not a pseudo-serpence... but there is also a Heretic Inquisitor.

    Somehow I feel reassured... .

    "So you provoked the demon worshiper?"

    That''s why the devil makes me evil...

    "I don''t believe you thought I would fall for such a pun on excuses."

    I also can''t seem to

    It''s not a similar product, it''s Jintong, so it''s different.

    As soon as I got used to my speaking skills, Serpens didn''t even give me a chance to speak, and just ignored it.

    Ha, but this is called insensitivity to safety, and in the country where I live, it is a chronic disease that all people have.

    It''s bullshit. Even if it''s true, it needs to be fixed.

    "When did you ask me not to change?"

    Isn''t this a matter directly related to life?

    He seemed to be trying to speak as calmly as possible, but in the end he couldn''t contain his anger and shouted.

    "At least not where I am.

    do . I wish I had put that much effort into it. Is that such a difficult request?"

    Serpens said in a desperate voice, as if making a wish. The tears welling up in my eyes made me feel sober.

    As much as he relies on me, he cares a lot about my safety and knows that he is afraid of my disappearance.

    I knew... .

    I''m sorry. I''ll try my best.

    Effort?

    I''ll fix it!

    ...really?

    You], I''ll do my best to fix it!

    Serpense, who was staring at me with cat-like eyes, wary of whether to eat the prey in front of me, gently closed.

    It was meant to be believed.

    "But isn''t it a foul to use polite language and then suddenly plead in a non-verbal way?"

    Where did you learn something so bizarre?

    It''s like a request fence like this.

    I didn''t say I''m sorry.

    I was still angry, so I said shut up.

    However, his expression was very relaxed, and he had a wrinkled face instead of the cold one he had before.

    To keep my promise to Sir Seon-woo, I even secretly ate one candy a day during the expedition, how can Sir Seon-woo not keep even one? To be honest, I feel very sad and even betrayed.

    Serpens grumbled with a mournful voice as if he had decided to openly confide in the fact that this had happened.

    The intention of emphasizing that he had kept his promise and of chastising me was good, but the content was not very good.

    ''How am I supposed to react when I tell them that I''m not even a kindergartener and that I ate candy once a day?''

    All I could hear was the sound of stroking my hair and begging me to do it.

    I know it''s not, but maybe

    He reached out his hand to his head in thought. Again, he immediately hit my hand.

    I''m still not mad.

    If that word is solved... No, it''s nothing. How do you think I''ll get it out? Shall I get some punishment?

    Ummm... that''s...

    Serpens seized the drool, closed his eyes and immersed himself in contemplation.

    Then, suddenly, I opened my eyes to see if something came to mind.

    Kneel down and raise your hand.

    Yeah? That''s not what I ended up trying to do with Serpens after drinking, right?

    "The only punishment I know of is you know?"

    I jumped up from my seat.

    And as he was about to kneel on the floor, Serpens grabbed his shoulder and stopped him.

    for a moment .

    why?

    "Isn''t the floor too hard?"

    Yeah? That''s because it''s the floor. Still, it''s carpeted, so that''s it...

    Serpens shook his head a couple of times and pointed to the sofa where I had just been sitting.

    As he instructed, he took off his shoes and climbed onto the sofa, and a soft feel spread through his knees.

    He put his arms up against his ears and leaned his back against the backrest.

    ''. Is this something strange?,

    It felt awkward to say anything.

    He was clearly being punished, but his posture was strangely comfortable.

    "Hey, Serpens ?"

    It''s no use begging for forgiveness now.

    Feeling strange, I tried to call Serpence, but he was unsatisfied.

    ''Isn''t that bastard already all over his anger and pretending not to be?

    It is a reasonable doubt.

    However, as much as it can aggravate the anger that is being released at most, the current situation

    It is very foolish to question it openly in

    by the way .

    ''I could have prayed with words!''

    Why did I take my own punishment?

    If you apologize for doing all of these things wrong, you can say, ''If you''re sorry, that''s all.'' It is a disaster brought on by the twisted sensibility of modern society, where the answer, ''Only with words?''

    I couldn''t recall the number because of the stereotypes that I had to show through actions somehow.

    ''Yeah, because I was wrong.

    Let''s assume that we have time to celebrate.''

    Serpens looked at me hanging like a towel on the sofa, and read carefully the reflection report that I had handed him to him.

    The arms are going down.

    "Hey, it hurts my arm .

    Oh .

    Serpens made a face that seemed to be missing, and infusing me with divine power to restore my stamina.

    My stiff shoulders got better, and my numb arms and legs got stronger.

    ''What is this doing?''

    And he breathed divine power into me about every five minutes.

    Other than sitting in vain, I don''t know what the meaning of this act is.

    ''Hey man... ! Isn''t punishment a way to use divine powers on people?''

    It seems that Serpens, not me, are punished.

    There would be no problem with him as long as he was in a healthy state, but now he has just returned from subjugation of the Volta Mountains.

    Even if he said that his divine power increased significantly from last year''s awakening, didn''t he say that the monsters became stronger and more numerous?

    Serpens...?

    "Even if you look at me like that, I won''t forgive you."

    Serpence had an expression on his face that he wouldn''t let it go if he said one more word.

    ''Is this because he''s tired now and he can''t make sense of it ?''

    It sounds like bullshit, but it''s not entirely unlikely.

    As if to chase away the rush of sleep, he constantly rubbed his eyes and shook his head from time to time.

    I felt like I was forcibly holding on to a child who should have left for dreamland earlier.

    If this punishment is to stimulate my sense of guilt, it can be said to be a very good punishment.

    It seems that your conscience is resting on a cushion of thorns.

    I firmly vowed never to follow the lure of demons and other suspicious people again.

    You look very tired...

    It''s no use trying to move on like that.

    Even if I say it for nothing, it seems like it will only increase the time.

    I shut my mouth, thinking that it would be better to wait quietly until he is satisfied.

    "Are you sorry now?"

    Not long after the last conversation, Serpens spoke first to see if the strategy to keep quiet was effective.

    It is around the time when Serpence is reflecting on his words to be careful if he is not within the distance he can run to.

    " Are you still there?"

    Oh, no! I did, I repented!

    Are you going to do that again?

    I will never do that!

    I guess you liked my quick answer. Serpens showed a proud smile.

    Then you can get up.

    Thank you for your forgiveness!

    Perhaps he would change his mind, he quickly lowered his legs under the sofa and put his shoes back on.

    If you do something dangerous again, that time will fill an entire hour.

    Yes. I''ll keep that in mind.

    Yes.

    Serpens raised his nose and acted arrogantly.

    He seems to think he''s suffocated me properly, so I decided to just let him be satisfied.

    Then go and rest Serpens. Ummm.

    You look terribly tired.

    , uh... .

    why?

    Nothing. I''m sure you should get some rest.

    I realize that very quickly.

    The guy went up to the 5th floor with the reports of Ahn and Ahn that had been taken off a while ago.

 CH 176

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 176

    36. The Duke''s Family Reunion (1)

    Serpence must have returned, too, and I went to the dining room in the main building with Eugenes to have breakfast.

    When we got there, as usual, Serpens sat first and waited for us.

    "Did you sleep well?"

    Yes, I slept well.

    Serpens answered the question asked like a habit.

    He replied with an elegant smile.

    I know that politeness is a conscious reaction to the maids who carry food, but the perfect expression on her face bothers me.

    It''s not just the face.

    Always you] when asked if you slept well. Did Zion have a good sleep?'' The question came back, but it felt like he was strangely emphasizing that he slept well today.

    Oh no! You can''t do that, you should sleep well.

    I wasn''t the only one who noticed his abnormality.

    He said with a tone that he was worried.

    That''s right! The second most important thing after eating is sleeping.

    I lost the player because I was lost in thought, but my opinion wasn''t too different from her.

    I nodded my head vigorously and listened to her.

    Seeing the two of us react, Serpence''s perfect smile was slightly eroded, revealing a bit of absurdity in the gap.

    I, didn''t I say that I slept well?

    Yes! You didn''t!

    Serpense''s eyes blinked rapidly at my confident answer. The head was also slightly tilted.

    He must have been reviewing his words once again by looking back at his memory.

    Then, as if he had found the problem, he smiled fervently.

    Ah... I''m sorry to bother you. It''s not a big deal, I was just a little tired and couldn''t sleep.

    It looks like the scissors have been pressed because I am so tired.

    Maybe it went beyond that and I had a nightmare. Heard about the Heretic Inquisitor and thought of his father... .

    ''By the way, didn''t this guy react strangely to yesterday''s request to go to rest?''

    how gloomy

    I thought it was because I was just drowsy and confused, but I guess that wasn''t the case.

    Looking back on the situation now, I think I knew it before I went to bed.

    Is it normal to have nightmares when you are tired? Why did I only notice this now?''

    When a child struggles to sleep, I should have asked the reason why, but when he looked tired, he only thought about putting him to sleep.

    That''s basically what children are.

    It''s okay to say things that are okay, even if you don''t ask them, they''ll get along just fine.

    "More than that, did you get a call from the church asking if you could visit me this afternoon?

    all.

    The guy spoke in a way that could be seen clearly.

    But I couldn''t bite it and hang on here.

    For more details, I''ll ask when the two of us are alone, and for now, I''ll have to focus on the topic he raised.

    "Did you allow it?"

    Yes. I replied that you would come around three o''clock.

    Eirich-sama must have wanted to see the Duke quickly.

    "You mean me?"

    What kind of bullshit is that, a serpent throwing it like a sneak peek?''

    It''s worth it. No matter how many families you come from, it''s your first chance to see your cute nephew up close.

    "But according to the discipline of the denomination "

    "It''s separate from that. No matter how thoroughly you follow the rules, emotions alone cannot be resolved with effort. That''s why our elves also said, ''When making an oath on the World Tree, swearing with emotions is taboo.

    regarded as.

    I think I''ve heard that story.

    As if he understood what Euges was trying to say, Serpens nodded in reply.

    Of course, that doesn''t mean he really understood, he just pretended to be like that.

    How was it in the sight of Lord Zion?

    Are you Eirich?

    Yes. Yulydia-sama gave a brief talk yesterday, but I remembered that I didn''t hear Sir Zion''s opinion...

    I did my luck first, but I didn''t think he''d ask about the Heretic Inquisitor first.

    Even when Euges spoke up yesterday, didn''t he openly show his reluctance?

    But when I think about meeting him, he seems very anxious.

    "Being a heretic inquisitor by profession, it''s a bit suspenseful there''s no strict part about it, but basically, I seemed to like people who were good and innocent."

    ''Why didn''t the monkey cut off Xeon''s ear and take a different approach?

    Before making suspenseful remarks such as ''Are you going?

    He looked at us with gentle eyes, who had no doubts about it.

    And I didn''t hear this in person, it''s just my guess.... The reason why Eilee-nim has completely cut off ties with the Prasidus family may have been due to the discipline of the Order, but it''s not a threat to me, the Duke''s position. Perhaps it was more because of the fear that it might not happen."

    To be precise, it would include the squadron duke, but the job of a nobleman is beyond my knowledge.

    Instead of answering with a moron, Serpens pretended to choke lightly, pondering what I had said.

    He must be analyzing who the Heretic Inquisitor is.

    Oh! And I even scolded Shion.

    Oh, I remember. It''s clear from the report...

    It seems that Euges wrote that. It was needlessly detailed.

    Somehow, it seemed that the heretical Inquisitor''s evaluation had risen a bit in Serpence.

    ''The reaction was that they didn''t know what I was talking about, so why do you think it''s okay because you scolded me?!''

    I felt sad, but in the end it was a good situation.

    It is more important to reassure Serpence than these personal feelings for now.

    It''s okay to say things like this on the subject of scolding, but I''m sure I''m not a scary or bad person. Like Eugenes said, I think I''m a good person too.

    If you both thought so

    certainly . Oh! Before I met him in person, I asked him about this . uh... , maybe I was wrong... .

    Serpens nodded and did not give the heretic inquisitor''s pre-evaluation, but abruptly covered his mouth with a smirk.

    Being restless is like looking at someone''s eyes.

    Just live comfortably.

    There is no such thing as ''The Duke of Prasidus is a fan of background investigations.

    You might be wondering. No, isn''t it natural to wonder? And

    Excuse me for something like that? After all, Eirich-sama must have heard all the rumors about the Duke.

    That''s right. The important thing is not to be prejudiced. Wouldn''t it be more pleasing to know that Serpens-sama was interested and asked about you first?

    I think so too! Would that have been worse if I hadn''t asked for anything?

    Me and Euges said give and take, and calmed Serpens.

    I''m glad if that''s the case.

    As if he was relieved then, he said with a smile when spraying.

    If there''s one problem, it''s about glancing at me that I don''t know why it''s sad?

    But where is his fault?

    ''For Serpens, blood is not a warm and sticky bond, but just a cold, squishy swamp .''

    The story of the Heretic Inquisitor is no longer mentioned.

    Instead, the little things that happened in the duke''s house when Serpens was away.

    There was talk about

    Occasionally, the two of us had conversations about dessert.

    "Did you hear that there was a new work for ; Sweet Days ? They made a pound of chocolate with plenty of banana puree, and they said it was so delicious."

    I heard that if you make a special order, they put other puree instead of banana puree.

    "But wouldn''t yuzu puree go well with a pound of chocolate?"

    Uh, how did you know that I ordered yuzu puree !

    Serpens didn''t participate in the conversation, but he listened, playing with his hands more slowly than usual to keep pace with us.

    * * *

    After dinner, I left and Serpens headed to the office.

    Eugenes said that it was frustrating to be alone in the mansion, and Serpens returned.

    So, before lunch, I left the message that I would be back and left.

    She didn''t say where she was going, but no one at the Duke''s house knew that she had a hobby of climbing forested mountains.

    "Serpence, did you have a nightmare last night?"

    " what the hell."

    You put out tea like that, and what do you say to whom?

    Instead of going to my seat and sitting down, I went to Serpens''s seat, put my desk on the table, and made eye contact with him, arguing and arguing.

    Then the boy made a squeaky sound and narrowed his eyes as if they were shedding.

    Before you went to bed yesterday, you knew you were going to have a nightmare? Why didn''t you tell me?

    " doesn''t it change anything by talking about it?"

    Why doesn''t anything change...!

    I was about to scream in tears, but I shut my mouth at a sudden thought.

    As a child, my sister and I often covered ourselves with blankets and watched horror movies on TV.

    My sister, who was trembling and afraid of me, calmly approached me, and then the strangely scary thing went away.

    ''I pretended to be strong in front of me, and when my parents came, my sister ran out first.''

    And when I spread the blanket in the living room and fell asleep next to my sister between my parents and my sister, I could not even get a glimpse of nightmares or fear.

    ''Did Serpens have such memories?''

    For him, nightmares are not something we can overcome together, but rather alone.

    It would have been just an ascetic that had to be patiently endured.

    "Are you okay now?"

    Thanks, better than before...

    A sigh escaped me.

    Even with such a past, I had never seen him have nightmares before, so he was completely vigilant.

    Is it always when you''re tired? I was quite tired when I first went down to the Duchy, and when I came up, I wasn''t like that back then.

    It''s not about being tired, it''s about falling asleep deeply. Tired at that time

    One thing was the mind, and thanks to the divine power, my physical strength was intact, so I could control it enough. But just in case you didn''t know, I went to bed before I got any more tired... .

    It just means you haven''t slept well.

    I''m afraid of maggots, so I can''t cook, I''m afraid of nightmares, so I sleep and drink... .

    He slept very little, but even that wasn''t sleeping properly.

    ''Yeah, I was wrong! Why didn''t you notice this?!''

    omg man sleeps head

    It was absurd to say that a single aura could not be disturbed.

    I should have felt strange earlier, but I thought it could be because I was a Serpense and not someone else, and the problem is that I overdid it unintentionally.

    Knowing that he was no more than an ordinary human in the end.

    Angels, honorary elves, and everything else, they treated me like an outsider.

    It was half a joke, but I should have kept reminding myself that he was actually the softest human being.

    place .

    " Have you ever had another nightmare after I came?"

    "At this time last year?"

    It is said that the guy who was running away because he was afraid of nightmares ended up having a nightmare because of me.

    twice as well.

    ''It''s crazy that I''ve noticed by now! No, you should have noticed yesterday!''

    Raising a serpent, I am as much as I am today

    I have never felt my own shortcomings.

    Then why don''t you leave the Holy Power yesterday, why did you write it to me?!

    "It''s okay if it hurts. And that side is more beneficial to me ."

    "Is this an abbreviation for this kind of pain for Serpence?"

    Think about it. It''s much better to not wake up and go to sleep until morning than to repeat waking up with nothing in the way of divine power or stamina.

    What are you thinking, ma''am!

    " Do you want to get down on your knees and raise your hands?"

    I quietly touched my forehead.

    Oh my gosh.

 CH 177

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 177

    36. The Duke''s Family Reunion (2)

    I don''t know where to start because it''s a total difficulty.

    I felt dizzy and dazed, and I shook my head.

    Ser...

    I''m sorry.

    Serpens abruptly put it all on the top of my head and apologized.

    When he looked up at his face again, he had a gloomy expression on his face, like a child being scolded by his parents.

    "Why is Serpens sorry for me?"

    "Why didn''t you tell Seonwoo about this ?"

    Sorry about that.

    I am so sorry.

    It''s pathetic to see you crouching down and looking into my eyes.

    I can''t mess with this."

    If you''re really sorry, try meowing.

    ...Meow?,,

    Okay, that''s it. I''ve forgiven you, so you can stop apologizing.

    Is this...?

    I just questioned my random sound, but when I was forgiven, Serpens''s eyes widened like royal bells.

    It was an unbelievable response.

    " maybe, does Seonwoo forgive everything if the other person just makes a cat noise?"

    It can''t be! Serpence is overly depressed, so before the atmosphere

    It was just a joke and a joke.

    I was joking around to make him feel better, but I only lost money.

    I don''t know why he keeps getting so anxious because he can''t make me have a weird taste.

    The melancholy disappeared from Serpence''s face, but instead a look of doubt took its place.

    That''s over now, is there anything else you haven''t told me?

    Ummm... nothing comes to mind right now.

    I can''t tell if it''s real or if I''m not feeling the problem.

    If I see an unusual corner in the future, I''ll grab it right away and check it out.

    May I ask what you dreamed of? Oh, if it''s hard to say, there''s no need to overdo it.

    " how detailed?"

    Yes?

    Serpense''s green eyes stared straight at me.

    My heart, which instinctively sensed anxiety, throbbed greatly.

    That, that, so...

    Sunwoo has already guessed

    Isn''t it? If I had a nightmare, what would it be... .

    "Hey, first prepare your heart "

    "Is it better not to listen?"

    Even if I said it out loud, no one would listen, but it is a secret that should not be leaked.

    Serpens leaned forward with his upright upper body, and asked in a low tone.

    After all, you should know all about the details, the question was, why do you want to listen to it until your stomach is hurting?

    ''By the way, [Master of the Holy Sword] was a novel by the entire user... Ji?''

    It means that the depiction of more than a degree of cruelty and the content of acts of violence against children have been omitted.

    So, what was omitted was ''that''s the sound.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], the scene where a young Serpens was tortured by a writer named his father crossed his mind.

    Is it because Serpense''s face is right in front of you?

    That face with a bitter smile is painful

    How would you feel if you were distorted by

    How will it sound when the sweet voice in your ear turns into a desperate scream?

    Clearer and more detailed than ever.

    Even if I didn''t want to, the scene was drawn in my head and I came to imagine it.

    town

    Look at that.

    I covered my mouth with my hand as I felt my stomach churn and nausea was rising.

    Serpens reached out and spit on my back

    shut up

    Ser, Pence. When I pat my back like this, I really vomit.

    Without a word, he put his hand away and gathered the papers on the desk and pushed them to one side.

    It''s like such a mean bastard.

    I took a long breath and picked a breath.

    I know, but still, you can''t turn your back on me.

    "Sunwoo has already been able to face me properly.

    are you saying That''s enough.

    still .

    Serpence looked at me with worried eyes.

    Who should be worried about now, and who are they worried about?

    The guy let out a sigh.

    "It''s just I went back to my helpless childhood and just repeated what happened at the time. The only difference from reality is that when I is tortured by that person, all the dukes at that time surround it and watch it. Struggling in that pain... that cold

    I gave up even that in the eyes... . It was just, it was.

    Ser, Pence...

    "It was a dream after all, so there was no physical pain, so don''t make such an expression."

    In the end, he never went into detail about what had happened to him.

    It''s not because it''s hard for him to say, it''s because it''s hard for me to hear. For that reason, my heart ached even more.

    They say that there was no pain because it was a dream, but how could it not be painful since it was an actual experience?

    "How terrifying and terrifying ."

    It''s just a dream.

    "On the subject of sleeping and drowning because I was afraid of that dream "

    I''m afraid of going back to sleep after waking up in the middle, so I''d rather run until the morning as it is?

    I didn''t even say that...

    I said, I said it!

    Serpens said he was helpless only as a child, but now

    He was also mentally helpless.

    Caught by a sense of helplessness, I let myself go.

    I grabbed his hand, which was restlessly resting on the desk, as hard as I could.

    You''ve run away from me well, but why can''t you do that in your dreams? Struggle anyway. You can run away from them and run to me.

    It''s like that...

    "It''s possible. You say that dreams are a reflection of the unconscious?

    You have a good brain and a good memory, so you can think of me and find me. Then, voila, I will appear in my dream and punish all the bad people! I''m going to give Serpence a lot of prayers until his hands become feet, so just trust me!

    At my reliable words, Serpens let out a smirk that seemed to fall into the wind.

    Oh, why? I''m so serious? Can you stop laughing?

    Isn''t Seonwoo smiling like that?

    "Originally, when you see a child smiling, everyone is bound to laugh."

    gibberish.

    There is no other person in the world who can say the word nonsense with such a bright smile but Serpence.

    Well, if that doesn''t work, you can just wake up from the dream and find the real me. I usually don''t like waking up very much, but Serpens will take special care of me, so you can wake me up anytime. Then I''ll do a hull.

    A lullaby...?

    You don''t even know the lullaby? Find it if you''re curious.

    Oh, did you see it?

    I wondered if he didn''t know what I was saying, and he mumbled that he was a lullaby and fell into trouble.

    ''This bastard, I''ve been in vain in volunteering at the orphanage.''

    That''s why politicians'' show-and-forth volunteer work is meaningless. Service should be done with a sincere heart.

    "Is it better than that?"

    "Are you asking if you were okay before, and are you asking if you are okay now?"

    You mean meeting Inquisitor Heretic?

    all. Right after I had that dream... . Even with the excuse that he was tired, he said he would put it off for just one day.

    When did I not say that I was a good person?

    said the boy smirking.

    He said it well because he was in front of people, but again, the question was, ''Are you that kind of person?

    "No, he''s a good person. He is, but he looks a bit like him, his face."

    " that''s me too."

    I forgot the exact subject, but I''m not saying, ''He looks like Serpens, so he must also look like the duke.

    He understood it easily. And answered.

    A person''s outward appearance isn''t everything, right? And I haven''t seen that his face, but Serpens must have been much more handsome!

    Isn''t the back and forth of the words inconsistent?

    "What do you know about that?"

    Serpence made a short whistle as if he was absurd.

    I just thought I had to keep the public and private. There are things I need to ask the Heretical Inquisitor.

    Are you asking?

    I threw a person who was not equipped with any force as bait in a dangerous place, of course...

    "It hasn''t even been a minute since you said you would keep public and private?"

    I''m colder than ever.

    You like coolness]! The words don''t match right?!

    That''s not up to me.

    Isn''t it too much to react a little while ago and use it right away?

    "You used me as bait, too.

    yo. This?

    "So, if something dangerous happened, you waited in the street where you could react immediately. If I had been there, a demon king bird would come out of Seon-woo''s mouth ."

    for a moment!!

    The Demon King Bird...

    Woah, woah-!!

    He looked at me with his eyes, wondering what the hell he''s doing.

    It''s embarrassing to see you staring at him close up. I grabbed his hand and let go of the forgotten hand, and stood up straight with his back straight.

    Let''s use fair and fine language. We''ll shorten it to something like ''Masaegaesae''.

    What''s different?

    At least there''s no sound.

    Dog...

    If you reduce it that much, it sounds like you''re calling me a bastard, not a demon lord, right?

    For some reason it became very uncomfortable.

    If it were me, I would have jumped right in as soon as the word ''Masaegaesae'' came out and secured Seonwoo''s safety.

    "The door was closed and you couldn''t hear it.

    But if only the interrogator knew... .

    Of course, I should have sneaked in before that. If not, I should have put my ears on the door.

    Paladins or Heretic Inquisitors aren''t even assassins], Serpens was expecting too much from them.

    And you said that the demon worshiper used black magic to manipulate the deputy butler. What would you have done if it had been used on you, Seon-woo? So, I even ordered him to commit suicide.

    Calm down, Serpens.

    It''s already calming down.

    "Is it super emotional?"

    You must have felt that way because you were stabbed.

    There is no such thing as recklessness

    If you meet the Heretic Inquisitor like this, you will have a great fight.

    It''s my first meeting with my family... .

    "As the head of the household, it''s definitely something we can take into account."

    But wouldn''t it be sad if Serpence took the side of someone else?

    "Didn''t you also say that a neighbor who lives close is better than a cousin who lives far away?"

    The heretic interrogator-nim is not a human village, but a village of three.

    "It doesn''t matter. Either way, they are the same person to me. It seems like they will be sad in the first place, or they want to meet me.

    Normally, he''s a guy who doesn''t fight in the first place, even for image management... .

    I''ve been sharpening my knife all night, depending on today

    The day is close.

    ''wait for a sec?''

    Maybe it was because I had been tormented by Duke Prasidus in a dream all night, and when I woke up in the morning, I got a call from his younger brother, Inquisitor Heretic.

    And because I thought he was endangering me, the person he had barely prepared for, to reveal himself and to lean on.

    ''Is that why you''re burning such animosity?''

    It was plausible.

    For him, blood ties have always been something that suffocates his breath.

    peel.

    But didn''t Serpence think he was a good person?

    That''s why you''re trying to solve it through conversation. Keep calm.

    This child, this.

    If he had judged that he was not a good person, he would have secretly assassinated.

    Who knows if it''s not the original suspense?

 CH 178

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 178

    36. The Duke''s Family Reunion (3)

    It is said that when sugar runs out, a person''s personality becomes sharper.

    Come to think of it, the only thing he ate recently was one small candy once a day, isn''t it?

    It seems that special measures should be taken.

    Serpen...!

    "How long are you going to stand there? Are you going to be off work today?"

    The papers that Serpens had put aside for a while

    He pulled me back and said. He said he had to work, so he had to turn it off.

    It seems that special measures should be postponed for a while.

    After working like that, I had lunch with Eugene, who came back from hiking, and went back to work... .

    By now, it was two o''clock.

    - Knock

    When the knock was heard, Serpens

    He checked his watch once, then shifted his gaze to look at me.

    Ignoring the gaze, I quickly opened the door, handed it as if to snatch the tray the maid brought, and closed the door again.

    "Where did you want to go as soon as you finished eating?"

    Originally, snack time is 3 o''clock, but today, customers come at 3 o''clock.

    Right.

    Serpens welcomed the sweet scent that tickled the tip of his nose and nodded his head.

    He quickly rearranged the papers on his desk to make room for tea and snacks.

    "Would you like to eat here?"

    Sometimes things got delayed, and soon customers will come and take their time again...

    It''s a waste of time anyway, let''s make it an hour easier!

    Uh-huh! ''It''s easy.'' next?

    It is.

    This bastard is making me say twice that once is enough.

    Serpens got up from his seat and walked towards me.

    "Why are you coming here?"

    By the way, what is this? It''s very sweet...

    It seems that he was curious about the sweet smell that is incomparable to usual.

    Like a bee attracted to the smell of honey, Serpens, possessed by the sweet scent, removed the teapot cover.

    "Okay, let''s open the drawing room door quickly. It tastes best when eaten while it is still warm."

    "Um I got it."

    Serpence, who had even touched the lid of the kettle, instead of opening it, closed it again and opened the door to the drawing room.

    With the snack of the day in my hand, I dignifiedly passed through the door, and after Serpens closed the door, he hurried past me and sat down first.

    He looked like a child from one to ten, and a smirk leaked out.

    Come on, today''s menu is Hot Chocolate and S''more Cookies!

    A black, thick drink in the guy''s glass

    filled the

    As soon as the cup was filled, his hand grabbed the handle of the cup.

    Wait! Not yet. Putting this marshmallow in here makes it even better!

    Holding the tongs on the tray to stop him, Serpens immediately removed his hand from the cup.

    Then, he looked at me with eyes wondering what he was doing without putting it in quickly.

    Today, if you promise the heretic interrogator that you won''t fight, and you won''t make any fuss, I''ll let you in.

    Is it really like this?

    "Promise me soon. When it cools down, the marshmallows may not melt?"

    Ugh... ! Taking hostages cruelly... .

    How delicious is a drink made by melting chocolate in warm milk, adding marshmallows, and sprinkling chopped chocolate over it?

    uh... .

    Hey, does this work?

    As long as he can take it by force, he just walks away with a look of resentment

    he looked at me

    "Why does Seonwoo care so much about him?"

    Oh, what else would our Duke be so dissatisfied with? Because I only listened to Inquisitor Heretic?

    Don''t play around.

    The boy''s mouth popped out.

    There''s no particular reason. It''s just Serpence''s family, and I don''t think it''s going to have a bad influence on Serpence. That''s it.

    Only?

    "And I also want Serpens to experience what a real family feels like at least once."

    I have already received enough from Sunwoo, so I don''t need it anymore.

    It''s nice to know that, but I''m relying only on me for all my affection.

    So Serpens doesn''t know what''s more of a problem.

    The Prasidus family is different from the Rivelon Ghana Sunwoo''s family.

    We''re all the same person, what''s the difference?

    "You know Seon-woo better than anyone, right? What kind of person is the previous Duke, and what kind of person am I ."

    Serpens is the one who can''t forcefully take a marshmallow from me.

    Things like that...

    It''s like that.

    As if he was looking into me, he made eye contact and stared at me.

    I was asking what the hell do you want to say?

    "There is a possibility that only the predecessor duke was an unusually strange guy."

    "On what grounds?"

    If all the people of a family that has been handed down for a long time like the Duke of Prasidus were like dukes like their predecessors... shouldn''t they have raised their notoriety so much? Have you ever heard of such a thing? I''ve never heard of it. .

    You must have kept your mouth shut. Or you were good at acting.

    It''s got a degree!

    If it wasn''t just one or two people, but one and a half generations, one or two people in the middle would have been crooked.

    Using strong divine power as a pretext to cause rebellion.

    At the very least, he should have entwined the emperor or the prince with his outstanding appearance, saying that he was balanced and bald, and that he would seize power and mix his blood with the imperial family.

    ''Even Serpense went wrong with the wrong education, and the more I look at it, the more innocent and naive it seems... .''

    Rather than a gentle boy like Serpens being suddenly born in a family like a chaplain, it is more likely to think that the bastard of the predecessor duke popped out like a mutant.

    It was plausible.

    How poisonous and greedy he must have been, how would a heretic inquisitor yield to the dukedom and enter the church on his own feet?

    Your father is obviously a bad guy, but I don''t want to deny even the roots of serpenes. I hope serpenes do the same.

    ...Ummm...

    Just as he and Serpens are different beings, so is the Heretic Inquisitor.

    Answer?

    " Yes, I understand. Seonwoo, do as you say."

    When I demanded an answer by clinging to my tongs, he answered reluctantly.

    But I checked it myself, and he said, ''If that''s the kind of person...''

    "At that time, even if I don''t see you again and live as a man for the rest of my life, I won''t say anything."

    Serpens looked at me with eyes that were all about it, but I couldn''t help it.

    But isn''t it Ruth, who can''t say that it''s okay to kill her because she doesn''t care?

    Come on, come on. Drink something warm and sweet, and calm yourself down.

    I poured the drink from the hot kettle into my glass, put all the prepared marshmallows in it, and sprinkled the minced chocolate in a small saucepan over it.

    And I exchanged it for a glass of Serpence that had almost cooled down.

    You really...

    "What am I?"

    He thought he was going to say something, but instead of straightening his hazy tail, he slurped a hot drink.

    The white marshmallows slowly melted in the black hot chocolate.

    Serpens put his lips to it, but suddenly opened his mouth.

    "Why two?"

    This cup has cooled down, but if you add marshmallows to sweet hot chocolate, it''s too sweet for me... I like sweet things, but if it''s too sweet, I feel a little nauseous.

    It''s not like that...

    He paused for a moment, took a sip of his drink, and silently set the glass down.

    "Why are you serving such a sweet drink and having two glasses?"

    Yes? It''s two people... Huh?

    Even if you don''t bring your own car, it''s supposed to be when guests arrive...

    Our eyes turned to the cookies placed on the plate.

    The number of cookies is also strangely more than usual

    There were many, and when I counted them one by one, they were exactly even numbers.

    Did you notice?

    His gaze turned to me again.

    Since I gave something to the kitchen, I wonder if it came out like this.

    I didn''t say anything! I just said yes because I wanted to eat as usual! Really yo!

    I told the truth, but Serpens'' tenacious gaze did not depart from me.

    I''m just asking, just in case, I

    Even when I''m not around, I always bring snacks like this

    Did you eat?"

    no.

    Embarrassed, I pretended not to see his gaze, and grabbed the cookie.

    A mouthful of it, thick marshmallows softly wrapped around his teeth.

    Yes. It''s just that I can''t say anything because of the marshmallow, and avoiding answering Serpense''s questions... right.

    ''Isn''t it time to get caught up anyway?''

    What hasn''t been noticed so far is because of the prejudices built up by his eating habits that have continued since childhood.

    If it hadn''t been for that, the rumors around the neighborhood would not have been found out sooner.

    How about anything! Let''s just enjoy what happened this way!

    . Dog.

    Where did ''Masae'' go?

    "Where has your conscience gone?"

    Hey, this house bakes well! Perfectly.

    It''s a cookie restaurant! Would you like to have some serpenes too?

    Serpens still followed me with her eyes, reaching out and picking up the cookie and putting it in her mouth.

    The boy''s eyebrows furrowed slightly.

    Is it delicious?

    Right.

    After all, the old sages said that good things are good things.

    We had a relaxing time sipping sweet cookies and sweeter drinks.

    About 10 minutes before the clock minute hand reached the right time, all the plates were emptied and the maid was called to clear the table.

    And as soon as it was exactly on time, I heard the news of the Inquisitor''s visit.

    Eugenes, who was playing in the garden, came up first, and after a while, Zeon arrived at the drawing room guiding the Heretic Inquisitor.

    Welcome, Inquisitor Heretic. Nice to meet you.

    I am honored to have met the Duke.

    Serpens rose from his seat, and, with an outward smile, saluted the Heretic Inquisitor.

    Inquisitor Heretic also smiled and accepted his greeting.

    It is very satisfying to see them talking to each other formally... .

    '' is a horn! It''s gloomy! It''s awkward!''

    Whoever sees them, their faces tell us that they are family, but how they treat each other like others!

    It''s uncomfortable, like looking at a puzzle that''s been put together incorrectly.

    Whether or not I felt uncomfortable, Serpence and the Heretic Inquisitor shook hands with smiles and sat down.

    Sir Zion?

    Oh, yes! I''ll sit down!

    Unintentionally, I ended up standing alone and blankly until everyone was seated.

    Then Serpens called me and sat me down on the road.

    I would like to thank the three of you once again for their cooperation in this matter.

    The Heretic Inquisitor came out and looked back at Zeon and Eugene, and placed a box wrapped in white velvet on the table.

    And it was pushed out in front of Serpens.

    Not to mention me and Zeon, Yujisu was also in a position to rely on the duke''s residence for the time being, so it seems that he handed it over to him as a representative.

    I have a story to share right now, so I''ll pass it on to the three of you later.

    Serpens put it right to one side.

    When I received a gift, I couldn''t understand it because I couldn''t unravel it unless I opened it on the spot.

    ''At least try to open it.''

    While I was looking at the velvet box with a fondness for it, the maid came in and put the tea in their respective seats.

    That said, it was right after I ate the sweet combo, so my mouth was sweet, but it turned out well.

    Thanks to this, interest in the contents of the box has been blunted.

 CH 179

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 179

    36. The Duke''s Family Reunion (4)

    And in resolving this matter, even though the Duke is absent, without asking for permission in advance...

    If that''s the case, I''ve told my aide.

    The Heretic Inquisitor had only opened his introduction, but what was to come was quite obvious.

    Serpens didn''t listen to the end and just cut it off.

    Had it not been for my promise, he would have listened to the Heretic Inquisitor to the end.

    He opened his mouth with the words ''But'' and said, ''You must have played a responsible housekeeper who cares for his people.

    ''Are you trying to drive people like me and Zeon to face a demon worshiper in front of them as compelled to sacrifice rather than cooperate?''

    Even if the heretic interrogator has prepared a countermeasure in case of an emergency, ''Still, it is dangerous to be dangerous.''

    Do you think you can be?''

    But now, I wouldn''t do that with me, after the Marshmallow Agreement was signed.

    I wouldn''t be able to argue with it anyway, I don''t think it was a waste of time to listen to this interrogator until the end... .

    Sir Zion said that he was the first to help, so he hoped that this would not cause any problems.

    ...I don''t think so.

    I told you not to grab a pod for nothing.

    But I didn''t say it like that.

    Judging from the sudden sound of beating the pongchang with a jajinmori jangdan while sleeping, it is certain that the sagi fence is doing drugs.

    Stopping the conversation is also part of the process.

    The heretic inquisitor''s gaze turned to me to see if it was already working. Our eyes met in the ice.

    After smiling awkwardly in embarrassment, he drank the car and avoided his gaze.

    "For me, I feel uncomfortable because it seems like someone who is powerless is constantly being exposed to danger but what should I do if it has already happened? I will respect his opinion."

    Serpens smiled bitterly as she looked at me with warm eyes filled with worries and wonders.

    There was a nuance that implicitly, my sacrifice was not for today or tomorrow.

    ''If someone you don''t know hears it, they''ll think that I''m a person who wraps up a fictional day and makes sacrifices for a cause!''

    The bigger problem was that the technique of fraud fence was a wide-area machine that did not distinguish between enemies.

    Eugene, who still has a big fantasies for me, slowly nodded his head to express his deep sympathy .

    Xeon, who had a major misunderstanding due to the last novel by Eugene, looked at me like a fire fox.

    ''Even so, that Serpense guy knows everything and is writing the script!''

    Even if the world is sad, it will be so sad

    Day!

    I''m going crazy running and running and I''m about to go back and forth.

    That''s not true.

    My image became burdensome, but I was just trying to think that it was resolved anyway.

    The Heretic Inquisitor was rude and denied it.

    If I stayed still, I would be able to move on quietly, but it''s really hard to be honest.

    I know.

    Yes? Then why...

    "I heard reports from two other people besides Sir Zion, so it is natural to know.

    Seeing the bewildered heretic inquisitor, Serpens smiled softly.

    The Heretic Inquisitor turned to look at me and Serpence, then with a small smile, meekly expressed his gratitude.

    If you do not know the truth, there is no other story.

    Actually, the reason I came here today was to express my gratitude to the three of you and to give the Duke''s understanding at least, but that''s not all.

    As if to say that this is the main point, the Heretic Inquisitor erased his smile and spoke with a serious face.

    In terms of atmosphere, is it something that was omitted after ''to pay a bounty'' that we were talking about last time?

    "I thought that a proper conversation would be possible only after the outline was more clearly defined, so I just skipped over it at the scene.

    just . There are definitely issues that need to be addressed."

    "What are you talking about ?"

    For no reason, the heretical inquisitor''s gaze turned to me.

    For some reason, I felt a will to stop him from speaking strangely.

    ''''It''s about the name Tenebrio. Where did you hear that it was a god created by the Demon King himself?

    Yeah, of course the devil...

    "I knew you would say that.

    Has confirmed. After interrogating a demon worshiper, he said he didn''t say anything like that.

    You''re savagely doing data research.

    I didn''t see him as such a person, but I''m disappointed.

    "Do you believe what I am saying now, not what I am saying?"

    I would like to believe more of Zion''s words. However, no matter how many times I questioned, the answer that came back did not change. In addition, when I showed him the letter that Zion had sent, I was possessed of a disappointing laugh, but it was as it is.

    abandoned.

    To say that a heretic inquisitor interrogates a demon worshiper is no different than torturing him.

    While he was confused as to whether the story he had heard from the Demon King was true or false.

    Even if I tell the truth that I know for sure, what comes back is torture, and I''ve even seen letters made up of lies.

    Yeah, it drives me crazy... .''

    Somewhere in the middle of my heart, it was quiet.

    But I''m a messenger of Luxmea, so in fact, all of this is nothing more than Luxmea''s decorations, isn''t it?

    In the avatar battle between Luxmea and Tenebrio, Tenebrio chose the wrong avatar and was defeated.

    ''It''s so bad that I just asked the Demon King''s well-being... .''

    If it were me, no matter how many times I cursed Luxmea, I wasn''t even opening an eye, I could even give him a straight face.

    Like a guy who''s only half of it

    A foreign country like New Luxmea. No, I guess I couldn''t afford to use mercenaries.

    Zeon-sama. Was what was written in that letter really true?

    That, that...

    Tell me honestly.

    There was an exaggeration, but it''s roughly about the same . As a result, it was also true that the other party was a demon worshiper .

    Suddenly, Zeon stuttered in response to the heretical inquisitor''s sharp gaze towards him.

    A little bit of lies and exaggeration were mixed.

    Thanks to that, I have successfully captured them, so I have no intention of questioning them about it. Just looking at the contents of the letter, the idea is somewhat suspicious... . Wouldn''t it be different if it was a story you heard somewhere? I''m just curious as to where the information came from.

    Why does it sound like I will be accused of heresy and put in jail if I don''t tell the truth?

    Avoid unsubstantiated remarks.

    That''s right! I''m truly following how unsophisticated Zion is, so beware of such abusive remarks.

    yo. This!

    It seems I''m not the only one who heard that.

    Serpens hardened his face and glared at the Heretic Inquisitor, and Euges provoked my conscience with a pearly fury.

    I''m sorry. This way of speaking has become a habit... I had no intention of questioning Zion-sama''s faith.

    I''m glad. I was thinking about what humiliating swearing could be more than a demon king or a dog, but I don''t think it''s something that can be said in front of the Duke or Eugese.

    I apologize again. I''m really sorry.

    It''s an occupational disease, what can I do? Oh, there was plenty of room for harm.

    He seemed to have gone too far and joked lightly, but the Heretic Inquisitor bowed his head deeply and apologized to me as if he was more ignorant.

    "Anyway, that information . Yes, information . What I learned about it There is a very arduous journey and a heartbreaking story1, so that''s what ?"

    "Shion, it''s okay! I , I''m him

    I''ll do it! It must be hard for you to remember, but you don''t have to say any more!

    What do I have to say to get the rumor that I''ve been fooled? Should I bring up the rumors of the Luxmea lion as well?

    As I was dragging the time for gibberish with such worries, Eugene suddenly dangled tears in his eyes and grabbed my hands tightly.

    "Actually, Zion has been kidnapped, sucked, and by demon worshipers. He has overcome it now, but I have also seen him suffer from claustrophobia because of it."

    The Heretic Inquisitor looked at me with his eyes wide open.

    I wondered if that statement was true, but I couldn''t answer yes, so I quietly turned my head.

    Serpens covered his mouth with his hand and rolled his eyes, and Zeon Let''s pretend we don''t check.

    "That that would have been kidnapped.

    at the time .

    You], you must have written the letter based on the story you heard back then. Yes?

    No, that''s right. Yeah...

    Confronting Luxmea''s cursing was not difficult, but coping with Eugene''s novel was very difficult.

    I shuddered at the cramping and bowed my upper body.

    It''s hard to answer, so please don''t tell me anymore.

    Sion managed to escape through the sacrifices of those who were captured, but..., Heuk:

    It happened...! Why didn''t you report it to the denomination?

    Because it never happened.

    It must have been because they couldn''t control themselves properly as a result of the aftermath. They probably couldn''t report because there was no evidence that their hiding place would be discovered later, because they left there.

    Oh .

    For some reason, the heretical inquisitor''s lament was ''Ah... ! I was so distracted by the shock of such a big deal!'' I heard.

    It''s disrespectful to my parents who raised me well without making me suffer once, so please stop.

    Are you okay?

    As if Serpence was worried, he gently stroked my back with the palm of his hand and asked kindly.

    But inside, you must be laughing out loud as you watch the process of creating black history in real time.

    It was really shameful.

    I understand the situation. The denomination is always open, so please contact us right away like this time.

    The Heretic Inquisitor said in a pitiful voice.

    Yours. We will do that.

    "It may be hard to remember, but is there anything else that comes to mind?"

    "That, that so "

    - Tock, tock.

    Serpens, who had been pretending to calm me down by gently stroking my back, tapped me with her finger this time.

    Ah! That''s right! They talked about breaking the barriers of the Volta Mountains...

    "Why are you saying that now?!"

    The Heretic Inquisitor was startled and jumped to his feet.

    Ze, there''s no evidence...?

    It doesn''t matter!

    But would you have believed me? With no evidence? Besides, I wasn''t even the duke''s aide back then...

    Anyway, this is a very serious matter!

    Suddenly, why am I being scolded?

    I wondered if

    I gently straightened my back and looked at Serpens.

    ''I''ve set up my luck as you tell me to, so calm down quickly and talk.

    Serpens tapped me on the back a couple of times to signify that he understood, and withdrew his hand.

 CH 180

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 180

    36. The Duke''s Family Reunion (5)

    Inquisitor Heretic, please calm down and sit back. If not, I was going to tell you about it today.

    The Heretic Inquisitor sat quietly with a somewhat embarrassed face at Serpens'' calm attitude.

    Are you ashamed of the thought of showing a cold-hearted appearance in front of your nephew?

    I think the Duke already knew.

    You], of course I heard.

    Somehow, I felt like I was bragging about my friendship. And that would not be my mistake.

    As evidence of that, the heretical Inquisitor''s expression became quite subtle.

    ''Serpence, you man! It''s not my family, it''s yours?''

    I don''t know what to check and limit.

    I hope I know the existence of a heretical inquisitor

    After finding out, I thought, ''Now that I have a real family, I don''t need it anymore, right?'' .

    There is a possibility. He only made him anxious.

    ''Is it something to do with continuing to call her by her last name even though she''s open enough to Euges?''

    I felt the need to first realize that just because I made friends and his world expanded, I wasn''t leaving anywhere.

    It''s a life that''s going to send me back

    angle was made

    I was grateful to know that he was worried about me, but I was suddenly angry at these contradictory appearances that often popped up.

    If he had found a way, he would have reassured me and sent me back, saying that he''s fine now.

    After that, I thought that I might have lived a daily life that had not changed, and I felt a fire inside.

    Sir Zion? Why do you see it that way?

    He said he was taking care of his facial expressions, but it seems he was looking at him with too much intent.

    Serpens, who felt my gaze, expressed his doubts.

    I thought the two of you looked alike. I was just doing a comparative analysis, so please don''t mind me and continue the conversation.

    The naive Serpense immediately believed my words and nodded.

    Without knowing my speed, it is clear that he thought, ''I must have been thinking about something strange as usual.''

    Before I left the capital for this expedition, I heard Sir Zion''s words and it was suspicious.

    As a result of paying attention to whether there is ... . I found something like this inside the barriers of the Volta Mountains.

    Serpens placed the small box at his feet on the table and opened the lid.

    Isn''t this a black magic stone? A demon worshiper must have been hiding inside the barrier.

    "What I have recovered is only a fraction of the whole mountain range."

    Oh my god, Luxmea...

    At those words, the Heretic Inquisitor sighed slightly.

    He vomited and put the name of the god he worshiped in his mouth.

    He must have remembered the catastrophe that would occur when the barrier of the mountain range was broken in his head.

    "I was thinking of purifying on the spot, but I thought it would be better to submit it to the church, so I brought it here as a temporary measure.

    "Good job. Do you remember the location where you found the Black Magic Stone?"

    The Heretic Inquisitor closed the lid of the box and pulled it towards him, asking.

    Yes. I will mark it on the map and send it to the denomination by the middle of today.

    Thank you. I think it will be very helpful.''''

    If you plan to dispatch an investigation team, you must prepare well. Although the number of monsters decreased immediately after the subjugation...

    The information and hypotheses that Serpens had informed me and Eugenes yesterday were passed on to the Heretic Inquisitor.

    Inquisitor Heretic listened to the story with a serious face.

    "Okay.

    We''ll be careful.

    Please, I hope that someone''s precious life does not lose its light.

    ...thank you.

    The external fence only blew external lines with a smile on the outside.

    "Someone precious," he said, was nothing more than a word to refer to the unspecified number of people who are precious to someone.

    However, the Heretic Inquisitor seems to have taken it as a statement of concern for his own safety.

    Where did the anticipation that we had before we met go?

    The heretical interrogator, who had been consistent in his attitude, revealed a fragment of that feeling.

    Unable to hide his dazed heart, he answered in a slightly calmed voice.

    Then I''ll just go.

    Yeah, bye then...

    Yes?! Already?

    The Heretic Inquisitor and Serpens stood up and exchanged farewells, then looked at me in the middle with a puzzled expression.

    Two similar faces standing side by side with similar expressions, it is very splendid.

    It is a different feeling from when Serpens lit up with Yu Jis at a banquet hall one day.

    Sir Zion?

    Is it time to radiate charm?

    Of the two, the one who shines the most has his eyes wide open and tilts his head, appealing to me that he is a more talented person with a face.

    nothing more to see

    Vote by text message for symbol number 1 Serpense right now... . No, not this.

    "Eirich-sama is already leaving

    I did it. I won''t go away after a while... .

    Let''s say Serpence is.

    What would you want from the guy who measured the kill angle before you even met him?

    However, for the heretic inquisitor, it is blood and blood that he has seen in a very, very long time, and time with his niece for the first time.

    ''Are you really going to go back like this? Do you know when we will meet again?''

    No matter how hard your nephew is building a wall, you can''t do that to yours.

    Like an adult, approach me first

    Give me pocket money to buy and eat, and skip a word or two of virtue!

    "Do you have more to say to me?"

    "I don''t exist, but I wonder if it''s between the two of you?"

    At my words, the Heretic Inquisitor glanced at Serpence.

    Serpence, who received that gaze, smiled with a gentle face as usual.

    I think it''ll be fine.

    Inquisitor Heretic answered with a sly smile. faint in it

    Well, there was a happy feeling.

    I''m guessing], ''Even if we are separated from each other and have different surnames, our minds are still thinking of things like family.

    ''It''s not okay, this gentleman.

    Even though blood is thicker than water, it seems to be inevitable against the walls of time.

    He could not grasp the heart of the nephew he had met for the first time and was fooled by his outward appearance.

    Then let''s really go.

    Yes, go take a look.

    Serpens said, ''Uncle, can''t we go play some more?''

    Whatever I said, it was unlikely that the Heretic Inquisitor would put his buttocks on the couch again and have a dorando conversation with Serpence.

    Inquisitor Heretic went out of the drawing room without any regrets, and Zeon followed him to see him off.

    Look at that.

    As soon as they went out, Serpens said sarcastically.

    He was talking to me, but the ridicule

    The negative target was not me.

    " Serpens, what did you see?"

    There was no way the guy who reacted sensitively to other people''s emotions wouldn''t have noticed.

    But he looked like he really didn''t know anything.

    Serpens filtered out the affection towards him. as if it were quite natural

    Whether verbally or in writing, if he does not express himself directly, he will not be able to accept it until the end.

    A sigh came out.

    There, maybe... . Oh , no.

    Euges opened his mouth as if he had sensed something, then closed it again.

    That reaction was definitely noticeable.

    He must have guessed that his family had something to do with Serpence''s continued hiding and acting out of place.

    ''I''m friendly with the people of the duke, so even if I didn''t ask you intentionally, I''d have heard about how Serpence was until I came... .''

    The heavy silence subsided.

    Ah, true! I thought the two of you were still working, but were you having fun eating delicious food?

    Ah-! How did you know that?!

    Eugenes intentionally opened his mouth brightly in a high tone while trying to change the atmosphere.

    I touched the corner of my mouth with my hand, wondering if there was any cookie crumbs on it, but nothing came out.

    If it had been buried in the first place, Serpens would have pointed it out earlier.

    I put an order at a famous bakery to eat together when the two of you finish work.

    Well, it''s a little sad.

    Well, I have something to talk about with Serpens personally, and I think I need to eat something urgently because I don''t have enough sugar...

    If it''s a personal story... it can''t be helped.

    Eugenes reflexively glanced at the spot where the Heretic Inquisitor had stayed.

    It was a reaction that he understood the story that he did not tell himself, even though he was deeply saddened by it.

    "By the way, we were the only ones eating snacks.

    How did you know?"

    As soon as you walk into the drawing room, you can smell the strong chocolate. How can you not know? What the hell did you eat?

    "Ah, the smell !"

    Me and Serpens were in the drawing room all the time, so we had our noses accustomed to the smell and overlooked it.

    I ate hot chocolate and smore cookies... but... did Inquisitor Heretic even notice?

    "Is that so?"

    Serpens'' eyes staring at me makes my side face tingle.

    all.

    If I said anything, it would seem like they were just going out and talking and sarcastic about why I''m doing this here.

    "Isn''t that why I asked you to eat in the office?"

    "Who was it that opened the door to the Porre parlor, possessed by the sweet smell?"

    That''s what you told me to open...

    Are you going to open it again if you say you ordered it? Anyone who hears it will think I''m a duke!

    As if there was nothing to refute, the guy quietly shut his mouth and looked sullen.

    stared at me

    "You also enjoyed Serpence! Do you keep doing this after having fun together?"

    Well, yes, though.

    "To be honest, Serpence enjoyed it more than me, didn''t it?"

    It never happened. Don''t try to distort reality just because you don''t have witnesses.

    Having no witnesses, the guy brazenly held out his flippers.

    If he had learned from me, he wouldn''t have shown such a conscientious attitude, but who the hell did he learn from?

    Ah, I even gave you one more cookie for me. I drank two more cups of hot chocolate. Why not gossip after eating well?

    Ummm...

    Answer clearly! Yes? No?

    "Uh, no "

    In the end, the guy bowed his head and declared defeat in a crawling voice.

    I shouldn''t have lied to you sooner or later.

    Zion .

    Yes? Why?

    I''m sorry, so don''t bother me too much.

    Presuming to be intoxicated with the sweet taste of victory, Eugese cautiously called me in and spoke carefully.

    But did I say that a swearing sister-in-law is more hated than a cursing mother-in-law?

    Those words did more damage to Serpens.

    He can''t even take his glasses off

    He raised his glasses with his fingers, and covered my reddened face with both hands.

    "If you had just admitted it from the beginning, this wouldn''t have happened, would it?"

    Just like if you pass the diamond gently, there will be no bloodshed.

    I patted him on the back and whispered the truth of the world.

    "You really !"

    I know, I know. He''s really nice and kind.

    With my comfort, Serpens removed the hands covering his face, and strengthened his eyes.

    and looked at me

    "Hey . do you two usually do things like this?"

    Today''s MVP, Euges, who knocked down Serpence with decisive words, asked with an awkward expression.

    I''m just playing. I''m kidding.

    Ah, that''s right... I guess this was just a game... I don''t even know how the people of the Empire play.

    Euges will soon get used to it.

    I hate that.

    I think I''m already used to the way he talks with a bright smile.

 CH 181

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 181

    37. Revisiting the Dark House with the Duke (1)

    A chocolate-colored chocolate-flavored cake coated with chocolate with Serpens in front of you . So I looked at Sacher Torte.

    What are you doing? Don''t eat soon.

    I cut a small piece of the cake, dipped it in Schlag squeezed on one side of the plate, and put it in my mouth.

    View of black cake and white cream

    The color harmony of Edo was good, but the harmony of taste was even better.

    Whipped cream without added sugar gently wraps the rich chocolate flavor, and sweet apricot jam spreads between them.

    With this delicious cake, Serpence just stared at the fork in his hand.

    Why are you dealing with that?

    As usual, Serpens would have put a sweet smile on his lips, and diligently played with his hands to move the sweets into my mouth.

    As such a guy just stared at it, Eugene, who was puzzled, quietly asked me a question.

    Because the person who sent this is Eirich-sama.

    Oh!

    Heretic Inquisitor... . Eirich sent a cake to the Duchess'' House as a gift as if to prove that he was different from Serpence''s parents.

    On the surface, it means personal gratitude and apology for what happened last time, but in my heart, it must be that of an uncle who wants to feed his nephew delicious food.

    How much chocolate had you been absorbed in?

    It must have been a gift sent with that thought in mind.

    Eat it quickly. If you don''t eat it, it''s assumed that you''ve been bitten by the chocolate, and you''ll feel better next time... ''

    Wait... um, I''m going to eat, so wait a minute...

    Serpens hesitated with a puzzled expression, as when I first handed him dessert, then cut the cake into bite-sized pieces with a fork and put it in his mouth.

    And the expression of resentment because it is delicious

    built

    It''s delicious, isn''t it? It''s a look that says it''s absolutely delicious? If it''s delicious, please love it!

    "Shion, anyway, isn''t that a little bit like that?"

    Eugenes waited for Serpense''s response for a while, and then when he didn''t respond, he scolded me.

    It must have been that he had expected this without realizing it, but missed it too late.

    I found the second prince in a dark area yesterday. Although he was in disguise, he had a body shape.

    Combining the gait, voice, and gate records used to enter the dark district, I am sure of myself."

    Serpens glanced at the two of us with pitiful eyes in turn, and then just changed the topic.

    He didn''t say anything about Eirich, and he didn''t even mourn.

    by the way .

    When did you go to darkness again?

    It''s been a while since the second prince went down to the former Ferrarius estate. I think it''s time to take care of the dark side, so I''ve been going every day for the last week.

    He talks a little and doesn''t listen to anything.

    Anyway, is that so?

    It appears that they have visited for investigation, but no progress has been made.

    When did the second prince of the Empire ever go to such a rough town?

    Nobility flows out of actions, and there is no way to properly investigate a place like this because it is the first time.

    All kinds of conspirators are entangled in Hogaeng''s visit, and if you ask any questions, you will be suspicious and ask for money.

    go .

    I almost fell asleep without seeing it,

    And how knowledgeable the escorts are.... Arguments and quarrels are taking place every now and then, and it''s like walking around announcing that it''s the first time.

    Serpens frowned as if in pain.

    The image of a knight pulling his sword came to mind, saying he was rude to people who deliberately bumped into the second prince while passing by or approached them to cheat.

    Serpens saw it and chased them.

    It was also portrayed as a way of sifting through those who approached, and secretly intervening if Frederick''s identity was likely to be discovered.

    Serpence is suffering a lot.

    Whew...

    He answered with a long sigh.

    I was planning to secretly leak clues when I made progress in the investigation, but I don''t think that''s possible. If I leave it like that, I''ll get caught up in dangerous things or get my identity discovered...

    I got caught up in something dangerous and

    tall?

    Yeah. That''s why I think I''ll have to change my plans a bit.

    It is difficult to know that the 2nd Prince is under investigation by going in and out of the dark district, but it is even worse when rumors circulate that he is contributing to dirty work in the dark district.

    "Then what should I do?"

    Euges asked Serpense a question.

    I think we should make contact from this side first.

    How?

    "First of all Wilydia-sama, can you sneak out through the back door of the mansion tonight?"

    "Of course! Are you going there?"

    Yes. And according to the settings I made last time...

    I feel like an extra who has been called into a play-writing meeting and has been given the role of a borrowed barley sack.

    The two of them made plans to go to a dark place, and I enjoyed a peaceful tea time while listening to their words.

    You two are going anyway, you know

    you''ll be fine

    Shion? Are you listening?

    Yes? Me? Why?

    You weren''t listening at all.

    Was there anything I should know?

    As he looked at Serpence with an expression asking him to speak again, he clicked his tongue slightly.

    You''re going with me, so I was telling you to prepare.

    "Yes? Me? Why?"

    I and Welydia-sama both have to leave, so it''s better to go together.

    It seems to be a conclusion."

    I don''t know why it suddenly came to such a conclusion.

    Eugez looked at her, wondering if it was the same conclusion he had reached.

    Eugenes, who made eye contact with me, shook his head left and right, and informed me that the conclusion was Serpens''s alone opinion.

    "If you''re not going to leave your child alone at home, what is that?"

    It would be better if you were a child.

    I don''t know what''s so bad about it.

    overnight anyway. It is also a short outing of a few hours.

    Even though he would sleep with his legs outstretched, he couldn''t bear the bird and was worried about going outside and having an accident. At that point, it''s close to obsessive-compulsive.

    Just go without me. There''s nothing to go, and I''ve been to the dark streets before, so I don''t have any work.

    However .

    "All the knights who went to subjugation have returned, so the security is sufficient. If you know that Serpens is doing this, everyone will be very sad, right?"

    Does not matter.

    Hey, you''re only going to sleep anyway, so what makes you so anxious? If so, why don''t you put Sir Winston next to you?

    Serpens raised a white flag at my firm will to sleep somehow.

    Yes, I see. It would be better to move Lord Redford''s quarters there.

    Yes? Why is that so?

    If you suddenly give me an order to escort you for just one night, it''s suspicious.

    go.

    Is it okay to suddenly move the knight''s quarters from where he ate and slept in the barracks?

    So, is it okay not to just keep it today, but to keep it for the foreseeable future?

    It''s a standard you don''t really know.

    ''I don''t care if there are more occupants of the building or not... .''

    Winston wasn''t even given a say, let alone a choice. He wasn''t even here.

    Without knowing that his living environment had changed without him knowing, Oh

    He must have been practicing while swinging his sword hard all the time.

    Still, if you are far from the barracks and have to go back and forth every day and suffer from the invasion of privacy by two butlers, it will be much better in terms of facilities than the lodgings used by knights.

    In particular, the best thing is that there is no smell of sweat that the knights who sweat come and go.

    Then have a good trip.

    ...are you really not going with me?

    I''m not going, I''m not going. If I have to go, there will be more things to worry about for my safety,

    What are you going to take me to do? That''s a lot of anxiety.

    uh... .

    I hate the return of Serpence and I want to pinch him, so don''t worry and go away.

    How the hell did you fix that bastard''s separation anxiety?

    * * *

    A few days later, a letter from the Duke''s

    flew away

    A letter from Frederick.

    It was a letter with only the details of meeting him, but we already knew what he was going to say.

    The reason is simple.

    Because Serpens made it up.

    The meeting place was the closest place to the capital among the estates with the gate to the dark district, and the counties of Puscator, who harbored the dark district underground.

    "When did you come here?"

    When he entered the mansion written in the letter, he asked Frederick, who was facing Serpence, acting as if he was terrified.

    ''He taught me the code to go from the dark side to Count Puskator... :

    It''s really amazing.

    I''ll tell you how to do it step by step. Please read this first.

    "Um , I see."

    I already know it well, so I have no desire to know, and I have no doubts.

    However, Serpence is curious, but it seems that there is something important, so he postponed it for now.

    Serpens took the letter and opened it.

    I was also there when Euges wrote it with his left hand, but based on the setting that he knew nothing, he poked his head out and checked it again.

    Roughly speaking, it is the content that you are the owner of the Dark House, and that you, the 2nd Prince, are aware of your recent visits to the Dark House and its purpose.

    In the letter, the author asks for his cooperation.

    If he wanted to receive it, he demanded that he come to see him with the Duke of Prasidus.

    The specific date of the appointment was written along with vague information that the place where he could meet him would be informed through the following letter.

    And today is that day.

    You don''t feel like a trap, but... Whether it''s a trap or cooperation, if the person who sent this letter is really the master of the dark district, this is your chance.

    "Does the Duke think so too?"

    At Frederick''s question, Serpens

    nodded.

    The way he talks about traps with a serious face about what he has set up goes beyond his cleverness.

    "If I had had more time, I would have gone to the place where I could meet him and checked it out in advance, but the second letter arrived at dawn this morning "

    "Does that mean that you departed from the territory today? It would take three days by train, how could that be possible?"

    Serpens widened his eyes, naive

    He tilted his head slightly to the side with one face.

    The person who receives that look somehow shrugs his shoulders and shows symptoms that make him want to let him know what he knows.

    Frederick was no different.

    Actually, you can only enter the dark gate by using the ''gate'' magic.

    "Isn''t that dead magic?"

    To be precise, it''s a magic that naturally disappeared as it was not used because it was designated as a crime that threatens the country. But criminals don''t

    I don''t care... .

    I get a rough idea of what''s going on. Does that mean there aren''t just one or two places with gates?

    Using it, Serpens, who flashed east to west, pretended to reason on the spot and said.

    The expression on his face that he wants to be confirmed whether his thoughts are correct is absolutely disgusting.

    That''s right. And when you leave, it''s a way to move you to the territory you came in through a password. It''s probably to hide the exact location of the gate in another territory.

    So that even if one gate is discovered, it can end with closing only that one."

    Ummm... Really.

    I''m really tired of saying the same thing.

    Anyone who sees it will know that you are actually getting new information.

 CH 182

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 182

    37. The Duke and Amhokga revisit (2)

    Frederick explained the scenery he had seen in the dark, and warned Serpens not to be surprised by what he saw in person, or not to be seen for the first time.

    There are a lot of crafty people out there, so shouldn''t there be gaps?

    ''Hey! Maybe it''s because it''s a statement from someone who could have been swayed by showing a gap, and it''s full of persuasive power!

    So you should have brought a reliable guide like me.

    Frederick told the story of his hardships in the dark, and Serpence countered it by pretending to be naive.

    It must have been a really bad thing. I''m really happy that you''re numb.

    It''s like an answering machine that doesn''t even feel like it''s sincere.

    However, even those lines felt completely different when Serpence sang them.

    As if surprised, I opened my eyes wide and slightly raised my forehead to draw an arm shape.

    What is the appearance of sweeping your chest!

    He seemed completely immersed in Frederick''s story.

    He was even more excited about whether it was usually a pleasure for Serpens to listen to his story, and he clamored with more enthusiasm.

    For some reason, there was a strange feeling of chivalry in his appearance.

    ''Oh yeah! I feel like I''m bluffing out the military rumors to this freshman, a reinstated student at O.T!''

    It couldn''t be more appropriate.

    But the reality is very much for Frederick.

    It was unfortunate.

    The guy I thought was a freshman was just a young boy. The truth is that he was a senior who was discharged while he was in the army, and even a former special forces soldier!

    Even if I wrinkle it in front of the pupa, it won''t feel more plastic than this.

    By the way, where is the gate you mentioned? Time is...

    As if Serpens had suddenly come to mind, he took out his watch and asked.

    Translated, it means just shut up and head to the dark side quickly.

    "Ah ! Now I have to slowly disguise myself and move."

    Frederick said that there was something prepared for us, who had not been able to come after hearing detailed information in advance, and beckoned to the blue-haired man.

    He immediately, in moderation, took the bag from the corner of the room and put it on the table.

    Perhaps because they had come through a dark district, Frederick and the man were wearing commonly available hin-shirts and black trousers, and black hooded robes over them.

    all.

    Nevertheless, the man was making his whole body known that he was a knight.

    ''Is it possible that you walked around in a dark area with such a high spirit?''

    It was clear that he was living an upright life that he had never deviated from. There was not a single word of debauchery to be found.

    If the master he is serving goes to a dark place, he doesn''t follow him, but rather rips him apart and tells him to step on him and go.

    To put it simply, it was said that in a dark place, it would have looked foreign to nothing.

    I sighed inwardly and peeked into the bag.

    At the ready-to-wear store, he pointed to something that stood out and said, ''This is the same thing, so please put in several!''

    There was also a magic reagent for dyeing on it, but it seemed that they could not find it in the same color because there were no items for sale.

    I like it because all the colors are different

    felt the need to dominate.

    ''Vivi, I will make your dreams come true!''

    I opened the lid of the golden reagent and poured it into my head without delay.

    "Wait! Sir Zion ?"

    Yes, that''s right.''''

    Are you going to Zion longitude?

    I put my finger in the bottle, scraped the remaining contents and rubbed it on my eyebrows, but Frederick stopped me.

    Of course! The Duke is leaving, your throne.

    If I, the official, do not follow, who will follow?"

    Darkness is a far more dangerous place than you might think.

    Frederick hardened his face and said in a warning tone.

    He was not powerless to protect himself, so he just said to wait here safely.

    But I wasn''t a serpent who would leave me in a mansion that had no defenses.

    If that''s the case, I wouldn''t even have brought it here in the first place.

    He must have thrown him into the barracks to train himself next to Winston who was training.

    Then we have to go together all the more. You can''t just send the Duke to such an emotionally detrimental place!

    In order to listen to what I was saying, Serpens, who had been procrastinating on purpose, looked at me with his jacket and vest neatly removed.

    ''So what?''

    If there is any dissatisfaction, he will come forward and say he can''t go without leaving me here.

    Not having the courage to do so, he turned his gaze away from me, took out his clothes from his bag, and went into the nearest room.

    I don''t care, so can I just take it as a sign of telling me to take care of it?

    " I''m sorry, but I didn''t think that Duke Prasidus was going to bring anyone, so I only had three prepared clothes and reagents, so I guess that would be unreasonable."

    While me and Serpens exchanged glances, Frederick seemed to pick a horse.

    However, in the end, it seems that they did not find a suitable answer.

    He didn''t respond to what he decided to do because he didn''t listen to me, and gave other reasons why he couldn''t take me.

    ''Somehow, there were only three reagent bottles!,

    When he checked the bag again, Serpens picked up the clothes, revealing the contents hidden underneath.

    Even if I pretended to, I could see the clothes of aristocrats custom-made with expensive money. Underneath it lay the uniforms of the knights belonging to the imperial family.

    will be

    The two of them were wearing the same clothes as the clothes in the bag, so of course I thought that the contents of the bag were all the same clothes.

    But what about the clothes you wore before departure?

    ''How about this?''

    The circumstances are not very reasonable to say that this is the same as separation anxiety training.

    If you suddenly separate a child who is obsessed with the guardian, it will only worsen the rejection reaction.

    Let''s think first.

    Frederick in front of him was in the same position as the person in charge of this case, so going is a definite decision.

    Not to mention serpens. There was a letter asking you to come and take a picture, so you must attend. Before that, there is no option for me to go and not to go to Serpens.

    On the other hand, the escort knight .

    ''Do you need a separate escort for Serpens to go?''

    It seems there is no need

    Plus, according to what Serpens said, it stretches out in the dark

    Did you get into an argument?

    I''d rather go

    But if it''s a reagent, I''ve already used it.

    Sir Tylon, don''t worry about wearing it with the hood on so it doesn''t show.

    If it''s Sir Taylor, you''re referring to that knight, right?

    With dazzling hair that can show off its brilliance even with a hood on, you and Serpens have no choice but to use reagents, and that must be the conclusion of the elimination method.

    It''s too late to go shopping now

    me? I don''t even know where the clothing store is in this neighborhood... .''

    It was a letter that seemed to just have a conversation, so the problem was that he had no choice but to come in formal attire.

    No matter how much you care about security, ''Come in disguise.'' I could have used it to some extent.

    is not it? So is it too suspicious?

    ''The past is unavoidable, and the important thing right now is how to take the clothes that Sir Tylon is wearing... .''

    If I complain that I want to see the dark district... I won''t concede Huh,

    Yes.

    I didn''t even think about it.

    As he stared intently at the clothes Sir Taylor was wearing with the eyes of a prey hawk.

    The door that Serpens had gone into to change his clothes squeaked open.

    Hmm, hmm...! I''m having a bit of trouble.

    Through the slightly opened door, Serpens coughed in embarrassment, only sticking out his head.

    What''s going on?

    That''s the clothes don''t fit.

    Yes? I bought it considering my body type...

    Frederick put on this bad look, as if it couldn''t be.

    I had a point to point out, so I strode forward and pulled the doorknob. Of course, Serpens didn''t allow me to open the door easily.

    "I have something to check for a second, so would you please open the door?"

    It shouldn''t be because I''m not dressed right now.

    So, I''m asking you to open it.

    No, I don''t mean it strange! Shouldn''t we know what the situation is to come up with a solution?

    Thinking there was some truth to what I said, Serpens relaxed the hand that was holding the doorknob from the other side.

    He opened the door immediately, fearing that he might change his mind.

    As expected, only the arms were inserted, and none of the buttons were locked.

    I''m sorry, I have to show you such a dirty side...

    I''m more sorry! I should have been more precise...

    Frederick, bewildered by what Serpens had said, spit out something, but it was all the same nonsense, so it just flowed out.

    Let''s see...

    Grabbing the waist of the shirt and fastening it forward like a button fastening, they gathered generously.

    On the other hand, there is no proper fit on the chest or shoulders above it.

    ''Well then. A ready-to-wear suit would fit Serpence.''

    Wearing a cape that wraps around the shoulders or wearing fancy epaulettes makes it difficult to guess the exact shoulder width, and emphasizes a slender waist by wearing a waist-length Eaton jacket or wearing a waist belt over the uniform.

    That was the secret to getting a softer fit as Serpens wore clothes.

    ''I know because I often see Serpens on the train relaxing with his jacket off, but... .''

    In fact, even that was one of the actions Serpens showed when he started to open up.

    At first I thought it was to distract others, but now I feel strongly that it is not.

    ''Who doesn''t know that serpens are strong?''

    His strength, which he demonstrated as the nominee for the master of the holy sword, was too famous to be vigilant because of his seemingly weak appearance.

    Purely my personal opinion, but what he said earlier in the world that I am the only one who cares about him.

    I guess it might be related.

    It was just a guess, nothing certain. Still, I think there''s a lot of potential.

    From an early age he was not protected by anyone.

    I had to be stronger than anyone else, so I became stronger.

    He always had to be perfect, and everything that got in the way had to be hidden or erased.

    ''And no one cared for him, strong and perfect... Is it?''

    I don''t have the courage to ask if that''s really the case.

    It doesn''t seem like he was aware of it in the first place.

    In any case, it''s possible that Frederick misunderstood his body shape as he always dresses up formally to formal occasions.

    it went well

    I think I''ll wear this, and the duke will wear the sturdy knight''s clothes over there! It''s a loose waist, but it''s important to get in first.

    From here to Serpens bare skin

    No one forced me to wear a bra.

    He can''t even wear the clothes he originally wore.

    Apparently, there was colorful embroidery on the collar of the shirt Serpens wore today, and it is, of course, a custom-made suit.

    And even if there are similar types of clothes in clothing stores dealing with nobles, they never make the same clothes twice.

    For that reason, Sir Taylor''s clothes will be delivered to Arthur Serpens well. I steal some Serpense''s clothes

    I have to

    That''s enough for the waist... Ji?

    By Serpence standards, the waist was roomy, so it will fit somehow. Perhaps

    Even if the clothes problem is solved, I''m not against Lord Zion following him to the dark side. The Duke will dry you.

    Now the problem is Frederick.

    He was thinking negatively about following me in a dangerous place such as a dark street, who doubted his own self-defense ability.

    It seems that the story your majesty said rather stimulated Sir Zion''s curiosity. There are some people who know the dark district like yours, so there will be no big problems. If anything happens, I will take responsibility and protect you two. Toni, I hope you will allow me to go with you.

    Serpense, who hid behind the door for a moment and then showed only his face again, asked with a desperate expression... .

    Hmm, if Duke Prasidus said that... I understand.

    Now the problem is gone.

 CH 183

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 183

    37. Revisiting the Dark House with the Duke (3)

    There was a slight humiliation of folding the pants, but other than that, it fit perfectly.

    We exited quietly through the back door of the mansion, leaving behind Sir Taylor, in uniform, to see us off.

    The gate located in the Countess of Puscator was disguised as a second-hand bookstore.

    Step inside, smell the old paper

    The bird tickled the tip of his nose.

    An old man who appears to be the owner of a bookstore was reading a book wearing magnifying glasses, then glanced at us and shifted his gaze back to the book.

    Unlike the run-down antique shops in the Viscount of Libor, it feels like a decent bookstore to the point where I doubt if it''s really a disguise.

    ''Is it the difference between a counties who live on Congo and live on only a snot and a countess, which is located near the capital?''

    A dazzling localization strategy stands out.

    Even openly located on the street

    So, there are probably quite a few people who don''t even know that this is one of the entrances to the dark district and come to buy books.

    I''m looking for [Ecological Encyclopedia of Carnivorous Plants].

    Where do you get one or two books about plants? If you go to the other end, they are piled up, so I hope you can find them yourself.

    Frederick approached the bookstore owner and talked to him, but the old man seems to be obsessed with the book.

    Without raising his head, he raised his hand and pointed to a bookshelf marked with categories related to plants.

    What I''m looking for is a book that was out of print 10 years ago... I heard that out of print books are stored separately.

    Ah, yes. I''ve come to know you well. How is the author?

    The book was written by a botanist named Hamilton Hamiltoni.

    ''Hamilton Hamiltony'' is just a keyword to enter the dark district. In fact, no botanist with such a name exists.

    As proof of that, the old man who had almost buried his face in a book raised his head and checked us again.

    I think it''s a book I remember brought in. There are a lot of unorganized books in the warehouse.... I''ll look for it when I come back tomorrow.

    "I need something urgently, so can I look for it myself?"

    If you do that, I''m comfortable.

    The old man grinned and with a slow motion he inserted a bookmark into the book he was reading.

    Follow me.

    The old man who got up from his seat with a gurgling sound guided us.

    There was a warehouse full of books, whether it was to deal with avid readers who listen to the exchange code and want to check the warehouse.

    But we passed the warehouse and went down to the basement, and after that, it''s the same as last time.

    The appearance of the old holy site, which I had revisited after a long time, was still promiscuous and promiscuous.

    A fight broke out on one side of the fight, and on the other side, a half-naked man and woman were kissing each other''s bodies.

    nobody cares about them

    didn''t

    There were also drunkards who fell asleep on the street after being so drunk.

    Someone rummaged through their pockets as if rummaging through their pockets, stealing money-worthy items and ran away, while others slashed the drunken drunken face with a knife for fun and leisurely left.

    The drunkard seems to have been paralyzed by alcohol. Even after being cut by a sword, he scratched his face as if it were sore and woke up screaming in scorching pain.

    It is a scene that makes you well aware of what happens to a person who is careless in this town even for a moment.

    Ummm...

    Although it was a sight he had seen countless times, Serpence acted as if he had seen it for the first time.

    Pretending to be engulfed in shock, he covered his mouth with his hand and pretended to swallow his sigh. As he bowed his head slightly, his fine blue-dyed hair fluttered and flowed down the hood.

    Are you okay?

    Oh, sorry.

    At Frederick''s worrying words, Serpens straightened his back and pressed the hood deeper with the hand that covered his mouth.

    It seemed as if the action was to hide his face, which had turned white from shock.

    It wasn''t really white, but I think it would look that way because of the fact that I had fair and clear skin from the beginning.

    I unintentionally delayed a lot of time before departure, so it''s better to move quickly.

    Even though he pretends to be determined, even the lines that seem to reveal that it is still difficult.

    It almost sounded like a whistle.

    Unlike me, Frederick was blindly deceived by Serpence''s abominable acting.

    let''s go.

    Frederick spoke in a determined voice and walked forward. Maybe he thought he needed to be alert.

    Serpens pushed me slightly and put me in the middle, and he walked behind me.

    It was.

    Frederick''s gait was dignified.

    There was a sense of tension, but he did not look around anxiously or be excessively wary of the surroundings.

    Of course, I had plenty of room because I remembered the dance Serpens showed on my first visit.

    Perhaps for that reason, there were no men attacking me like the last time I visited.

    This is it.

    Arrive in front of the pub with a scorpion sign

    One Frederick paused and looked back.

    He and Serpens looked at each other and nodded slightly.

    From now on, you have to enter a place that may or may not be a trap, so that means you have to be nervous.

    Then I''ll go in.

    Serpens, who had been back, stepped forward and opened the door with a large sign that read "Today is closed."

    As I opened the door, I was greeted with a dark interior.

    No guests, wooden

    A chair was placed upside down on the table.

    And in the spot where the only light to illuminate the dark interior was like a spotlight, a slender silhouette dressed as a bartender stood.

    "Are you black-eyed who can''t read text, or are you a promised guest?"

    A woman''s voice was clearly heard.

    She wiped the glass with a white cloth and spit it out indifferently.

    While driving away the barge of the dark district and the owner of this shop, Scorpion,

    From the beginning, it was a natural attitude to say that he was the owner of this place.

    She had her dark green, black hair tied together and rolled up, and that''s why she only knew that she had long hair.

    It was difficult to estimate the actual length of the hair.

    The bangs were neatly undone with hair gel, but the forehead, which should have been exposed coolly, was covered by the mask that covered the entire face.

    In fact, more important than this

    It was separate, and it had long horizontal ears and .

    Dark Elf?!

    It''s not, it''s Yujis, who had his hair dyed with purple powder.

    I was surprised once, just to stick to the set play.

    Excuse me.

    In the same way, Eugene, who was absorbed in the setting, answered.

    Mixing some laughs, I created a feeling that I had seen something plausible rather than offended.

    It''s the arrogant attitude of the owner of the dark district.

    I will apologize on behalf of the group''s disrespect.

    Serpens took a step forward and said.

    It is a setting fence that is different from usual.

    therefore?

    ...Yes?

    The answer to my question may still be there.

    Eugene arrogantly raised the tip of his chin and said.

    Every day after working hours.

    No one at the Duchess would have known that an acting class was taking place in Serpens'' study.

    The time when I started learning acting was the same, but Eugenes reached a point I couldn''t get over.

    Giving the talent of the creator and the talent of an actor together!

    God was also unfair.

    ''Oh, the god of this world was Luxmea, wasn''t it?''

    Favored Mea was also Luxmea.

    I heard you called me.

    Serpens said as he walked under the hood.

    Long hair dyed in water flowed down as softly as water.

    You were a guest.

    She gestured to sit at the bar seats that lined up in front of her.

    Boldly if someone who didn''t know the situation saw it, Serpens strode forward, pulled out a chair, and sat down.

    Fred Rick, who realized that he had to go hard without being afraid, walked up and sat down on a chair.

    I took off my robe and walked slowly, put it on the back of the chair and sat down.

    There is no particular reason. Just because it was hot.

    Huh...!

    Frederick looked at me in amazement, but what about the heat?

    Summer here is incomparable to the world I used to live in, but summer is summer.

    Wearing a robe in the middle of summer is not an embarrassment.

    ''Especially for ordinary people who do not have any abilities like me.''

    Serpens and I showed our faces one after another, and Frederick hesitated and pulled up the hood.

    Purple hair, the same color as his eyes, was revealed.

    Are you really the owner of this street?

    "Did you like the material I sent to my subordinate last year?"

    Ignoring Frederick''s unguarded question, Eugese Serpen

    asked s

    If it''s the data I sent last year...

    Data on the slave trade in the Empire.

    "Ah ! What sent it ?"

    Yeah, that''s me.

    At this point, he couldn''t erase the feeling that Serpence would become Eugene''s subordinate, but he just pretended not to know.

    Thank you. Thanks to you, the darkness in places where the light does not reach has been lifted a little bit.

    I don''t need to thank you.

    It''s like a by-product of the process of saving my compatriots. I still love the god Luxmea, but I don''t like the Empire very much. You, the prince of that place, too.

    Frederick, the second prince of the Empire, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Empire, but Eugenes responded cynically.

    Of course, that''s just a setting.

    Aren''t you apologizing for ignoring me inside, saying I''m sorry?

    "I, but you talk like that".

    "Even though I have settled here, I am not a subject of the Empire.

    NS. And the body that left the country. I don''t belong to any country, and I''m not tied to anything. So, if you ask me what it is, there is no reason to show respect to a subject who harbors a feeling of resentment."

    There is no such thing as being expelled from the Arche Kingdom just because you become a Dark Elf.

    ''Do not betray the continent, do not follow the devil'', which is mandatory after becoming able to properly speak the language. Unless he broke his oath and became a Dark Elf.

    Even that, to some extent, is tradition and

    nothing but nothing

    ''In fact, in the long history of the Arche Kingdom, there has not been a single person who violated it and became a Dark Elf.''

    Also, there was no discrimination against Dark Elves.

    Even if the skin color changed and the hair color darkened, they were still our neighbors and family.

    They were just pitiful and pitiful people with only their hearts and souls hurt.

    The nature of the elves was too good to treat them harshly.

    That is, all of this.

    He said that he had left his country and resented the empire. And that he became a dark elf.

    He continues to emphasize that there is a story of some kind.

    It was a dialogue that led me to wonder about it.

    What the hell happened to you? And why the hell did you call me...

    Serpens asked with a voice that seemed pitiful.

    The first question is, let me know after you accept the offer I''m making you.

    gist. The same goes for the cooperation promised in the letter. And can I say the second question is to offer you the offer?"

    "You mean an offer to me?"

    A keyword that clearly knows what the proposal is], Serpens tilted his head with an innocent face that he didn''t really know anything.

    Eugene''s ears popped open once.

    ''Hey, let''s be careful!''

    It goes against the setting, so Eugese should pay more attention to ear care.

    it seems

    Serpense is the same.

    I hope you don''t make any facial expressions that make your sister''s heart bleak for nothing.

    " Do you know about an organization called the Illuminati?"

    Eugese, who quickly regained his composure, said calmly, as if he had just opened his ears.

    Last year in the Kingdom of Bastul, I rescued Lord Redford...

    It''s just one of those battles we''ve had with the demon worshipers that devour the continent.

    I''ve been fighting them all the time.

    "Why are you talking about that now?"

    The give-and-take conversation paused for a moment.

    Serpens looked straight into the eyes of Euges, who peeked through the mask, and Euges looked at him silently.

    Serpens A. Prasidus. We hope you will join our Illuminati.

    It sounds like a voice that was deliberately lowered."

    Oh my, what''s the use of all these descriptions?

    hey

    ''What is this secret society to save the world?!''

    It is not inferior to just calling it a secret group fraudulent organization.

 CH 184

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 184

    37. Revisiting the Dark House with the Duke (4)

    You look very surprised. Was it too sudden?

    Euges spoke in a voice mixed with laughter, and put down the cocktail glass he had been wiping meaninglessly.

    How about a drink?

    I will specify.

    Serpens answered without delay. Frederick shook his head, and I .

    I''ll give it to you.

    No. I can''t believe the author yet. There''s no guarantee that the Illuminati are really true.

    But the Duke is still there, so do I have to use poison? I''m going to purify it right away, and I''m just going to be vigilant without meaning?

    Still not.

    Such a resolute child.

    Aren''t you feeling sorry for the woman with a gloomy expression behind her mask?

    ''After being assigned a role, while watching Eugese shake the shaker and practice cocktail making!''

    Serpens caught my eye, turned towards me, turned his back from Frederick, who was sitting on the other side, and looked at me.

    Roughly speaking, you must be saying, ''I''ve seen you squirm while drinking those cocktails, getting drunk and handing out candy to me.''

    I''m sorry for Eugene, but her skills are only shown when we drink together.

    let it be

    "You don''t believe me?"

    Even if it''s an elf, it''s a small place... I''m sorry.

    In my heart, I want to make an oath to the world tree, but as you can see, this is how I am...

    Eugene took a deep breath and set the glass aside.

    She said it was a pity, but in fact, that was the reason she disguised herself as a dark elf.

    Even a dark elf is an elf.

    Afterwards, their image falls due to the alienation of the demon worshipers, but there is still no view that sees them as corrupted beings.

    In other words, it was to prevent being asked to take the oath of the world tree in advance while maintaining a positive image as an elf.

    "What do I have to say to believe?"

    "If you want to ask us for faith, don''t you have to reveal your identity first?"

    Just as Frederick, who was continually ignored by Euges, argues for her monologue,

    asked.

    We took off our hoods and exposed our faces, but she pointed out that she was still wearing a mask.

    Did I tell you to show your face? I remember taking off the hood on my own.

    You knew who we were before that, didn''t we! But we talked about you...

    The ruler of this dark district and a member of the Illuminati. I think I introduced myself enough with this?

    At least your name...

    It''s been a long time since I''ve given up on that. After that day, I abandoned myself. All I have left is hatred towards evil and a desire for revenge. I no longer exist.

    It has shrunk so much that my limbs seem to no longer exist.

    I secretly clasped my hands, opened them up, and wiggled my toes inside the shoes to check that my hands and feet were okay.

    What the hell is that day? Does it have anything to do with your hating of this Empire? And a group called the Illuminati is hostile to this Empire?

    are you?

    In the face of Eugene''s actions that continued to sprinkle rice cakes and did not give a proper explanation, Frederick eventually poured out the accumulated doubts.

    The only serious person in this place. even those who don''t know anything. and being deceived.

    It was all Frederick.

    ''If my role today is a parent observer of Serpence, should I see his role as a kind of witness?''

    As the demon worshipers did in [Master of the Holy Sword],

    It''s a play in preparation for fabricating evidence and putting it on Serpens.

    Of course, unlike the corrupt fence of [Master of the Holy Sword], Serpens will not wield the power of the dark house, but the demons did not know that he did such a thing, but did not manipulate the evidence.

    The Demon King must remember that it worked well, so there was no reason not to use it.

    ''The problem is that they are also aware of my existence to some extent... .''

    So, we will prepare more thoroughly.

    Therefore, it can be said that this play is to testify to Frederick that Serpens has nothing to do with the Dark House, and that all the materials the demons have prepared are false.

    And.

    The Illuminati, a secret society that has been investigating the backs of evil forces for a long time and fighting them.

    It is also to show that they were hiding in the dark area and controlling it in advance to find out about the evil forces'' plans.

    did.

    Let me answer ''no'' to the last question. That''s just my personal feeling.

    "Why do you hate the Empire?"

    In response to Frederick''s question, Eugenes put his forehead on his forehead and tapped the mask with his index finger, making a worried gesture.

    There was a crackling sound as nails clashed against the hard mask.

    At first glance, it seems like a natural habit that comes out when thinking about something, but it is a deliberate act.

    This is to make the owner of the dark house aware that he has a habit of tapping his forehead when he is worried.

    I don''t think the conversation will proceed without telling this story first.

    I said it in a voice that didn''t like it, but I know that she''s been waiting for this moment.

    My lover died in this country, on this street.

    I guarantee that Serpence will be Eugene''s first love.

    I don''t know what to do with the feeling I felt for the first time

    I must have seen them gibberish and even make mistakes.

    Goro, that word. And all the stories that will follow are blatant lies.

    "Can you understand what this means?"

    Oh .

    Frederick sighed.

    Yes. What I was talking about about the slave trade data earlier was a kind of double track.

    My lover has been kidnapped by humans, and there''s an auction going on here.

    Goods on It almost became a deal. The auction house manager took advantage of his carelessness and tried to escape, but failed and just before they were caught again... took his own life By the time I got here after chasing him, it was already too late.

    therefore .

    That''s right. I can''t forgive this city and empire that took my lover away from me.

    sorry.

    Frederick, the second prince of the Empire, bit his lower lip and bowed his head.

    Eugenes didn''t say anything to him.

    "Then, why are you calling yourself the owner of this street now?"

    In order to save the paused conversation and to develop the story smoothly, Serpens asked Eugenes a question.

    "I found out those who kidnapped him and took revenge, but he was already dead.

    I died in fear of passing, but my body was comfortable, and it was so sinful that I couldn''t bear it. In my heart, I wanted to end my life as well, but... . Ugh... !

    Without speaking, she suddenly staggered to the table.

    Wait, are you okay?!

    "It''s always it happens. The pain I feel all the time is tolerable now, but the seizures that strike me from time to time it''s hard to get used to."

    I jumped up from my seat and with surprised eyes, I saw Serpens preparing for divine power.

    Geez, waving his hand, put him back in his seat.

    He was saying it was okay, but his rough breathing was not at all.

    ''This scammer duo... !''

    This play, which is unfolding right before my eyes, has been played over and over again in Serpens''s library.

    And up to now, I can''t feel any inspiration.

    To be honest, I got a little tired of watching too much.

    "Anyway this street is still rotten, and there are no traffickers alone,

    Other compatriots are like me. And thinking about the same things that my lover would do, I thought that I couldn''t end it like this. Evil continues to arise even when rooted out, so I decided to put this street in my hands and manage it.

    Wait! Did you intentionally become a Dark Elf? To feel pain? To suppress the urge to end your own life?

    This was a question that Serpense should have asked, but Frederick asked it for himself.

    His eyes were wide open in amazement, and his chin loosened and his mouth opened slightly.

    And in order not to be swallowed up by the ugly malice of this dirty street, I should add a reason...

    Eugenes added one more reason.

    At that moment, Serpens, who was sitting between me and Frederick, reached out toward me and pushed my upper body back.

    His gaze is still fixed on Frederick.

    ''Oops!''

    Without realizing it, I must have pushed myself forward to see Frederick''s reaction, the only new thing in this obvious play.

    Fortunately, Frederick was confused by Eugene''s words, so he didn''t look at me.

    After I corrected my posture, Serpence retrieved his arm.

    "In order not to forget my dead lover, I swore to the mother tree that I will forget my lover, I will erase it from my heart.

    It is the pain of a lover, the pain of a lover, and the pain felt by the weak somewhere. I cared pain to the bone, melted it in the soul, and took care of this place so that there would be no more innocent victims!

    Actor Eugenes, it''s good that you''re absorbed in acting, but I think your tone has changed a bit.

    I caught those who sold slaves on this street and got information from them. About the slave traders in the Empire, I passed them on to the two dukes of the Empire, and the rest of the information I gave to my compatriots who were captured here at the time.

    handed over And it was then that the Illuminati came to me.

    Is it because it feels like the story is coming to an end?

    Frederick swallowed dry saliva.

    They say the demon worshipers are trying to summon demons from these streets, and they ask me to help. And they want me to join their group.

    "You mean the Illuminati already knew about it from then on?!"

    I would have told you? The Illuminati have already

    I''ve been following them for a long time.

    Oh !

    Frederick trembled at Eugene''s proud words.

    It was a fear of an unknown group that had grown enormous power without anyone knowing, and it was a thrill felt from the heroes who secretly fought against evil forces and protected the continent.

    Why are you making such a proposal to me in such a great place? I am not even the master of the Holy Sword...

    Serpens pretended to be humble.

    The only thing that matters is what kind of person you are. We''ve been paying attention to you, Serpens for a long time.

    Eugenes was not enough to say nonsense under the excuse of setting up, so he secretly removed the title ''Sir'' and called him by his first name to satisfy his self-interest.

 CH 185

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 185

    37. Revisiting the Dark House with the Duke (5)

    Serpens is a self-recognized celebrity.

    His public schedule was known to those in the know.

    Also, at least within this empire, even a five-year-old commoner child knows what an external fence is like.

    I protect such a serpent for a long time

    have you seen

    If I hadn''t known that this board was a go-stop, I would have thought,

    ''Hey, hey, hey. You must, um!''

    may have been sarcastic.

    However, Serpens made up an innocent face of bewilderment.

    Ah! Last month, thank you for saving my aide. The note you left was also very helpful.

    Serpence expressed his gratitude as if he had just thought of it.

    On the surface, it seems like he said something to Eugene, but if you look at the content, it can be said that he is grateful to himself.

    Serpence patted his head in his head and said, ''Guck Serpense, good pence! Well done, myself! I thought of him muttering.

    I stopped because I thought the laughter would leak out.

    That''s not what I did. Our Illuminati has a lot of members, and somebody did it. If you want to say thank you, do it yourself.

    do it.

    Eugenes said, as if for granted, that Serpens joined the Illuminati as a prerequisite.

    You''re already signed up, so don''t worry.

    But isn''t it too unconscionable to do so many things with only four of them?

    Actually, the arena of the Bastul Kingdom that we talked about earlier was originally going to be entrusted to you as a test as well.

    What is that... I hope that ''that information''

    What I shed for Dia... ?

    Serpence, I''m surprised now!'' was beautifully expressed with wide eyes and covering the mouth with a hand.

    Eugenes was wearing a mask, so there was no expression on his face, but he nodded and confirmed that his guess was correct.

    And Frederick rolled his eyes with an expression that he didn''t understand English.

    It must have been that the emperor had not heard anything about Serpence''s business trip last year.

    I''m curious to know what happened, though.

    Perhaps he didn''t think it was time for him to leave, so Frederick quietly watched their conversation.

    But it''s that group that solved the matter? By the time we arrived in the Kingdom of Bastul...

    Yes. It is such a setting.

    Serpens had reported to the emperor that when he arrived in the Kingdom of Bastul, everything had already been done!

    This time, in the process of writing the script and practicing acting, Eugene and Serpens

    It''s something I found out.

    ''Before leaving, I got permission from the emperor and left, so I thought I would have reported that the Illuminati was a rigged group... .''

    Perhaps from then on, he was planning to raise the Illuminati.

    I always thought that adding strange settings to me was just because he liked making fun of me... .

    At this point, I start to feel like that''s not all.

    ''It''s like such a despicable fox fence!''

    Even when asked about this, the appearance of not answering, doing something else, and pretending not to hear made it even more suspicious.

    Maybe it''s because I know that if I have to lie, I won''t even eat a seed.

    Let''s say it''s because she was more careful than we thought. I thought she would act immediately upon hearing the information we leaked, but after investigating the truth of the information on her own...

    She talks about herself with her mouth . No, let''s not think about it.

    At this moment, the purple in front of me

    Let''s believe that an elf is not Eugenes.

    Due to the twist of the schedule, if you arrived at the Kingdom of Bastul and took care of it, you might not be able to return to the Empire until the day of your choice, so you had no choice but to change your plan.

    Does that mean I didn''t pass the test?

    No, not really.

    Eugene, like Eugene, cut off Serpense''s words and denied it.

    "At a time when the day of choice is near, did you go to a distant foreign country with information that is not certain?

    To save them, and to punish the demon worshipers. I could see that he was not just a responsible person, but a just person who truly served the continent. It is also true that he is a person who does not ignore the sacrifice of the few for the sake of the many.

    It is true that the information was a bit subtle, but as for the purpose, there was a voice saying, ''Well, let''s come.''

    Now that I think about it, Serpens knew that he was not chosen by the Holy Sword, so I wonder if he was half-escape from reality.

    If you don''t have enough time in the first place, travel by train

    I was going to come back right away.

    Because the main purpose was to verify it. At the time I left the Empire, the test had already passed.

    Ummm...

    Fits really well.

    Maybe Sir Redford

    If you''re asking if he''s a member of us, say no. But if you ask if our breath touched him in choosing you as lord... huhu.

    . Is that so?

    Her meaningful language 1, Serpens, made up a bitter smile and shook her head.

    But don''t make such a serious face. The loyalty he showed you is sincere. We''re only giving advice.

    Eugese said while supporting Serpens''s chin with his index finger.

    It''s an ad-lib that wasn''t in the script.

    ''Hey, let''s not put self-interest in acting!''

    What is Serpence doing?

    She looked at her with her eyes and tilted her head slightly.

    Without any regrets, she withdrew her hand.

    To him, who was abandoned by his master and wounded, who will be the new master who can trust and follow him and heal his wounds? We only informed him of that. It is his will that makes the choice, and that means that you are truly loyal. It''s because he''s a person who can devote himself to and follow him.

    It''s kind of like treating Winston as an abandoned dog, but let''s pretend we don''t know.

    "So, have you made up your mind now?"

    uh... .

    "What are you hesitating about?"

    I am a servant of the Emperor, who has been loyal to his Majesty. It is impossible for me to go under someone else''s command and obey his orders.

    Serpens, who had a record of fabricating the report to the emperor and missing out altogether, said.

    If I hadn''t come, Serpens who would have been ravaging my country by now.

    The Serpens who destroyed the empire in [Master of the Holy Sword]!

    There has never been such a loyalty before. I am the grand door

    It''s kind of worrying.

    It''s an important issue for me.

    I didn''t mean it that way. This continent is a demon worshiper. Furthermore, we have to protect the continent from the demons and demon lords behind it. Before winning. Before which country we belonged to. We are all

    Wasn''t it something that lived on this continent?

    What do we do ?

    Wearing a mask and making such a noise with the gesture of spreading your arms, it''s so pseudonymous.

    And what we want from you is not loyalty. The first reason is to pass on the information we find through you to the Empire, so that they can be prepared. There was no need to call the prince, notarizing that Serpens acted as our spokesperson.

    You could say it''s for the sake of it.

    In that way, Frederick became a living public certificate.

    Secondly, there will be times when you will need the force you have. And of course, it will be to punish the demon worshipers. It''s not bad if you receive information from the demon worshipers rather than follow our orders, right?

    uh... , indeed.

    Serpens pretended to be persuaded by Eugene''s words.

    And next to him, Frederick

    He was nodding his head as if he was persuaded.

    "It''s the same thing with this dark town. In the Illuminati, the investigation was completed and prepared early, and in the Empire, the information was only available now."

    Serpens had no objection to her words, and Frederick had nothing to refute.

    After shutting the two of them, Eugene laughed.

    "Where did you get that information?"

    "There are many members of the organization who are good at collecting information.

    I pray, but the point is to what extent . Oh, oh my. I cannot tell you that this is confidential. Of course, if you become a member of us, you will know naturally.

    Eugenes crossed the index fingers of both hands to form an X, and brought it over the mask to the position where his mouth would be.

    Although he acted as if he had said something by mistake, it was an explicit intention to join the Illuminati if you are curious about the source of the information.

    "You still haven''t made up your mind?"

    Wait... Wait, I need time to think.

    I need it. I''m still very confused... .

    "How about a drink while you organize your thoughts?"

    Specify.

    At the two consecutive rejections, Eugene''s ears drooped slightly.

    I think it''s good for the Duke to accept the offer.

    Majesty?,,

    Frederick, who seemed to be in deep thought as he listened to Serpence and Eugene''s conversation, spoke in a very serious voice.

    Serpense also responded with serious acting to that serious appearance.

    It feels like cheating on a prince who doesn''t know anything about the world, so it''s a truly disgusting sight.

    ''The more scammers, the more likeable impressions are... .''

    [Master of the Holy Sword] I can''t even laugh at the sight of the two of the world''s official beauties, 1st and 2nd, working together to cheat.

    Should I call this a waste of my face or an appropriate place?

    "As he said, the continent now has power.

    It''s time to put them together. I''ll tell Abama-mama well, so you don''t have to worry about that.

    The Second Prince...

    Serpens made up a moved face, and Frederick smiled brightly, telling him to believe only in himself.

    Okay. If that''s the case, then I''ll accept that offer.

    Serpens said with a determined expression on his face.

    How sad will Frederick be when he finds out that all this was a play?

    I thought about it. I will never regret that decision.

    ???????????????????????????? It''s okay.

    And lastly, don''t come here again. The next meeting will take place outside the dark district.

    "Why?"

    You are so conspicuous here. No matter how you disguise your appearance, the insides remain the same. If you visit often, you will eventually get caught.

    Eugez looked at the second prince as if saying ''especially you!''

    Then what should we do when we need to contact you first?"

    wait.

    However !

    Seeing the dissatisfied expression on the second prince''s face, Yu Jis shook his head.

    It means no compromise.

    "I''m not saying this out loud either. As you have seen, this dark street is very wide. I don''t know if it''s all about managing this place, I''m running hard to keep an eye on the demon worshipers sneaking in.

    You have no choice but to.

    "Are you saying you can''t leave your seat?"

    Yeah. My subordinates will spend more time at this tavern than I do.

    Then if you ask him to deliver the letter...

    Euges shook his head again.

    What a naive idea.

    "What does that mean?"

    Literally. This place is a dark place.

    Did you not forget the thread? He is the man of this street to the last. They are only yielding to power, they are not trustworthy.

    Was it the subordinate who picked it up on this street and brought it in from outside?

    You didn''t even tell me, how did you know that?

    If I had been Frederick, I would have been very upset.

    Anyway, now that I''m done talking, let''s go back.

    let me do it.

    Euges said in a tone that he was very fond of.

    The professional spirit of not forgetting his own setting values stood out until the very end.

 CH 186

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 186

    38. The Duke and the Unpleasant Daily Life

    (One)

    The days were so smooth that I wondered if this was the right time for a crisis.

    ''It''s been a long time since the duchy went down.''

    This time, Eugene followed along as a tourist, and he showed off his cocktail-making skills, which had not been used in the dark, on a running train.

    Winston said it was absurd.

    I looked into my eyes, and Serpens cleaned up the alcohol in my glass.

    It was proof that Serpens had not yet opened his heart to Winston... all?

    What do you stare at when you''re not working?

    Returning to the capital again, Serpense, who was sitting in the duke''s office as usual today, doing his work, spoke with an expression of what he was looking at.

    "Is it okay if Serpense is treated like a child in front of Eugene?"

    What nonsense are you planning to do today?

    No, that''s right. If I could purify the alcohol from the alcohol itself, when Eugenes hone her cocktail skills...

    If you''re not going to work, don''t disturb me and take a quiet nap.

    Can''t work?

    For a brief moment, it was a word that made me think a lot.

    "I thought of you because you were working, but why did you turn down the position of Prime Minister?"

    "It''s been on hold for a while."

    That or that.

    As I said before, Duke of Argento

    I made a small retirement announcement.

    Given his age, no one questioned his retirement and accepted it naturally.

    ''Yes. So far it''s been fine.''

    However, a problem arose during the takeover process.

    It is said that the head of the advisory council comes with the post of prime minister, but it was the imperial custom for the two dukes to take over the prime minister alternately.

    But Serpens kicked it off.

    ''Workaholic Serpens finds a job

    You refuse!''

    It came as a thrill to me, but not to others.

    Due to the short life of the former Duke of Prasidus, who should have held the post of prime minister at the time, it was Pan Guk who was still holding the post for the second generation in the Duke of Argento.

    It is customary as well, but it is not necessary to set a precedent for a duke family to seize power for three generations in a row.

    ''So the council was very upset... .''

    Inevitably, the current Duke of Argento

    It turned out to be a bit more laborious.

    And the Duke of Argento (48 years old), who had ascended to the capital to inherit the dukeship, quietly returned to Argento Territory.

    "Didn''t I also say at the advisory meeting? The power of the empire is strong, but there are countries that are not, and the empire exists because there are continents, and if one axis collapses, it will be out of control. I can''t stand in that position yet...

    "Is that really the answer?

    Don''t say anything."

    "Do you want to hear that I did it because I wanted to play?"

    That''s it!

    " there''s no reason for that."

    Serpens replied with a small smile.

    It''s a bit unfamiliar to me that the answer I was hoping for came back to the words I just said without high expectations. It doesn''t even seem like a lie.

    "If I become prime minister, most of the day will be spent in the Imperial Palace, and work will not be done in a private office as it is now.

    It will be done in the Nira Ministry of Finance."

    So what Serpens is saying right now is that there are a lot of people in the office. It was said that he refused because he didn''t like to mess with people.

    Don''t look at me like that. I''m not the only one who feels uncomfortable when that happens.

    "What did I see how wait a minute, Serpens. What did you just say?"

    If there are other people, you will have to look at them too, and if that happens, then... you won''t be able to take off your shoes, put your legs on a chair, and take this bad posture of sitting on top of each other.

    is not it?

    I loosened my legs, put on my shoes, and sat in an upright posture.

    In less than a minute, my body complained of discomfort, and by the instinct of force majeure, I had no choice but to take the two legs.

    Posture that threatens the health of the back and pelvis, but something to know.

    If there is a problem, Serpence will take care of it. Long live the divine power.

    That''s a big problem, but not that. Not me, Serpense, Serpense!

    I want you to tell me specifically what the hell I''m doing.

    I was so happy that I forgot to explain.

    Serpence, acting is now uncomfortable... isn''t it? Are you more comfortable not acting now? Totally?

    Oh !

    The guy who realized what he was saying later let out a short exclamation.

    Finally, my efforts paid off.

    He said that it was awkward and uncomfortable to show his feelings as they are.

    It was the guy who did it!

    The good news that came from an unexpected situation kept a roaring laughter leaking out.

    Stop laughing.

    Serpence said as if grunting with a sullen face as if he had become unsympathetic.

    I''m happy, I''m happy. If it was the same as before, I wouldn''t have been too busy trying to somehow manage to manage the business while traveling abroad.

    I guess so.

    But now I''ve postponed it! Although the reason is not correct in terms of interpersonal relationships, I really...

    "Are you going to stop?"

    I must have been too fussy.

    He coughed loudly and calmed his excited heart.

    "Taking from [Master of the Holy Sword] Serpens must have accepted the post of re-election, right?"

    I would have stolen it by killing the Duke of Argento.

    "Don''t say it that way on purpose."

    I would have killed the Duke of Argento and took it.

    You''re getting worse!

    However, I couldn''t deny that.

    "Still, hasn''t it changed a lot? Seon-woo. It''s thanks to you. Thank you."

    What is it all of a sudden? It tickles me.

    Just. I wonder if I''ve ever properly said thank you to Seonwoo.

    Probably not? Even if I used it in a sarcastic way.

    Serpens looked at me with a scathing look on whether I should have brought up such a story now.

    But what?

    Mother''s Day was the first time our child entered kindergarten.

    Wiggle those tiny fingers, attach a barely folded carnation to your chest, and feel a rush of emotion as if thanking you for nurturing it!

    If I hadn''t been able to calm this feeling, I might have opened the window in my office and shouted, ''My child has grown so much!''

    Therefore, Serpens should be more grateful to me.

    "What kind of strange thoughts are you thinking of this time?"

    Do you want to receive filial piety?

    Serpense''s eyes regained their composure, and their cold eyes turned to the papers on the desk.

    After letting go of his sentimental feelings in one breath, he swiped through the papers with a pen, as if slashing an enemy with a sword.

    A cow with a square nib scratching paper

    As I listened to Lee, I fell asleep.

    By now, the Crown Prince must be rolling indefinitely, but it''s good that the Empire is peaceful.

    I muttered, putting my cheek to the desk, to faithfully carry out my boss''s orders to sleep or sleep if I wasn''t going to work.

    "Um , yes. It looks like you killed the bandit Sunwoo talked about a few days ago."

    Is it true? It happened on the way to the Terrarum Kingdom to get the second weapon... it''s too late...

    That''s right!

    The sleepiness ran away, and he jumped up from his seat.

    It''s August, August! But now what?

    "Why are you asking me for that?"

    What''s the matter? The Empire is giving you a lot of support!

    Due to the timing, I had to finish the second ordeal after arriving in the Terrarum Kingdom.

    Did you waste a lot of time on your first ordeal because of your lack of urgency?

    Or did the demons do something?

    Besides, while you''re going through trials, for the shitty reason that every journey is an ordeal, isn''t it forbidden to eat vehicles like trains?! Are you kidding me now?

    Eww 1, O

    Already, the second ordeal is a time-consuming ordeal...!

    The Dwarf apostles called it a trial of wisdom, but readers of [Master of the Sacred Sword] called it a trial of endurance or the body.

    The ordeal starts with finding a place to be tried, finding a clue based on the hint given by the Dwarf Apostle, and finding another clue through that clue... .

    ''Beep, pep, pep.''

    What''s more, in fact, it was an obvious clich�� that the final destination was the starting point, and the costume was turned upside down.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], thanks to that, I was able to find the relics of Ladrava, but this time, it is clear that I will have to work hard day and night without getting anything.

    Do you think you can finish all the ordeals within this year? What''s better than what?

    Lor joined after the second ordeal? Aren''t you late?

    It''s not too late.

    How are you sure Serpence?

    Because I''ve already joined.

    Yes?

    It''s the first I''ve heard of it.

    As he looked at Serpence, he waved his hand up and down. It means that if you calm down and sit down, I will talk to you.

    What the hell happened?

    "Every time the prince visits the big city, he goes with his family and his fiancee.

    go This is what I found out by sending a letter to myself. Perhaps something about the bandits will be written in the next letter.

    [There was a scene in the master of the holy sword where Humanus was sending a letter.

    But at that time, I remember that I couldn''t send a letter to Serpens because it seemed like I had taken the place of my close friend.

    It was said to the demon worshipers that he saved a man who was being chased alone. At the time of saving him, it was written that he used a strange ability to temporarily turn parts of his body into those of a beast.

    Probably for sure.

    The Demon King has a memory that corresponds to the [Master of the Holy Sword], so he attacked her, a colleague who will join in the future, and how did that happen again, and how did he meet with Humanus and join the group earlier than planned?

    Looking at this, it seems that there is such a thing as a relationship.

    ''Would she be in danger if Eugex wasn''t with us?''

    It was a million luck.

    "But why do you have to tell me such an important story?!"

    "According to the letter, it was written that he was wandering through death, and that his colleague had been taking care of him for several days."

    Yes?

    "But when we were dealing with the bandits this time, according to the eyewitness testimony, there was a story that the number of people in the group was four, so I thought it would be okay to say "

    I was afraid she would die, so I didn''t tell him.

    I''m so upset that I can''t speak.

    "Gee, now now, that, say !"

    "Even if you don''t, the Demon King is also the future

    Did you pay a lot of attention because you know therefore , uh... . Hey, meow?

    Excuse Pence realized his mistake and voluntarily paid the tax.

    If you think I''ll forgive you for making only cat sounds, you''re very wrong!

    Miyaon...?

    He made a more realistic cat sound with a determined expression on his face.

    No matter how urgent it is, we know where human dignity and the self-esteem we should have been sold.

    couldn''t

    It''s not a matter of vocalization? It''s no use getting down on your knees and raising your hands, so put your shoes back on!

    Serpence, whose conscience was gone, made an expression that he did not know what he was going to do.

    It''s because of my bad habit, I won''t be able to go anywhere and talk about it, and I''ll be very happy.

    ''Weren''t we incredibly warm up until now?!''

    Raising a child means going back and forth between heaven and hell several times a day. make it feel like this

    will be!

    A letter! I have sent a letter to the Crown Prince. I asked the Dwarf apostles to deliver it when he arrives, so it will be delivered safely.

    The boy deliberately turned away.

    Even if you''re wondering what the letter was, you shouldn''t go on like this. Without a proper apology, never...

    "Sunwoo I made a mistake. If there is anything in the future, I will tell you everything, so please calm down. Please "

    Okay. Do you keep your promises? I got an apology, so I can''t help it.

 CH 187

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 187

    38. Unpleasant daily life with the Duke (2)

    "Before we get to the point, let me point out a few things."

    As soon as the words of forgiveness came out of my mouth, the guy I had a crush on made a serious expression and said with a face that I would listen.

    First of all, whenever I''m angry with Serpens, I tend to be scared, don''t you? I''m afraid I''ll blame you or leave you fed up.

    okay? It won''t happen, so don''t worry.

    " Really?"

    of course!

    Serpens are vigilant. But he looked like he was sulking.

    With the fresh fruit in front of you, he said, ''I''m sure the fruit will be sweet. But, is there really no poison?''

    It was as if he was waiting for himself to be vigilant and doubting that he was laying a foothold to escape in the midst of it.

    But the guy overcame that fear,

    Yes, I believe.

    believed me

    And you don''t have to beg like, ''Please. Just a sincere apology is enough,'' he said.

    Is that enough?

    Why, did you know that the sound of a cat is essential? The last time I was meowing, it wasn''t that Serpens was wrong, it was wrong, but it was because I was sad rather than angry, so we shook each other lightly.

    It meant moving on.

    "It''s not that Really, that you forgive with just an apology? That''s right?"

    Serpens made the face of a man whose foundations of common sense had been overturned.

    It''s like a person who put a handful of cacao nibs in his mouth when he said that he was the raw material for chocolate.

    He couldn''t swallow or spit what he put in his mouth, and he stuttered.

    From that look, I could see how difficult it was to be forgiven in his world.

    How many times have you been begging and begging? How many times have you prayed and prayed?

    Really, that''s it. Really. To add, it''s like a promise not to do that in the future.

    " but it may take some time to fix it."

    It''s okay. How can a person change overnight? Don''t be disappointed, don''t get impatient. I''ll wait until then, so don''t worry.

    It was then that he let out the bitter breath that had filled his mouth and took in a deep breath.

    "By the way, did the meow have no effect?"

    It had the effect of losing my absurdity. It was amazing.

    Even now, the absurdity is evaporating in real time.

    Why is he taking this question so seriously?

    Whether I call a serpent meow or sernan. Even if it''s a combination of a Persian cat and a sercian cat, I don''t see a serpen as a pet, right?

    Wasn''t it?!

    Why are you surprised, why?!

    The guy flinched and withdrew, then suddenly opened his shoulders proudly. It must have been the result of taking my advice not to be scared in one dimension.

    It''s just that in our world, grandmothers look at their grandchildren and call them ''our motherfucker'', and that''s the same context.

    Ummm... Then what about ''Masaegaesae''?

    Am I using the wrong example, is this child simply not understanding, or is it a difference in worldview?

    Why is the cockroach coming out here?!

    Dogs and puppies are different! It means that puppies and puppies are insults, and puppies and dogs are cute! Do you understand?

    Perhaps?

    I was worried about whether I really understood it, but the way he shakes his head seems to have interpreted it well and accepted it according to his circumstances.

    And lastly .

    Are there any more left?

    "Somehow the desk didn''t get too close?

    Do you remember when this happened? A while back, Serpence was walking around here and getting macarons. But now you think you can dance between the desk and the bookshelf?"

    The seats were too far away, so it was difficult to have a conversation, so I moved them little by little.

    There was a sense of pride in his voice as he spoke.

    ''Little by little, since when and how much?''

    I, too, have only barely woken up to this day. It is said that it took a very long time to move it.

    What the hell is the peacock doing?!

    "Rearrangement of furniture?"

    The door was blocked at the reaction that was so natural.

    If you''re so confident, don''t move it like this, move it in a day, didn''t you?

    But what would the landlord say when he said he would move the furniture in his house?

    It is true that it has made conversation easier thanks to it.

    Okay, admit it! Now, let''s talk about the letter.

    Serpens wrote a letter to Humanus!

    At least it''s a business story, but where is that?

    How happy would Humanus be when he received an unexpected reply from his friend during the arduous journey?

    I asked you to explain the brainwashing magic that the demon worshipers had developed, and to tell them to train their divine powers toward the spiritual realm.

    It was advice that turned into blood and flesh.

    If we prepare early from now on, [the kind of tragedy that happened with the master of the holy sword could be avoided.

    "And?"

    The second ordeal is right in front of you...

    Yes?!

    "Time is running out, so there''s no need to go back."

    That''s right, but is it really okay?

    They are advocating their own trials of wisdom, but if they do, will they be rewarded properly?

    got confused

    Anyway, the second ordeal is only to defeat the golem in the place of trial.

    That''s what you can do.

    "As a result, it is, but "

    Now, to retrieve the letter, I can''t even run to the furnace of eons where the Dwarf apostles are gathered.

    It''s already spilled water. Let''s think good.

    It was planned for Humanus and his party to solve all the clues and arrive at the place of trial.

    '' Yes. If you play the second game, you can add a skip function to that kind of hard work!''

    The strategy is exactly the same, and you have to solve the time-consuming puzzle again? Not even an intermediate reward?

    If you make a game that way these days, it''s perfectly fine to be insulted.

    It was a user patch to develop in a better direction, so Luxmea will admit it and pretend not to know.

    Apologize to the Dwarf Apostles, who must have been excitedly looking forward to hiding the clues!

    That made me sorry.

    An apple that will never reach you.

    Serpence was less than half sincere of what he was doing, and threw out an apology in the air.

    "And?"

    And?

    "Is that the end of the letter?"

    "Other than that in terms of distance, we''ll be going back, but to the last destination, Arche Kingdom, is it about saying that it would be better to go through the Empire rather than the Palo Kingdom?"

    I expected it, but it wasn''t really bland, so it was stuffy and dry.

    At least in the form of a look, what has happened to you and what has happened around you.

    If I was going to write it, there would have been a lot of miscellaneous things to write about, but it was really a model of ''just a simple thing.''

    After reading all the letters, it is clear without looking at the figure of Humanus, who is robbing the envelope to see if there is a next page.

    I can''t help what I''ve already sent... Give it to me.

    what?

    Letters from His Majesty to Serpens

    yo. This.

    Unlike Serpens, Humanus would have written down the things that happened to him.

    If you read it, you will get a rough idea of how the schedule went wrong.

    It is difficult.

    I''m sure you threw it away?!

    The documents sent by the imperial family were burned in an incinerator because it would be a problem if they were thrown away.

    It''s not a document, and it hurts more to burn it than to throw it away.

    If you look closely, this guy is in Humanus

    It seems that crabs are being ruthlessly grilled.

    Even if we don''t admit it, is this because we''re childhood friends?

    "From now on, when a letter comes in, I will make sure to show it to Seon-woo and make sure he is inspected before sending it."

    Don''t say that you get your parents'' autograph and submit it to your home correspondence.

    if so .

    But please show me the letter.

    He nodded, indicating that he knew.

    Isn''t there anything Serpent is talking about? The reason for the twist.

    It must have been too late to treat that druid mercenary... It seems that we wasted a lot of time also saving a ship heading to Smern.

    Smern.

    It is a country where Merrows, who can be called half-human and iron-fish, live, and is the only island country on the continent.

    They said that calling their country, an island nation, was just a standard for land people, and called their country a ''ocean nation''.

    ''That''s not true.''

    An island that is exposed all the way to the sea

    is just a place to welcome people from the land.

    In fact, their country was beneath it, in the deep sea.

    "But why the boat?"

    It is said that all the ships that were moored in the port city where they arrived to board the ship exploded the day before.

    It must be a monkey thing.

    I will.

    It''s simple yet effective.

    "Isn''t there a ship that goes out and comes back?"

    It sank right before my eyes.

    Leaving some hope behind and popping it out in front of you was just the devil''s thing to do.

    "It is said that after traveling around the port city like that, an angry wizard colleague in the end moved a boat floating in a nearby lake by magic, floated it in the sea, and moved the boat by magic to cross it."

    Is that possible? Of course it''s possible to move a ship, but it''s a sea route...

    It was said that a mage colleague brought a sailor and solved it.

    Did you bring it, or did you bring it? Did the boat on the lake have the owner''s permission? Before that, are we talking about this on our side right now?

    Although the anima often had a blast, this was a little . it''s hot

    The ship crashed as soon as it reached the island, and when it returned it was written that it borrowed Merrow''s power.

    Humanus who wrote down all these details, or Serpens who read and remembered them all... .

    After all, why are you still not friends?

    There is something special about the bandits, too. Seonwoo said it was a small village or a group of looting municipal gangs, but according to the information that came in, it was much larger than that and it seemed to have its own system.

    This too must have been supported by the demons behind the scenes.

    More than I thought. And nothing compared to what I read in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Humanus was rolling hard in places we couldn''t see.

    "Aside from that, there are disturbances or commotions in every way along the way.

    It seems that he has personally encountered a warlock."

    These guys were completely risking their lives.

    Originally, at this time, I knew I shouldn''t bump into each other from the front, so I only flirted with each other... .

    It felt a bit like saying, ''Can your subject pass the ordeal?'' Whether Humanus is ordeal or not, we felt we were doing our job.

    But now something was different.

    As if this was really his last chance, he was sabotaging with all his heart and soul.

    Serpens.

    Tell me.

    Raise your hand and place it on your head.

    You can only raise one hand. Serpens, a good-natured child, put both hands on his head and tilted his head.

    It reminded me of the yellow duck character from a certain cartoon I saw as a child.

    Now, move your hand in the direction of your hair and say, ''You did great!

    What does this act mean?

    The lines were not uttered, but Serpens said, stroking his head as instructed.

    Whether it''s giving Liena advice on divine power, or telling her to change her stopover to an empire instead of a palo kingdom. Writing a letter and delivering it means that you did a great job!

    Are you making me praise you now?

    Serpens lowered his hand with a look as if he was looking at a pathetic adult who didn''t do his own thing.

    The inner intention wasn''t like that... !

 CH 188

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 188

    38. The Duke and the Unpleasant Daily Life

    Just like in [Master of the Holy Sword]. The continent was in turmoil due to the rumors spread by the demons.

    It started from the question of whether Humanus would be able to fulfill that role as the master of the Holy Sword.

    The true master of the Holy Sword went through the alienation called Serpens, and reached the theory of abandonment of the continent of the god Luxmea, which was derived from it.

    ''It''s all groundless nonsense. If Luxmea had abandoned the continent, would you have sent me?''

    In fact, it was quite a long time ago that these rumors began to circulate.

    The Demon King was a regressor, and he already knew that these rumors worked effectively.

    There was no need to wait for Humanus to defeat the bandits.

    There are two reasons why I am only now hearing rumors that have already begun to spread long ago.

    Unlike in [Master of the Holy Sword], the Empire was actively supporting Humanus.

    It''s a natural thing to say, but it was scary to mention such rumors, and they caught everyone who opened their mouths.

    The first reason is that such words could not be brought out and rumors did not spread.

    The second reason is .

    ''''Let''s talk a little bit from now on. Yes?

    "So this time , no. From now on, I will tell you right away.''''

    It was because Serpence, who had heard the rumor earlier, did not say a word to me.

    After being scolded by me yesterday. It is said that he thought about something that he did not tell me and came to mind.

    I''ll keep a close eye on you from now on, okay?

    "It doesn''t matter . Honestly, doesn''t Sunwoo consider me a superior?"

    That''s why you''re using polite words like this all the time, right?

    Isn''t it little by little? How many times have I...

    Uh-huh!

    Serpense sticks out her mouth as if it''s unfair.

    You shouldn''t keep getting used to it, but it''s a big deal because it''s fun to make fun of him.

    Other than that?

    The Luxmea Church is about to officially declare that the Tenebrio Church is a heresy created by demon worshipers.

    Wow! The demons haven''t even built a ''gyo'' yet, they''ll pull it out before it even sprouts!

    "It''s the achievement of Sunwoo."

    It can be said that it is a very great achievement.

    And they said that they would also announce that they would give a reward if they reported the rumor to the denomination as soon as they heard the rumor.

    If it was the official announcement of the denomination, it would be to catch the rumors that spread throughout the continent as well as the Empire.

    The reason that Tenebrio Church, which has not yet been established, was mentioned is also to clarify the source of false rumors.

    "However, the denomination cannot make such an announcement.

    Where did you hear about the plan? Hopefully again... !

    Don''t worry, I didn''t hide in the church. I was mentioned in the rumors in question, so I just received a letter to ask for your understanding in advance.

    If that rumor didn''t come naturally, but was deliberately invented and spread by demons.

    Another false fact may be created that Serpens has attached to the evil force with regret for the holy sword, or may be attached to it.

    I''ll understand that.

    ''Luckily, on the day of choice

    Is it that Serpens showed no regrets or obsession with the Holy Sword?''

    He was surprised that Humanus had received the Holy Sword, but rather than denying that someone else had received the Holy Sword, he It was because of a manly reason to even mention it.

    That''s why the current denomination believes in Serpence and asks for your understanding in advance, isn''t it?

    Does the saying that it was planned mean that Serpence allowed it to happen? Or was it that the word was understood and in fact it was a notice?

    The person who spread the rumors worships the devil

    It is only a matter of time before the power is revealed. Rather, it would be far better to put it to rest before the rumors get bigger, to officially announce that they mentioned me as a foreign book, and to announce that I believe that the Crown Prince is the true master of the Holy Sword.

    Well, that''s right.

    It''s going to be a bit noisy for a while, but it''s better to sell first, and pay off your debts quickly before the interest accrues.

    And once Humanus has successfully completed his ordeal, the rumors linked one after another will turn out to be false.

    However, it is even more fatal if rumors such as ''Serpens, who coveted the status of the master of the holy sword, spread rumors!''

    What you''re doing, don''t just say ''the Crown Prince'' and say, ''Why don''t you add something like an old friend of mine?

    As for my position, it''s difficult since I''ve already sent a reply. Wouldn''t it be rather contrived to add something like that now?

    It''s true, but I can''t shake the thought that it''s like an excuse.

    I wish I had written that expression from the beginning, right?

    "If the Crown Prince gets to know Serpence deeply, you don''t think he will understand you, right?"

    Why are you saying that all of a sudden?

    Why?

    I tried to think only in my mind, but the words came out in vain in a frustrated heart.

    Serpens shrugged his shoulders and looked at me with surprised eyes.

    Come on, come on! Think about it! How many years has Serpens been with Humanus?

    Wait, that name is...

    Humanus said that to Eugenes. Serpense''s friend is his friend, so you can call him by his/her first name. I''m also Serpense''s friend, so that''ll be fine!

    Wylydia-nim and Seon-woo are in different situations.

    It''s different. Eugenes is still at the classmate level, and I''m a perfect best friend, Jjang Chin, and Solmen! Oh, Solme is an abbreviation for Soul Mate. It means soul mate.

    If it was the same as before, I would have had an eye for what to do.

    The current Serpence is ''If that''s the case,

    I can''t help it. he nodded as if to say.

    Even that wasn''t enough, he bit his lips to desperately lower the corners of his lips that were about to go up.

    Uhhhhhh! If that''s the case, well... I still don''t understand why my friend becomes the Prince''s friend, but... well, yes. I can''t help it.

    If the two of us were friends, everyone would envy me, but Serpens acted as if he was the envy of everyone.

    It''s been 1 year and 3 months since I met him.

    He''s so proud

    was first seen. are you okay?

    "The first time I met him was around the age of eight."

    It''s been longer than you think! But didn''t you say anything from your shoulder?

    "What did I have to say?"

    "It''s painful, it''s hard, it''s scary, right?"

    Oh .

    If you put on the expression that you learned something you didn''t know, you don''t know how to react to that.

    I''m short of breath.

    "Uh, um If we''ve known each other since we were 8, what is that what is that :

    It''s fine, so there''s no need to turn around and talk.

    When he says it''s okay, I''m not okay.

    Anyway! It was worth talking about. Humanus is not a member of the Prasidus family, and it would have been better if he had induced the emperor to tell him about it...

    "At that time, I only thought that the environment I was in was taken for granted. Anyone who grows up in a position to take responsibility goes through it.

    did. So, I was ashamed of myself for not being able to bear it and having a hard time.

    And it was until recently.

    This is the problem.

    Because of this, adults who say that it is normal for children to be abused wherever they are.

    There were many cases where they could not seek help and were buried like that.

    All adults are responsible and at fault.

    that it is wrong to hit a child under any circumstances,

    everyone should know

    ''Even a silent animal can be educated if it is read extensively with praise and snacks... .''

    I don''t understand how one can use violence against a child of a person who can communicate.

    It is said that discipline is not a rod, but a way of guiding and teaching people by virtue.

    Choosing a hawk rather than virtue is, in the end, only a sign that one lacks virtue.

    It''s definitely not the child''s fault.

    "Serpens, that''s "

    I know. Now, I know. It''s just, it was then.

    How painful it is to feel that smile that was forcibly created.

    Does he know how to make a face like that?

    That''s why, I thought he was also going through a similar thing as the next emperor. Still, seeing him smiling brightly... a little bit , a little bit. I respected him..., but...

    Actually it wasn''t, he was serious

    To know that I was able to put on a happy smile because I was happy.

    How abominable it must have been for such a Humanus to pretend to be friendly with him and say he has a sense of identity.

    It was probably the first true betrayal he encountered in his life.

    ''I didn''t know there was such a story... .''

    Also, that''s why we need to talk.

    I was just talking about being friendly, but I''m ashamed of myself for asking why.

    "Would you like to hold my hand?"

    It''s okay. No, it''s not okay... ha ha...

    He let out a long breath. His breath trembled softly as if it was about to break, and it was dry as if he had squeezed out something that had been clogged up.

    The boy put his left hand on his forehead and bowed his head. Perhaps the fountain pen he was holding in his right hand had just been missed, and it suddenly fell and rolled over and fell to the bottom of the desk.

    He got up from his seat, walked up to him, and grabbed his empty hand.

    Serpens.

    "Ah , Sunwoo."

    Then he took a deep breath, as if he was out of breath.

    His face, with his head raised, was not crying, but he didn''t even look like he was in the mood to cry.

    His face faltered reflexively. There was something caught at my feet, so I looked down and saw the fountain pen that had just fallen off.

    Whether the cartridge inside was broken by the impact of the drop, the black ink that spilled out spreads like tears and smears the carpet

    was blown away

    I know it''s not his fault.

    Serpens spoke as if he was doing the sacrament of confession. Even though it wasn''t necessary at all.

    How many people can say that in a situation like this?

    At first, I was skeptical that it would be possible to rewrite him, but just by brushing away the old dust, he was a man of light.

    Stepping closer, I put my free hand on his shoulder.

    That''s right. It''s not Humanus'' fault. But that doesn''t mean it''s Serpence''s fault to blame him. Serpence''s not at fault either. It would have been.

    Sunwoo never...

    No, I don''t know. The life I''ve been living is different from Serpens.

    ...it''s difficult.

    "The more you try to deny it, the more difficult it gets. If Serpence had a normal life, it would be much nicer than the external appearance that Serpense plays.

    And he would have been a great person. And it''s not too late yet.

    He shook his head as he spoke the words of difficulty again.

 CH 189

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 189

    38. The Duke and the Unpleasant Daily Life

    (4)

    Perhaps because of low self-esteem, it seems difficult for Serpens to affirm that she is not acting yet.

    Don''t rush, take it slow. Let''s deal with the challenges we face first.

    Okay, then I won''t tell you to be friendly with Humanus from now on.

    what? Why all of a sudden . why?

    Why are you so mean to some guy? I''m not saying I''m going to say that I want to be friends with you.

    Serpens said he was fed up with it, and made a face that he didn''t understand why I was saying this.

    Just looking at it, it seemed to be asking whether the front and back of the words were different.

    It''s neither fault nor fault, but it''s a mistake, right? Serpense felt it was deception. Serpence was much younger than he is now, so it must have hurt him even more.

    It was old... .

    "He is not a friend, nor has he ever been a friend for a moment."

    I''m puck?

    Even if the former statement is true, the latter statement is definitely a lie.

    It was a clear lie to anyone who heard it.

    I''ll trust you well that you''re out of touch with the same topic that you said about respect earlier.

    Ah, what I said earlier was a mistake. It''s hard to recall the memories of that time, so a little... Yeah. It''s a little confusing and a little emotionally ridiculous

    is bullshit"."

    You''re doing it. Now.

    The way you say gibberish is very speculative.

    Unless I induced it first, it was hard or painful. To say such a thing on a topic that I didn''t even bring up in the first place.

    Well, yes. I understand. I thought he was a senior in life who went through the same pain and overcame it first, but to hear that he was just a chilele palele. It deserves a sense of betrayal. The feeling of betrayal is not easily erased. As much as I believed. As much as I gave my heart to you...

    "The first friend I met was you, Seon-woo. A guy like that !"

    I''m trembling like this, how can you believe that?

    It is clear that he treats the past, when he regarded Humanus as a friend, completely black history.

    Yeah, yeah. That''s right.

    Don''t be sarcastic.

    You], let''s say yes. Serpense is right. What Serpens says is the truth. Oh no, not like that.

    I''m sorry. I''m too much for you.

    You made an unreasonable request.

    The boy sighed deeply and said.

    His expression became serious in a different direction than before, but his complexion definitely improved. He seems to have regained his leisure enough to be able to joke around.

    However, it seems that the irritability index has risen in exchange for him, so let''s stop and get back to the basics.

    Anyway. I encourage you to make friends, but you don''t have to force yourself to play with a child you don''t like. If you want to be friendly with all the children at the playground, that''s rather greedy.

    "Sunwoo, you seem to have the ability to make all problems light."

    Thanks for the compliment! That''s my charming point!

    Serpens laughed and shook his head.

    Instead! Let''s make a tea for sure.

    "Tea?"

    ''''Yes. Serpence is halfway through accepting and accepting, so Humanus keeps developing a friendship of his own. Is it okay to cut off only the serpents? Human relationships are basically two-way."

    But that''s politically unreasonable...

    Who doesn''t want to distinguish between public and private? If you don''t like friendly expressions like shrugging or hugging, you don''t have to force it. At least Humanus is not someone who publicly oppresses or harms anyone because of his private feelings. . Even Serpence knows that much.

    Even if it''s someone he doesn''t like, he''s afraid he''ll be hated. I could honestly say that it was because I was afraid, but it is.

    That is human nature.

    How many people enjoy being hated by others? No, will there be?

    Being able to overcome it and be proud is the first step to loving yourself.

    You have to speak up or vote, don''t you think the other party will notice? That way, you can look back and reflect on what''s wrong with your actions, or raise your eyes. As a result, Serpense''s actions robbed him of even an opportunity to apologize.

    It''s Pence''s fault.

    How shocking would it be to find out that someone who had never doubted that he was a friend from the time his cognitive abilities were established had been branded as a traitor and hated and reluctant to admit to him?

    If Humanus deceived Serpens without knowing it, Serpens knowingly deceived Humanus.

    for a very long time too.

    "So , uh, huh?! Why are you crying all of a sudden?!"

    I started by calming him down so that I could have a conversation at the best, but he ended up in tears.

    poured a cocktail

    He seems to be listening calmly, but without any warning, he begins to shed tears like chicken dung.

    No, who the hell called, who?! Whoa, that''s a bad guy!

    "Even to Seonwoo''s point of view , suck, am I a bad person?"

    Now, boy, tell me I was wrong. Are you crying because of it?

    No matter how old you are (twenty) five years old, you''re not really going to throw away 20 years'' worth of money, right?

    Why is Serpens a bad person? It''s not bad at all. What I just said doesn''t mean that Serpens was bad, it''s just that I''m not good at social life.

    "But, Seonwoo didn''t he ever tell me that he was kind to me even once?"

    I guess my ears are wrong.

    But just in case you don''t know, you might need to ask him to confirm.

    "Serpence ? No wonder I''m like, ''Aigoo~! Our Serpence!

    Are you doing this because you''re sad that you didn''t say something like ''Everyone is nice!''?"

    right ???????????????? .

    Don''t make a face like that.

    ''Are you a child?'' almost came out, but the child was right, so I held it tight.

    He''s only a big body, but he''s a child who hasn''t grown up at all. It was a time when love, attention and care were in full swing.

    Listen to me, Serpens.

    I moved my hand from his shoulder and gently stroked his head.

    and opened his mouth.

    Serpens did not avoid it and looked up at me with still weeping eyes.

    The reason I didn''t tell Serpens that he was good is not that he was bad.

    " isn''t that what it is?"

    "Serpens have been forced to deal with good and evil since childhood. Good and evil are always relative and subjective. That''s what it was.

    really?

    Of course! Serpence is right even if you don''t put yourself in that frame. Even if you make mistakes sometimes, it''s normal as a human being. It''s absolutely not wrong.

    I didn''t think I''d stop crying right away just by saying this.

    However .

    Why are you crying more?!

    "That, though , black! Even Seon-woo has a subjective framework of good and evil suffocating, isn''t it? If . very if. I

    What if I get out of Seonwoo''s tee?"

    ''''You have to scold me.

    " Is that all?"

    The boy giggled and rolled his eyes.

    It looked like he was asking if that was all he had.

    "Is it possible? I chased after him every day and was next to him, squealing, saying, ''Serpens, do you repent? You have to repent. How about repenting? Is it time to repent?'' I''ll bother you!

    I can''t say no, it''s a very cruel treatment, even in my opinion.

    If this is enough, Tenebrio is like, ''Wow, sir, me too ''.''

    But Serpens probably doesn''t think so.

    Or is it just a good thing to say that I will never give up on myself to the end?

    The corner of his mouth seemed to twitch a little, and eventually he let out a gurgling sound and shook his head and laughed.

    ''Really, a guy who laughs a lot and cries a lot?''

    It''s hard to know where these colorful emotions have been hidden so far.

    I, uhm... I think I was worried too much. Yeah, Sunwoo, you are such a person...

    He smiled brightly as he wiped the tears from his eyes.

    The way he smiles while sniffling his red nose.

    A child who was lost on the street found her mother and held her in her arms

    like. At last, he seemed very comfortable.

    Yes, that''s right. Now that you know, you don''t have to worry about this in the future.

    Yeah. Let''s take a look.

    Ding! It should be reflected, not referenced!

    As a punishment, he put his fingers through his hair and messed it up.

    Her thin, soft hair tickled and brushed between her knuckles.

    If it wasn''t for Serpence''s head, I recommend him to play with touch.

    It feels so good that I want to go.

    Yeah, I got it. Make sure to reflect it.

    Even if her hair is sparse, Serpens smiled and said that she liked it. It was a smile that would disappear immediately if he looked at his hair in the mirror.

    I thought it would be fun to watch it right now, so I thought I should tell you before I leave work later, so I dropped my hand.

    Okay! Then, what if Humanus wants to hug you in the future?

    Was the answer included even that?

    Of course!

    He looked as if he had been deceived, as if he had been belatedly realizing that the shoulder Serpens had signed a double contract without his knowledge.

    Come on, come on. Come on, let''s answer it!

    Avoid.

    Correct! In the future, whether it''s Humanus or anyone else, if Serpens tries to make unwanted contact, he''ll say, ''No. Why are you doing this? Don''t do this!''

    Isn''t the line a bit strange?''''

    I''m worried, I''m worried!

    There was a sign of discomfort, but it was unavoidable

    I thought they would feel a certain degree of friendliness to accept everything while they were there.

    But when I looked at it closely, it wasn''t like that at all.

    To compare, I believed only the recommendation of my friend and bought the stock a lot, but the very next day, the stock price plummeted.

    It''s not perfect, but that''s roughly how it feels.

    There is no separate Cheolcheon branch of Byeongdaecheon.

    ''If it were me, I''d be thrilled and shake it off if I put my hand on my shoulder!''

    Despite this, I have accepted all of Humanus'' contact during that time, but if that''s the case. How long would it be if a person with no feelings flirts... .

    It''s weird if you don''t worry about it.

    Previously, there was also Shildra, the master of the Holy Sword, the nominee. Can you tell if this naive guy is the right fit?

    for a moment.

    I was beating my chest in frustration, when suddenly Serpens grabbed my wrist.

    I didn''t hit it painfully. I hit it softly.

    "You can tell by pretending. It''s not that kind of problem, but where did the badges that the denomination give you as a reward go?"

    Heretic Inquisitor, the white velvet box Eilic brought.

    It contained 6 heavy gold bars and 3 badges that Serpens had just mentioned.

    It''s a gold bar, it''s just something that turns into money if you sell it.

    The badge was about the size of a thumb1, and it was shaped like a light.

    In the center of the jagged shape, which is presumed to be a nail polish, a transparent gem the size of a little fingernail is embedded.

    "Are you sure you haven''t been doing well until recently?"

    No, that''s it. You said I can wear it like a cufflink because it has a black magic detection function, so it''s easy to see? But now it''s summer and I have to wash my shirt every day, so it''s cumbersome to move it every day, and I accidentally wash it or lose it. If I even throw it away, I think I''ll be arrested for blasphemy...

    "So now?"

    "You put it in your pocket.

    all!

    The eyes of Serpens, who had been weeping a while ago, turned into ax eyes.

    Obviously, I was scolding Serpens, and the situation immediately turned upside down.

    "It''s okay to have Serpens by your side anyway, right?"

    It''s not like we''re always together. You never know when something will happen, so you have to make it a habit to take care of it every day.

    He rolled his eyes and let go.

    It is an eye where there is absolutely no compromise.

    If you don''t reply that you''ll put it on your sleeve right away, you won''t let go of your wrist like this.

    Oh, that''s right! Okay, okay! It''s the month now, so will you let me go?

    Serpense''s hand fell off, and I took out the Agong liver pocket I had in my vest''s inner pocket and opened the entrance.

    That moment.

    for a moment.

    Why again?

    All of a sudden, Serpens shrugged his shoulders and snatched it up.

    flipped over

    "What the hell are you carrying around?"

    Yes?

    Instead of explaining the gatabuta, he stretched out his hand and showed me the object on the palm of his hand.

    A badge given by the church.

    " why is this black?"

    "What I want to ask is, where the hell do you pick up something and carry it with you?"

    Serpence muttered to himself in a jingle voice, got up from his seat, and laid on the carpet in the center of the office.

    The contents of the pocket were poured out.

    All kinds of snacks, money, gold bars, magic scrolls.

    Other than that, all sorts of trinkets were poured out, and bottles of special holy water that Serpens made whenever he had time .

    Huh? Did this taste good too?

    Of the five-liter bottles, four had a gray haze, and the other barely maintained a faint light that could be extinguished at any moment.

    This is probably why the badge turned black.

    "Where the hell are you doing?"

    Wait! Serpence has been together ever since he came back from subjugation! I''m innocent!

    "Does it sound like an innocence even when I see this?!"

    Occasionally, when he went out of the duke''s residence on the weekend, he chased after him, so the only problem there was when Serpens went on an expedition.

    Thinking like that, there were enough points to point out.

    "Perhaps then, the devil told me

    I guess it wasn''t that I wasn''t brainwashed, it was that I wasn''t.''''

    It was unintentionally being teased. I wasn''t sorry at all.

    What the hell is that time, and I still have this...

    That''s right.

    He said he was going to keep the magic scroll as much as possible, so he put it in his pocket and put it away, and forgot it as it was.

    If I had taken it out and checked it right away, it would have ended with just one scolding.

    However, if you put it in the subspace pocket, what is the difference with the space that exists in the third dimension?

    Do you think it is connected or something?"

    "Who would use something that could be stolen even by a wizard on the other side of the continent?

    Serpense''s tone of voice was noticeably lowered.

    Why did I think to check this haha I didn''t immediately believe what you said that the demon worshiper had only brainwashed the deputy butler...

    It was me who was at fault, but he started to blame himself.

    ...sorry, it''s all my fault

    all! Never again! I wear the badge on my wrist and check it every hour, and I will take out the holy water every day from now on to check the condition!

    I returned to my seat, knelt down and raised my hands.

    Whom did I give hunsu to on this topic? Even if I have ten mouths, I have nothing to say.

 CH 190

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 190

    39. An uninvited visitor to the duke''s residence (1)

    "This ordeal is an ordeal of wisdom, and it starts with getting new clues from the clues we give and finally finding the place of the ordeal . What are you doing now?"

    I''m so glad I got a letter from a close friend, so stop...

    uhm... ! I''ll read that later!

    Anyway, it''s customary, but time seems to be running out right now, so I''m forced to give you the last clue right away. That clue .

    Are you right?

    "Yes. Right here , huh?"

    " What flower is this?"

    At Serpence''s question, Eugene smiled awkwardly with a vase in both hands.

    Her gaze was fixed on Serpens'' left hand.

    He didn''t dare to say it, but he must have wanted to ask about the whirlwind candy in his left hand.

    As soon as he came up to the office after lunch, the thing he held in his hand was significantly reduced compared to four hours ago, but it still boasted a large size.

    I was wondering if you''re skipping tea time today for some reason...

    Saying that, Eugese slapped me.

    Under the circumstances, you''re probably asking if I''m the culprit who gave Serpens a big lollipop.

    I answered with a thumbs-up, and Euges nodded as if he knew.

    Really! Today the gardener pruned the trees in the greenhouse, so I collected these flowers because it was a waste.

    He seems to have become close with the gardener since he was always in the garden.

    Seeing how vivid the petals were, I didn''t pick up the ones that fell on the floor, but instead picked them up from the side and picked them one by one in a vase.

    Maybe it''s plugged in?

    Maybe he could have been right next to him.

    Is there anything to be afraid of? It is unavoidable for the growth of trees.

    I know that pruning makes a tree grow better. But I worked hard to make such a beautiful flower bloom]. There is nothing in this world that should be thrown away.

    She smiled like sunshine, looking at the vase of colorful hydrangeas she held in her hands with loving eyes.

    The beauty of a time that will wither anyway

    It''s just kindness. It''s the same in terms of human standards, but from the perspective of the elf, Yulydia-sama, isn''t it even more useless?"

    With an expression that he did not understand Serpence, he drew attention from the flowers that formed a large cluster of small flowers.

    Eugenes put one of the vases on Serpence''s desk, but he looked down and focused on the papers, with or without hesitation.

    I think the world would be cold and heartless if you just listened to it... .

    ''What''s this, I''m just obsessed with scribbling in my sketchbook while eating candy.

    You look like Linae.''

    The candy in his hand prevented him from looking cold.

    Aha! Serpence, do you prefer dried flowers over fresh flowers?

    Is that so?! I''ll have to dry it well and bring it back.

    " why do you talk like that?"

    Serpens put the tip of the candy in his mouth, and looked at us in complete incomprehension.

    no?

    no.

    In response to Eugene''s question, Serpens was firm.

    answered politely.

    "Isn''t it?"

    I''m sorry, my kid is a bit picky...

    "Is Zion sometimes wrong?"

    I''m sorry. Actually, I just said something out of the ordinary, but you will really believe it N O H ��[....

    Confused, she turned her gaze to me, and I apologized to her.

    In a series of conversations, Serpens stared at me with eyes wondering what the hell this is doing.

    I just couldn''t find value and meaning in such things. It only takes up space on my desk, so it gets in the way of my work...

    "What candy do you have in your hand?"

    Hey, this is because Sion''s work efficiency increases when he supplies sugar to his hair...

    I did say that, but before I said that. From the moment he took out the candy, he was obsessed with it, so that statement is just an excuse.

    Eugenes also noticed that he was making excuses, and smiled sweeter than flowers.

    There is nothing worthless or meaningless in this world. Serpens said, ''Just because you haven''t found it doesn''t mean it disappears.

    " do you want to leave this here so far?"

    Just leave it on until the flowers wither. It might help unexpectedly. I don''t have a sweet candy in my mouth every day, so in that case, the sweet scent of flowers might do the job.

    At her words, Serpens stared intently at the flower and then turned to me.

    For some reason, I felt like I had to say something good.

    What are some of the words of a flower-themed story that could be given to a growing child?

    How would it feel if it withered? Still, the beauty I had in my eyes and the scent that tickled my nose would remain in my memory. Will there be?"

    "Even so, aren''t the flowers that bloomed again and the flowers that are today different?"

    I like to put a flower on the desk

    Hard.

    But it wasn''t bad to try to dig out its meaning like a child with ''whyo disease''. That''s a good sign.

    ''Last year, I used to say that I wanted to love the world.''

    Behind it, there must have been a hidden saying that he wanted to be happy just like everyone else.

    Because life is so much more fun. So much that I don''t want to lose it. to the point of being nauseous.

    ''It must have been a wish that he would do the same.''

    I would eat delicious food and have fun living my hobbies.

    Now that I have time to take my time and start showing interest in the world, who could be bothered or slandered by it?

    If he could fill his world by adding the things he likes so much.

    Serpens will be able to put happiness in their mouths just like everyone else.

    Then let''s do this. We will keep one petal, and next time we meet flowers again, we will make new memories again.

    I carefully removed one of the freshest purple flowers from the vase Euges had placed on my desk.

    "Did you say petals?"

    If you look at a bunch of flowers as a single flower, they are also petals...

    That''s bullshit.

    What do you think? It''s the perfect shape to press while maintaining the shape of a flower.

    Be it a single flower, a petal, or a leaf. what''s so important

    The flower that I removed while grunting inside

    tucked into a pile of papers.

    Wait. Then, won''t the documents be stained?

    What if it gets stained? Still, it wouldn''t hurt to see the contents of the document in any way. If I look at this document again one day, I''ll remember that time as well...

    It''s no use trying to pretend to be a good word for a mistake.

    Like such a quick-witted kid.

    I clicked my tongue, and Serpens made a triumphant expression at my sight. He seemed to think he had won the fight.

    Euges, tell me something too. What''s wrong with what I said!

    Why isn''t Shion eating candy that is said to increase work efficiency?

    "But I didn''t mean to ask you to point out what was really wrong "

    You look like such a cruel elf!

    This means that it is not the country that needs to improve work efficiency, but serpens.

    And to point out to Serpens that you''re eating candy just because you want to eat it.

    I prayed.

    Serpens looked at me with resentful eyes as to why he had said that.

    ''I was asking for help, but who knew I could inflict such indiscriminate damage!''

    It was Eugenes who won the final victory in today''s three-way battle.

    I''m joking, joking! Serpens-sama is so good, I know that Shion is also working hard.

    Actually, I''m not working hard.

    Since the number of administrators has increased, the workload has drastically decreased.

    And Serpens-sama. It''s good to work happily while enjoying what you like. Actually, I think that working with something you like rather than sweetness plays the biggest role in increasing efficiency.

    Serpens glanced at Candy and Eugenes alternately, and eventually, unable to resist the temptation of Candy, licked it.

    Eugese and I looked at him with a happy smile.

    Something seems strange...

    "Is that weird?"

    It''s an illusion, an illusion.

    Innocent Serpens tilted his head with a long and sullen expression.

    Then I''m done with my business, so I''ll just leave. Work hard and tell me if you like flowers, I''ll change them every week.

    "Um let''s see for a moment."

    Avoiding the gaze of Eugene, who was smiling, he answered, staring at the flower with a face worried about Serpence.

    Anyone who sees it would think they were having a snowball fight with flowers.

    "How about Zion?"

    Oh, me too?

    ''''of course. Do you think I would discriminate against my friend?"

    "No, it''s not "

    I didn''t see it that way, but I thought I was going to work on Serpens.

    Was it because you were really sorry for the flowers that would be thrown away purely?

    I like it. As long as Eugenes isn''t a hassle, I''m fine.

    ''''Yes. Then you will know.

    She smiled and grabbed the doorknob, and at the same time, Serpens jumped up from her seat.

    I wondered if he would even send me off in return for the flowers, but he came to me instead of Eugenes.

    Serpens approached me like that, handed the lollipop that was tightly in my hand, and went back to his seat as if nothing had happened.

    ''What is this?''

    I saw the candy in my hand.

    White, red, and yellow bangle

    I was drawing a whirlwind pattern.

    Looking back, I also remember when I was a child that I couldn''t eat this big candy by myself, and I gave it to my mother after biting it.

    ''When babies get bitten while eating, it''s very natural and common to hand over what they ate to their parents.''

    This is especially true of such a large candy.

    Even if you break it up and share it in small portions, you will die. I didn''t listen to you, so I took the whole thing and ate it, and eventually got bitten. Or because I want to eat something else, it is rare to eat it all.

    If the candy was so big that we decided to share it, wouldn''t it be better to cut it in half from the beginning?

    Eugenes stood numb as if he had been nailed to the spot instead of leaving, and carefully expressed his opinion to me with the candy in his hand.

    Of course, I never made such a promise.

    Serpense, where did you learn the habit of giving to others what you used to eat?

    It''s not like that.

    "Isn''t it? If you eat this way, bacteria may grow later, so you can''t eat it and throw it away."

    Perhaps it was a waste to throw it away, the boy looked at the candy he had given him with eyes dripping with regrets.

    Ha, but...

    But, that''s all, you know I''m very sensitive to what I eat, right?

    ''''Oh, I know, but it''s an emergency right now.

    "What kind of emergency is an emergency?

    sulfur?

    Maybe there was a tooth decay? If that''s the case, it''s a serious matter.

    I jumped up from my seat and walked over to Serpens'' seat.

    Open your mouth quickly! Ah- do it, ah!

    Are you sure you''re not going to force me to put that big candy in my mouth?

    I have no intention of doing anything beyond the limits of such physical power!

    Before that, it would be the devil to put candy into a toothy child''s mouth.

    it''s shit

    Come on, let''s do it!

    Wait, there seems to be some misunderstanding...

    Ah-!

    "No, ah- . Why is Euges ah?"

    It was not a good example to be seen as a demonstration of a skilled teaching assistant.

    Shion, it''s not like that. It''d be better if you go back to your seats.

    Yes? Yes? No, why? Why? For what reason?!

    The energy that just entered the main building of the mansion

    certainly . I''m on the second floor!

    It''s on the second floor? Who is it?

    Humanus is in the mansion..., 3rd floor!

    I don''t know why the name is coming from here.

    By now, shouldn''t it be busy running towards the Arche Kingdom?

    Serpens had recommended going through the Empire, but he wouldn''t have said that he had to go through the capital.

    Fourth floor! It''s coming in the direction of the office. Yo 10, 9, 8...

    I quickly ran back to my seat.

    Is it because I counted down the progress by reporting every step of the way?

    For some reason, I felt like a ghost was chasing me, so it wasn''t a very intense movement, but sweat was running down my back.

    One!

    - Bump!!

    Sefi!! I''m here!!!

    Eugene''s countdown was accurate, and I was able to get back to my seat in time.

    I raised my hand and wiped the cold sweat from my forehead... , Oh. candy.

 CH 191

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 191

    39. An uninvited visitor to the duke''s residence (2)

    This reveals why Serpens gave me candy.

    It was because he didn''t want others to see him holding a big lollipop.

    Especially if that target becomes a humanus, it would be even worse.

    ''I''m happy when Serpens and I are eating well, but... .''

    If you''re a Yuma Snowbird, who calls itself a bamboo shooter, she''ll try to make fun of Serpens.

    For this reason, I will tell you in advance. I don''t have the ability to read signs like you do.

    I was surprised to find out that I had a real tooth decay.

    ''In other words, it is said that he entrusted it to me as soon as possible .''

    Thanks to that, I ended up being a candy-and-squeaking rogue aide at work.

    I slowly lowered my arm under the desk and hid the candy.

    "Why is the Crown Prince here?"

    Serpens asked, getting up from his seat as a courtesy.

    In the past, he would have tilted his head with an innocent expression as if he was asking because he was really curious, but now he was making a forced smile that felt uncomfortable to anyone looking at it.

    "Huh? Did Sepi tell you to stop by the Empire?"

    Huma-Eunsae asked with a puzzled expression.

    Behind him, dressed in a white robe

    Liena politely folded her hands and nodded her head slightly with a look of regret.

    It was an apology for what happened suddenly.

    The impediment of the demon worshipers seemed to go way beyond that, meaning that it would be better to go through an empire that could contain it as much as possible.

    "I thought it was because there were words I couldn''t convey through letters. What?"

    At Serpens'' words, Humanus smiled haha and scratched the back of his head shyly.

    "I said clearly that I would.

    I did it], let me kill myself alone... . I want to see my sister too... .

    An unsatisfied murmur was heard from somewhere.

    My sister''s wish, it''s Anima''s voice.

    I can''t see her, but I can only hear her voice], it seems that she, of small stature, is hidden behind the other party.

    A humanus with a height of over 180, or looking around next to him, looking around the inside of the office. Standing behind a woman who was about the same height as Humanus could not be seen.

    ''Is it puror?''

    As described in [Master of the Holy Sword], it looked like it had copper-colored skin and red-brown hair tied high in one.

    "Since this is what happened, would you like to join Sepy too?"

    I will specify.

    Now that you know how to handle the Holy Sword, it''s fine. Of course, it may not be enough for Sefi to see, but you won''t be relying solely on Sefi!

    I am the holy sword hung from Humanus'' waist. Exactly, I saw the scabbard that contained it.

    Even before departure, it was a rather splendid but ordinary scabbard with large, milky-white jewels that had not been seen.

    It was reminiscent of a white opal with a strange light flickering in it.

    It must be the reward from the first trial.''

    A warrior''s armor is not a standardized object.

    Based on what the owner of the holy sword wanted most at the time, it was the power that resided in one of the things he had.

    leave it,

    [Godsmea who considers even the fashion taste of the person who gets the weapon!]

    [Even if you''re like me, if you throw out old clothes and wear them, you won''t wear them even if they have great features!]

    [Even if he can''t work, he''s an outstanding fashion pioneer.]

    There were comments like that.

    Anyway, the first warrior''s armor that Humanus obtained became a sword, and its function

    plays a secondary role in controlling the power of the Holy Sword.

    In other words, when it comes to dealing with the power of the Holy Sword, the only thing I did was temper.

    ''Of course, I had to improve my skills.''

    The demons attacked me like that, and if it doesn''t increase, that''s weird.

    I will refuse, though.

    ,,why?!,,

    To Serpense''s stern refusal, Humanus responded that he couldn''t believe it, and Serpense let out a small sigh.

    A friend''s house broke into the mansion

    didn''t you say But only Humanus seems friendly?"

    Seeing the two of them like that, Puror asked Liena with a puzzled expression.

    According to Humanus-sama''s words, Serpens-nim is very shy, so it seems that he is often open-minded.

    "Isn''t it just an open relationship? It''s strange . My nib is saying it''s not, is it strange?"

    Puror, who heard Liena''s answer, tilted his head with his arms crossed with an even more mysterious expression.

    I still have work to do here.

    A thing to do?

    "After the last ordeal, I will go to the second prince in the former Ferrarius realm and tell him."

    Isn''t it okay to tell me now?

    It''s asking for confidentiality, so I can''t.

    No matter what the conversation was behind the scenes, Serpence and Humanus continued their conversation.

    Does Frederick know?

    "On this matter, even if the Crown Prince

    Even if I told you, there was an order from His Majesty not to announce it.

    But I know, I know Eugenes, and even Winston recently heard about it.

    They say they are preparing in advance for the demon that will appear in the dark area.

    As a member of the Illuminati, I told him to know, but it came out of Serpens'' mouth anyway.

    Does your father know?

    Of course. And the Duke of Argento knows some, if not all.

    But what about me?

    Your Majesty, don''t worry about anything else, and focus on ending the ordeal for now.

    It''s for the sake of me and the continent because Sepi is doing it, but it''s a bit sad.

    I don''t know if it''s for the continent, but if you ask if it''s for Humanus, I''ll answer no.

    I''m sorry that I made a mistake and made you come to the capital despite the hasty journey.

    Serpens softly twisted the words, ''You have nothing to say, so get out of here.''

    did.

    However, it is not for nothing that I call Huma Eyesea Hugh Manus for nothing.

    Oh, are you against it?

    No. I misunderstood, well. So, Sefi needs to apologize 1һ �� ....

    Saying that, Humanus approached Serpens and tried to put his arm friendlyly on his shoulder.

    And Serpens, who listened to me even though he didn''t listen to the emperor, avoided it.

    Suddenly, Humanus raised his arms in the air.

    staggered and staggered.

    Uh, uh... Sepi?

    Say it.

    "Why, why are you avoiding it?"

    You must be busy, but I don''t think I should take any more time...

    He said it would take a few minutes to pat on the shoulder.

    It was no excuse.

    No matter how much Humanus noticed it, he looked at Serpens with empty eyes.

    When I get home from work, I hug my cat and squirm, thinking about healing.

    It was the same expression as when a cat scratched herself and slowly got out of her arms and climbed up on the cat tower.

    ''What a nuisance to our cat?''

    Even if you don''t have a cat. If you try to do that to someone else''s cat, you have no choice but to run away.

    When I heard a clicking sound from the side and turned my head, at some point, Eugene was standing there.

    I couldn''t go out because of the storm of Humanus and his party, but I was confused as I stood in the middle of the office.

    It looks like it came from Lee.

    Hey, Sepi, are you mad? Hurry up and find information about the second ordeal, but you think I wasted my time? Get angry, huh?

    As Humanus was trying to stab him in the side with his elbow while slyly speaking, Serpens avoided it again.

    I guess I''m slowly coming this way... ?''

    I looked down at the candy in my hand.

    I understand why you gave me this, but I still don''t know what to do with it.

    ''If I throw it away, will the serpens sound? Would it be ok if I buy a new one? Can I throw this in the office trash before then? What if an ant gets kinked? Serpens can kill demons but can''t kill ants, isn''t it really a big deal?''

    Complex thoughts scrambled in my head.

    Meanwhile, Humanus, who had an ogee, continued to pursue Serpence, who, while running away from him, slipped between me and Eugene.

    I don''t know what this is doing.

    "Really close no, isn''t it?

    just . strange? What is it?"

    I also played with my sister a lot while playing tag... I want to play with her too... I only hurt Humanus...

    Puror put on a worried expression on their actions, which at first glance seemed like a joke.

    Behind her, the anima, half-discovered by the movement of Humanus, trembled and stared at them.

    "Ah By the way, how did you find out about the second ordeal, Serpens-sama?"

    Lee, who took the position of common sense among the party

    As if Ena couldn''t see it, she spoke to Serpens.

    Yes, that''s right! How did you know that? I answered before I even gave the clue, so you thought the eyes of the dwarf apostle who explained the ordeal would pop out?

    Humanus, who was aiming for a gap in Serpence between me and Eugene, also took a step back and asked if he was curious about it.

    It''s like playing with a friend during break time and then hitting the class bell and sitting down.

    Serpence is seriously avoiding

    just.

    Judging from the still bright expression on Humanus''s face looking at him, he must have thought that Serpens was playing a prank.

    Even today, Humanus has built up one more space in his friendship stack.

    " it might get a little long, so I''ll tell you later."

    According to the Serpensian interpreter, it''s just a call to shut up and keep going.

    Oh, I''m going to stay overnight in the capital for one day. There are a lot of vacant rooms? I''ll take care of you for just one day.

    Yes?

    In response to Humanus''s abusive behavior that suddenly came and asked if he could sleep at your house with his friends, Serpens had a suspicious expression on his face.

    I''m really sorry. I should have called you in advance...

    There was no objection as to whether the content had been previously discussed with the party, but there was an apology from Liena.

    Bona Mana Humanus must have flaunted her friendship with Serpens and said that it was okay not to.

    ''I never took another friend to my friend''s room?!''

    No matter how close your friends are, basic manners should be respected. Especially if it''s an unfamiliar friend.

    However, to Humanus, who had an open mind that all friends of friends were friends, that didn''t seem to matter much.

    I know it''s busy, but I''m in a hurry to get to the capital city, so I''m tired of running and eating for several days. Besides, since I came to the Empire, the demon worshipers haven''t been able to do anything, so I took a good rest today.

    It doesn''t look like the schedule is going to get messed up.

    Humanus declared a holiday.

    If that''s the case, it''s the Imperial Palace...

    It''s getting too big.

    Since you''ve come to the capital after a long time, how about visiting the Count of Opulence to meet with yourself?

    Sepie, I think it''s because you don''t know the relationship between men and women...

    Humanus looked back at his party.

    No matter how much they are colleagues, they go to their lover''s house with as many as three people of the opposite sex.

    Asking them to sleep on the bed means they can''t afford it.

    Anyway! Let''s take care of yourself for today. I''ll ask you, huh? What''s a good friend?

    It was not a very good request because I was not satisfied with the prerequisite ''friend''.

    Serpense glanced at me with a look of what to do in this case.

    ''Yanmar, can''t you turn your eyes away?!''

    A duke getting permission from his aide to let guests stay overnight in his mansion!

    You decide on your own, and quickly

    Blind eyes in the sense of turning or turning.

    The guy who got my eyes turned a little pale.

    That''s, umm... I see. I''ll call the butler and show you the room you''ll be staying in.

    In fact, the answer seems to have been decided from the beginning. It is impossible to drive out the Crown Prince Humanus.

    In the end, Serpens accepted his request.

 CH 192

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 192

    39. An uninvited visitor to the duke''s residence (3)

    As expected, Sepi! Thank you!!

    As soon as the words of permission were given, Humanus rejoiced and came to embrace Serpens.

    To avoid it, Serpens grabbed me and put me in front of him, and suddenly I was in the arms of Humanus.

    " Sefi? What is this?"

    From the top of the head, I could hear Humanus'' sullen voice.

    This time, I couldn''t help but agree with his words. what the hell is this?

    Sir Zion.

    He answered, pulling me away from Humanus, as if saying that Serpens was not giving it to me.

    Humanus also let go of it as if there was no need for it.

    Puha! He doesn''t look like that, but he''s a very funny person, isn''t he?

    Purorga, who was still confused

    Min-ha burst out laughing out loud as if he had given up.

    The confusion she was feeling passed over to me like a baton touch.

    ''If I had known that something like this would happen, I wouldn''t have given that advice to Serpens!''

    Who would have imagined that I would cut it off and say no, and start playing tag.

    As soon as Humanus returns, it''s time to re-teach Serpens what the proper way to reject is.

    Seppy, I haven''t been there so much

    Are you bored?"

    The ignorant bastard didn''t notice it and made an ignorant noise.

    If you''re too lazy, keep an eye out for it!

    butler.

    Yes.

    Serpens ignored Humanus''s bullshit and quietly called the butler, and Hans answered immediately.

    Now that I''m used to it, I''m not surprised.

    ''After hearing that Humanus went straight to the office, he must have come to himself.''

    When Hans appeared, Liena and Puror, who were in front of the door, stepped aside. Anima was led by Liena''s hand and moved.

    Please guide the guests to the room they will be staying in...

    No. I''d like to hear the long story that Sepi told me earlier, and I have to introduce my new colleague, so I''ll just move my luggage and get room guidance after dinner.

    The words he was about to kick out caught Serpence''s ankle.

    " Do what the Crown Prince has told you."

    Yes, I understand.

    Hans replied politely.

    Through the door, I saw Hans beckoning to someone. It seems that he even brought the attendants to carry the group''s luggage.

    The servants took over their burdens, and Hans entered the office and received the burdens of the Crown Prince Humanus himself.

    Well then, why don''t you just stand here and talk, then move to the drawing room.

    Humanus, who became light by carrying the burden

    As if it were my own home, I naturally opened the door leading to the living room and spoke.

    Humanus-sama. That''s what the owner of the house has to say.

    It''s okay, it''s okay. Sepi''s house is my house, and my house is Sefi''s house!

    Liena said with a worried expression on whether this was really okay, but Humanus replied cheerfully as if it was no problem.

    ''If you say that, the Imperial Palace becomes the Serpence''s house, isn''t it really okay?''

    In the duke''s residence in Prasidus Territory

    Even with the lord''s castle on it, it could be said that it was a trade that would remain quite a bit if it was traded with the imperial palace.

    Serpens made a great deal that even Solertia couldn''t make!

    ''It''s a deal I didn''t want, so I stopped the problem... .''

    Anyway, we moved to the drawing room.

    The maids were already preparing refreshments in the drawing room. And Xeon stood watching them as if supervising them.

    Even at the visit of the Crown Prince and the owner of the Holy Sword, how come Zeon, the deputy butler, is nowhere to be seen?

    I said no

    It is presumed that Hans, who had grasped the inclinations of Humanus early on, anticipated and prepared for this to happen.

    Serpens gave up the sofa for one person in the top position to Humanus, just like the last time.

    Liena, Anima, and Puror were all sitting on the sofa on one side, so I was sitting between Serpence and Eugene, who had suddenly followed me.

    "By the way, what has Sir Sion been holding since a while ago?"

    No one can eat candy that is obviously being eaten in the present progressive tense.

    Could it be that he couldn''t turn away? Humanus asked the question.

    "It''s candy , uh, um would you like some?"

    I know. That this answer is wrong.

    I couldn''t answer, ''This is the candy that Serpens gave me while eating.'' .

    I felt Serpens'' legs twitch under the table, and the face in the direction in which Euges was sitting stinged.

    " I didn''t ask because I wanted to eat. We don''t care, you and a lot.

    eat.,,

    Humanus replied with an awkward smile.

    But I had no intention of eating this either.

    You can steal the ice cream that your friend ate, but the ice cream that you lick while soaking in your saliva isn''t like that.

    This candy is the same principle.

    I don''t eat that kind of thing except when I''m pretending to be cute in front of my sister...

    The moment when the corner of one eye of Serpence was very short at Anima''s self-talk, the minute

    trembled terribly

    It is clear that she is dissatisfied with her opinion.

    Her remarks are an insult to candy, and to downgrade its value, you''d think you don''t even deserve candy.

    For Serpens, the value of this candy was not simple.

    It is basic to be able to enjoy the taste of sweet candy for a long time, and since it is rolled up in a whirlpool shape, you can feel the fun sensation when you lick it for a long time.

    Where is that?

    Between the simple sweet white portions, a mix of strawberry-flavored red and lemon-flavoured yellow portions made his tongue even more delightful.

    Yes.

    This candy was a dream candy itself for Serpens.

    ''But I can''t keep holding this... .''

    I can''t hide it anymore, I can''t give it to Serpens, and I can''t eat it.

    In the end, the time has come to dispose of

    will be.

    Deputy butler, this is...

    I don''t eat either.

    I called my On to get out of the drawing room, and handed him candy.

    You might notice that I ask you to throw it away in moderation, but Zeon flatly refused, looking at me with hateful eyes.

    "No, throw it away ugh , please,"

    I don''t know if it''s because Serpens really bit me and gave it to me.

    It would have been entrusted

    When I tried to tell him to throw away his precious things, my heart ached.

    Later, I felt the responsibility to give Serpens a new candy and provide an environment where he could eat it to the end.

    If you feel so sorry, can''t you just eat it?

    That''s right, you don''t have to worry about Anima-sama''s words. It''s probably not meant to be malicious.

    I''m very sorry... It''s okay, Sir Si On-eun, you can go out to eat.

    Puror said with a look of seeing all sorts of strange people, and Liena smiled awkwardly and spoke as if soothing.

    And Humanus made a sorry expression that he couldn''t see even when he broke into someone''s house.

    If I''m really sorry, I wish I could go out and come back to my work.

    No! Throw it away! Throw it away! Deputy butler, just throw it away!

    Ah yes.

    So while I was becoming a strange person, in the center of the table was a plate with various kinds of cookies on it.

    all.

    A cup of tea was placed in front of each seat.

    After receiving the candy from me and closing the door as Xeon went out last, there was a brief silence in the drawing room.

    "Before answering how you knew the ordeal ''Do you know about the Illumina Tee?"

    Serpens calmly opened his mouth as if nothing had happened.

    It was clear what he was going to say, even though he was lucky.

    At this point, it is right to acknowledge that the Illuminati is the intellectual property of Eugenes, and to officially conclude a contract for the use of the Illuminati trademark and pay the corresponding expenses.

    I hear you. Last year was quite a bustle.

    Yes. There was a lot of talk about their identity in the church.

    Humanus answered lightly as to whether he was the only prince, and Liena, a member of the church, also added.

    Even Furor, who had a strong sense of mercenary life, nodded his head as if he had heard such information.

    Anima, the only one in the group, sipping tea with an attitude as if she had no interest in anything else.

    I have heard from their chief.

    "If it''s them, the Illuminati?

    "Somehow, I took on the role of their spokesperson."

    What if?

    Ask me next time you meet the Second Prince. There is nothing I can tell you yet.

    Is that again?!

    Maybe Serpens was too lazy to talk, so he left the explanation to Frederick, who was not present.

    In the end, Humanus wrinkled his face as if he was frustrated when he heard the information he didn''t say at all.

    It is savory and sweeter than Congo.

    "Didn''t I say that the story was going to be long?"

    I said I''ll tell you later.

    Is that so?

    Hopefully, it was because Serpens was too lazy to talk to him.

    Humanus, who could not even think of a second, admitted that it was just that way.

    Ah, let me introduce myself first. This is Puro Le Bestialis. Did you receive the letter I sent you? That you were being pursued by demon worshipers...

    Please take good care of me, Duke Nari.

    Yes, I would like to thank you.

    At the introduction of Humanus, Serpens and Pu Lor exchanged greetings lightly.

    "I thought that the demon worshipers were pursuing them, so I decided to go with them because I thought he was an important figure to them. Is this the druid''s art of transforming into an animal that I wrote in the last letter? To aim for it.

    It''s like... .

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], demon worshipers attacked her to use her powers, the only heir to the last remaining druid, so this is not a very wrong prediction.

    This time, there must have been no such purpose at all.

    However, when Humanus and his party found them, they were almost dead.

    This power is the only legacy my dead mother left. The demons are cool.

    I''d rather let it be used as a way to die... .

    "Furor, what does that mean?"

    As Puror looked down at her clenched hands and muttered a monologue full of determination, Liena asked her in a slightly angry voice.

    Sorry, I''m so grateful to Liena. I was exhausted to save myself, and she took care of me for several days until I woke up with such an exhausted body...

    If you really appreciate me, don''t say that again.

    O uh... --9 O

    For some reason, the relationship between the characters seems to have changed a bit.

    The lifesaver who saved Puror in [Master of the Holy Sword] was Humanus, but now it seems to have been changed to Liena.

    ''Well, that''s great!''

    It was the responsibility of Liena and Eugenes to calm down the rampaging party, so now that Euges is missing, I was worried in my heart whether she would be able to control it alone.

    It seems that Liena is holding Furor''s collar tightly, so it''s very reassuring.

    all.

 CH 193

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 193

    39. An uninvited visitor to the duke''s residence (4)

    Anima, sitting between Liena and Puror, sat dazed with an expression that she didn''t care what was going on above her head.

    Based on what I read in [Master of the Holy Sword], when I think about it, ''I want to go back to my older sister as soon as possible because a demon lord has died alone It is clear that they are thinking the same thing.

    The person sitting next to Sefi is his assistant, Sir Zion Ribelon, and next to him... I''ve been wondering for a while, are you here to play?

    He had met the other party at the banquet hall, but for the sake of the first meeting, Furor, Humanus did not continue the introduction and fell into a side road.

    This is Eugenes Wilydia. As a friend of Serpens-nim and Sion, I am currently living as a foodie of the Fra Sidus family.

    He proudly said that Euges is a friend who does not need to be called for nothing.

    It must have been the sound of telling Humanus to listen.

    What about the diplomatic envoys of the Arche Kingdom?

    Someone else is here now, and I''m quitting.

    Eugene smiled sweetly like a yuzu.

    I know it''s not, but somehow it sounded like ''I''ve got a rich friend, so I''m going to quit my job and play and eat'', so I feel complicated and subtly uncomfortable.

    In fact, he is looking at Purordo Eugene with eyes as if looking at the moon in a white towel.

    go.

    ''If this happens, will Serpens be remembered as a mischievous person to Puror, I am a candy obsessive person, and Eugene''s being remembered as a white man?''

    desperate No first impression could be more disappointing than this.

    It is now the Illuminati, which is slowly establishing itself as an official group, but the executives are like this.

    "Hahaha, will I also come into the duke''s residence after everything is done?"

    "The Crown Prince is the heir to the throne, so of course he should return to the Imperial Palace, right?"

    Serpens fell in love with Humanus'' light joke and said, ''Don''t talk nonsense and get out of your house.''

    It''s just something I''ve heard. Sepy is really worried about me, right?

    I''m not worried about him, I''m worried about him.

    "After the trip, you will marry Rainier right away, and you can''t live with the duke as a golden newlywed, right?"

    But don''t be too jealous. Love is love, friendship is friendship.

    After all, Sepi is my best friend!

    Even though there was no one to talk to, Humanus was talking to himself.

    Serpence, who was referred to as that ''best friend, had a momentum that would not accept him no matter what he said.

    Serpens raised his eyebrows and smiled annoyed, while Humanus smiled brightly.

    ''What''s wrong with him?''

    In a bad sense, his growth

    I was curious about this

    Come to think of it in a letter to the Crown Prince, I wrote about the brainwashing magic that the demon worshipers had recently developed, did you see it?

    Serpens turned his head away from Humanus and spoke to Liena, who was sitting in front of him.

    I was having a conversation that didn''t even have a connection, but it turned out to be a moose

    He was just tired of accepting Humanus'' words any longer.

    Yeah, I read it, but...

    Are you having any problems?

    Liena''s complexion darkened, and Serpens made a friendly expression and asked a question carefully.

    It was an expression that he had never seen before for Humanus today.

    "There are almost no people who come to the branch I was in because of mental pain Even if they do, the basic manual is to help the believers overcome themselves through dialogue as much as possible. I''m not sure if I should approach it.

    It deserves it.

    Mental trauma is inevitably caused by the underlying memory, because the divine power cannot do anything about the memory itself.

    In the end, it will be temporary stability.

    Unless you have trouble breathing or self-harm due to frequent seizures, you do not need to go to the church to borrow the power of divine power.

    "Will it ever happen somehow?"

    "To be honest, I don''t have the confidence to succeed all at once. Moreover, the side effects of failure are too great .

    I''m worried about whether I''ll be able to do well without trembling.

    At Furor''s words, Liena shook her head with a gloomy face.

    Although she had never actually faced the victim yet, she was already struggling with a sense of responsibility.

    Seeing it with her own eyes, I could tell that she suffered more at that time than I had read in text in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    "How could Serpens-sama be able to do that?"

    It was a reaction that could be described as unbelievable.

    Eugene''s shoulder rubbed against my shoulder. Looking in that direction, she turned her upper body halfway to look at Serpens.

    I wished that Humanus had only half of the sensibility she had.

    Now, it has become a shameful name, but wasn''t he once called the one who would become the master of the holy sword. As I have worked hard for the continent as much as I can, it seems that such a thing has become possible.

    Serpens responded with a humble expression.

    I think I understand why Humanus-sama is proud of Serpens-sama and wants to have him as a companion.

    she said with a bitter smile.

    He didn''t say it himself, but he might be thinking that it was better for Serpence to join the party than himself.

    Then], Serpens got up quietly from his seat.

    Excuse me for a moment.

    Serpens turned to Humanus and approached Liena and put her finger on her forehead.

    It was obvious that light came from his fingertips and permeated Liena.

    ''Can you think of it as teaching me how to practice and how to do it?''

    Liena also recognized his intentions right away, and closed her eyes, focusing on the flow of divine power that Serpens had sent.

    Hey, Duke Na-ri looks great.

    My friend is a little crazy!

    ''''My sister is also doing great... .

    Humanus was proud of Puror''s admiring words, and Anima, who had been smoking all the time, secretly joined in the pride of his acquaintances.

    ''By the way, what about her ''sister''?''

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], the anima became a catalyst for growth, so this time the demons might not want to touch it.

    ''But what about the possibility of trying to hold it hostage rather than using it as a vessel?''

    When her ego, which the devil deliberately left behind, came out, she continued to

    said.

    Do not succumb to evil. don''t get weak

    Stop relying on yourself now, and move on.

    While attacking the anima because the demon has completely lost control of her body and magic, watching the anima who can''t even counterattack and only blocks her attacks while crying.

    ''Break yourself up, she said time and time again... .''

    Based on that, if we try to understand her inclination, if she tries to hold onto the anima''s ankle,

    will try to sail

    If the anima is corrupted or used by demons because of her, she will suffer unbearably.

    The anima acts like she''s hanging around her neck, but that''s because she knows she''s giving her affection.

    She truly cared for the anima.

    Anima, who follows her as an orphan like her own sister, must have been special to her.

    Who is that ''sister''?

    Why are you asking such a thing? I''m sure you''re not interested in my sister? Dare you?!

    Not the reaction I was expecting.

    I thought he would brag about himself if he asked me, but Anima looked at me with sharp eyes and was wary.

    And Serpens looked at her with distasteful eyes.

    It may seem like they are just staring at them, but there was dissatisfaction in the eyes that were very fine and narrow than usual.

    '' You should focus on that.''

    I don''t know what you''re doing because it''s a delicate work.

    ''''I was just wondering what a wonderful, wonderful and wonderful person he is, so I asked him because he was so well respected and respected. Do you have that deputy butler you went out earlier? Actually, he''s my brother. But we often quarrel with each other... .

    I guess it''s because I eat candy during work hours.

    There will be more] that would be so embarrassing in the world!

    I wanted to say something, but I couldn''t. So it got even worse.

    ''Yeah, admit that you can''t respect your brother who works with a bad attitude, chewing a big lollipop in front of his boss! But that''s not me! I don''t eat it!''

    My face twitched at the shame that shouldn''t have been mine.

    Serpens, who should have been the original master of shame, concentrated on the act of instilling divine power in Liena, pretending to be a story that had nothing to do with him.

    Such a lethal fence!

    "Just one day , come one day earlier or late! I took it out because I really liked it!!"

    Shion, cheer up. It''s okay, calm down. I understand everything.

    Yujis patted my back in pain while covering my face.

    I will definitely put this debt down and pay it back to him.

    He calmed his mind by imagining Serpens trembling with shame in his head.

    Isn''t that ''unnie'' going to eat some candy too?

    My older sister is an adult, so she doesn''t eat childish candy like that!

    I eat delicious things, but what about children and adults?

    Where are you? That''s an insult to candy, apologise!

    huh!

    I tried defending Candy for Serpence, but Anima sneered and ignored it.

    The way he turns his head as it is, it seems that he does not like the argument about candy as well as the conversation itself with me.

    Unlike anima, who is famous for being a genius and granddaughter of Ma Thapju, she is not famous, so I thought I would find out something... .

    Probably from Anima right now

    It seemed difficult to obtain the information of a person called ''sister''.

    ''The same wizard, Solertia, said he didn''t know... .''

    He was in the production line and his mana sensitivity was low, so he couldn''t climb the horse tower, and he lived in an affiliated building of the horse tower or something.

    Should I use the dark route as Euges learned about the arena?

    ''''Do you feel like you''re feeling a little better now?

    "I think I know it''s still a little vague."

    Feeling that Liena was following her to some extent, Serpens removed her hand from her forehead.

    You''re the one who was chosen as a companion of the Holy Sword in the Church. With a little effort, you will definitely be able to do it.

    Yeah, Liena can do it enough! You saved me, who was almost dying, didn''t you?

    Serpens spoke softly, making up a gentle smile, and Furor spoke vigorously as if to cheer him up.

    Looking at the two of them alternately, Liena clasped her hands in front of her chest with a moved expression.

    The atmosphere was so warm, the Anima sitting between Liena and Puror seemed smaller.

    ''If that''s the case, why did you put him in the middle?''

    I''m trying to secure a view to prevent things from being hidden by Puror... .

 CH 194

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 194

    39. An uninvited visitor to the duke''s residence (5)

    While Humanus recounts memories and Serpence smiles silently.

    Time flew by, and it was already evening time.

    It was such a meaningless time that I wondered if there was a waste of time like today for Serpence.

    ''I haven''t even touched the cookie side.''

    Watching the cookies shrink one by one in front of his eyes, he must have drank bitterly bitter tea one after another, and how burned his stomach.

    It''s a very heartbreaking story.

    As if to represent Serpence''s heart, his teacup lost the warmth it had been holding in its arms and became cold.

    We left the drawing room, leaving empty teacups behind.

    When we arrived at the dining room, an incomparably extravagant dinner was waiting for us.

    Again, this guy will eat or drink to get rid of the fortune teller.

    I''ll have to try them all, pick one that suits his taste, and ask the kitchen to upload one or two every day.

    " Have I been prejudiced against nobles?"

    As I was sitting down and thinking about which one to eat first, Furor suddenly threw out an incomprehensible word.

    prejudice?

    Hwang, who can be called the highest peak of the established elite

    Humanus, a clan, asked, unable to pass by.

    I thought that high-ranking nobles were only those who drew the line between the upper and lower ranks and guarded them like knives so that they could not fall over. Humanus is an exception in many ways...

    Yeah, Sephi and I are best friends! It''s only natural for friends to look alike.

    Humanus was right.

    The first sentence is wrong, the second sentence is correct.

    "It''s not like that, it''s like an aide is present to welcome guests, or something like this now.

    Going to a meeting or something like that. All I picked up on was aristocratic culture and etiquette, so I thought I could eat them separately."

    Huh?

    But I think so. Even if the assistant officer is a subordinate, he must be the same nobleman... I must have just misunderstood.

    Instinctively, I thought something was strange, so I spoke up, but looking back on it, was it because I felt that there was nothing strange about it?

    Furor showed this as if he was shy and grinned.

    And the gaze of Humanus

    headed

    Huh? Sir Zion, why are you here?

    Damn, I got it.

    I thought you wouldn''t find out if it was your opponent... .

    There was an unexpected ambush.

    Oh, I''m not aware of the guests, but if I''m interrupted... I''ll go out and eat separately, so please enjoy your dinner.

    Was this how Serpence felt, who couldn''t eat the cookie in front of him?

    Are you going to get up after dinner?

    Dissatisfaction creeps in.

    Eugene, who was sitting next to him, was also confused as to whether he should get up or not, so he pulled the chair back halfway.

    "No, I didn''t mean it that way !"

    Isn''t that right? Then can I sit back?

    ''''Yes. I''m just surprised that it sits so naturally.

    "If that''s the case, then tell me it''s like that from the beginning, didn''t I almost misunderstand you?"

    I am a generous person, Humanu

    I decided to forgive him and sat down with a smile.

    Humanus should thank me.

    If only I had been sulking like this and left with polite words starting with ''No:'' like an external fence.

    Serpens must have resented Humanus.

    As evidence of that, the gaze of the guy who had turned to him for a moment turned away again.

    Uh, yeah... I''m sorry. I''ve had dinner with Sepi at the Duchess House several times, but I''ve never been with Sepi''s former aide.

    there wasn''t.

    I have to be very capable. It is only natural that the Duke cares for me.

    To add credibility to my words, I ruffled my petty bangs so that the sleeves with the church''s commemorative badge could be seen.

    "Isn''t that badge on the sleeve the Luxmea Church''s badge of honor?!"

    It must have been that he belonged to the church, so Liana recognized it right away.

    I just called it a commemorative badge, but the denomination seems to have a different name. It''s a grand name,

    This has been very helpful in my current situation.

    Ah, did you see it? They say it detects black magic, so I wear it on my sleeve so it''s easy to see.

    It''s a good way. Sometimes they put it in a picture frame and hang it around the house, saying that it will be used as heirloom, or many people wear it on a collar or chest to show off, so the meaning fades.

    I said something proud of anyone who heard it, but it must not have sounded that way to Liena, whose trust in me has increased due to the influence of the badge of honor.

    Judging by the expression on his face that he was thrilled, it is certain.

    A lot of things happened while I was away from the Empire, and it seems that I got closer to Sepi too.

    Humanus uttered a rumor that even the demons could go through. That''s the best bullshit I''ve heard this year.

    I am close to Serpens incomparably to Humanus, both now and then.

    By the way, a customer came and I couldn''t finish all my work for today. I''ll report it.

    There was... . Did the Duke tell you earlier that there were materials to be checked in the library?"

    It''s true that I couldn''t finish all my work because of a customer coming, but since there was nothing urgent, it wouldn''t be a problem for me to take care of it tomorrow.

    Also, Serpens never once spoke the word ''study'' today. All are blatant lies.

    you]. So, sorry for the inconvenience, but would you like to come up to the library with the papers?"

    If you pretend, you pretend.

    Serpens who understood the intent of my words

    said with a soft smile.

    Ah! A sudden guest visit, so I forgot why I visited the office earlier!

    Eugenes, who came to bring flowers and achieved his intended purpose, also lied.

    The reason was obvious. Like me, it was to show off their friendship in front of Humanus.

    "Um is it urgent?"

    Yes Yes!

    After all, we play together in the study every evening, so of course Serpens is in the study.

    Eugese, who had thought he would tell him to come up, flinched.

    At Serpens'' response, which seemed to be conflicting, she could not hide her nervousness and clenched her fork.

    "Then, since I have no choice, would you like to come again after dinner?"

    "As a library?"

    If Wilydia-sama is okay...

    "It''s okay!"

    In response to Serpence''s words that followed, Eugene was relieved. smiling on her face

    The flowers were in full bloom.

    He''s like that narrow-minded guy.

    Before Humanus came, it must have been that he had been making fun of her in his heart.

    Huh? Isn''t it on the 5th floor of Seojae-myeon? I never let you in?!

    It seems that no matter how ignorant Humanus was, he noticed that this time it was strange.

    If you didn''t even notice this, you should ask for your qualifications as a human rather than the master of the holy sword.

    Whenever the Crown Prince comes,

    Since I was working in the office... .,,

    Serpence said that he was sorry, but it meant that it was your fault that a worker came to you.

    However, Serpens must have been in his study or room, and if he felt Humanus was coming, he would have gone back to his office and pretended to work.

    Even if I ask you to take a break...

    "I had a lot of work left to do."

    Yeah, that''s all you said and just had a cup of tea in the living room next to the office, didn''t you?

    "I had to go back to my office right away to work, so I had no choice but to do it."

    As soon as Humanus finished speaking, Serpense''s autoresponder macro followed.

    Humanus gave a sad expression to the mechanical response that popped out without even loading time.

    But it would have been nice if you had given me a little more time.

    My Highness always comes without contacting me, so I can''t secure enough time in advance... I''m sorry.

    Serpens informs everyone in this place that all of this is Humanus'' fault.

    Nevertheless, Humanus, who speaks as if he had done something wrong, made a sad face as if he was savage.

    He lowered his head, spitting out words of apology that he didn''t even want.

    Humanus was wrong.

    Furor''s wild words came out.

    Humanus, who is ignorant but has a conscience, said, ''Ugh... "I shrugged and shrugged my shoulders.

    No matter what Humanus-sama said, I should have contacted you in some way in advance... I''m sorry.

    No. It''s not the first time the Crown Prince has visited without contact like this... It''s been repeated for nearly ten years, so I''m used to it now.

    Liena''s mouth widened at Serpens''s response with a bitter smile.

    How could she do that? He looked at Humanus with eyes that could not be understood by his common sense.

    "Somehow, no one stopped me even if I went to the mansion recklessly.

    not... .

    Furor stuck out his tongue in surprise.

    "Chi, I''m friendly, but . that . Mi, sorry. I will contact you next time... peel?

    A conscientious but ignorant, shrewd, half-broken Humanus glanced at Serpens and spoke carefully.

    After all, this kind of drug prescription is necessary for a ignorant guy.

    Yes, I would be grateful if you could.

    Even though it is natural to come in contact, Minpyeonus''s visit without notice

    Serpens, who had suffered from this, deliberately said thank you and slaughtered Humanus'' conscience.

    If it was that uncomfortable, wouldn''t you have told me?

    "I told you, but your Highness overcame it by saying, ''It could be between friends.''"

    "What? Me? When?!"

    "10 years ago, he visited the mansion without notice and said so."

    Was it around 10 years ago when Serpens became a duke and became the owner of this mansion?

    That being said, I think it should be considered as the beginning that Serpens, who was alone, played with him because he was afraid he would be lonely.

    The intentions were good, but only the intentions were good.

    My, why did I do that...?

    I do not know.

    Did I over-interpret Humanus, or did I forget that it was too old?

    I want to believe in the latter as much as possible.

    If it is the former, it seems that humanity will disappear.

    Well then... after dinner

    I mean... .

    "Aren''t you supposed to rest for today?"

    Before Humanus could finish speaking, Serpens cut him off and spoke quickly.

    stop talking to others It is quite rare for an external fence.

    I''m afraid he''ll ask if I can go to the library or not.

    But you''ve come all the way here, but you can''t go without seeing Rainier. I''ll go outside for a while. Is that okay?

    But I guess it was a bit of a concern.

    He had other things to do, and he seemed to have decided to change his habit of going in and out of the duke''s work without Serpens'' permission.

    If there was one regretful thing, it was that he didn''t even notice that Serpence hated him.

    you], it''s fine. Please go.

    At the news of Humanus going out, Serpens was very happy and smiled brightly.

 CH 195

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 195

    39. An uninvited visitor to the duke''s residence (6)

    After dinner, the three of us gathered in Serpens''s study to stop Humanus'' ignorance.

    He drank a cocktail made by an elf who loved tea, and chewed humanus like a snack.

    How can you not know that you hate it so much?!

    That''s right.

    It was only natural for Eugenes to be astonished.

    Still, if I''m going to be honest, maybe. It seems to work a little bit, so why don''t Serpence speak more clearly?

    Are you aware that you are speaking as if there is no hope at all?

    I was just stating what I felt, but after listening to Serpens and looking back on what I had said, it was exactly what he said.

    Such a humanus! He''s like a hopeless guy.

    How about anything? I want to grow up to be a child who can say with certainty that he doesn''t like Serpense.

    , uh...

    I do not like it?

    It''s not like that.

    We were talking about saying no if we don''t like it, but he showed an ambiguous attitude, neither dislike nor good.

    "Then why?"

    Even so, demon worshipers come and say, ''They''re trying to antagonize the master of the holy sword.

    D, is it okay to create a discord in this way?"

    Who wants to fight and fight? Let''s just fix what''s wrong, this is it. And how about a fight!

    Whether to fight or not, can''t you tell for sure?

    Serpens pouted his lips and wrinkled one eye slightly. Anyone who sees it is a dissatisfied expression.

    It''s not a fight that creates conflict, but an argument that finds a compromise. It''s not bad. There''s a saying that the ground hardens after rain... isn''t it? Anyway, we found each other''s problems through conversation.

    It is said that there is no need to be afraid because the process of aligning with each other is like a foundation for moving forward and developing together. I''m not saying that''s a discord.

    "What if it isn''t tuned?"

    "I should have said it was inconvenient to visit without contact], was Humanus offended? I think he apologized and apologized?"

    Yes it was.

    Humanus doesn''t care. Especially when it comes to me, Serpens, it tends to get worse, so he''s definitely not the bad guy.

    all.

    It''s just that there is no concept itself that Serpens may hate or feel uncomfortable with them.

    And Serpens must have contributed to the disappearance of Humanus'' eyesight.

    If he said, ''We''re friends, and that''s what we usually do with our friends,'' he would think, ''That''s right, this is normal.'' it was obvious

    '' for a moment. Then, is it still Humanus'' fault?!''

    He seems to be the bad guy, since he filled his own satisfaction by deceiving the pure-white Serpense who knew nothing.

    Wow, you bastard who is the master of such a demon-worshiping holy sword! How could you do that to an innocent child?!

    I have one question for you.

    While he was swearing at Humanus inwardly, Euges raised his voice carefully.

    He made eye contact with her and nodded his head to tell her.

    ''''Between Serpens-sama and Humanus

    Why did it happen like this?"

    I don''t think of Serpens as friends, but Humanus...

    I know that. Humanus thinks he''s close to himself and invades private areas at will and causes trouble, spreads rumors that he and Serpens-sama are best friends, and doesn''t take into account the feelings of the other person. Or commit the rudeness of trying to skinship without hesitation.

    I really knew very well.

    If I had to grade her answer, I''d like to give her 10 out of 10 and add another 10.

    enough.

    "What I want to ask is, why is Serpens-sama so reluctant and disliked of Humanus? Of course, what I just said is enough reason to dislike him, but Serpens-sama does not dislike Humanus. You don''t like people you don''t like doing things like that.

    No, I can''t say no, I''m really surprised.

    To list out so many reasons to dislike and then realize that there are other reasons. Is this really possible

    go?

    If there was not only one god in this world, Luxmea, he would have seriously doubted that a god had come to Euges.

    "How did you know that?"

    Shion adds one more drink and treats you like a child or even a cat, but Serpens-sama loves you so much.

    "Who on earth invaded Serpence''s private sphere at will, talked about being friends, without hesitation did it all?!"

    Yes?

    He was on the same level as Humanus!

    My self-esteem is hurting inexorably, and it''s sad that I can''t deny it.

    However, it is something I did after I became close, so I read through myself thoroughly.

    " Serpense, did you ever say that you were offended or offended by my actions?"

    There are many times when it''s ridiculous or crazy, but it doesn''t seem to be.

    "Never once?"

    Sometimes when you do dangerous things .

    I''m fine without it.

    thank God. Anyway, I''m better than Humanus.

    Serpence was making an absurd expression, but for a day or two. let''s just do it

    "There are other reasons as Eugenes said "

    I glanced at Serpens, and he shook his head from side to side.

    It is an expression of not wanting to disclose details.

    Eugene noticed it and smiled bitterly.

    "That''s a little bit hard to say.

    That''s right. I never believed in Eugenes or thought of ostracizing him."

    I know. It''s okay if you don''t have to explain it.

    Usually, he tried to do this, but he often turned his back on him in anger at how he could do it.

    But she didn''t give up even though she knew she wasn''t open to her, and she didn''t force her to find out what she was hiding.

    Even words were not enough to describe her.

    Someday.

    Yes?,,

    Yes?

    The voice that resounded in a small way was definitely Serpens''s.

    Reflexively, when I and Eugene''s gaze turned to Serpens, he kept his mouth shut and pretended not to know.

    ''I know whose voice it is, but I don''t ask for anything else.''

    As soon as they had breakfast, Humanus and his party set out to continue their ordeal again.

    I packed my things and went out of the building.

    "Are you going to see me off?"

    Seeing Serpens waiting for him without going to the office right away, Humanus said with a bright smile.

    There is a reason for that, and there is something to give.

    "Are you going to give me a present?"

    Yes. It''s similar.

    It''s not a formal gift to the imperial palace on your birthday, and it''s nothing, but Sefi personally handed you a gift, what''s the matter?

    Did you even realize the importance of me too late? I hope you didn''t cry or do anything to miss me while I was away, right?

    Humanus expressed his wishes in a grand way.

    Rather, it would be more credible to say that Tenebrio was reformed and resigned as the Demon King and joined the Luxmea Church to become a cardinal.

    "It is a gift that is not a big deal, given with the hope that it will be a small contribution to your trip."

    Serpens ignored Humanus'' words and opened a small, nicely wrapped box to Huma.

    handed it to Nuss.

    "The packaging will come later .

    Huh?

    it''s nothing.

    As soon as he received the gift, Humanus unwrapped it without Serpence saying anything.

    Seeing Humanus already holding the contents in his hand before even telling him to open it later, Serpens closed his mouth.

    what''s this?

    A space pocket.

    I originally gave at least one to Humanus.

    It was an idea, but I didn''t pretend I forgot it because it was kind of disgusting, but it seems that Serpens didn''t forget it and even packaged it.

    uh? maybe that i know? really?

    Humanus trembled, opened the mouth of his pocket, and put his arm inside it.

    Is it true?! Why do you think this is not a big deal? When you give something like this, you could give it a little more condescending...

    I guess I said this because I knew I would get this kind of reaction and wanted to open it up later.

    Did you think that you were willing to yield to yourself without using such a convenient and precious thing yourself?

    Humanus, unaware that there are five more identical objects, fell into a melting pot of emotion and struggled.

    ''Before that, it was originally something that Humanus should have obtained, and the one who came to me was Eugese... .''

    It was correct that it was savored enough.

    ''''It''s just something I got my hands on by chance. If this can help the ''Master of the Holy Sword'' journey, I''m satisfied with that.

    If you look carefully at Serpense''s remarks and think about it, it was very easy to notice that it was a gift given to ''the master of the holy sword, not the humanus''.

    However, it was very difficult to expect that kind of attention from Humanus.

    ''''Seppy... !

    Humanus, who reached the maximum level of emotion, immediately rushed to Serpens, and Serpens ran away again.

    " Sepi?"

    "Yes, tell me."

    "Why do you keep avoiding me since yesterday?" So, honestly... . It''s a burden, it''s embarrassing," said Serpens at last!

    While he was talking, he was paying close attention to Humanus to see if it was okay to say this, but the fact that he said it is important.

    . .Why? Suddenly?

    It''s not all of a sudden. It''s been said before..., Your Majesty, it''s normal for friends to do this, but...

    Uh, huh? It was.

    "It''s just, a little , too Touching you 1 is unpleasant."

    Serpens took a step back and said cautiously.

    It was said that he did not like humanus, whom he was not even close to, sticking to him, but somehow the nuances sound a little different.

    To me, it must have meant that it was too unpleasant for Humanus to touch.

    Does this mean that the order of the context is important?

    uh?

    "There are a lot of tasks behind me, and the fact that I can''t delay more than this seems to be the case with Your Majesty, so I think it would be better to start soon."

    He was speaking in an encouraging tone, but it was a clear congratulatory order.

    Duke Nari is also taking care of himself, and others will see you later... if there is a chance.

    You], uh, then we''ll just leave.

    Purorga Agon from the hand of Humanus

    He stole the liver pocket and put the group''s luggage in the main island, and Liena dragged Humanus, who had been hardened like a mangbu stone, in the place.

    Seeing this, the anima used magic to slightly float Humanus'' body in the air.

    ''Humanus, you poor bastard... .''

    It seemed that Humanus, who had woken up late, was shouting something, but it quickly became quiet as it was blocked by the magic of the anima.

    With such a sad look behind them, they left the capital.

    And Humanus and his friends are Arche

    Around the time he heard the rumor that he had reached the border area with the kingdom.

    Aide!

    The servant Jack came to me crying.

 CH 196

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 196

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (1)

    After lunch, on the way to the kitchen to decide on today''s dessert.

    I stopped walking at the appearance of Jack running away crying.

    Jack? What''s happening all of a sudden?

    Assistant... . Uh, what, what do you do?!

    I don''t know why you came to me, but it will never be a good thing

    am.

    Not even in the mood to explain the details, Jack rubbed the corners of his eyes with the sleeves that had gotten wet earlier and continued to wipe the tears that were flowing uncontrollably.

    Calm down for once, and talk carefully.

    He patted his back sobbing and spoke to him once more.

    Open the letter...

    A letter?

    Then I noticed that Jack''s hand was clenched like a crumpled piece of paper.

    The letter made me feel even more anxious. There was nothing good about coming to this world with regards to letters.

    To add a bit of exaggeration, slowly, I started to fear the letter more than the monkey.

    ''Why are you doing this? I wrote a lucky letter?!''

    I should have sent it to seven people, but is it because I only sent it to one person?

    I''m really conflicted about whether I should write six more chapters right now.

    Ah, father, hehehe! Father !

    "Are you your father, Wayne?"

    Jack sniffled and looked like he was about to say something, but was soon buried in tears.

    If it''s okay with you, can I take a look at the letter?

    It is important to appease him, but for now, the first priority is to determine the cause.

    So do you heal it properly.

    When I reached out to Jack, he handed me the letter he was holding so tightly that his hand was pale.

    I carefully unfolded the crumpled paper and found that two letters in different fonts were overlapping each other.

    all.

    One of them had a strong feeling that it had been scribbled in haste, and the other, on the contrary, was carefully stifled.

    At first glance, he glanced at the letter, which seemed urgent at first glance.

    In a nutshell, Jack''s father entrusted him with a letter to send to his son, Jack, if he suddenly disappeared.

    It is believed to have been written by Jack''s mother.

    ''What else is suddenly disappearing?''

    Perhaps it was because of the urgency I felt in the letter I just read, my heart also became urgent.

    Without even thinking about it, I moved on to the next chapter.

    This is what...

    Bo, aide! Please, please, our father...!

    Okay. Calm down. I think I''ll have to report to the Duke first, so I''ll just leave. I''ll take the letter as well. Are you okay?

    I pat Jack on the shoulder a couple of times and give him time to respond.

    Without it, he headed straight to the office where Serpence was.

    As I swung the office door open, Serpens looked at me with surprised eyes.

    "Seo , Sir Zion? Why do you look like that?"

    His face was full of concern as he half stood up as he put the pen he was holding on to the desk.

    ''I''m really worried, really.''

    First, I closed the door that I had opened wide.

    Is it too much force, behind the back?

    I heard a ''bang-!'' from the outside, but it didn''t matter much.

    I strode over to Serpence, who was standing restlessly.

    Sunwoo? Is there something wrong?

    It''s true that the problem arose, but it wasn''t me, but the users who worked at the duke''s house before... and Serpens.

    "What does that mean?"

    The boy made an indescribable expression.

    I feel insecure about the fact that they are people I used to work for, but on the other hand, I''m relieved that it''s not my problem.

    With such a strange expression, Serpens tilted his head.

    Do you remember Jack''s father you met last year?

    Serpens nodded as if it was natural.

    He''s missing.

    is it?

    The problem isn''t just that he''s gone.

    Based on what I said earlier, it seems that I have figured out what the ''problem'' is.

    Serpence said softly

    He put the words into his mouth and looked into my eyes.

    Perhaps right.

    Another letter to Jack was from his father, Wayne.

    There was a colleague I was close with while working at the duke''s residence, and he heard from him that another colleague had gone missing.

    And soon after, the colleague who told me the story also suddenly lost contact.

    It could be a coincidence, but maybe a peacock

    I thought that there might be people who kidnapped the people I worked for, so I wrote a letter in advance and entrusted it to my wife.

    ''Finally, when you receive a letter, it is to be delivered immediately to me as an aide... .''

    When I remembered the last time I saw his expression.

    And it would be more correct to say that the purpose of ''delivery'' rather than asking for help is the purpose of information delivery, not a request for help.

    Let him know that someone is digging up Serpence''s past, and that there are people who are trying to threaten him with it.

    it will be for

    And whoever deserves it... .

    How come you''ve been quiet for months, I!

    Damn you bastards! really jingle jingle

    I wondered if the year had passed without a hitch, but he was secretly plotting a scheming behind the scenes.

    " What do you think their purpose is?"

    He was asking for my opinion, but he must have already had tens of thousands of scenarios running through his mind.

    do.

    The blood on his face, which was full of vitality, had long since faded.

    His face, boasting of transparent milky skin, was pale and tired, and it didn''t feel as alive as a porcelain baked with white glaze.

    " it''s okay, I will."

    Isn''t that possible?

    His eyes, who were looking at me, suddenly became hazy, and I couldn''t tell where the two pupils, which had been loosed, were facing.

    It''s Serpence''s fault...!

    If the past is known, it may also be revealed.

    Without realizing it, I inhaled and inhaled.

    His ex-Duke and Duchess of Prasidus were holding him by the ankle even after death, and constantly tormenting him.

    There is no evidence.

    It''s enough to create evidence. And I have a solid heart to back it up.

    But! It was self-defense, wasn''t it?

    It doesn''t matter. Others

    In their eyes, I''m just a hypocritical and cruel human being who kills my parents and lives a life of nothing... .

    It''s a really bad story.

    "Perhaps even the treatment I received from them, because I was lacking I thought I had done something wrong and had no choice but to educate myself that way "

    No! It''s strange for those who think that way. It''s wrong to try to find fault with the victim without asking the perpetrators fault!

    "But in that sense, am I not the perpetrator too ?"

    Serpence never...

    That''s just an individual opinion, Seonwoo. Not everyone in the world is like you.

    you have to say something

    However, no words could reach the present Serpense.

    I was engrossed in pessimism, and I only pictured the worst situation in my head.

    It wasn''t a day or two that they tried to frame Serpens...?

    "That''s why I kidnapped ''them.

    I don''t think it will.

    can''t deny it

    I hate to say no, but I know it''s a lie, and Serpence knows it.

    Rather, it is counterproductive.

    "Even if it is unclear what happened to the former duke and his wife, it will be clear how I was educated by them. And that Seonwoo. Also, anyone can easily think that there is a discrepancy."

    Serpens, please...

    It''s just a cool look at the situation.

    It''s because you don''t have a cold face right now?!

    His head was towards me. But the eyes that were completely out of focus did not contain anything.

    With an expressionless face, his eyes were clearly cloudy and dark, his mouth was fluttering and he sounded like a cold-hearted person.

    Everyone will know. That all of me was a pretense and an act... that everything they saw was a pretense, a deception, and a hypocrisy... It was revealed, Jin, Myeon. I... how much, how much

    Due to .

    His voice began to swell little by little.

    At first, I thought I was going to cry.

    But his hazy eyes were completely dry.

    Nevertheless, his breathing gradually became hazy and pale, and it was difficult to even speak in the past, and it was barely possible to seep through a very narrow gap.

    I, I...

    The cramped Serpens raised their hands

    Ryeo pulled the cravat that was neatly tied around his neck.

    A white cloth fell to the floor.

    Still having a hard time breathing, his hand continued groping near his neck.

    His fingers reached the collar of the shirt he always had closed all the way, and he unbuttoned three of them.

    That''s not enough... .

    Wait, wait! What are you doing?!

    More like trying to untie something from a neck that no longer has anything on it.

    The trembling fingers suddenly raised their fingernails and were biting the raw flesh.

    Calm down, Serpens!

    "Ah, uh shhh."

    Breathe! You''ll be fine. It''s okay. Do you believe me?

    �� Ugh

    In my heart, I wanted to forcefully hold his hand, even by force, but my strength was not enough.

    It is best to hold his hand in an entwined way by squeezing your fingers between his hands and neck.

    "How do other people view Serpens?

    Ji, is it still that scary? Why? Serpents don''t even see others as persons, are they still afraid of their words?

    Are you afraid of when they will criticize you? So, have you treated others as if they were inanimate objects, as if you were looking at the wall and acting?

    Instead of answering, heh, a thin breath sounded.

    I don''t know if that means positive or negative. Maybe Serpens himself doesn''t know.

    "By the way, what is this?!

    It is thickly stacked with high-density materials to block everything from approaching, and the height is needlessly low for such a subject, so it is being hit by stones thrown by others."

    There really is no brainer. He''s got a good head, but he''s completely stupid. It''s so ugly and stupid that I can''t even breathe.

    If the gaze of others is so frightening, have you been locked up in the mountains by yourself...

    "I have a lot of unnecessary responsibilities."

    He''s also good at running away.

    I wish I could have just run away casually.

    But no matter how many times he ran, he eventually came back.

 CH 197

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 197

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (2)

    It must have been an act he had done unconsciously, but he did not know that he would even harm himself.

    He was so upset that it wasn''t his fault that Serpens had become like this, but he blamed the child for nothing.

    ''He''s in this state, so what are you going to do with me?''

    The more you do this, the more calm you need to be.

    The good news is that his hand is slowly losing its strength.

    He grabbed his hand and pulled him down.

    Hmmm! Can you hear me?"

    After clearing her throat and asking her question as calmly as possible, I saw Serpens nodding her head slightly.

    The focus of the eyes seems to have returned a little. The guy looked at me.

    Once you sit down? Yes. And relax your body. Follow me and take a deep breath.

    shoo... , shh, ha... .

    Serpens inhaled and exhaled helplessly as he stretched out on his chair.

    Every time that happened, his heart pounded hard, and red blood flowed down the front of his shirt.

    No, what are you doing wrong?!"

    With a deliberate fuss, he gathered his hands together and held them with one hand.

    With the other hand, he took out a handkerchief from his inner pocket, wiped the blood roughly, and gently pressed the wound to stop bleeding.

    It''s okay. It''ll be okay. It hasn''t happened yet, and before that

    Now that you know Lee, you have time to prepare, right? Even if it explodes, it is not determined that it will inevitably lead to bad results.

    Serpens said that not everyone in the world is like me. Yeah, not everyone is like me. But what about Euges? Me and Euges are different. Do you think you''ll regret it?

    He breathes slowly, looks at me, and blinks.

    "No? Of course, as Serpens said.

    There may be people who point the finger at Serpens. But such a person can just skip it. Because he''s a very disrespectful person who only enjoys hurting others.

    Sunwoo...

    It''s fine. It''ll be fine.

    As he smiled softly as a sign of reassurance, the expression on his face began to come to life.

    The brow furrowed, and the lips lengthened horizontally. perfect cry.

    Unsurprisingly, tears welled up in the boy''s eyes.

    Once you come to your senses, let''s start with treatment. You didn''t touch your arteries? Well, it doesn''t seem like that much...

    whoops... .

    Over there?

    It seems that he has returned with enough spirit to use his divine power, but he only wiggles his fingers.

    He didn''t seem to want to heal the wound on his neck.

    "Serpens?"

    I called again, but he

    I shook my head and saw more blood for nothing.

    It''s good for him to be stupid, but it''s not good to be stupid. not right.

    When one''s own body is injured, it is easy to lead to habitual self-injury if the caregiver''s concerns and attention are indulged.

    When buds are visible, they should be rectified immediately.

    "Are you threatening me now?"

    . Threats, huh?

    Let''s frown and say, girl

    Seok opened his eyes wide in surprise.

    The tears that had been hanging from the corners of his eyes rolled down his cheeks, which were red and flushed with blood.

    Aren''t you still protesting to be worried about yourself and pay attention to your injuries without treatment?

    I, I..., umm...

    Perhaps it was something he had done without realizing it, he mumbled and could not continue his words.

    Serpens, would you like me to deliberately go out alone in dangerous places or get hurt in order to get Serpens'' attention? Refusing treatment?

    At my words, Serpens shook his head with a desperate expression like a person he had met even though he had clear brilliance.

    "Wait, wait, wait! It just stopped!"

    His ferocious headbanging made blood gushing out again.

    I can''t live because of him, I can''t live

    Anyway, don''t you like it? It''s the same for me. Still, I''m very upset because Serpens got hurt, but I''m so mad because the person who hurt me is a Serpens, but still, I can''t even get angry because Serpens is a Serpens...

    Mi, I''m sorry.

    I''m sorry, do you need treatment right away? Before the wound heals.

    He treated the wound on his neck with a somewhat sad expression.

    After all, only his body is large, but inside he is a completely young child, child.

    ''Is this why I don''t treat him like a child?''

    Taking a deep breath, he turned the handkerchief upside down and wiped the bloodstains from his neck.

    It didn''t dry out after a while, but instead on the white skin.

    It spread red and left a mark of its own.

    It doesn''t clean very well. Whoops, whoops Okay, now it''s a little clean...!

    "Seo, Seonwoo ?!"

    Oh.

    It''s a habit, so it''s scary.

    As he raised his head to the bewildered Serpense''s voice while wiping with saliva on his handkerchief, he was able to meet his shaky eyes.

    It was so absurd that tears stopped.

    So, this is it? In the soul

    It can be said that it is an engraved ethnic characteristic... . It''s the same as blowing a breath before cleaning your glasses.

    Breath and saliva are different.

    It''s the same thing from the mouth, but what''s the difference? You can''t blow a breath on the nape of Serpens'' neck.

    If Serpens''s body wasn''t made of glass or metal in the first place, what should he do with his breath?

    That doesn''t make it particularly shiny.

    "Come on, let''s put off worrying about things that haven''t happened yet.

    It''s a priority to stop it first, right?

    " to say something else."

    He buttoned his shirt, which he had untied for nothing, and picked up a piece of cloth that had fallen on the floor and wrapped it around his neck], patting it on top.

    "Why are you unpacking it?"

    "So, why did you tie this up with a ribbon?"

    I''m trying to see if Serpens has regained his sanity.

    With a more relaxed expression on the boy''s face, he breathed in a smirk.

    The cravat, which was tied neatly again by his hand, covered the blood stains on his shirt well.

    How am I supposed to explain that to the maids?

    Don''t wipe your face with a saliva-soaked handkerchief.

    Ouch!

    I put my handkerchief roughly on Serpens''s desk, took the handkerchief from his arms and wiped the tears from his face... , gave it away.

    "It looks like the crying has stopped, but wipe it yourself, yourself!

    Yes, there is none.

    " isn''t that not a very bad thing?"

    Still, it is an abuse of power to make you do such a thing.

    Isn''t that what I did?

    What do you know, something like that.

    I put a handkerchief in his hand, and while he grunted, he took off his glasses and wiped away his tears.

    When he used divine power to treat the reddened eye area, the previous uproar was like an illusion, leaving no trace of it anywhere.

    ''Because I don''t pay tea like that.

    I don''t know anything... .''

    Looking down at the guy who was cleaning his glasses, he sighed.

    Let''s call the butler first.

    "Why is he?"

    If you''re a butler, wouldn''t you be aware of the identities of those who worked in the past? Besides, he''s in charge of the Prasidus family''s intelligence group.

    If it''s an investigation, I''ll do it.

    While wearing glasses, Serpens puckered out his lower lip to express his dissatisfaction.

    There''s a lot going on in the fortress.

    I squeezed the boy''s protruding mouth as if to put that complaint in.

    Then, instead of being pushed, he leaned his head forward and pushed my hand away as if in repulsion.

    It''s rebellious, but it''s too childish to be considered puberty.

    I guess it''s just the Ugly of the Fury (Twenty) five years old.

    Serpens are out of this investigation.

    If the duke''s intelligence group isn''t enough, I''ll ask Eugenes as well.

    "Sne ?"

    Try keeping your mouth shut. I''m talking.

    Serpens frowned and shook his head to shake my hand away.

    "What are you thinking?"

    "What do you think Serpens is thinking of going directly to the investigation?"

    Isn''t it good to say that we have to stop things before they happen?

    But no serpents

    why?

    Is he really asking because he doesn''t know?

    It''s really amazing and my nose is stuffy.

    Now that I''m a little more stable, I think I know that I''m really okay.

    "What if the same situation just happens again? Can you get your stability back on your own? It doesn''t seem like it to me? Right now, I can''t sleep because I''m anxious tonight. "

    Good luck, it''ll be fine.

    It''s okay, go ahead!

    If you have the ability, you can''t. What would you do if the monkey found yourself in a panic and defenseless?"

    Well, that can''t be...

    Oh, what do you think!

    Serpens shrugged his shoulders and placed his hands politely on his lap.

    An attitude of listening is very good.

    "Will the monkey pat me on the back and send me home, saying, ''Hey, this is such a sad thing!

    Sir! Thank you so much for all these gifts! Tenebrio-sama will be very happy too, �[] .''

    As if there was nothing to refute, the boy''s head bowed.

    "Where did I say something wrong?"

    Uh, uh:

    "I''m wrong~, right?"

    ...Sunwoo is right.

    Are you going to leave, aren''t you?

    I''m not going out.

    Right, right. That''s great.

    He lightly tapped the boy''s head.

    Although his voice was low, he answered, so there will be no sneaking out.

    By the way, if you want to get help from Wilydia-sama...

    Euges will help you even if you don''t tell me. But it''s something you''ll find out eventually when you investigate, so it''s better to tell him directly.

    Is that so...

    Serpens let out a long sigh.

    Someday he would say

    It seems that I am not yet mentally prepared.

    "How far should I say it?"

    That''s for Serpens to decide. I know it''s hard to say.

    It takes a lot of courage to tell someone something difficult just by thinking about it.

    But if we leave it like this, this timid fence will never say anything.

    "Instead of Seonwoo "

    look at this

    If it''s really hard, I''ll talk for you.

    I might give In fact, I wish Serpence did it himself, but . In any case, there must be a serpence in the speaking position, and the serpent must also set the scope.

    Ummm...

    I''ve never raised a Serpence so passive!

    I''ll think about it.''''

    I''m going to let him think about it, and I pulled the lanyard behind Serpens'' seat to call Hans.

    Come on, wait a minute. Time to think...

    Oh, go on. Who''s saying it? I''ll tell the butler well, so if you think it''s going to get in your way, go to the living room over there.

    No. It''s done.

    He took a breath, straightened his back, and sat up in an upright posture.

 CH 198

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 198

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (3)

    Not long after pulling the cord, Hans arrived at the office.

    "Why is the assistant standing there?"

    This line, I pulled it.

    It was the word that meant I was calling that place, but for some reason Hans looked at me with the eyes of a bunch of children.

    I think I wanted to pull the string, so I guess I even choked Serpens.

    You must have heard of Jack crying in the hallway earlier.

    Lightly ignoring his eyes and waking up his luck], unsurprisingly, Hans nodded his head.

    I don''t know what kind of system is in place so that if something happens, it can go straight into Hans'' ears.

    The Duke of Prasidus is the greatest Mr. Lee.

    "Then it would be easier to talk.

    Jack''s father, Wayne Perdante, is missing. Not only that one, but also other employees who have retired from working in the duke''s residence. In fact, it should be seen as a kidnapping rather than a disappearance. so .

    All right.

    Yes? I haven''t finished talking yet?

    "Aren''t you going to tell them to find and monitor those who have not been kidnapped among retired workers and then pursue them?"

    That''s right... .

    Damn, you make me speechless to be human.

    Before that, please also upload related materials.

    "Of course But why is the aide giving orders from earlier?"

    Aside from the fact that I don''t like the idea of telling me to shut up and let go of the work under my jurisdiction, this is what Serpence should normally have ordered.

    However, Serpense kept her mouth shut, and on the contrary, I was quiet at times like this, and I was talking about it, so it''s strange to think.

    The Duke is resting for the time being.

    Yes?

    "What ?"

    Hans as well as Serpense, who was quietly in thought, looked at me in amazement.

    It goes without saying that Hans''s gaze turned to him for a moment in response to Serpence''s reaction, and then looked at me with a more contorted expression.

    Anyone who sees it would know that I was arbitrarily controlling and wielding a serpent.

    Look at this, the duke''s hand is still. He''s just fine on the surface, now.

    A lie is not a word. I''m not in the mood to work.

    Sir Zion?

    The Duke seems to be still.

    Serpens told me to keep thinking, so I was thinking, why are you talking like that?'' He looked up at me with a questioning expression.

    Let''s pretend we didn''t see

    ''Where did I say something wrong?''

    I was only stating the truth.

    His hand was still. It is all true that he looks fine on the outside, is a mess on the inside, and is not in the mood to work.

    He needs a rest. really.

    Hey, butler. Since you''ve been serving the Duke for over 20 years, don''t you understand a single thing? And do you still live in the house? Yes?!

    I was patient enough.

    As of today, I don''t know how old I am.

    You have to grow old to be a grown-up person, and when a child becomes like this, a person who does nothing and is left alone is not called an adult.

    He''s just a fucking badass bastard.

    excuse me?

    Naturally, Hans knows what to say and is piling up the words he wants to say back to himself, but somehow no words come back.

    He stared blankly at Serpens with his mouth wide open and shocked.

    ''Is it shocking that Serpence isn''t working?''

    It''s me, I''ve gotten used to seeing Serpens not working often, but I think Hans isn''t like that.

    What''s more, Serpens wasn''t even participating in the conversation right now.

    It can''t be helped even if it''s misunderstood that it''s just sitting blankly without doing anything and just reacting to the voice you hear.

    If you can''t respond, it''s even better.

    Uh, um... Anyway! Not my job as a butler who manages the users and the mansion. As a person who serves the duke closely, have you ever watched the duke properly and offered a helping hand? Ever since the Duke was little, right?"

    Do your best...

    It''s a bummer to do everything. Why do you think the guy who caught the people who worked in the past took them away? If it turns out that this is the education policy of the damned former duke he served with so much loyalty, it will harm the current duke. Isn''t that what you are doing?

    Fortunately for him, he might be missing a brain, Hans squeaked and rolled his eyes.

    I''m talking out loud, but that education... No, the abuse really helped me... the Duke''s emotions.

    do you think Haven''t you given up on thinking?

    By not asking, ''Sir, are you a psycho?'' I kept my best manners.

    There''s no way a child can handle such a thing. It''s just that she endures it because of coercion. No, what is a child? It''s not something you should do to an adult! You don''t even have such a basic concept?

    "Si, Sir Zion !"

    Serpens hastily grabbed my hem.

    ''That''s why I''m going to the drawing room.

    Ji .''

    I didn''t want to say this in front of him, but since things have gotten this far, I''ll definitely have to correct the mistake.

    Hans should realize what he''s done.

    He continued to speak with a light pat on the back of Serpens''s hand that was holding the hem.

    "It is not a virtue as a subordinate to simply follow the advice of a superior. If something seems wrong, you should know how to give advice.

    Where did you buy the new moral spirit, yes?

    Duke... you...

    Isn''t it supposed to be the luck of the master of the Holy Sword by coming now? Do you believe that it isn''t? Do you know what the Holy Sword looks like now?

    Hans barely opened his mouth in a hoarse voice, but in the end he couldn''t say anything and closed his mouth again.

    What do you do with a mouth? I wouldn''t have anything to say.

    Come to think of it, the devil... Among the rumors spread by those demon worshipers, the Duke

    There was even a rumor that you were the true master of the Holy Sword, right? There was also talk that the god Luxmea abandoned the continent. Now they are being treated as heretics talking bullshit... . What if those things were made known to the public? I think things will be different.

    What are you trying to say... .

    "Ah, what are you asking with a familiar face? Originally, the god Luxmea sent down a noble soul to save the continent, but it was ruined by the ugly desires of humans, and he lost his status as the master of the holy sword. As a result, the angry god It''s like abandoning the continent

    I might make up a flag.

    It''s rather fortunate if you only spread rumors like that.

    That''s all I can think of. The demons would invent much more venomous and evil words.

    Talks about the death of the former duke''s wife.

    Last year, they complained that they didn''t do anything wrong, so there must have been evidence to back it up.

    However, there is also a Serpence in the seat, so I have no choice but to omit the words appropriately.

    And the butler knows a lot more details than the others, don''t you?

    It was done secretly in the basement, so normal users would not even know that Serpens had been tortured.

    However, there was no way the Duke or Duchess would have done the post-processing by hand.

    ''Of course, Hans, this gentleman must have done it.''

    Aside from the fact that his attitude has changed little by little from the beginning, I will not be able to see this yangban in a good way on the basis of that fact alone.

    Even if I regret and apologize, well?

    Those who feel their sins deeply and are in pain, is that just what Serpens experienced?

    A normal person would have suffered from the aftereffects to such an extent that he could not even live a normal life. Nevertheless, the Duke has endured it alone until now.

    It''s not about everyday life, and I''ve been dealing with schedules that are difficult for ordinary people to follow by themselves.

    so much. too much. I grew up wonderfully.

    It would be difficult just to think of it...

    I''m all anxious and worried at the thought of going up and down in people''s cubicles. Did the butler never really feel sorry for the duke? Are you still human?"

    Perhaps it was a human cub, Hans bowed his head with a sad expression on his face.

    What if he held his head stiffly like last year and insisted that he wasn''t wrong, but maybe it wasn''t that much, or maybe he''s come to his senses after that.

    "Duke, you you even talked to your aide like that."

    "What if I did, or what if I didn''t? The problem is that I have been relying on me for counseling more than the person who has been by my side for 25 years."

    I looked down at Serpens still clutching the hem of my robe.

    At first glance, the complexion did not look very good.

    ''Did you think of going anywhere alone while doing this?''

    I don''t think it''s worth the long conversation.

    I think I''ve understood enough

    I''ll have to kick him out roughly, and feed Serpense some chocolate and make him go crazy.

    The Duke needs to rest for a while, so he''ll post it to me after seeing it...

    Me, Sir Zion?

    Serpens pulled my hem slightly and called me in a quiet voice.

    "Why are you calling me?"

    I''ve been curious about it for a while... What is it that I''m taking a break?

    Let''s put our heads down, talk like this in the dictionary

    I saw Serpens''s face looking up at me with an expression that seemed to say that he didn''t hear me.

    Did you mean to force me out of the parlor?

    It literally means doing nothing.''''

    "I can''t. It''s something I have to deal with ."

    Honestly, you don''t have to work for a few days, right? Last time, there was a time when I had to fill the holy water in a hurry, so I gave up my work for a few days and just prayed. There was no problem back then.

    If you don''t know what will happen when

    He said that he had to fill up the holy water quickly, so at least he seemed to be holding on to it after work.

    Not only that, but it was obvious that I would reduce my sleep as much as possible until I had the desired amount.

    In front of me, I had to take a break for more than three hours a day, and the holy city threatened to accept only what was made in front of my eyes.

    ''Then, I''m going to throw away my working hours... .''

    It was only then that I realized that making holy water was more time consuming than I thought.

    They gave me 5L before, so I thought I could make enough if I only invested an hour or two a day.

    No one would know how embarrassed I was at the sudden sher strike.

    Because it really went by without anyone knowing!

    I thought the Duke was working every day, so I thought that if I missed a job even for a day, something big would happen, right?"

    n O Uh... "

    , ��

    With a little thought, you can see

    is a thing

    The subjugation of the Volta Mountains had a set schedule, so even if you prepared ahead of time, when you went on a long-term business trip last year, the duchess and the duchess did not work well.

    What kind of bastard do you live with that kind of paperwork every day..., huh? It''s enough for next month. Why are you doing this already?

    You never know when something will happen, in advance...

    There''s even a small amount in advance! This is next year''s budget, right? Now..., it''s early November, so there''s still a lot left!

    Oh, no. That''s enough...

    I ignored Serpense''s words and put away the budget for next year along with the documents I saw earlier.

    Even if it''s anyone else, it''s true that there''s still a long way to go when it comes to Serpense''s work ability standards.

    Let''s see... Can''t we just leave this to the administrators? There''s no way the administrators could have just passed on this... Did you steal it?!

    Well, I have to check it anyway if I upload a report, so I''d rather handle it from the beginning...

    No, what''s the difference between reading this and looking for related materials and writing it down one by one and reading it straight through? Yes?!

    It was kind of weird.

    After hiring a large number of administrators, I ran out of time and secretly coveted my job .

    Wait a minute. Isn''t this the paperwork I have to deal with? Why is it here?!

    "Ah uh "

    I 9 ��

    Serpens hesitated and rolled his gaze to the side.

    That''s why I can''t take it out or put it on. It really was the guy who was stealing the documents!

    I got you, you paper thief!''

 CH 199

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 199

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (4)

    Considering the speed and concentration of me and the guy at work, etc.]. Even if Serpence had more work to do than me, he should have finished it first.

    But for some reason, we always finished work at the same time, and then we had a gym class together at the gym.

    I just let the bastard match my pace

    I thought I''d give it to you.

    ''So, I thought you were just playing and working! They secretly do other things like me!''

    Am I even thinking that I have to constantly prove my worth?

    It was awkward at first, but these days, after work, I thought that his work addiction had improved after relaxing and joking around in the study room.

    I feel like I''ve been hit in the back a bit.

    ''Can''t this kid be able to rest without someone to play with?!''

    If he was just five, not (twenty) five, he would have given him a toy and told him to play alone... .

    No matter how much Serpence is, he wouldn''t do blocks like that, would he?

    It''s unfortunate, but it''s not like this.

    If you have nothing to do, you can take a nap. There is no one in the world who works because there is nothing to play.

    There are only people who work because there is no money to play.

    "It''s all confiscated."

    " Ha, but."

    As I carefully gathered the documents and put them aside, Serpens stretched out his hand, earnestly asking for it back.

    If you thought that I would return it, you are clearly mistaken.

    "But it''s okay, but it''s useless! I know how to look at documents now, do I?"

    Is the baby saying "I''m sorry" is used in such a case?

    It was good until he pushed Serpence''s hand and spoke firmly.

    Even so, what I just said seems to have been done for nothing.

    It seems that Serpens, who knows my situation, passed it on without much thought, but Hans''s gaze, who was still in the office, was unusual.

    You must be swearing to yourself that you have now learned what you should have known before getting a job.

    Let''s pretend we didn''t notice pretending not to know From now on, my nun level is Hugh Manus level.

    "This, this and this! And from here to there. You can do it all later, right?

    hand it over to the ... . It''s a bit vague, but I can do it. Please check later. And that... , are you kidding me now?! Hey, butler! I have a butler''s job here!"

    "...Yes?!,,

    Hans, who was watching me frantically rummaging through the documents on Serpence''s desk, let out a muffled sound.

    As I waved and beckoned to the paperwork once more, he came to his senses and took the paperwork.

    "This is one of the tasks I handed over to Xeon-kun."

    "Then the deputy butler would know that the butler is handling this."

    "Hey, why ?"

    As in the past, if Hans had been handling the butler''s work alone, he would have wandered around looking for it since the work to be done was gone.

    However, when one or two jobs are being passed on to a successor for takeover, it is a different story if the job itself is secretly stolen from the middle.

    Serpence dug into that loophole.

    ''Please don''t use your head on this kind of thing.

    go!''

    Shall we even look at Serpens with an absurd expression on Hans''s face?

    It was something I would never do or would normally do.

    He soon realized the blasphemy in his gaze and looked away immediately, but the document in his hand still shows an unbelievable expression.

    "If you don''t have work, just take a break!"

    * O Uh... "

    --9 - ��

    I never would have dreamed of being caught like this.

    Serpens blushed and shook his head.

    snuggled down He seems to be aware that he has done something shameful.

    The duvet will be pretty full tonight.

    "And the butler! What have you been doing since you became a butler? And Isn''t it the duty of a butler to create an environment where you can rest comfortably? Yes?!"

    "that ."

    "What is that? No face?"

    " Yes."

    "Hey, you treat me like that. What is it that you do right?"

    Such a person is not even qualified to own a cat. All deacon licenses should be revoked.

    I crossed my arms and looked at Hans with one distasteful look, then popped my feet and pounded the floor with my forefoot.

    Every time the heel of the shoe and the carpet on the floor met, there was a dull sound.

    "Take care of the butler''s work, and if you bring the things that are piled up over there to Administrator Guberno, they will take care of it. Put it away quickly."

    " Yes."

    "Don''t forget the report I mentioned earlier."

    "All right."

    Did Hyuntara come too late?

    Hans answered obediently and left the office with all the documents except for the ones I had set aside for my business.

    The droopy shoulders resembled the back of a patriarchal father who said he didn''t care and didn''t know when the children were growing up and had a lot of work, but when the children are all grown up, he tried to pretend to be friendly and was rejected.

    Although it looked sullen, it didn''t feel pitiful.

    That should have been good in the beginning.

    at least it was too late

    "Ttttttt."

    I glanced at the door that Hans had just left, and, with a smirk, grabbed my paperwork and carried it to my desk.

    Serpence''s desk, which was always full of papers, was empty.

    It''s a pity that Euges even brought flowers. If it wasn''t for you, what was up there was a fountain pen and two handkerchiefs.

    The chapter must have been everything.

    He folded the handkerchief neatly and put it in a corner of the desk.

    "I thought I''d let the butler wash the handkerchiefs too."

    I went back to his seat and grabbed two hand towels.

    Now all he really has on his desk is a fountain pen and a vase.

    "If you don''t have anything to do, you''ll fall over... Is that a bad posture? Lie down on the sofa in the living room over there and take a nap."

    "No. No specification."

    "If you didn''t like the drawing room, the desk would be empty.

    Everyone, did you sleep on it?"

    "It''s not like that, but I haven''t finished organizing my thoughts yet "

    The boy answered with a blurry end of his speech.

    If you are a beginner in Serpens, you may be mistaken, ''Are you going to sleep when you''re done thinking?'', but you should not fall into such a trap.

    If it is that child, it is clear that he will make up these excuses and that excuses and throw them out.

    "It''s a serious matter."

    "I know, I know."

    "I''m not making excuses..."

    "Is that because you know?"

    Maybe he read the thoughts in my eyes as I looked at him, and he didn''t say anything yet, but Serpens made a sloppy excuse first.

    "Come on now. Then, while hyung works, I''m waiting while eating this. You know?"

    "I''m not waiting..."

    "Yeah, yeah. Think carefully."

    I took a piece of chocolate from the subspace pocket and shook it, and Serpens still had a grumpy expression on his face.

    As for the theme, I took chocolate with me.

    '' Come to think of it, I haven''t even been able to talk about snacks in the kitchen today. Do you want me to upload it and send it to you?''

    You may be disappointed if you say it for nothing.

    Wait first, and if there are no snacks coming up, you can take out the cookies you have in your pocket.

    "Sun-woo, hurry up and go to work, right?"

    "Ah, look at my mind!"

    I hurried back to my seat and started working on the paperwork.

    After working for a long time, he glanced up and looked at Serpence, which was a sight to behold.

    He was clenching his mouth with an extremely serious expression.

    There are no caterpillars gnawing at the leaves.

    Where is that?

    After wrapping the chocolate with another handkerchief from somewhere, he held it lightly only with his fingertips.

    It must have been that the chocolate didn''t melt at the body temperature of my hands.

    " Please put some chocolate in your mouth.

    did."

    It is a scientifically proven fact that eating chocolate helps when depressed.

    Even if I don''t keep an eye on it, I don''t think I''ll ever dig down alone until I''ve eaten all that chocolate at least.

    "Sunwoo, don''t worry about me and focus on your work."

    "I''ll finish the game quickly even if I don''t see it, so Serpense should finish the homework quickly, right?"

    As it turned out, I still haven''t been able to give an answer to my worries, the guy nods.

    and took a large bite of the chocolate.

    After that, don''t you know if you''re regretting eating it all and saying it''s a waste?

    * * *

    Serpense''s plan was not that great.

    He controls the speed of eating chocolate, and it''s exactly 10 minutes before 3 o''clock when the snack comes up. I ended the act of eating chocolate.

    The remaining 10 minutes enjoy the afterglow,

    Maybe it''s time to look forward to a snack to eat later.

    His lips were tightly shut, but when he saw the movement of his jaw, he was rolling his tongue and enjoying the sweetness and reverberation of the melted chocolate in his mouth.

    "Euges will be coming up soon, have you finished thinking about it?"

    "That''s , whoo-one."

    He sighed deeply with a puzzled expression on his face.

    "I''ll talk."

    "Direct?!"

    Although he had come to a conclusion, as if he had not yet had the courage, he closed his eyes tightly and moved his head up and down only once.

    "If you think I can''t talk..."

    "It''s okay, I''ll wait."

    "It''s not "

    "Eugus will also wait patiently for you."

    The child has made a big decision with a lot of effort, but I can''t support her, but I have no intention of helping her to run away without her tail.

    not even an eyebrow

    With my attitude without a single step back, he grabbed the empty chocolate wrapper with a regretful expression already.

    "Aren''t you too anxious?"

    " However."

    I put my pen down, making eye contact with the flirting guy.

    It would be unreasonable to finish all the remaining tasks in 10 minutes anyway.

    It would be better to postpone what you were doing after tea time and focus on looking at the serpents for now.

    "Euges didn''t even say anything, I''m sure you''re guessing, what."

    "Hey, what does that mean?"

    Serpense''s shoulders trembled and shook greatly.

    "What''s so surprising? Does anyone know that Serpens has been revered as the master of the Holy Sword?"

    If it weren''t for severing all human relationships and staying alone in the mountains, there would be no one on this continent who wouldn''t know about it.

    "Besides, he seems to be getting along well with the people of the duke''s house, but then

    Naturally, you must have heard all about Serpence''s life before I came. It is said that a person who was so addicted to sweets worked all day and night, eating only unseasoned food. If you don''t notice something weird, it''s even weirder."

    "Why are you saying that now?"

    Serpens pursed his lips and furrowed his brow.

    If I had known about it in advance, I would have come to a conclusion easily without thinking this much.

    I didn''t say it because I thought it would be like this.

    Where do you decide what to do? It''s just desperation.

    "Why doesn''t Serpence know what I guessed? It''s hard for me if you tell me that you didn''t notice because you couldn''t afford it."

    Originally, Iran was like that.

    They don''t even think about digging into their parents'' deep feelings, and let out their resentment first.

    When will my child grow up to recognize me?

    "Anyway. Even if you don''t know the details, you''re probably noticing it. Take what you''ve already decided, feel free to take it."

    " I get it."

    "The time is running out, so let''s move to the drawing room, shall we?"

    He still looked at me with a deceived expression, but I shrugged and stood up.

 CH 200

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 200

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (5)

    Just because I forgot to talk to the kitchen, I was foolish to think about what to do if I don''t have a snack to accompany today''s tea time.

    Serpens likes sweets. It''s been 20 years since I''ve found that favorite thing. Even then, he noticed that he was secretly hiding and eating!

    ''As a cook, how disgusting and pitiful can it be?''

    Even the ingredients to make the snack belong to the peasant.

    There was no reason on this continent for the maids in the kitchen not to make and offer food that Serpens would love.

    To conclude, today''s dessert is a cheese cracker meringue cookie with sweet salty magic.

    " why are you two so quiet today?"

    Jill, in a voice of doubt,

    asked

    She asked why it was quiet, but it wasn''t really that quiet either.

    However, it is different from usual that the drawing room is filled with the sound of crumbling meringue cookies and crackers, rather than the noise of a fuss.

    Perhaps he and I were questioning the fact that Serpense and I were just eating cookies without a word.

    ''Especially, Serpense''s child seems hesitant to say something, and it is clearly visible. Don''t be curious and give up?''

    It was fine until Eugenes sat down and refreshments were being put on the table.

    He sat up straight with his back straight and calmed his mind.

    However, the moment the maids leave and are about to open their mouths. He stopped like a machine with brakes, and the situation was the same as it is now.

    Shion, what''s going on?

    In the end, Eugene, impatient, asked me a question.

    This guy who opens his mouth like Serpens would talk and only chews Aman Cookies

    It was underpinned by the thought that if I were me, I would know of course.

    Serpens has something to say to Eugenes.

    "It just looks like that."

    Don''t ask me what to say. Serpens will tell you.

    Saying so, he reached for the cookie on the plate, but nothing caught on.

    The last remaining one was eaten by Serpens.

    It''s not like it was intercepted on purpose, it''s as if it was a semi-mechanical movement

    It happened while eating.

    Normally, they would have enjoyed the taste while having a conversation, but the cookies were consumed at an unparalleled speed because of the silence.

    As I was contemplating what to do, I got bored with my mouth and wanted to keep chewing on something, so I piled up the oatmeal cookies I had in my pocket on the plate.

    Serpens thoughtlessly picked up the replenished cookie and put it in his mouth.

    Instead of the sweet and salty taste, the savory taste spreads in the mouth, and the guy gets mad.

    Startled, he looked at the table and me alternately.

    What? Why? Do you have any complaints?

    Ah, no... no.

    Then keep eating.

    " Is that all?"

    Serpens looked at me and asked for directions.

    The question is, why don''t you push yourself?

    It''s not that I didn''t believe or didn''t remember what I said I''d wait. It must have been a question that came up without me knowing.

    "It doesn''t make any sense if you push him to speak. I want Serpens to be able to speak of his own will, not because of external pressure."

    He has always lived a life of being pushed by someone else.

    Regardless of his will, he has kept what others have imposed on him, and he has lived the way the world wants him to be.

    Speaking of it, if it is also done by an external will. What the hell does that mean?

    This is the first step he must take on his own.

    It cannot be completely overcome, but it is a cornerstone for overcoming it.

    Well, I''m half-glossy because of the bad guys...

    To be precise, it must have been the work of the Demon King who knew that Serpens was not an innocent good man as known.

    To find out the cause of Serpence''s own collapse in the timeline of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    While digging up his past, he found out about his childhood and started working in earnest.

    It feels like the teacher next door, not the homeroom teacher, is arbitrarily rummaging through our children''s life record books, swearing and swearing at every event and meddling in our career path.

    It''s a very absurd and annoying situation.

    "Did the demon worshipers do something else?"

    Huh, how do you do that...?!

    How and what, you just said Zion. He was half-glossy because of the demons.

    Did I say something without knowing it?

    No matter how difficult it is to say

    Yep, secretly persuading me to talk. There is no separate sap fence.

    When I glared at him, he put on a sad expression on his face. It''s the face that asks why I blame myself for my mistakes.

    I don''t know anything. Serpens will tell you. I''m just not here, so let''s talk.

    I don''t know what''s going on, but without Shion, Serpens-sama wouldn''t be able to speak any more.

    At Eugez''s words, he glanced at Serpens.

    drew attention

    It''s good to be able to depend on someone you trust, but only if that target is limited to one person... .

    "You went to a dark place together, but what did you do without making friends?"

    Yes?

    At the sudden bruising towards him, Eugene asked with bunny eyes, startled.

    "How long do you plan on sticking with that guy again?"

    Hey, Serpens-sama''s permission .

    This is Eugene''s fault.

    Waiting attitude? good. Very desirable.

    However, knowing that Serpens are not willing to approach others, it is not advisable to wait indefinitely.

    You don''t get permission, you win! It''s me, Serpens, must have told you to call me by name first? If you want to get close enough, you''ll have to stab him and approach him! Only the brave can get a knee-nyang Haven''t you heard that there is?

    Mom, I haven''t heard of it... well, that''s right! I think I know what you''re talking about.

    yo. This!

    Perhaps it was a tempting talk, Eugez''s long ears twitched.

    Then take courage. How long are you going to just watch from afar? You want to get close and caress me?

    "Hey, what the hell are you two doing in my absence?

    I''m not going up!

    Serpens made a rare loud noise and interrupted Eugene''s words.

    Even if you talk about me right in front of you

    I thought he was paying attention because he drank tea blankly, but I guess he was listening.

    No matter how nervous I may seem, I refrain from doing this.

    You didn''t mean to relax, did you?

    It won''t go up.

    That didn''t mean he was really going to put it on his lap, but Serpens''s eyes were already cold.

    As we continued to exchange words in this way, we ended up falling into three thousandpo without limit.

    ''Are you saying that, when I say something from a long time ago, the subject keeps getting off topic?''

    I really don''t know why.

    Instead of refusing to say anything, I leaned back against my back and sip my tea with a mug in one hand.

    It is an expression of the will not to say any more.

    "Hey, three, Serpen s?"

    I feel like I have a disciple who listens well.

    Eugese carefully called out Serpens''s name, reflecting exactly what I had said.

    Serpens let out a long sigh.

    For now, let''s talk about that a little later...

    According to my Serpensian interpretation, I''ll pretend I don''t know, so I''ll tell you whether to call me that or not.

    Oh, come to think of it, you said you had something to tell me, didn''t you?

    Where should I start talking about this...

    Speak slowly, starting with the parts that are easy to say.

    Eugene is soft with a stern tone

    said rudely.

    Seeing her like that, Serpens nodded heavily.

    It was the answer to what Euges had said, and it was an action that strengthened his own determination.

    It seems that he has finally decided to speak.

    Most of the current users of the duke''s residence are those who were hired after I became the duke.

    10 years is a long enough time by human standards...

    A person who has worked for more than 10 years in a peasant family that values tradition is considered a hand.

    is a strange thing

    There are cases where large-scale water changes are made to correct discipline as the head of state changes, but this is not uncommon.

    When a person who is not of direct lineage becomes the head of the household, or a young and powerless person becomes the head of the household.

    It is a hard-line measure to show those who oppose those who hold power today, and should be avoided to some extent.

    "Were there many people who objected to Serpence becoming a Duke?"

    It''s not like that. The butler, not me, took over the management of the user.

    NS.

    You mean the butler cut it? Did anyone object?

    The question is whether the butler''s arbitrariness of cutting a large number of people, not just one or two, is not an overkill.

    Serpens shook his head at that.

    The majority are those who have gone out on their own feet.

    Previously, I thought that Hans would have threatened to shove money into his pocket, but now he has changed his mind a bit.

    Based on the mindset of the people here, they were frightened.

    ''Serpens are taking their anger out... . No, I thought you were going to get revenge.''

    When the Serpens, whom they had neglected so much, came to power.

    The family, who had been oppressed and abused by their parents, loosened the shackles, gained strength, and fled for fear of revealing it to them.

    It is clear that he left after receiving a large amount of severance pay and silence before he was caught even after being caught.

    They are cowardly people to the end.

    And today, I heard that they started disappearing one after another.

    Yes? If it''s them, you mean retired employees?

    Yes. We''ll have to do a more detailed investigation to be sure, but I''m guessing someone is deliberately kidnapping them.

    "Are you demon worshipers?"

    I don''t think it''s proven to be entirely the work of a demon worshiper... but it probably is.

    Demon worshipers and their disappearances.

    Eugene''s face suddenly darkened at the two stories.

    You must have had a good reason for thinking that way, Joe...?

    Before she could say her sympathy for those who were blindly kidnapped, she looked at the Serpens in front of her.

    Thinking that he was just speaking up for help, Serpence hesitated to the point of exaggerating.

    ...because what they know does a lot of harm to me.

    Serpens slowly opened her mouth and made a sound.

    "I think it''s because I know that social position, personal honor including things like that stimulates my mentally weak parts "

    the guy is hard

    He said as if declaring that the story that will follow is his weakness.

    Now, wait a minute. First of all, no one is eavesdropping and no sound is leaking, right? Still, it would be better to block the sound one more time just in case you don''t know?

    Euges said, smirking.

    He seemed to feel that there was something more than he had thought.

    No one can overhear the sound in the soundproofed drawing room deceiving Serpens and Eugene''s senses, but it''s not bad to be careful... .

    In fact, it''s just an excuse.

    Rather than being cautious, it would be more accurate to say that it was to appease an anxious mind.

    Serpens nodded his head.

    Eugenes summons the spirit of the wind and only wraps around the sofa and table where we sit.

    one. Created a very narrow-range, sound-blocking membrane.

 CH 201

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 201

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (6)

    Now tell me.

    Euges said, tensely.

    Instead of opening his mouth right away, Serpens clapped his hands together and clasped one hand around the other.

    "Before Zion came, what kind of life did I lead. How much do you know?"

    You love all things equally...

    I thought it wasn''t me either. It was just that he didn''t have any particular likes or interests.

    In response to Eugene''s answer, Serpens nodded.

    He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Getting ready to start the story in earnest.

    I''m all nervous for nothing... .''

    Come to think of it, I''ve never heard the details of what happened to him at that time.

    I read about what happened in [Master of the Holy Sword], and he knew it too, so there was no reason to talk about it.

    It''s also the first time I''ve heard of Serpence''s past directly.

    Don''t make anything precious. You should not give special attention to anyone. Your precious things become your weakness and prey for the devil and their worshipers. You will be swayed by them, and your precious things will become your weakness. As a result, it will be ruined.

    Yes?

    "My that, umm. That''s what the former Duke of Prasidus always said to me."

    It''s something I didn''t know from the start.

    He would have said it was education in another way, but it was close to a curse.

    No, it was just a curse.

    "If there is anything that I am attached to, I destroy it right in front of my eyes. If there is something that catches my eye, I throw it away."

    How could you do that...!

    Eugene couldn''t help but say as he covered his mouth with a trembling hand. The sea I also sympathize with.

    He said the devil worshipers would do it, and he even put it into practice himself.

    From the circumstances alone, I think the former Duke of Prasidus worships the devil.

    Practicing garbage is so harmful.

    It was always difficult to understand what he was saying, but this alone... it felt so painfully...

    Destroying things in front of your eyes and making a fuss

    I hit it, so that''s it.

    Even though it is impossible to give an attachment doll to a young child, the possibility of attachment formation itself has been uprooted.

    I knew it right away, but I realized once again that I was a person who had no parental qualifications.

    As I was biting my tongue inside, Serpens''s gaze reached me.

    I didn''t become the master of the holy sword, so I thought I''d be fine now... But in his words, that was the only thing that was right...

    What nonsense are you talking about?! Forget everything he said!

    Yeah! That nonsense isn''t even worth listening to!

    Before Serpens could even finish speaking, I and Euges interrupted him.

    Damn bastard''s repellent fence.

    Because I''m thinking like that, I''m trying to find a way to get me back to the subject that I must be without right now, even more earnestly than I.

    Everyone has something precious in their heart. To protect it, you can live hard, move forward, struggle with hardships and have the will to overcome it. The present life

    Because I am happy and I want to keep going, people can live."

    "It''s just like Eugenes says. To be honest, there''s nothing you want to protect, so why are you fighting? What the hell are you doing?"

    At the very least, what street drunks do to protect their self-esteem.

    How much less, is there nothing you want to protect even if you have an enemy that threatens the continent?

    ''If there is no pre-destined happiness that you can get when the fight is over

    It will not be an adversity to be overcome, it will be a pain to be accepted.

    It''s not moving towards a better future, it''s just a process of devouring yourself.

    "Responsibility , to?"

    "So where the hell does that responsibility come from?"

    ...Ummm.

    "Look, can''t you answer me?"

    If this had been before the day of choice, Serpence would certainly have uttered a stellar slur that he was born to do so.

    But now he said nothing.

    Putting away his beggar-like holy sword, this is convenient and good.

    The reason Luxmea gave the Holy Sword to Humanus and not to anyone else, wasn''t it really a big picture to get rid of the annoying Holy Sword and Eyesea at the same time from Serpens''s eyes?

    I think of responsibility as an extension of the heart to protect something precious. Sometimes it can be family, it can be a social position or honor, and sometimes it is one''s own conscience. Depending on the person, depending on the situation. The target Even if things change, in the end, what comes from the heart to keep

    I don''t think there is any difference.

    "Is that is it?"

    You 1, that''s it. In the end, how can a serpent pick up any stone that has fallen on the street and take a look at it with a sense of responsibility so as not to leave it from his body for the rest of his life, so as not to get scratched, broken or lost anywhere?"

    Serpens hesitated and shook his head.

    That''s exactly what the former Duke of Prasidus did. To a subject that the world had made meaningless by using a serpent, the unspoken voice to protect it.

    did it.

    That''s what I really want to protect.

    Rather, it is much better to lose it early and start looking for what you want to do away from responsibility.

    "Because Serpense also felt that what he said was wrong, even vaguely. He told me that he wanted to find a reason to protect this world so that he could truly love it. If I have to protect it, where is the master of the holy sword? It''s just the slave of the holy sword.

    He is Serpens who protects the continent

    It was not that he wanted to become a hero, but he must have thought that it was a tool that he could sacrifice for the sake of the continent.

    "Slave is it?"

    He put on a bitter expression as he recollected the last words I had said.

    Like such a pitiful child.

    Come on, come on! Calm down! Are you going to say that nonsense again?

    Why is that...''''

    "You were talking nonsense dog shit.

    Here it is.

    Such absurd logic...

    Oh, hurry up. Serpens was talking bullshit, so you wasted a lot of time trying to fix it!

    Some of Serpense''s documents and my missing documents were newly found.

    It was too late to finish it during work hours today. Oh, I''m busy, I''m busy!

    "Isn''t Serpense''s words absurd in Eugez''s eyes, isn''t it?"

    Yes Yes?! That, that, the bullshit... Was it?

    "Then, should I make a cat sound as a reflection or not?"

    "Do I have to ?"

    Look. Serpens? Come on.

    In front of me, voluntarily, even meowing, it''s like saying that there are other people on the same topic.

    In the end, Serpence mourned and wept in a reluctantly crawling voice.

    Okay then, let''s keep talking.

    Let me do this, and I''ll be fine."

    You can''t get them to talk on their knees with their hands raised.

    It is a punishment imposed by judging the current situation in its own way.

    Serpens looked at me and took a deep breath, then spit out whatever happened in the past as he recalled it.

    Being thrown away by the former Duchess, and seeing her cold eyes.

    He continued to train until he couldn''t stand upright, and in the end, no one helped him get up after he fell, and he was left in the middle of the duke''s house until he got up on his own.

    Saying that, Serpens said,

    He doesn''t expect me from others.

    I was taught not to, and not to lean on."

    was added briefly.

    it''s really bullshit

    I squeezed my divine power to the limit for daily training of divine power, and after gaining physical strength and entering full-fledged swordsmanship training, there were rare days where I didn''t get hurt. This is the story of having to rake in the divine power once again.

    Other than that, I had to end the life of a defenseless monster that was suppressed, and so on.

    Serpens told the story of the days when the former duke and his wife were alive, one by one.

    It''s like reading someone else''s book. It seemed that he was trying to exclude emotions as much as possible, but as the act of recalling it, trimming it into sentences and spitting it out of the mouth continued, it became noticeably more difficult.

    Among them, there were stories that I knew and some that I could not read in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    On the other hand, there were things I knew, but he didn''t say.

    The Facts About the Death of the Ex-Duke and Duchess

    or tortured. Those things didn''t end up being said.

    uh, how... , like that, do wrath !

    When Serpence finished speaking.

    In order not to interrupt his speech, Euges squealed and cried, pouring out the tears he had been holding back.

    They even cursed saying that it wasn''t something they would do in human clothing, and that they would worship the devil.

    Hey, how the hell have you endured something like that?!

    Serpens nodded at her question.

    shook wildly.

    It seemed that he did not want to say that he suppressed his emotions by using divine power and that he did not know what he was doing.

    Eugenes didn''t ask him for an exact answer.

    Perhaps she didn''t even ask for an answer.

    Since last year''s arena incident, Serpens knew how to use divine power for that purpose, and when Humanus and his party came to visit, thanks to Liena''s words, he must have noticed to some extent.

    So her words are laments, not questions.

    Come on, wait a minute! That''s what the kidnapped people are...?!

    After crying for a while, Eugene realized something, and suddenly got up from his seat and shouted like a scream.

    you]. They were working at the time."

    Eugene''s face hardened at Serpence''s answer. Her face was full of tears, but her expression looked dry as if it had been through a drought.

    "Uh, how , that, that "

    Is it complicated in your head, or is it that you don''t know what to say? If it wasn''t for that, maybe he was speechless when he noticed what the kidnappers were up to.

    She stuttered, huh... , and let out a shaky breath.

    "These are the people who put great importance on protecting their bodies, so they must have been frightened of them until now and cracked down on them "

    This time, it means that he will be concerned about his own safety and talk about everything he knows.

    "I have to find them I mean , haha I guess?"

    Eugenes took a long time to pick and choose a horse, and instead of the word ''reserve'', he found the expression ''seeking''.

    Yes. And in the course of the investigation, the serpens will be removed.

    I understand.

    "As soon as I receive the relevant materials from the butler, I will hand them over to Eugenes."

    "Yeah, okay wait a minute! But isn''t that person who worked at the time?"

    Eugene, who had been nodding his head at my words, stopped and sat down, making eye contact with me and asking as if arguing.

    Right.

    "Can you trust the data that such a person gave you?"

    He values the honor of the Duke of Prasidus above all else, so in that sense it is.

    You''re the kind of person I don''t understand.''''

    Even if you don''t like it, you have to be patient right now. It''s the yangban who took the lead in kicking them out, so I know a lot about them. Without him, the investigation will take a long time.

    When I said Euges '' He must be too

    Yes, he muttered to himself.

    At the end of her self-talk, the drawing room sank into complete silence.

 CH 202

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 202

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (7)

    "I''ve heard that Shion and I don''t get along well...but I never imagined it was because of this."

    Eusis, who had been quietly wiping his tears away for a while, and muttering inside, broke the silence.

    I didn''t know you were that kind of person.

    It''s like being hit in the back of the head.

    "I think I need to develop more human eyes."

    "It''s because Eugene sees people with such good eyes. That''s not his fault."

    If you can imagine such a thing in the first place, you should rather question the person''s mental state.

    He/she gave a brief thank you to my words and smiled softly.

    Perhaps it was because his mood had subsided, it was a bitter smile instead of his usual bright smile.

    "But why is Serpens like that?

    Are you still keeping someone by your side?"

    "His family has been serving the Prasidus family from generation to generation as a butler, and he also serves as the head of an intelligence group under the Duke''s family. You can think of it as maintaining his position until now because there is no proper heir."

    "Ah, that''s why Shion''s younger brother !"

    Eugenes clapped his hands as if he had attained a great realization.

    It''s not like that for that reason, but let''s just assume it is.

    "And for the time being, for the sake of Serpense''s mental health,

    I''m going to leave, so while I''m working, Euges will take care of some serpenes... ."

    "That''s not okay."

    "why?"

    "Why?!"

    Serpens interrupted me and vetoed.

    It was almost at the same time that I and Eugenes objected. Eugenes seemed to be more dissatisfied than me.

    If my ''why'' was about the question of why my friend and I didn''t try to make fun of me.

    Eugenes'' ''why'' started with the question of whether he didn''t like playing with him, and it sounded like he was insisting on giving him one chance because he was confident that he would play well.

    "Hey, wouldn''t it be strange to go out alone during office hours while leaving the aide to work?"

    Serpence was so scared of Eugene''s reaction, he was bewildered and poured out all his words without even breathing properly.

    I wanted to shove him off without making any excuses, but when I heard it, it made sense.

    "Okay, admit it."

    " Ah. That''s right too."

    After hearing the answers from me and Euges, Serpens finally breathed out in relief.

    We grasped the reality, accepted the inevitable, and scattered to our respective positions.

    Eugenes went out to the garden, and Serpense and I went back to the office.

    As soon as I entered the office, I was greeted by documents that were being processed.

    "If it''s like this every day, you have to run hard without doing anything else to get off work on time

    do you want to?"

    "If I help, it would be soon..."

    As he sat down, Serpens responded in a shrill tone to the words that were inadvertently possessed by himself.

    Not only is he speaking like that, he''s actually a guy who can do more than just act like a scoundrel. The shoots must be cut beforehand.

    "Uh-huh, are the outsiders quiet? The Duke isn''t on vacation right now. Don''t meddle in my business. You''ll be really upset if you find out about your documents?"

    There was no excuse for being caught as a current offender.

    Serpense went down to his seat with a sullen expression on his face, and I started processing the paperwork again.

    How long has it been?

    When I heard a rustling sound, I looked up and saw Serpens, who had been sitting in Odokani''s seat, rummaging through the desk drawer.

    Then, he took out all the fountain pens he was not using and started filling them with ink.

    looks like he''s bored

    Serpence has been wearing glasses since then.

    He brushed his hair, patted a flower in a vase, or pulled his long hair forward and played with his hands.

    Then, as soon as I got tired of it, it circled around me and became ferocious.

    ''Does this continue for a while, not for a day or two?''

    Building blocks is a bit tricky, and I have to buy an origami book, but I can''t do it like this.

    First of all, what is certain now is that I cannot work today.

    "Okay, okay. Let''s talk. Serpence is also anxious and does anything.

    He seems to be saying this because he thinks he has to do it, what can we do?"

    If you are a proper caregiver, you should not be bothered at times like this, but should pay more attention to it and take care of it.

    I piled up the rest of the paperwork one by one.

    " The documents?"

    "I''ll take it and do it in my room later. Don''t touch it."

    There will come a day when I will voluntarily work from home after work. There are all sorts of things out there.

    Still, I''m a worker like a serpent

    I have no intention of going.

    As soon as this case is over, after throwing a vacation notice in Serpence''s face, the bed and the water will become one.

    "How are you feeling now?"

    " Um, do you express your boredom over this?"

    The boy tilted his head and said with a thoughtful expression on his face.

    "Not like that. You told Eugese."

    "Ah is that what you mean?"

    He seemed to ponder for a moment, but

    I shook my head, not knowing the answer.

    "I don''t know. I don''t feel like anything has changed."

    "Why hasn''t anything changed? There''s one more stakeholder."

    "It''s not like that..."

    "Well then. Did you know that just by saying a few words you can feel refreshed and refreshed, and the things of the past can be undone for three days? "

    " Sunwoo, you were the one who asked how you felt."

    Serpens frowned at my words and pouted his lips. It seems that it has completely become a habit now.

    "I was worried, so I asked. You were showing your secrets, right?"

    " I couldn''t tell you everything."

    It seems that he couldn''t help but omit the content that was unfavorable to him.

    I''m worried about whether I''m being cowardly and swearing at myself.

    "It''s okay. You''ve done well enough. It''s very unique."

    " really?"

    "Okay! It''s hard, it''s hard!"

    After receiving compliments twice, he laughed softly.

    I realized that I was asking again because I wanted to get more compliments, but I decided to just pretend I didn''t know.

    "Hey, umm... Seonwoo?"

    Then, as a thought occurred to him, the smile on Serpence''s face was erased, and his expression suddenly darkened.

    There is no malt in the voice calling me carefully.

    "Why is our Duke like this again?

    "The peacock is on vacation and is not here."

    "Okay, I forgot about it for a while. So why did you suddenly become a wither fence? Oh dear, I''m curious? Can you teach me too?"

    It was evident that Witherpence was hesitant to speak, so I asked the question as kindly and softly as possible so as not to feel like he was urging me.

    As a result, the tone became completely childish, but what about it? There''s no one to follow

    "Sunwoo said everything would be fine, but I''m still anxious."

    "It''s fine. That''s normal."

    "I wonder if I can really rest like this, and I get nervous . Actually, I wonder if nothing will change if I go out. Is this normal?"

    He smiled self-assuredly, crossed his hands like a shivering man, and grabbed his forearm.

    Perhaps it was after he had revealed his innermost feelings, Serpens revealed his anxiety without filtration.

    "It''s basically like that. Anyone in this kind of situation will have such negative thoughts. It''s natural."

    " Is it like that too?"

    "Why don''t you say that to me?"

    I motioned for Serpens to come closer to me, who was walking around my desk. The guy came right up to him and held out his hand as if it was natural.

    He supported it with one hand, and with the other he gently touched the back of his hand.

    "Everyone is the same. There are people who are just engrossed in those negative thoughts, while there are people who are desperately trying to come up with positive thoughts and find a way to overcome them.

    I wish you a long way."

    " can it be?"

    "Yes, it could be."

    "I..., I don''t know yet."

    "At first, everyone is like that. You get help from other people, and that''s how you grow."

    I haven''t had that experience yet, so it''s just awkward.

    So it just couldn''t sprout.

    As a guy who has withstood a long time in the dry soil, if given enough water and manure, he will grow bigger than anyone else.

    I believe it will make a wonderful flower.

    "Serpence has a corner where he is secretly using his body, so I stopped it because I was worried. I should have done too much up until now, and even now I''m mentally driven, I''m still trying to do something.

    "However ."

    "You might have to fight the demons, so you''re worried about that?"

    his head nodded.

    "So, you need to rest more and find stability. That''s how you get stronger, and you have to use your strength to scold the demons.

    okay?"

    "Yeah, what Seonwoo said is right."

    Feeling better, he smiled as he pushed.

    It''s good to see you smiling!

    "I thought about it. Slowly, it''s dinner time, you''re going down."

    "Do I need to eat to get stronger?"

    "I would like to compliment you on knowing how to eat if you teach me one thing, but I don''t mind skipping meals even if I don''t have to work hard."

    I was serious and resolutely cautioned, but he took it as a joke

    I laughed out loud.

    He has an unusual laugh code.

    * * *

    Through the moonlight streaming in from the window, the now familiar ceiling caught my eye.

    " When did I fall asleep?"

    I just woke up and my head is not spinning.

    After lying idle for a while, I realized that it was still dark.

    As I tossed and turned on my side to sleep more, something whitish caught my eye.

    "What, what?! I''m not an ear, a guinea pig, yes."

    It was just Serpens'' bluish-silver hair.

    He was curled up on the side of my side, avoiding my arms and legs stretching out in a large shape, as if a cat was making a nyangmonite.

    At this point, I''m starting to suspect that it might actually be a cat that has turned into a human.

    " No? If it''s a cat, shouldn''t it be made on the chest or stomach, not on the side?"

    It occurred to me that perhaps he was trying to mimic the cat''s ecology by observing it.

    It really wouldn''t have happened though.

    I''m in the middle of a nightmare, and my head is full of nonsensical thoughts.

    I raised my upper body and looked down at him.

    I don''t know if he woke up after hearing my scream or if he didn''t fall asleep in the first place, but you''re still curled up.

    was blinking with

    "I''m not going up."

    "I''m not going to upload it, are you?"

    If you sleep with a taller and better body than me on your chest, you may die of shortness of breath.

    "Why are you sleeping like that? It''s uncomfortable , uh?! Serpens, are you really here?!"

    I guess I was really well asleep.

    As I loosened the arm of the guy holding his knee, I woke up belatedly.

    ". After all, would you like to go back?"

    "No, no! Don''t be like that, just lie down. You''ve never come to visit me for a long time since you said it? So, I''m just a little surprised."

    Seeing you like this after a few months, it seems that the stress was considerable.

    He untied the curled-up body and said, being careful not to let him run away.

    " By the way, wasn''t I working at my desk?"

    "I was asleep, so I moved."

    "Just wake me up."

    I muttered while supporting the pillow I was sleeping on under the head of Serpens who was laid flat.

    "If I take over the bed, what will Seonwoo do?"

    "What, what, how?

    Just in case, I ran to my desk and checked the documents.

    Fortunately, it seems that Serpence did not complete the 3rd job change after going through white fence and wither fence.

    Relieved, he returned to the front of the bed and put the blanket under Serpense''s neck.

    pulled up

    "Is it okay not to sleep?"

    "Are you worried? Hahaha, that''s good. That''s what gyeojisaji is like. If you know, work hard in the future."

    Not knowing what to say, he kept his mouth shut.

    "Anyway, Serpence, don''t worry about me and go to sleep. You have to go to bed early and wake up late to be tall."

    "Should I be bigger here?"

    I glanced at the silhouette of the quilt raised convexly as much as the volume of Serpence.

    very long

    " I do things with a big heart. This is our only promise."

    "Sunwoo, aren''t you awake yet?"

    "Serpense is very clear. Go to sleep, sleep well. If it sounds like you''re having a nightmare, I''ll wake you up, so don''t be afraid. There''s Eugene in the next room, and there''s Sir Winston on the first floor, so even Serpence. No need to be vigilant. Don''t worry about anything today, just sleep."

    Let''s pat a position about Serpence''s chest on the blanket, bastard

    I was about to say something with this dissatisfied face, but I just quietly closed my eyes.

    After slowly confirming that his breathing had stabilized, he went back to his desk and sat down.

    It is overtime work that is not even in sales.

 CH 203

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 203

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (8)

    The paperwork was almost finished.

    The dawn had almost come to an end.

    If it wasn''t for the advisory meeting this morning, I would have just gone to bed and woke up early... .

    However, sleeping in the middle helped.

    The fact that there was no gloomy place anywhere for sleeping at the desk, Serpens may have given him divine power.

    ''By the way, even if I gave Serpens a vacation, he still has to go to the advisory council, right?''

    After dealing with the Demon King and Humanus ascending to the throne.

    By making Serpence take all the vacations she''d been on for a while, it seems like she''d feel refreshed after taking a trip to the continent''s essential tourist destinations.

    He took revenge on Huma-Eunsae and traveled around the continent.

    It''s a perfect, one-on-one plan.

    Ah, I thought of something else...

    While he was talking to himself involuntarily, he said ''Suck!'' and covered his mouth.

    I glanced back and saw that Serpens was sleeping well.

    He''s sleeping. .

    ''It looks a lot more comfortable, it''s nice.''

    Previously, you slept with your hands crossed over your chest, looking at the ceiling like a corpse in a coffin, but now you lie on your side, bend your back, and stretch your legs.

    Folded and sleeping like a fetus.

    His long hair is also tangled and scattered like a tree taking root.

    Judging from the smile on his lips, he seems to be sleeping completely, far from having a nightmare.

    At that time, he turned his head back to the desk with peace of mind.

    In the middle of the night, it''s not red, it''s not, but at dawn, I hear a knock

    The door swung open before permission could be granted.

    It''s the bathroom door, not the hallway door.

    First of all, based on the information remaining in the duke''s residence, we gave instructions to the informants. We are still checking the provinces, but in the capital .

    Hans casually came in with the papers in his hand and started reporting.

    What the hell is this guy doing?!

    Why on this morning...!

    I''m a magpie so I don''t make footsteps

    He raised his feet and crept closer to Hans, raising the proportion of air in his voice to 90% and shouting quietly and quietly.

    Lights leaked out of the room, so I knew you were awake.

    He said quietly, knowing I was awake, but apparently never expecting Serpence to be sleeping here.

    Some wind blew that you woke up early, but I didn''t know you were still processing papers.

    Hans lifted his head slightly and looked over my shoulder at the papers stacked on the desk.

    You must be criticizing me for shouting out at such a slow pace that I would take over the duke''s work.

    It''s embarrassing for me.

    After eating dinner to take care of Serpense, the three of us, including Eugene, gather in the study room on the 5th floor and have a snack party.

    It''s only been about two hours since I started late at night, fell asleep, and then started working again.

    If it wasn''t for that.

    Even if the tea time at 3pm didn''t get longer, at least during working hours.

    could finish maybe.

    Okay, lower your voice.

    "It is five in the morning. No one in this building sleeps until this hour except for the aide "

    Before Hans could finish his words, there was a rustling sound from the bed.

    At that moment, Hans checked the bed and took a startled breath.

    uh... . West who ?

    Perhaps because of waking up from a deep sleep, Serpence called my real name with a shaky, loose tongue.

    Wait, you mean the paperwork? We''re almost done. Oh, why did you sleep so shallowly? Because you''re getting a good night''s sleep? It''s nothing, just get a good night''s sleep, pooh-!

    I approached him and made the blanket, covered him nicely and even patted him, but he blinked slowly a few times before glanced at Hans and sat up in a booth.

    Hans, there''s nothing I really like about that yangban.

    ''The child is awake! What are you going to do?'', I want to grab hold of the collar and shake it off.

    "Did you just say what about the documents?"

    Almost done.

    "I ah, did I sleep that long?"

    The guy ruffled his messy hair and said gibberish.

    Looks like he hasn''t slept yet.

    Still, it is a bit too much to measure the time using how much paperwork I have processed as a reference point.

    "Um But , what''s going on here, the butler?"

    Serpens glanced at Hans.

    asked in a slow voice.

    That''s what the gentleman would want to ask more. You seem to think that this could be your own room.

    Well, that''s because I have something to tell you about what you ordered yesterday...

    Is that so?

    Yes, it is.

    Hans couldn''t hide his bewilderment and answered the question.

    Serpense was wondering why he was sleeping in a place like this, and the reason for that, even though he looked like he was going to die.

    Putting a vomit on Serpens'' horse

    Unable to ask, he didn''t ask anything.

    " What are you doing?"

    Serpence asked what he was doing without reporting, and held out his hand as if asking for a document.

    He seems to be waking up and not being able to understand the situation.

    Confused, Hans reflexively handed the papers to Serpens, and I intercepted them in the middle.

    It looks like the Duke hasn''t woken up yet, please go to sleep.

    It''s usually time to wake up earlier.

    The recommended sleep time for our age group is at least 7 hours? There''s still a long way to go. If not, sleep until breakfast time.

    Sir Zion who speaks like that is...

    Unlike anyone who suffers from chronic sleep deprivation, I usually sleep a lot, so it''s okay to sleep a day less, right?

    No matter what Serpence said or not, he pressed his upper body to the bed, then pulled up the duvet and covered it to the top of his head.

    It is very satisfying to see that they are able to resist enough and deliberately remove strength from their body and accept my hand.

    And Eugene, I know what you''re listening to. Whether you want to come over or not, are you watching? Come and see and hear, Duke, will you make a soundproofing screen for us to sleep?

    As soon as the words were finished, the window slowly opened and Eugese entered.

    I skipped half of it, so I would have been very embarrassed if I hadn''t come, but I''m glad.

    "How did you know?"

    "The last time Xeon came up, he came right over, so I don''t know why?"

    Even if we found out about the existence of the secret passage and its uses, we had such a conversation yesterday afternoon. why don''t you care

    As soon as you noticed Hans was up, you must have been listening carefully to the conversation here.

    Even now, she''s aiming for Hans... , I thought you were watching.

    Lying on the bed, she glanced at Serpens who was sticking her eyes out of the blanket. There is no eye stealer.

    "Can''t we just listen to it together?"

    You 1, you can''t. Don''t worry about anything, Duke, and have a good night''s sleep. If it is something you must know, I will explain it separately later in the day.

    He patted him a couple of times, then stepped back from the bed and looked at Eugenes.

    Like her quick-witted woman, she immediately summoned the spirit and created a transparent dome-shaped membrane around the bed on which he was lying.

    Then please start watching.

    As I turn the cover of the report, my soul is moved

    I spoke to Hans, who was flirting.

    Eugez was also curious about the contents, so he leaned close to me. I slightly pulled the hand holding the report out of my body and lifted it up so that she could see it too.

    The first part of the report I gave you is a list of directories that were left in the records of the dukes. At that time, I also wrote down their hometown and the residence they had obtained after retirement.

    Due to the nature of the people in this world who do not move often and settle as they are, most of them are still in the same place.

    will be living

    He nodded and turned the page.

    "Did you say anything about the informant when you came in?"

    Yes. We selected and mobilized only those with particularly heavy mouths. The provincial side is still investigating, but the location of those living in the capital has been completed.

    Hey, the dog is fast!

    Less than 24 hours have passed since the investigation was ordered.

    Unbeknownst to my ability to process quickly

    Exclamations broke out.

    Hans, who had struggled to make up his mind and posted the report, touched his forehead as if he was dizzy.

    Since the matter is a matter, I hastened it a bit. I have also written down the information about it, so please check the report for details.

    Hearing his words, I quickly scanned the report with my eyes.

    One person died of an illness a few years ago. Other than that, everyone seems to be eating and living well. No one was missing.

    "To add to my personal opinion,

    Compared to the provinces, it seems that the focus is on abducting people living in areas with relatively low security."

    Well, of course it is.

    It''s something anyone can guess.

    He closed the report and handed it over to Eugenes.

    Based on this information, if she moves using the gate of the Dark Street, she will be able to quickly collect information about the change.

    Because she only has one body, she runs into a number problem, but the duke''s agents will make up for it.

    Wylydia-sama...

    Why Eugene? It''s not about asking if he''s an outsider... isn''t it? He''s much more reliable than the insider in front of me, and he''s someone the Duke relies on.

    ...it was a question about whether you knew about the past, but I guess there was no need to ask.

    Hans, who had found the answer he was looking for in his sarcastic remarks, shook his head as if he understood.

    At times like this, we always quarreled with each other, but today, we react so calmly that I feel like I''m the only one who is trash

    am.

    What is it?

    Then the report is over, so I''ll just go back.

    "Ah, yes yes."

    As soon as he answered with a shaky nod, Hans disappeared without hesitation over the secret passageway.

    Then I''ll start investigating right away.

    "What about breakfast?"

    I''ll procure it locally!

    She cheerfully answered my question and threw herself out the window.

    It was a strangely eerie feeling.

    " What are you doing when you''re not sleeping? Eugenes also blocked the sound for fear of being noisy."

    I was standing in the middle of nowhere, and suddenly I was worried about Serpens, so I looked at the bed, and then my eyes met the guy who was sticking out his head over the blanket.

    The barrier that blocked the sound had disappeared, probably from what Euges had gathered as he left.

    "Even if you can''t hear the sound, you can feel the presence."

    "Be very sensitive.

    You thought you couldn''t sleep because you didn''t pat me until then.

    "Hey, Serpens?"

    Hmm, hmm! Anyway, it''s an ambiguous time for me again, so I''ll just go back.

    what to do

    It looks like you got the answer right.

    The boy sighed and got up from his seat.

    "Is it possible to extend my morning sleep by 5 minutes?"

    It''s impossible because it''s already broken.

    Why didn''t Hans grab the man by the neck earlier?

    In my 26 years of life, I have never had more regrets than this.

    And today, I will go to the advisory meeting alone. It would be better to go to sleep as soon as I finish my work and finish my meal.

    Am I not that tired?

    Although I love sleep, I was once a student and before coming here I was a college student. Staying up all night is a familiar thing.

    It''s not that I haven''t slept at all, and it''s really good for about a day.

    Do what I say. If you don''t follow me...

    What are you going to do?

    I won''t eat breakfast.

    Serpens made a terrifying remark.

    At best, I thought I''d be a little stingy, but he''s been making incredibly terrifying threats.

    If you change your language after breakfast, I will skip lunch and dinner.

    "Wow, that''s really shameful!

    Where are you talking?!

    Sun-woo just needs to rest in his room. Sir Redford will stand guard in front of the door, so you can sleep in peace.

    It''s not a guard, it''s a surveillance!

    So. What are you going to do?

    At his urging, I had no choice but to cry and reply that I would do whatever he told me to eat mustard.

    Serpens smiled contentedly and flew lightly out the window.

    "Hey, that lethal fence !"

    I hate it today, so I want to pinch my cheeks.

 CH 204

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 204

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (9)

    Is it because of his delicate and slender fingers?

    Serpence, who has a sharp fingertip, looked at the origami book I gave him and completed the result one after another without trial and error.

    ''At first I said that I didn''t know what kind of fun it was... .''

    After folding a few, he seemed to be completely absorbed in the fun.

    Maybe he needed something to focus on to get rid of his anxiety.

    He took out a book in three days, and the three of them held a small book street party with Eugenes, who returned late at night.

    The problem was after that.

    As he continued to fold only what he had folded, he slowly lost interest in origami.

    For him, I demonstrated the origami skills I had learned during my major practice.

    Starting with the simple ones, I gradually increased the auditory canal, folded the complex ones, and threw them at him.

    He observed it closely, unfolded it little by little, and folded the same things I had folded.

    The repertoire falls in an instant.

    In the end, I had no choice but to show off the welding skills that I was passionate about when I was a sergeant in the last years of my life.

    He wondered if he was a little lost, but he quickly mastered that.

    ''Wow, that''s really cool! How long did it take me to fold that up!''

    Not only is he smart, but he must also have excellent spatial perception.

    So, around the time Serpens succeeded in folding three types of dragons.

    I got caught.

    Received a report from Hans.

    One of the informants he had undercover witnessed the kidnapping and succeeded in pursuing him.

    Although I couldn''t find the exact location because I was chasing from a distance so as not to be detected, just specifying an area is a great income.

    If you notice a chase, you might change your location, so I gave you orders to chase only in an undetected line.

    you], you did well. It''s not hard to find out if you know that much.

    Of course it''s not my job.

    Euges will do it.

    But it''s been a while. I don''t know when they''ll start working.

    A voice mixed with concerns by Euges at my words

    gave out li

    She isn''t the only one who thinks so.

    I just didn''t speak out. As the days passed, our anxiety was gradually increasing.

    "We have to attack the site right away at the same time as we find their lair "

    Eugeus turned his head without speaking.

    Naturally, my head turned to follow her gaze.

    I couldn''t hear anything, but in the soundproofing that Eu Jis put up, Serer

    I caught my eye as the fence lightly knocked on the soundproofing screen.

    Are you up to anything?

    She sent the spirit back to their world and asked Serpens a question.

    I will go with you."

    Yes?

    The exact enemy''s power is not known, and the number of people who have been kidnapped so far is not small, so the number of monitoring personnel is also...

    Serpence started arguing why he had to go with him.

    expected sea. It wasn''t that surprising.

    Nevertheless, I couldn''t help but be surprised.

    Euges, isn''t there a hole in the soundproofing screen? I think you''ve heard not only today''s talk but also all previous reports?! Maybe you''ve been asked by Serpens to just pretend to block the sound...

    No! I''m sure it was completely blocked, but how...?

    She looked at Serpence in disbelief.

    The guy who met her shaking eyes, coughed shyly and avoided his gaze.

    "Well, actually I read the shape of the mouth."

    Somehow, every time a report came in, I felt as if they were staring at us.

    I thought it was just anxiety that came to my room every night.

    After I accidentally saw Hans coming to my room on the first day and posting a report.

    When will another report come in the same way

    It may come, but I must have been hiding in my room at all.

    Thanks to this, I was able to keep myself out of bed every day.

    ''When I woke up in the morning, I was lying in bed... .''

    Serpens who got up first must have put it on the bed and left.

    Even if I woke up in bed, the fact that I slept on the floor did not change.

    I even gave up the bed out of pity, but I''m going to hit the back of the head like this!

    Looking back now, when we first received the report from Hans, our

    I wonder if even saying that I couldn''t sleep because I was worried was a lie... .

    ''Oh, that was a lie, wasn''t it?''

    Anyway.

    I didn''t know that he was even learning to read his lips.

    I felt a deep suffocation and took a long breath and calmed my mind.

    " We will take care of the rest of the work, so please go back to your room, butler."

    Before scolding Serpens, Hans was sent back to the room.

    As he disappears over the secret passage,

    As if sensing that he was going to be scolded, Serpens shrugged his neck, lowered his head slightly, and raised his eyes with a pitiful expression.

    It was a bonus to wiggle her mouth up and down with her lower lip slightly protruding.

    I can''t help it with a face like that.

    I have no choice .

    This time it goes like this, but next time, there will be no soup!

    Yes, thank you. Be careful next time.

    Ugh... let''s see!

    Such a lethal fence!

    Where did you learn this new technology, it is highly desirable.

    "Shion, didn''t you just shoot something at Serpens?"

    Ha, but you''re making such a remorseful expression!

    As I pointed to Serpence and said, he who was smiling triumphantly immediately made a crying expression on his face.

    It''s like that aggravating fence!

    Anyway, if you can, let Eugene try it. Put that face in front of you.

    Can you scold me! I can''t.

    "That''s ! That''s right ."

    If you don''t let go of your anger even after seeing the cute boy''s aegyo, you''re not human.

    No matter how much you hate animals, you will have no choice but to stop.

    This is the only time I''m going to pass. I know that feeling that Serpence did it because he was anxious. So I''m just passing it on. Did you know?

    Yeah, I know. Why don''t I know what you think?

    He bounced my words back to his ear, and spoke haphazardly. Doesn''t seem like he knows anything.

    I don''t know why he chooses to do stupid things like this these days.

    I am very worried that I may have gotten some strange water because I made a strange friend somewhere.

    "But are you really okay?"

    Wake up it will be fine. Didn''t that give me time to calm down and organize my thoughts?

    It really wasn''t like that.

    For a long time, he carried his burdens on the hall

    ran without hesitation.

    Now, little by little, I have eased my burdens and slowed down my stride.

    ''The time has come for the accumulated fatigue to come all at once.''

    He always seemed to need a break.

    Even after work, we had hobbies together, prayed, and chatted and played together. Rest and play are completely different things.

    Meanwhile, the incident caused his stress to reach its peak.

    Because, can no longer postpone the break

    I just thought there wasn''t.

    I listen to other words well, but I don''t even listen to one saying to rest.

    Then I''ll go with you.

    Do you know where it is?

    Where are you, Recluton?

    I don''t mean that.

    Serpens looked at me with a disgruntled face.

    I don''t know why he meant me when he said that.

    Of course you''re worried about me going to a dangerous place with you.

    But I''m worried too.

    , What would you do if you were strong?

    Perhaps the demons thought that the testimony of one or two people was not enough, they kidnapped nearly thirty people.

    Thirty people are gathered in his nightmare.

    No matter how much Eugene goes with him, being anxious is uneasy.

    In the first place, Serpence is not even qualified to say that to me.

    "What does that mean?"

    The guy frowned.

    Why do you deserve to worry about me

    I''m asking whether or not there is.

    It''s not meant to be that way, but it''s pretty much the same.

    "Serpens is deliberately inducing people to misunderstand me, to make me look like a great person."

    Well, that''s...

    Serpens often said? When the demons start to appear one by one in this land, he may have to travel around the continent like the master of the holy sword.

    His eyes fluttered at my words.

    Who am I? Serpentine Mas

    She is a teacher and serpent behavioral development expert. The person sitting on top of Serpens''s head is me. While I was leaking hints like that, did you think I wouldn''t notice?

    Wow, I have no idea what you''re talking about.

    Even his voice began to tremble.

    I hoped I was wrong, but unfortunately I guess I was right.

    Don''t let it go? Serpence thinks it''s better to always take me with him than to keep him under someone else''s protection and protect him himself, so he''s worried if he can''t see it

    Dangerous or not, you were planning to take me with you. Why are you doing this all over again?"

    That''s because if I leave, you''re going to have an accident!

    Serpens cried out.

    In fact, it was like admitting what I said.

    Feeling a serious mood, he summoned the sent spirit again, and Eugene, who had been blocking the sound, also noticed it.

    She looked at Serpens as if asking if what I said was true.

    it was

    Only then did he realize that his words were like admitting what I was saying, and he shrugged his shoulders.

    However, he did not spit out his words.

    "Where did I want to do that?"

    He shut his mouth and looked at me.

    Coincidentally, it is an undeniable reality that something happened whenever his vision was out of reach.

    And therein lies the wealth I brought

    It cannot be denied that there is no one.

    I know too. it''s repentance

    My conscience was stabbed as I was staring at his green eyes that were filled with resentment, but I couldn''t help it.

    ''But you can''t intentionally heighten that anxiety and make it take me away, right?''

    Knowing his symptoms, it''s very easy.

    This incident is not only for the purpose of disclosing Serpence''s past, but only a sneak peek of what the Yangdong operation is about to lure him out and target me.

    lee is enough

    That alone would make him nervous and beg me to go with him. as obvious as fire

    Instead, even after this job is over, they will try to carry me around like an umbrella in the rainy season.''

    Still, you can''t exacerbate the condition by stimulating the anxiety of a seriously ill person.

    Rather, it is better for the future to take this opportunity to admit it yourself.

    "Even Serpens are afraid to face them. They are already confused.

    I''d be pissed... . If you care if you take me and if you care if you leave me. It is better to put it in a conspicuous place than to fight the fear of the unknown that cannot be seen. It''s a shame that you have to protect me, but... . No matter what you say instead, I do a great job as a tranquilizer for Serpens, right?"

    Do as you please.

    The boy was completely nauseous and turned his head away.

    ''Really, I do everything because of him!''

    It''s all because he''s too dependent on me.

    Thinking that all the serenity I''ve been feeling lately comes from me, I''m afraid everything will go back to the way it was without me.

    He was looking for all his psychological stability only in me.

    To be honest, even if nothing had happened, he would have tried to carry me around for various reasons.

    ''Because it seems like I can''t stand it without me.''

    Separation anxiety is severe in many ways.

    It''s true that I want you to depend on me, but

    I didn''t want you to rely on me like this.

    I hoped I could overcome some parts on my own, but the guy was so salty that I became too fussy.

    ''When I realized that, I was worried about him and insisted on going with me, because I''m very polarized.''

    But what to worry about.

    The image of him inflicting wounds on his body in a seizure was repeatedly stepped on in his eyes.

    ''If it wasn''t for that, I wouldn''t have made such a compulsion... .''

    I sighed inwardly.

 CH 205

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 205

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (10)

    Lecleton, where we arrived, takes a full 12 hours to travel by train from the capital.

    A round trip is at least 24 hours.

    There is no reason to leave such a long period of time on the street at this busy hour.

    The more I use ''this'', the more convenient and nice it gets.

    Eugene said as he exited the building with a gate connected to the Dark Street, disguised as a clothing store.

    The ''this'' she said is referring to the gate without even having to ask.

    Anyway, after I clean up ''there'' next year, I won''t be able to use it anymore. It''s just a temporary convenience, so don''t get used to it too much.

    I lived well without it, and once I get used to the convenience, I can''t live without it.

    I still miss elevators and smartphones.

    I know. It''s just a pity that the magic that would have helped many people was used for aggression, and it was lost as it is.

    "By the way , huh? That was about 300 years ago I thought you, Lydia, had used it before. Wasn''t it?"

    As I nodded my head to agree with her words, I suddenly felt strange.

    I took out her pseudonym, which I had used for the Kingdom of Bastul in a long time, and asked about it.

    "At that time, wars were active throughout the human nation. Everyone, including me, avoided going out of the forest as much as possible, and nationally, the exchange itself with the outside was limited to a minimum. And of course, the magic circle was driven You need a wizard to do it.

    Ah, such a problem...

    Only elves and half-blood elves can borrow the power of spirits in this world. Let''s say it''s mixed race: Hey, it''s limited to the first generation.

    The reason that this is possible is that elves were born to accept the energy of the World Tree.

    Because he has the body to be able to.

    Even if they just breathe in the Arke Forest, where the World Tree has the influence, the energy naturally permeates into their bodies.

    ''That''s a prerequisite for summoning spirits to this continent.''

    Elves use their bodies full of the energy of the World Tree to summon spirits.

    At the same time, when they broke the oath of the World Tree, it was the reason that they could no longer summon spirits.

    Anyway, the conclusion is this.

    The elves were able to communicate with the spirits thanks to the energy of the World Tree in their bodies, but they could not accept other energy.

    That''s why elf wizards don''t exist.

    ''It''s a different story if you become a dark elf, but... .''

    There is no elf with a yellow bud enough to make an oath to the World Tree at a young age capable of creating a vessel to hold mana, and to break it.

    In order to make their children into wizards, there are no elves who venture out of the Arche Forest to give birth and raise children.

    In fact, it is safe to say that there is only one way for an elf to learn magic.

    After becoming a dark elf, contract with a demon to receive magic energy from them in real time, and replace it with black magic to use black magic.

    It''s crazy to make a pact with the devil while enduring the pain of your soul being ripped apart to use some magic.

    Even a soul that has become like pieces of rags makes the contract extremely unfavorable.

    If a normal contractor is in the position of ''N'', in the case of Dark Elves, it''s about ''Ill (��)''.

    Rather, it can be seen that the ''system (��)'' is also falling.

    "Hey, but you know?"

    Yes, tell me.

    "May I ask when you two plan to reconcile?"

    In a very cautious tone, Eugeus asked me as if he was going to die awkwardly.

    Well? Aren''t I mad? Shouldn''t that be asking Percent to Lydia''s left instead of me?

    Use a pseudonym like Eugene

    Serpense in the middle shrugged.

    When I looked at him, he turned his head and snorted.

    Look at that.

    I thought that Zion had a vague reason to follow him, and I agreed with that, but this time, Zion was wrong. You know how much Percent cares about Zion.

    So, didn''t you follow me to make you worry less? If you''re attacked in sight, you can block them, and if you get hurt, you can treat them right away. Because that''s what he wants?

    I don''t think you wanted much right now...

    as she said

    Under the deep-pressed hood, Serpens'' stubbornly clenched lips were visible.

    The corners of his mouth full of dissatisfaction hang down.

    ''It''s so strange... ? He must have planned to take me with him.

    Even though the time for the devil to get better is approaching, it''s more forward than now.

    more serious

    Even if the devil forcibly summons the devil right away, only the sacrifices will be consumed in a dirty way.

    A pet kept by the devil, barely enough to summon?

    ''Is this child, have you prepared anything else secretly from me?''

    nothing but that

    This guy definitely has something. I''m sure he''s plotting something secretly.

    Eugene was also looking at Serpens with suspicious eyes.

    " but we came all the way here to do this.

    Didn''t you come?

    That''s what I mean. I''m asking the spirits to search around, but it''s inefficient in this way. But the two of you are like this...

    She took a deep breath as she looked at us from left to right.

    If you want to be effective, you shouldn''t be doing what she said.

    Even if by my standards it feels like they''re walking aimlessly, Eugene and Serpence will be looking around in their own way.

    And now the ranges overlap

    state of being

    It''s not a bad way to look closely, but it''s hard to say it''s good for a wide range of searches.

    Percent, please stop and forgive Zion. There is no sign of remorse, but if you look at it, there is also Percent''s fault.

    While scolding Serpens sharply, at the same time, she, who seemed to be scolding me, suddenly blurted out the end of her words.

    Not only did he stop talking, he even stopped walking and suddenly fell into thoughts.

    "Then what kind of misunderstanding did you create?"

    Well, that''s right. Whatever happened, is it just a misunderstanding that Euges made?

    If you think about it that way, the settings he put on me are just cute.

    However, I''m just saddened that they made up such a plan without my consent.

    If I had only asked you to go with me, I would have responded willingly... .

    That''s it, so that I look like someone important enough to take with me wherever I go...

    Zion is his messenger, right

    It''s creepy.

    Instead of focusing attention by talking about the messenger of God in front of others, she called the god Luxmea ''He''.

    That''s not wrong, that guy makes me a little bit more... Ah, how should I describe this? Do I have to say that he keeps trying to overwrite me with the image of a noble saint?

    "I think the Shion that Percent sees is such a person."

    It''s also scary because it doesn''t sound like a big mistake.

    Anyway! He''s masquerading as someone who doesn''t think it''s weird to accompany him on a trip, and he''s trying to make me look like someone who''s willing to take that risk, that is!

    Looking at what you''ve been up to today, doesn''t it look like there''s not much difference from the truth?

    Every time Eugenes finished speaking, Serpence nodded his head again and again.

    Ugh. I''d rather die than get sick.

    The bottom line is that we did it out of concern for each other. I''m sorry I couldn''t understand the other person''s will

    Apologize and be reconciled.

    She came out of the middle and grabbed Serpense''s hand to shake her hand.

    Serpence pretended not to be reluctant, but did not refuse her hand and took my hand.

    It was the first time he had fought with a friend like this, so it is clear that he did not have the courage to ask for reconciliation in the first place.

    I''m sorry to say that I''m not qualified before. I didn''t mean to criticize Se, Percent, I was plotting like that from behind without saying a word to me...

    It''s not that I''m trying to blame you... It''s not that I''m following this today, it''s not a reaction against it, it''s because I''m really worried. You know?

    When I spoke to him in a soft, stingy tone, he seemed to cringe a little, then nodded.

    I''m also sorry. I ignored your wishes and made plans to go together on my own, or told me not to follow you blindly... I was wrong.

    It''s okay to know. I don''t know why, I''ll just skip it this time. Still, I hope you can tell me about it in advance.

    If I tell you in advance, will you come with me?

    of course!

    When I replied coolly, the guy bowed his head.

    Perhaps he is reflecting on himself for being ruthless.

    It''s nice to see you reconciled. Then I''ll look around and come back, so should I come back as good friends in the meantime?

    Eugenes said with a happy smile as they shook hands and apologized to each other and forgave each other.

    Yeah! We won''t fight, we''ll get along well!

    Okay. Percent?

    " Yes, I will."

    I''ll believe you.

    After hearing our answer, she made a satisfied face.

    If you find one, don''t go in first, we''ll meet here again.

    Eugenes said so, and summoned the spirit of the wind and lifted his body into the air.

    Then it disappeared over a nearby building.

    Then we''ll move first. To be honest.

    Hey, I''m embarrassed right now, so I want to move quickly.

    I agree.

    Only after hearing my words, Serpens realized what he was doing in the middle of this road, grabbed me and hurriedly threw himself into a nearby alley.

    Nearby buildings and people quickly passed behind the field of vision, as if looking at the outside scenery from the inside of a moving car.

    After passing the narrow road and reaching the main road again, the guy set me down on the ground.

    Now, Zion first asked me

    matter.

    "Who says what? Are you making excuses for being pricked?"

    He groaned and took the first step, and I followed right next to him.

    "But are we going to walk around like this all the time?"

    I''ll rent a wagon.

    Serpens shook his head to answer my question.

    Won''t the coachman think it''s strange if you ask him to run without an exact destination?

    It doesn''t matter as long as I rent a wagon, and I drive it.

    "Do you know how to drive a carriage?!"

    The universal fence nodded as if it was natural to my question.

    As a duke each, why did you learn that?

    In the world I lived in, it would not be strange if the president of a large corporation had a hobby of driving expensive foreign cars or sports cars, but in the fantasy world, the duke driving a carriage is a little . Isn''t that weird?

    "No matter how cheap a carriage is,

    Basically, it is an expensive item, would you be willing to lend it without a driver?"

    "Then why don''t we just buy it?"

    The question came naturally from Serpence''s mouth as to why it was such a concern.

    That''s why people who are rich and prosperous!

    ''We should stick together and enjoy together, I can''t.''

 CH 206

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 206

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (11)

    Serpens drove the carriage and spread a sense of energy to sense the energy around her, so she had to concentrate, so she quietly took a nap and put me in the carriage.

    In order to faithfully fulfill his command, I took out the quilt I was keeping in my pocket and wrapped it around my body.

    all.

    "Why are you carrying something like that?"

    It''s one of Shion''s belongings, well. I roughly put it in a box and put it under the bed, but it seemed to only accumulate dust, so I just put it all here. I thought it would be useful someday.

    "Really that looks useful."

    Is that right? If you put anything, there''s always a place where you need it.

    Stop sleeping.

    With those words, Serpens took the carriage

    closed the door

    After a while, the wagon started running.

    ''Because I''m doing this, it feels like I''m going down to the countryside in the car my father is driving .''

    I closed my eyes, feeling the sway of the wagon that Serpens bought and was driving.

    It''s been a long nap

    Woo, Seonwoo? Get up now. And how much time has passed?

    I felt someone grab my shoulder and gently shake me to wake him up.

    Huh-! Noona, are you already at the rest area?

    I want to pass the bathroom, even if I don''t go!]... . Buy me some walnut cookies when you come.

    I yawned loosely and hugged the blanket tightly.

    I wonder why the car has a blanket instead of a blanket, but it should be comfortable.

    A cookie with walnuts in it? I''ll buy it for you when you return, so get up now.

    I removed my mucus and opened my eyes properly at the soft, clean voice and the hand that gently lifted me up.

    No matter how many times I looked, I still had an unrealistic face in my eyes.

    Clear green eyes and shiny bluish-silver hair were dyed in the red sunset, giving them a mysterious color.

    So it''s more like a fantasy.

    " Serpens?"

    Yeah. Are you awake now?

    The experience of seeing unrealistic faces and returning to reality seems a bit new.

    "Did you find where they are?"

    Yeah, I found it.

    What about Yujisu?

    "When Seon-woo wakes up, he says it''s obvious that he will talk about his meal, and he wanders around and sees a sandwich.

    He said he would go to the store.

    It''s a very happy story.

    It is worthwhile to constantly preach the importance of eating.

    More than that, I don''t seem to know much about Seon-woo.

    All of a sudden, Serpens said, sulking.

    It is very pathetic to see him with his shoulders drooping.

    Suddenly, what kind of bastard are you talking about?

    "I didn''t realize that Seonwoo liked it so much that he looked for it even while he was sleeping.

    didn''t know If you like it so much, don''t tell me... .

    "Huh , no , what ?"

    What the hell is he talking about?

    It was so absurd, I was speechless for a moment.

    Seeing me like that, his two eyes were wet and fluttering.

    It''s just like a delicacy at a service station. Even if you have potatoes and butter at home, you don''t eat them, but if you go to a service station, you can think of them as being similar to the butter-grilled egg potatoes that you buy for some reason.

    Yeah, I see. Make sure to ask the kitchen for that too.

    " you don''t seem to know at all?"

    Then tell me. About you...

    There was obviously a big misunderstanding, but it didn''t seem like it was going to be resolved anyway.

    The way he spoke while holding my two hands with his own hands with an expression that looked like he was about to cry seems to have gotten more serious.

    He seemed to be very sad, but he felt sorry for me.

    ''Yeah, I was wrong.''

    To explain the delicacy of a highway rest area in a world without expressways, who would understand?

    I''m here! Has Zion woke up yet?

    Eugene''s voice came from outside the carriage.

    No, it happened.

    Serpens quickly let go of my hand and dab the tears in my eyes with her sleeve.

    Then he turned and sat upright in the seat next to me, answering Eugene''s question.

    answered politely.

    You look like you''re a little less awake though.

    Eugenes got into the carriage and looked at me sitting there with a blank expression on my face with a blanket wrapped around my body.

    This is also a mistake. Sleep has long since flew away.

    It''s absurd that they followed him and killed me together.

    You may not have an appetite right after waking up, but please have some. There''s water here too.

    " ah, yes. Thank you."

    I remove the duvet in half, and stretch out my arms

    I reached out and took the sandwich and small bottle of water she handed me.

    Er, I don''t know. Let''s eat and think.

    "Where are they?"

    It''s not too far from here. It''s an old mansion you can see.

    " I don''t see it."

    I hope you don''t equate the view of a skilled elf archer who has even received racial value correction and the view of an ordinary human office worker.

    "Ah, it''s an old abandoned mansion over there.

    Did he do it, or was he absent, or was there a watcher other than the Warlock? . I can''t feel the black magic, but I can feel a lot of ordinary people''s energy.

    Eugenes summoned the spirit and said while setting up a sound barrier to prevent the sound inside the carriage from escaping.

    "Can I not check the inside?"

    I guess you just woke up and haven''t heard yet? I told Serpens in advance.

    Ah, yes...

    That serpent suddenly became a walnut

    I was obsessed with sweets, so I couldn''t hear anything.

    "I was going to ask the spirit to come and check the inside, but there was no doubt about it even if I looked around, so I thought it would be best to be as careful as possible, so I stopped.

    Concentrating on the feeling of being, the range of movement of those inside was extremely limited. They must be trapped somewhere.

    Serpens added an explanation to Eugene''s words.

    I heard the two of them talking, Yuji

    It seems that Su first found it and informed Serpence, and Serpense who heard it also went to check it out.

    "Then, are we going to jump right in as soon as we eat this?"

    To my question, Serpens and Euges nodded side by side with their sandwiches cut open.

    "Do you need time to digest?"

    Hey, what''s digesting a little sandwich like this?

    Serpence hesitated at my leisurely reply, then bowed his head and took another bite of the sandwich.

    "Why all of a sudden?"

    . I don''t feel good.

    "Are you going to tell me to come back now?"

    If you wish.

    I''m here because I want to, and Moose:

    As he frowned, wondering why he was here again, he suddenly swallowed the water.

    The water bottle, which looked about the size of a 500ml plastic bottle, was empty.

    There are reasons to be concerned about your physical safety, but...

    "Serpence and Eugene are there, so what are you worried about?"

    indeed.

    He''s worried about my safety, so he''s trying to send me back to my original world.

    They''ve kidnapped not one or two people.

    I know. Why are you bringing up all the information you''ve already been told?

    "It is said that even if one or two of them disappear, the result is the same."

    If there is a person who rejects the demons'' proposal, there is no problem in punishing that person as an example.

    it means all

    Maybe it started after putting one person down and creating an atmosphere of fear.

    Perhaps Euges couldn''t have thought of such a piece of garbage or something he could do at all, and at Serpens''s words, he said, Inhale, and opened his eyes wide, swallowing his breath.

    I know.

    what?

    For me, it would have been a difficult story to come up with.

    But my answer to that was. Even the tone is different

    When there was no bar, the boy''s eyes fluttered.

    Did you not understand what I was saying?

    Well, the only thing you can see is that Serpens doesn''t understand what I''m saying, so that''s what you''re feeling.

    I knew from a long time ago that they were the bastards who would remain.

    He often did that in [Master of the Holy Sword] too, so if you don''t know, you can''t know.

    "That , what, what does it mean?"

    The boy''s voice trembled.

    The string of a string instrument pulled taut

    It was trembling softly, as if it had bounced off.

    "Because you know, you came along because you were more concerned, didn''t you?"

    The more exposed a person is to violence, the more sensitive he is to violence directed at others.

    perhaps.

    If it was a Serpence before he met me, he might have passed it on in a senseless way.

    If he had taken pain for granted in the past, he would not have felt anything.

    ''But not now, is it?''

    I knew pain was pain, and I felt afraid of it.

    was able to admit it.

    Ugh, I know that only you in the world are smart,

    With that said, I put the rest of the sandwich in my mouth and wiped my empty hands.

    Serpens didn''t say anything.

    Unable to find anything to say, he shoved his beloved sandwich into his mouth. It''s like closing your mouth.

    ''What should I do if I get caught in my throat while eating like that?

    Seriously, he''s a very hands-on guy.

    Instead of his empty one, I opened the cap of the water bottle I had given me and handed it to Serpens.

    Shion... are you really okay? You must have had a hard time even in the arena.

    Eugene looked at me with a worried expression and asked carefully.

    If you just say you are going back now, they will take you directly to the mansion.

    I''ll have to put up with it, what can I do? It could be

    I wish I could have just persuaded you with words... .

    That would be too much wind.

    Eugenes knew it too, so he took the sandwich he was holding in his hand and drank water.

    I''ll move to a nearby location for now.

    The guy who had been silent for a while returned the water bottle that was only half full and said,

    Seeing that I left my share, I am glad that I seem to be holding on to my mental line.

    Eugenes withdrew the veil of the wind, and Serpens sniffed out of the wagon.

    I flew away and moved to the horse-drawn carriage.

    Soon after, the wagon began to move.

    Because it was winter, the sky quickly darkened.

    It was bought in a hurry and had a decent quality, but it was bought in a hurry, so even though I locked the door tightly, a cold wind blew in from somewhere.

    I drank water and threw the empty bottle roughly, then dug back into the blanket.

    ''After all, in the winter, the blanket is the best!'' But the comfort didn''t last long.

    Running is bound to stop someday.

    The carriage stopped in an alley not far from the destination. I think I''m going to walk from here.

    I said goodbye to the duvet and put it back into the subspace pocket.

    Because it is wrapped in a warm blanket, it feels colder outside.

    Ugh... it''s cold. Let''s go inside!

    why?

    No. Nothing.

    The boy shook his head.

    But what about the carriage?

    ...Ummm...,

    Serpens was holding the reins of the horse and thinking about it, then loosened the string attached to the carriage that was wrapped around the horse''s body.

    and stood in front of me again.

    "You don''t have a wagon?"

    If you leave it alone, someone who needs it will pick it up. I''ll have to buy a proper carriage later and put it in my pocket pocket.

    The horses were at a loss for words, and I was at a loss for words.

 CH 207

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 207

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (12)

    I expected it, but still.

    Serpens and Eugenes seemed unwilling to use the door.

    ''Well, it''s no longer strange to enter the entrance with a small group of people by surprise.''

    Serpence is holding me and holding me lightly

    The crab jumped over the fence by running.

    Eugenes also landed gently over the wall on his own without the help of the spirits.

    Perhaps because the garden inside the mansion had been neglected for a long time, weeds grew overgrown and there was a rustling sound with every step.

    ''It''s better than taking a house where people live, like last time, but... .''

    It must be buried at the foot of a mountain somewhere.

    Someone must be a pseudo-criminal organization across the continent.

    put on

    ''Hey, bastards have mouths too, so they''ll have to eat and live.''

    You don''t want to go up and down the mountain every time you visit the market.

    I understand, but I wish it was still off.

    While I was thinking of such nonsense, we made our way across the garden to the mansion building.

    Eugene and Serpens exchanged glances.

    With a small nod, Eugese pulled out a round sucker-like thing from her pocket and stood in front of the window.

    It is a tool used by the great thief, Ladrava, and it is one of the items I named the Thief Set.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], it was also an item that was not even mentioned when it fell into the hands of Humanus, whose motto was to break through the front of the Jeongjeongdang Party.

    ''Because I am doing this, there is no other thief .''

    I guess I''m the only one thinking like this.

    Eugenes casually brought the sucker to the window and pressed the button. Then, there is a sound of the fish coming out of the wind, and the rubber plate is completely attached to the glass.

    tightly adhered to

    After pulling it and confirming that it was firmly fixed, she connected a lever with a sharp blade at one end to the suction plate.

    ''Is that blade also a dwarf handicraft?''

    As she turned the lever, a circle cracked in the glass centering on the sucker, as if drawn with a compass.

    Eugenes pulled the lever toward his body, and the glass came off cleanly.

    That''s why everyone seems to be dwarf, dwarf.

    Although he knew how to use it, Eugeus''s eyes were slightly different as it was the first time he had actually used the Thief Tool.

    '' Did you like it?''

    If you ask the spirit, you can unlock the lock without making a hole in the glass... .

    All the laughs come out

    Looking at it, even saying that there might be a trap that detects spirits or magic before entering seems like an excuse.

    I just wanted to use that

    what?''

    It is an abandoned mansion that can be damaged.

    That''s why I thought that it was okay to cut out the glass, so I carefully guessed it.

    Eugese, who was well equipped with the thief''s tool, put his hand through the crack in the cut glass and unlocked it.

    - Getting stuck... .

    Is it because it has been neglected for a long time?

    She opened the window as carefully as possible.

    I opened it, but there was a rough friction sound.

    As if time had stopped for a moment, her movements also stopped.

    In the midst of the silence, only the sound of a sharp winter wind passing by is heard. There was no sign of someone approaching, noticing the intrusion.

    As if there was nothing suspicious even for Eugenes, she lightly jumped over the window frame that reached her waist without touching it with her hands.

    She stretched out her arms and held out her hand.

    Serpens held me in her arms.

    Eugese, who had received me stably, stepped aside, and Serpens also crossed the window.

    Then my feet hit the floor.

    ''I thought I had to go all the way to the end.''

    Seeing Serpens and Eugenes taking out their weapons and moving while guarding their surroundings, it doesn''t seem like that''s the case.

    ''By the way, where are the people?''

    He tapped Serpens'' shoulder, who was walking in the front.

    He looks back at me as if he has something to say.

    I looked around exaggeratedly, then shrugged my shoulders with my arms folded and my palms facing upwards.

    Serpens pointed a finger down.

    ''Is it the basement?''

    I nodded and he looked forward again and moved forward.

    It wasn''t that hard to find the door to the basement.

    Because no one was using it, the floor was piled up with dust], because there were places where the dust was particularly pushed and erased.

    It is a sign of many people coming and going.

    Serpens turned the doorknob.

    Unlike the stiff windows, the basement door opened very smoothly, probably because it had been well lubricated.

    Nevertheless, he stopped moving, just as Euges had done before.

    ''What is it?''

    Placing his hand on his shoulder, he pulled his neck out and looked beyond it.

    There was a faintly shining magic light on the wall on the right, thanks to which you can see the narrow staircase leading all the way down.

    could

    Other than that, what stands out is the tightly closed iron door you see below.

    I tapped him on the shoulder with a puzzled mind, and he started walking slowly again.

    The stairs were exceptionally long.

    Having reached the end of the stairs, Serpens slowly turned his head to look behind him.

    When I followed his gaze and turned around, I saw Eugene''s face, whose complexion had turned white for some reason.

    ''What the hell, what the hell... ?''

    Anxiety reached its peak.

    An exceptionally deep basement and thick iron gates.

    I can''t hear anything, but can''t they both hear a voice from beyond?

    Involuntarily, he grabbed Serpens by the shoulders again.

    It was to relieve my fear, but it seems that it also gave him courage. Serpens released the latch on the iron gate.

    The door opened silently.

    Conversely, several cows inside the door

    Lee heard.

    Screams filled with pain are raging, and desperate cries are resounding... .

    '' I thought there would be, what is this?''

    It was completely different from what I expected.

    It wasn''t terrible, but it made it even worse.

    Everyone, think carefully? We''ll have to live and see!

    The voice, not mixed with sobbing, had a clear pronunciation, and raised his voice as if he was speaking from somewhere.

    It seems that there was some kind of discussion contest.

    However .

    Isn''t this lady still not judging the situation? You have to rebel to make Wayne look like that guy, right?

    Wayne is Jack''s father.

    It doesn''t seem like there wasn''t anything that I and Serpens were worried about. It must have been Wayne who set the example.

    Jack''s face, which had been crying loudly, came to mind.

    Wayne''s safety was concerned, but Serpens stood firm in front of the door, blocking the road and not moving a single step.

    all.

    With limited visibility, it was difficult to even see where Wayne was.

    You bastard, your son is working there, so he''ll be holding on! Sending your son to a place where something so horrific happened, what a terrific bastard! I don''t even pee in that direction?

    I wonder if the demons were expecting this kind of situation and deliberately didn''t shut up people''s mouths.

    Or did you buy that person from the beginning?

    I don''t even want to know about that. The fact that either way is the worst changes

    there is no

    Even if you try to get revenge on us later...

    Hey, Jake. Don''t you know we''re already a target for revenge on him?

    Hey, what does that mean?! Why are we !

    Are you really asking because you don''t know?

    The man called Jake did not respond to the loud voice of the man.

    That noble nobleman like us

    I saw them in front of the lower ones. Where can I sleep because of my self-esteem? You must be thinking about when to go and kill him.

    It''s already been more than ten years since it''s been 1, so it''s coming...?

    Another voice was heard.

    Until now, attention has been focused on being the owner of the Holy Sword, but now that the Holy Sword has also been handed over to someone else, it is certain that they will try to kill us without noticing it!

    All I can hear is the sound of anger.

    I don''t know why I have to keep quiet about this dog-like noise.

    Serhub...!

    He immediately covered my mouth.

    I''m speaking out of words, but how regretful would it be to have endured all the hardships you endured? There''s nothing strange about killing us with anger!

    Before I could even compose a proper sentence, my voice, which was interrupted, was buried by the noise of dogs.

    I looked at Serpens with eyes wondering what he was doing. He looked behind my back and shook his head from side to side.

    Just like me, Eugene was trying to do something, and he told me not to do it.

    would mean

    Rumor has it, he doesn''t seem like that... ''

    "Did anyone in the neighborhood hear rumors that the former Duke of Prasidus was such a person?"

    From all over, voices agreeing to that were heard loudly.

    And if you''re not that kind of person, you should rather obey the kidnappers.

    "What else do you mean?"

    The number of conversation participants increased again.

    A friend in the shadow of a father who is still dead

    If it doesn''t work out, you mean you can''t use your hands on the powerless like us, right?

    10 years ago with indifference. now in language.

    In regards to the subject of violence without hesitation, it is absolutely detestable to refer to himself as a ''powerless person''.

    very maybe.

    Even at that time, he may have been talking about something like that, knowing that Serpens was listening.

    As the thoughts go that far, my head seems to go blank.

    Now, this space is a hell and a nightmare for him.

    ''Why the hell are you standing still!!''

    I tried to take his hand, but there was no movement. Even when he pinched the back of his hand and bit his teeth, Serpens didn''t raise an eyebrow.

    I just close my eyes tightly and take a long, thin breath that seems to be cut off at any moment, and then exhale.

    At that moment, something protruded from the back over his shoulder.

    It''s Eugene''s arm.

    I''ll listen.

    She covered Serpens'' ears with the palms of her hands and spoke in a voice that was barely audible.

    Was it the decision that there were no traps, or was it the first thought that it wasn''t important right now?

    A pale green light shone on the palm of her hand, which covered Serpens''s ears.

    If we don''t obey the words of those who kidnapped us, we will surely die, but the Duke of Prasidus cannot.

    If it''s according to the plans they told you, then

    You have to get us out of here, so what about running away and asking for help?"

    Just because you can''t harm us doesn''t mean you can save us. If we pretend we don''t know? Do you think they''ll let us run away in the first place? We''ll put a watch on them!

    is it?

    That''s right, that''s right!

    It seems that this is what it means to say that reason is eroded by anger.

    As I listened to her talk and listened to her conversation, I realized what I was missing.

    ''You bastards, did you write the script?''

    Conversations exchanged fit tightly.

    There was not one windman.

    When someone says something that worries them, the loudest voice makes a counter-argument.

    After that, the conversation continued in the form of agreeing that it was the person who raised the problem.

    ''If you keep listening to these conversations... .''

    my mind goes blank

    It is truly a pseudo-religious group-like method.

    ''I must have been distinguishing the wind catcher... ?''

    How can you be so stupid!

    We could only rescue those who were tortured for resisting.

    The rest of them are all there anyway.

    Everyone, let''s do what Lark said...! I, I can''t die like this! Soon, cows and grandchildren will be born...! Don''t you all want to die? You want to live-!

    I wonder what kind of expression he will make if he finds out that Serpens is here now.

    How could the desperate cry of wanting to live sound so terrifying?

    His anger had reached the end of his head up until now, and his head, which had been hot until now, became cold.

    Kill Kil Kil...

    hair stands up

    From somewhere, a low, gloomy laughter was heard.

    Eugene''s hand, which was extending his arm over my shoulder, trembled, and Serpens''

    fell out of the ear.

    The eyes of Serpens who had been closed were opened.

    I sensed that the strength had gone out of his hand, and I quickly removed it and looked in the direction of the sound.

    "Did you like the gift we prepared for you?"

    Stairs right], there was someone who didn''t know when he had been standing there.

    No one noticed until we got so close. It wasn''t just me, it seemed like everyone was crazy.

 CH 208

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 208

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (13)

    What? Preface Water?! Is this bastard kidding me now!

    It''s so amazing that it seems like an absurd emergency escaped and returned to Earth, leaving me alone.

    Calm down.

    Why is Serpence so calm again?! Did you hear what people were saying in there? But with that,

    what? Gift? In case someone isn''t a follower of the Demon King, he makes dog noises so much!

    Serpens grabbed my shoulder from behind.

    I guess if I left it alone, I would jump out and grab the bad guy''s collar.

    " Did you just hear that voice?"

    If it''s a Serpence, obviously...

    A muffled voice could be heard from inside the basement.

    Hans I hate that gent, but when I put the name of Serpens in my mouth. that

    I can understand why he felt so bad.

    ''Who are they, don''t know the subject, and put the name of Serpence in your mouth? dare?!''

    It seems that the situation is understood now, but it is too late at the latest.

    "Hey, quill it looks like he''s offended a lot."

    The monkey forced a smile and said.

    The guy who said that didn''t seem so good either. You probably don''t like the expression that you''re the devil''s bastard.

    Of course, I feel bad for insulting the object of worship in the face.

    But instead of getting angry... .

    Smile?

    That''s weird.

    I was offended and left Margo.

    ''Why did you appear? If we knew we were here, wouldn''t we have to give up on this plan and save our lives?''

    At the very least, we should have taken advantage of our confusion and blew a bang.

    Anyway, to the demons after this

    People who have them are just tools, and we are a big obstacle for them.

    There is no reason not to attack.

    no, there shouldn''t be

    Nevertheless, the attempt to have a conversation like this clearly means that there is a clear purpose.

    I think there must have been a misunderstanding, but that''s not what I meant when I said gift.

    It''s disgusting to speak in a friendly manner again.

    Now, he''s begging Serpens to kill them.

    He was beckoning Serpens to fall.

    Demon King, that bastard is also quite mean.''

    Even though the back of the head after being hit by Serpens is still tingling, he is anxious because he can''t bring him to his side.

    Conversely, the back of the head that was hit at that time is still tingling and may be in the process of preparing for the back of the head to be cut in the same way.

    Why is that?

    The reason I got the momentum was to get down on my knees. are you against?

    ''I refuse either way, you bastard.''

    [In the Master of the Holy Sword, Serpens was not alive.

    In that life, how emptiness he felt and how he fell down.

    I read it with my own eyes. clearly saw

    So, in the present life, he will be prevented from falling no matter what.

    " So what? Kill everyone and start a new life in a new world?"

    "You speak better than I thought."

    Is it strange? I don''t understand it at all. Don''t you think it would be a much better world to live in if your demons disappeared than that? Would you please get off the continent for world peace?

    I felt very deeply from the conversation I had heard earlier that the people in there were these miraculous and heinous people.

    Still, this isn''t it.

    They deserve punishment, but if they have to get blood on Serpens'' hands in order to punish them, it''s worse than not.

    If they die as they are, that''s enough.

    ''Then what happens to Serpens?''

    It''s obviously going to be painful.

    Crushed by guilt, I may walk on my own feet into the depths of the abyss.

    ''How do I hold onto it? Like his parents, will he talk about necessary evils? Nonsense.''

    Absolutely, that shouldn''t have happened.

    To be honest, I don''t know what to do with them.

    ''You brought such a beggar''s problem.''

    We cannot make this case public in order to take a disposition in a fair way.

    That doesn''t mean you can''t tell Serpens to punish them directly.

    No matter what method you take, Serpens will get hurt.

    Isn''t that the original plan?

    Yes, it was. They tried to expose the wealth of Duke Prasidus and damage his reputation.

    I was going to say... . Did you hear him pray?"

    Hey, crazy...!

    Do these guys have no degree?

    Every word you say is terrifying. I don''t even want to hear it anymore

    But the location is not so good.

    narrow stairs.

    It is questionable whether Serpens will be able to wield the sword properly.

    Even if Eugese fired an arrow, would he have appeared without any countermeasures?

    Moreover, we are below and he is above.

    ''Maybe I''m obsessed with what he''s saying.''

    Everything he says is bullshit.

    However, before the gnome appeared, we encountered a group of people calling themselves the weakest and trying to pass the price on to the victim.

    Who would be willing to say that they have to protect the world they live in?

    Serpense''s hand holding my shoulder trembled softly.

    Euges is pointing his bow at him.

    Although he was crawling, the arm that pulled the demonstrators was trembling.

    "But you can''t say that we were kidnapped by our hands, right? Then everyone would think that it was a lie that we made up.

    Are you really serious?

    As he said that, he giggled and laughed to himself at what made him so happy.

    It''s a broken plan now.

    At that one word, the mind that had been far away found its place.

    I realized I was breathing a sigh of relief involuntarily.

    But what about it? From the beginning, our purpose was to make you realize that the beings on the continent are only ugly people who do not need to protect. Isn''t it really boring and disgusting?

    Serpens already knows that the world is harsh, even if he doesn''t even try to tell them in this way.

    I also feel deeply that it is unbearably painful.

    So this is no thanks.

    "Isn''t the current continent really a world of disillusionment?"

    What do you mean? What you''re doing now makes me more disillusioned?

    Kill kill, I apologize for that.

    don''t look sorry at all

    It''s not about being mean, it''s a smile that makes you want to slap.

    Evil messenger of Luxmea. This continent is indeed....

    It''s not?

    what?

    He raised his arms like a pseudo-teacher, grasped the weight, and opened his mouth.

    Daa paused for a moment at my answer.

    Not a wicked Luxmea. It''s because he''s got a bit of a flair, he''s not a wicked kid or anything like that.

    maybe

    what?

    It''s better than your Tennessee. Where do you see a low-level idiot who doesn''t have a proper godhood to cross the continent? Where does God look easy?

    "Daddy, Che , are you ?"

    Suddenly, the evil bastard faltered and stepped back half a step.

    ''I think I misunderstood something?''

    What does it matter?

    It is the atmosphere that makes the opponent feel intimidating and makes them unable to move.

    flow was interrupted.

    Seeing him peck like that, he lost his fear of what he was saying.

    "Ha..., haha, quibble, kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!"

    bizarre laughter.

    It''s like the rustling sound you hear when you try to force an old, rusty machine that hasn''t been lubricated.

    creepy and terrifying

    It doesn''t matter at all. Yes, any being is now trapped in a helpless human body.

    The words he uttered were absurd, and the gloomy atmosphere that had been recreated with laughter at best was shattered.

    Our god is an idiot who doesn''t even have a Godhead? How about you with a Godhead?

    I don''t remember how he slept or anything like that.

    misunderstood

    "Aren''t you bound by restrictions and unable to exercise any power?"

    No, it doesn''t have any power.

    The Demon Lord. It is clear that our Tenebrio-sama sees through all these things and suppresses the perfect god! He will descend directly to this earth and guide us!

    That is also a complete misunderstanding. I guess you just want to believe that.

    That child is a wretch because he can''t become a god.

    If only he could become a god, he was the one who would accept that it would be good if he had to sacrifice all the continents and demons.

    ''Wait, for God to intervene on the continent,

    Are there any restrictions?''

    It was hard to see that, Lux Mea often lowered the holy sword on the continent.

    Where is that?

    They threw me at Serpens, or even fiddled with time.

    '' This bastard, now that I see it, it''s completely nonsense, right?''

    He sees only what he wants to see and hears only what he wants to hear.

    Or was it that Luxmea was unexpectedly busy?

    ''It''s elusive, how come I don''t feel the spirit

    Coming... .''

    Let''s just assume that the evil bastard was just using his imagination.

    It is foolish to see that I was misunderstood as a god in the first place.

    That guy is the one who coined the word stupid.

    What the hell did Luxmea do? What can you do?

    Well , time manipulation?

    Isn''t that all it was to dismiss a being who was unable to exert any powers and had only a rough mouth as a messenger of God?

    It seems that the existence of the holy sword was made by counting.

    That''s enough.

    Enough dog... , Huh?

    I was vomiting hard inside, but this time the voice came from behind, not from the front.

    It was Serpens.

    He grabbed my shoulder and continued speaking.

    "Even though I was powerless, he reached out to me a helping hand. Even though he often spoke strangely, there was a feeling of concern and warmth for me.

    know that Therefore, his existence alone is salvation to me and a gift from God."

    He only changed the word that he had a rough mouth to make it strange, but there seemed to be no intention to deny it.

    It''s a little awkward, but it doesn''t matter.

    Rather.

    ''Whether it''s salvation or a gift from God, it''s too... .''

    I''ve never heard such a strange sound in my life.

    It''s a very embarrassing story, so my face is pale

    it''s about to get hot

    ''He''s real! There is no sound that cannot be heard in front of others!''

    But what to do?

    His age (twenty) five. It is the age when the guardians are in full swing.

    Even if my dad was cut off at work and playing at home, it''s time to go around proudly saying, ''My dad plays with me every day!''

    I couldn''t help it, so I straightened my chest and stood proudly.

    "I have no intention of betraying Luxmea-sama, who gave me such an undeserved gift.

    There is not.

    Money, power, face. A guy who lacks nothing less than me, what kind of excess?

    How can I raise that self-esteem crawling on the floor? .

    As soon as I get back, I have to scold you very stingingly.

    Did you hear it? No matter what your tactics are, our duke has no intention of turning his back on the continent, so please tell him to wake up from his dreams!

    Did my words sound like something for them?

    A sigh of relief was heard from those who remained silent after knowing that Serpence was coming.

    To the subject that there is nothing to do for the continent.

    To the subject that they tried to follow the devil''s words in order to survive.

    I can''t understand why they still think they are part of the continent.

    Hey, sleazy...!

    You guys like that are old-fashioned, so they kidnap people, lock them up, and give them a thought.

    Do you want me to wear it?

    The authors have been like that from the start!

    It''s nice to hear that

    Oh, so? So, you''re saying you''ve voluntarily been on the side of demon worshipers from the start? Hey, didn''t you tell me earlier?

    what?

    These guys were evil from the start, so Serpence kidnapped them and tried to spread rumors about things like that when they were young, aren''t they? There were only this guy and that guy, all evil people!

    A murmur was heard from behind.

    Some of them said that they were threatened with their lives, that they were threatened, that they were afraid of being tortured.

    Occasionally a word of apology was heard.

    ''Yeah, it can be scary. You must have been afraid to see people being tortured right before your eyes.''

    However.

    "If you''ve been reflecting on yourself, shouldn''t you be speaking out like that now?"

    If a person is shy, they should keep quiet.

    Even now, clamors of who was more at fault, he didn''t, filled the basement and buzzed all the way down to the stairwell where we were standing.

    The words I spit were buried in them, and they would not have reached them.

 CH 209

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 209

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (14)

    ''Oh, it''s very noisy! You can''t just close the door... .''

    Due to the narrow passage, the only place to escape when an attack came was the basement behind.

    There''s no one screaming to be quiet right now when it''s buzzing like that, so there''s no one who can be called a watcher.

    is the shape

    ''Do it. I was planning to pretend to be free to exchange opinions and drive public opinion, isn''t it?''

    It is only a threat to the end when the person who threatens opens his mouth.

    But what if it was brought up by someone in the same situation?

    Naturally, they sympathize, and at some point they mistakenly believe that the other person''s words are their own.

    ''Maybe I needed someone who could shift the blame when I was wrong''.''

    just like right now.

    Now, inside, they are full of clamors to slander a person called ''Lak'' and to shift all responsibility to him.

    ''Ugly people.''

    Let''s take it as comforting that we don''t have to worry about being attacked from behind right now.

    "Even though I gave you this chance How foolish you are to choose punishment over Kwonju!"

    "Whether it''s Kwonju or Beolju, it''s the same alcohol that you get drunk if you drink a lot."

    As long as you take what others give you and drink it, you will not be able to get away with it.

    At the very least, if you express your intention to refuse, you will have a chance to avoid it.

    Kikkilkil, you will regret it.

    Other than that, how come there are so many stereotypical villains?

    Not to mention the laughter, from talking about the plan, to the comments spit out after recommending to fall on the side of justice and rejecting it!

    He was drawing the perfect trinity.

    "Who''s going to say it? Even now, on your knees and begging for a good life Crab "

    The evil monkey raised the corners of his mouth and laughed uncomfortably.

    It was an ominous smile.

    The same goes for Eugenes who sensed it. She let go of the bowstring she was pulling taut.

    At the same time, the bastard snapped his finger.

    The arrow pierced the air and went up the long stairs in the blink of an eye, but was blocked by a translucent black shield.

    all.

    As if he knew that his attack would be blocked, Euges immediately drew a new arrow and put it on the pole and summoned the spirit.

    ''Wait a minute, there''s no way magic can come out just by tapping your finger, right?''

    I wasn''t the only one noticing it, but there must have been more demons behind the wall.

    Then the question arises again.

    ''What''s the meaning of the act of snapping your finger a while ago... .''

    - Kwagwang! Whoops!

    The floor shook, and stone dust fell from the top of his head.

    What, what?! Earthquake magic?

    It''s gunpowder.

    Serpens pulled me back from staggering and made me lean on myself, calmly answering.

    It takes a long time to improvise a large-scale magic. In the meantime, some variables may arise.

    However, if the magic circle had been installed in advance, we would have noticed.

    ''It either didn''t come down like it is now, or it must have been dismantled.''

    The moment you want it, the scope you want it to be. It seems that gunpowder is installed to cause an explosion with the desired destructive power.

    Unlike magic circles, which cost money just to install, there is an advantage that gunpowder can be dug up again if not used, so I put my mind to it in many ways.

    No, that''s not what''s important! You look like you''re buried alive, so why are you so calm...

    - Kwaang!!

    One quack! Wow!

    Before the words could be finished properly, there was a bigger vibration than before.

    This time, it was an explosion that happened right before my eyes.

    When the fireballs created by the evil monkey collided with the blue arrows containing the energy of water that Euges fired, there was a thunderous roar.

    The water vapor that rose as fire and water met was scattered in a huge shock wave.

    If Serpens support you from behind

    If I hadn''t, I would have fallen to the floor from that shock wave.

    Okay, calm down. Didn''t I tell you before? I''ll never let you die.

    Because of the deafening noise, I could hear Serpens''s voice speaking right in my ear.

    As if talking from far away. It sounded so faint.

    Can''t you hear my voice?

    His breath tickling my auricle and his firm hand on my shoulder. A solid body against the back.

    If it wasn''t for those things, I would have been flustered thinking I was separated from Serpence.

    Oh, no. I can hear you. I''m a little deaf for a moment... But is it okay to stand still?

    In the meantime, minor vibrations and loud noises continued.

    The only way out is the demon tightly shut.

    Even if Eugenes fires arrows in a row, there seems to be no sign of piercing through the two of them in a deadly way to cast spells one after the other.

    If possible, I want you to know my hard work.

    Yes?

    Come to think of it, there is nothing falling from the top of my head except for a small drop of stone dust at first, as far as I can feel the vibrations continuously.

    I lifted my head and looked up at the ceiling. A veil of light was spread out there.

    It is a protective barrier made with divine power.

    And beyond the barrier, piles of cracked stones were piled up.

    The range is too wide, and the gunpowder

    When they fall, they even shoot magic.1,

    Serpence muttered in a low voice, as if chewing.

    The wide range would mean including the basement at the back.

    He was able to withstand the weight of the ceiling, which was made especially thick for sound insulation, and was even blocking all kinds of magical attacks.

    "Now, how do you do that?!"

    Eugenes asked, pulling the string bow for each word.

    The arrows I put in the quiver are already gone

    He couldn''t even take out the arrows in the subspace pocket, so he was shooting the arrows of the spirit that had condensed the power of the spirits.

    If you look closely, you can see that her two legs were nailed to the floor from her ankles to her neck.

    This is to avoid being pushed out by shock waves due to the extremely light weight of an elf.

    Unlike me, who leaned on Serpens, she was holding on with pure strength.

    "There was a great commotion, so if you wait, the guards belonging to the nearby denomination or estate will come.

    It will be good.

    "Like this, hold on are you sleeping?!"

    you . Please hold on to the authors so they don''t run away.

    Hearing his words, I saw that the evil bastard was quite nervous... , paper .

    ''I can''t see anything!''

    In front of my eyes, something flew, exploded, the floor vibrated, and a strong shock wave swept away my body.

    In the midst of this, how can I see what kind of expression the person up there is making?

    But why is Serpens like that?

    I know well what you said.

    If Eugenes didn''t react, and Serpens'' Holy Barrier covered the front, they would have run away without looking back.

    However, in the current situation, it is a different story.

    ''The moment they give up their attack and try to pull themselves out, Eugenes will be right behind them.''

    Even if the attack on the ceiling stops now and the burden on Serpens is reduced, the result is the same.

    When he has enough energy, he jumps over me and Eugene and swings his sword at the demons.

    will put

    Wait! Serpence...

    ...But you can''t just let the basement collapse and let them die.

    Serpens raised his noble will with a desperate voice.

    The depths of my heart became silent.

    Because of those cowardly people... .

    If you ignore them, you will fall victim to the devil worshipers.

    Serpens whispered in my ear.

    It was a small voice that could not be heard by others, buried in all kinds of riots.

    Yes?

    Isn''t everyone here?

    Again he whispered in a small voice.

    The Serpensian interpreter spun violently and analyzed his words.

    It was said that if there were rumors that they had deliberately turned away from them to hide their past while being able to save them, it would be a bigger problem.

    I''d rather make a debt of my heart

    It was calculated that it would be beneficial to keep them from opening their mouths, or to make them deeply repent of their sins and praise Serpens as saints.

    ''Seeing you roll your head, you seem to have come to your senses.''

    That''s unfortunate.

    So, let''s move on to that issue... .

    "Can you two hold out?"

    Ummm...there are a lot of people who attack from above, but they aren''t that strong. Should I say it''s over? I use only one simple explosion magic.

    go .

    ,,Yes?

    If it was such a mediocre skill, it would have been difficult to hide it properly...

    Ah! Is it an instant?!

    These guys started appearing in the mid-to-late half of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    They were originally ordinary believers who could not use magic, and by receiving a reagent developed by the demons, they were able to use black magic temporarily.

    only.

    No mana accumulated, instead

    The downside is that it comes with a great risk of consuming blood and life.''

    Usually, extremely diluted reagents are administered to teach only one or two simple magic tricks. To feel only a small amount of anemia.

    And just before entering the actual battle, a real drug mixed with a stimulant that paralyzes this castle is handed over.

    ''Then what... , unaware that he is dying, he is intoxicated with excessive power, and he dies by blasting magic until his vitality is exhausted or the medicinal effect is over.''

    Of course, the effect is very long. The vitality of ordinary people far exceeds

    as high as possible.

    "After brainwashing "

    Serpens groaned and clicked his tongue.

    That''s about it right now, but if the dimensional trajectory is more inclined than it is now, and can summon demons in earnest.

    I have no idea how many things will go wrong.

    What are you talking about, Ji! I don''t know! The ones I''m dealing with...!

    Euges continued to speak with difficulty, interrupting one word at a time.

    Perhaps the people she is dealing with are ordinary warlocks.

    " I don''t seem to be able to use magic with proper power because I was in a hurry to cast magic."

    The urgent thing is that Eugene is also every single thing. Behind the scenes, Serpence was leisurely analyzing things.

    Of course, it wasn''t wrong.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], it was not that the evil spirits gave the ''Black Knight'' an executive position just because they looked cool, and brought them to their side.

    ''It''s much faster to pull the bowstring, release the spirit''s energy, condense it, and then shoot it than the time it takes to materialize the magic.''

    All of the original wizards are like that.

    It is a job that only shows its true value when you put a tanker in front of you and put a stake in it without paying attention to other things.

    Of course, if the average hit includes a deal that is at the level of other ultimates, the story will be different.

    It doesn''t seem like they''re that great, so if it''s Wilydia-nim, that''s enough...

    Yujisuyo!!

    She intercepted Serpens'' words and shouted sharply.

    Nettle-, arrows tear the air

    I went up the stairs, and soon after, a loud explosion sounded loudly.

    Power is no joke.

    "Yu, if it''s Eugenes , then you will be able to endure it."

    I could feel Serpens shivering behind my back and shaking my body.

    Maybe I was usually surprised, or as if I was some kind of attachment doll, I held her tightly and changed her name as she told me to.

    This child is scared

    In the middle of a group called Eugenes''

    It''s clear that you''ve skipped the line.

    ''When we first met, I saw Serpence and said how powerful it was, but he is the most powerful!''

 CH 210

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 210

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (15)

    Those on the top can''t be sure that the Instant Warlock is right.

    If you look at it with your own eyes, you will see that it gradually dries up, but for now, it is just speculation.

    However, black magic or vitality, whatever it is, it gradually runs out.

    It is certain that there is

    Don''t you think the sound you heard from above seems to be coming more infrequently than before?

    Right.

    "It felt like less than 10 minutes "

    I mumbled unintentionally, realized something strange later, and stopped and shut my mouth.

    " why do you do that?"

    This guy has been talking nonsense to me since a while ago.

    It''s a very natural everyday thing for me, so I''ve only noticed it now.

    Serpense, do you hate me in front of others Al, ah! I first called Serpens a serpent!

    I call serpens by their first name, and it''s even weirder when serpenes give me honorifics and use honorifics.

    It must have been to indirectly recognize that calling the name was not a climax, but an expression of mutually agreed upon intimacy.

    ''Wait a minute. So what if I called Serpens by name in front of Humanus?''

    I''m sure you''ll match it up like this

    did.

    Next time I see him, I will definitely... .

    Whoops.

    The thought of falling into Samcheonpo was restored to Serpence''s brief sigh.

    The meaning of that sigh was a warning to be careful in the future if you knew it, a lament that you had only just realized it, and a warning to not think of anything else in this situation and to be alert.

    But, there''s nothing I can do.

    I''m sorry for Eugene, but

    Seeing the effect of the magic exploding in front of me, I gradually got used to shivering in the shock wave that pounded my whole body.

    There is nothing to be afraid of, as the Serpens who will protect you when you are in the car are firmly supporting your back.

    Wouldn''t it be better to release the people who were imprisoned during this time of standing in vain?''

    It wasn''t until the reinforcements arrived that Serpens had to support the piles of stones that were the ceiling, but after that.

    until everyone has been evacuated. Not a dangerous molecule like a windman

    It doesn''t seem like it would interfere with the release of the public.

    ''I''m also worried about Wayne''s condition... .''

    Tender 1, who is not unaware of this, even Serpens holds me tight and doesn''t want to let go.

    Even if you indirectly express yourself to let go by moving your shoulders and twisting your body, it is of no use.

    It was the time when I was just opening my mouth to speak directly.

    I will surely deliver your sacrifice to the great Demon King Tenebrio!

    Of course I didn''t mean it.

    It was the voice of the monkey who first spoke to us.

    Before I could grasp the true meaning of those words, I saw someone being pushed on the stairs.

    Aww !

    A terrifying male scream erupted.

    Euges, who was constantly pulling the protest, let out a startled cry, and hastily harvested the spirit''s energy from the bow.

    It was the power he put in to offset the magic.

    If it were hit without protection, the fragile human body would burst like a balloon pierced by a needle.

    ''Before, they fired fireworks at the same party and ran away! Is there a doctrine in the Devil''s Church to throw the same side as bait when escaping? Tenebrio teaches like that?!''

    The sight in both eyes is there.

    In the blink of an eye, my vision darkened.

    Ouch, billions, evil!

    Screaming voices filled with pain one after another

    I heard it, and at the same time, a blunt sound of something hitting something was continuously heard.

    Come on, wait a minute! Serpence get your hands off me! How did this happen...

    It''s better not to look.

    I know that.

    The stairs were long and the walls and stairs were broken by the impact of black magic and the energy of the spirits, and sharp fragments were lined up.

    Falling down from the top of such a place

    An arrow full of spirit energy

    Better than being beaten and ripped to pieces, but that doesn''t mean you''ll be safe.

    Ah-! Hey, let go of this!

    It was Eugene''s call.

    When I heard the sound, it seemed that someone had caught Euges who was trying to chase the escaped one.

    Serpense''s hands are attached to me, so all that''s left is the monkey that just fell off.

    What, what? Are you still alive?!

    it seems so.

    Serpens answered my monologue.

    And as if agreeing with what he said. turn it off... , followed by a dreadful sound that seemed to have leaked from the throat of a dying person.

    - Aww! Kurreung !

    The explosion was much louder than when the first gunpowder exploded.

    Maybe you''re destroying the mansion?

    Profit ! This! Let go!!

    Whether Euges succeeded in warding off the demon, the light sound of climbing the stairs echoed through the narrow stairs.

    spread

    Soon after, a loud roar was heard again, wondering if the wreckage of the broken building was being crushed.

    The basement is supported by a barrier anyway, so it must have been blown away with confidence.

    "Is Serpens okay with this?"

    "If I leave, this place will collapse."

    When asked if he didn''t have to pursue him, Serpence replied as if he had no choice.

    Then he clasped a hand that did not cover my eyes around my waist and lifted it up.

    I wondered if my body would rise and lean slightly diagonally, and then I heard a dull sound of ''Fuck -''.

    100 million...!,,

    I could also hear someone suffocating.

    This is kicked no doubt can be predicted

    Now this guy is rolling down the stairs and kicking a dying man!

    Lord, did you kill me?!

    I just passed out. Wait a minute... I''ll take your hand off, so can you close your eyes for 10 seconds?

    ...why?

    It''s a little bit like this... I think I''ll have to match the bones.

    It looks like the joints are misaligned.

    In the meantime, holding onto Eugene''s ankle and stretching to protect the monkey from running away. A very scary guy.

    What makes the guy who threw himself as bait so pretty... .

    I''ll count to 30 seconds.

    Feet on the ground, I close my eyes

    He closed it and covered his ear canal with his fingers.

    Sometimes it sounds like a squeak, sometimes it doesn''t.

    After counting 30 seconds, he opened his eyes and saw a man with intact limbs, stunned and tied to a rope.

    ''Does this guy carry stuff like that in his subspace pocket?''

    It''s useful, but terribly ugly.

    Sorry, I missed it...

    Stick your tongue in Serpence''s inventory

    As he was about to stand there, Eugese shrugged his shoulders and tumbled down the stairs.

    I''m in trouble.

    Iknow, right.

    "It wasn''t a day or two that they targeted Zion, but "

    It will get worse in the future. Ha-, I should have caught it somehow...

    Serpens and Eugenes exchanged unfamiliar conversations with pensive faces.

    so far it''s ok

    The problem is the content.

    "Yes? Me? Suddenly? Why?"

    Yeah, they had a strange misunderstanding about Zion.

    If it''s a misunderstanding..., ah!

    There is only one misunderstanding about me.

    It was like I was a god from another world or something with a similar divine nature.

    Anyway, that misunderstanding that it is equivalent to Luxmea.

    The guy who ran away will pass on that misinformation to Tene-Oh-Go... .

    The demons will come to kidnap me to sacrifice my soul in the future.

    What do you mean?!

    It''s not only the soul, but the body as well. I''ve misunderstood that you''re a god from another world, so I think a body that can contain the soul of a god would be a great vessel.

    crazy.

    Unbeknownst to me, harsh words came out.

    Is this the price for calling Luxmea in a friendly way?

    So why shouldn''t we talk about God carelessly?

    Is this really God''s revenge?!

    But it goes without saying that Serpens cares for me anyway, and since I already knew that I was a messenger from the gods, nothing has changed, right? It seems that the strategy of corrupting us and trying to entice them to their side seems to have been completely abandoned as of today. .

    Come to think of it, not much has changed.

    It''s different. Until then, I had kidnapped you and used it as a tool to intimidate me, but from now on, there''s no room for compromise to summon a stronger demon.

    I''m going to try to use it as a consumable.

    There was a big difference.

    I know too well the end of a sacrificed soul to be comforted by the fact that it is not an immediate kill.

    To keep you right next to you and let an accident happen...

    From now on, if you encounter a demon worshiper, how about covering Zion''s mouth first?

    To Serpense''s self-helpful lament, Euges comforted him and made scary noises with a gentle voice.

    Even if Serpence was harsh with those words, he would gag on his mouth whenever there was an encounter event with a demon.

    "By the way, you didn''t misunderstand Euges, did you?"

    Stop Sadal''s right]. And I posed a question to resolve the question of both business and business.

    If there was always something to be misunderstood, she was the one who overcame the misunderstanding and created an epic.

    But for some reason, it seems that he has no intention of writing this time.

    Sion equals his superior,

    It''s always going to be something to treat you like a friend.

    When she started writing novels, the setting grew out of control and I was worried about what to do, but I think I can move on quietly this time.

    That is why it seems that daily conduct is important.

    Somehow the mouth is bitter.

    Still, I didn''t know that God Luxmea would be like that.

    "It''s okay. It wasn''t a curse, it was a compliment, right?"

    There was a little bit of cursing.

    I lay my hand on my conscience and assert that it was a statement that was thoroughly factual.

    It''ll be fine. God Luxmea loves serpenes, and those serpenes love me, so what''s the problem?

    "Is that so?"

    No way! Serpent''s baptismal name means-!

    I thought I just had to say the baptismal name, but I guess I shouldn''t have said the meaning as well.

    Serpens covered my mouth.

    I can''t help what I''ve already missed,

    Let''s save people first.

    Saying that, he went into the basement as if nothing had happened.

    Still, Euges had already heard half of what I said. It was burdensome for her to look at me with envious eyes, so I followed her inside.

    ''I''ll just have a snowball fight with Eugene.''

    Upon entering, the eyes that are much more burdensome are densely packed.

    Vibration to the ground and a roar like thunder from the ceiling.

    Feeling threatened with life, fear and bow

    Get into the net] Enough to lose.

    It is not enough to be in awe of the silvery divine barrier that protects them from that threat.

    ''How come the basement seems to have paid a lot of attention to soundproofing... .''

    The basement we finally set our feet on was like a prison.

    The iron bars were lined up, and beyond that, you could see the faces of a man crouched down and terrified.

    Is it because he knows that if Serpense gets offended, he''s immediately struck by the piles of stones above his head?

    Where did the people who chattered loudly, only the hapjuk remained.

    But why hasn''t the reinforcements come yet?

    Silence is awkward] C.

    Following Serpens who was walking in the front, he opened his mouth, examining the people who were imprisoned in the cage one by one.

    Everything looks fine

    Those who have been tortured seem to be farther inside.

    "The temple of the Recluton branch is in the opposite direction to this place, so no matter how rushed you are, will you come to hear the news?

    It will take an hour or so.

    As always, he answered in a kind and gentle voice.

    "Then what about the guards belonging to the territory?"

    I have nothing to say about that part.

    I''ll have to report to the Emperor right away.

    Even though the demons ran wild like this, they didn''t come out.

    If the denomination''s personnel arrive first, the self-harmful emperor

    He might demote the title of Lord Cluton.

    Come on, wait a minute!

    Eugese, who followed, shouted as if he had remembered something.

    We paused for a moment and looked back.

    Did you mean that you were planning to replace it in that state for more than an hour if there was any difference?

    you .

    Serpens calmly answered Eugene''s question.

    I can''t stand myself that long

    There wasn''t... ?

    It''s just that you don''t know your limits yet.

    No, I-

    I believe it is possible.

    At his even decisive answer, Yu-Jis''s eyes fluttered.

    ''Ah . That, that.''

    When the main characters are pushed to their limits, it is one of the common clich��s to use the crisis as an aid to overcome the limits and expand their abilities.

    Humanus, Anima, and Liena. all went through

    Eugene and Puror couldn''t dodge it either, so I told Serpence about it.

    ''That and this are different!''

    They seem to think that if you just hit the limit, your abilities will rise.

    So Serpens was mistaken.

    "Hey, do I look so great ?"

    Eugene, who didn''t know anything, asked with bright eyes.

    of course.

    Serpence with a natural expression

    answered.

 CH 211

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 211

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (16)

    O O O ... -,---

    A dry moan could be heard from within.

    The sound that seemed to come out of his throat was completely different from those who had been yelling at the whale whale.

    I felt sad and grateful. I felt relieved that I was still alive.

    Ahh! This is not the time to be like this! First of all, those who were injured quickly .

    for a moment.

    As I was about to take the lead, Serpens stopped me.

    The light movement of his arm pulled me back, and I stood behind him again.

    why?

    I''ll be in charge of the inside, so I hope that Shion will release the others and check their voices with Yujis...

    do.

    That''s right. To maintain a barrier of this size, it consumes a lot of divine power and needs to heal injured people. But...

    For some reason, his head was pointing downwards.

    I followed his gaze and looked down at the floor, and the dark red marks were long extending to the iron bars inside.

    ''Did you bring people all the way here to set an example and torture them?''

    They really can''t be cruel.

    Do you really have to do this?

    and .

    ''Hey, are you okay? Shall we shake the face of the tortured person?''

    It seems that he was directly involved in digging up information about the slave trade in the dark district, but it is unclear whether he was tortured or merely threatened.

    Above all, the person he was then and the person he is now are different.

    ''Immediately after molting of the crustacean. I''ll look at it like that

    He had been protecting him from external shocks. At the same time, he threw off the hard shell that had restricted him.

    It''s definitely more mature.

    bigger and stronger

    However, it has not yet been fully established.

    The exoskeleton surrounding his body was still soft.

    It is different from the past when it was protected from external enemies by wearing iron armor.

    It is not only crustaceans that become more fragile than before after molting.

    ''It is an inborn problem of all living things that molt.''

    Soft shell instead of hard shell

    Now with the shell covered.

    Serpens are more easily exposed to external shocks than ever before.

    Even a little rubbing will hurt it easily. It is easy to be eaten by enemies.

    If there is no one to interfere, you can heal enough while maintaining the barrier, so don''t worry. You''ve seen it before, haven''t you?

    I didn''t even worry about that.

    While someone tickles his side, drawing a star with his left hand and a hexagon with his right hand, the spell to avoid flying stones would be difficult for even Lee Serpens.

    However, it is a different story if there are no flying stones and tickle-burning saboteurs.

    what is a hexagon He is a guy who can handle a regular octagon with ease.

    ''What did you see? Did you cover my eyes?''

    He was acting like he knew now and didn''t know.

    If you take it off like that, you know that I can''t say that I care because of this or that.

    He puts an external smile on his lips, reassuring me that he''s okay.

    turned on

    ''Who cares whose mental state now?''

    Even though I said clearly that I had come prepared, this is still the case.

    There is no such thing as overprotection.

    If I had known it would be like this, I would have just opened my eyes and watched it.

    A pitiful little monkey, I thought I was raising rain, and I thought I would see with my own eyes how I fell off the stairs.

    hurry.

    He turned me around and Yu

    He pushed me on the back as if I was passing it on to Gis.

    If you stay here, things will only get weirder.

    ''I can''t help it... .''

    I''ll have to pay special attention to putting him to sleep tonight.

    Should I even sing a lullaby?

    "We do what we have to do quickly."

    He glanced at Serpens breaking the lock of the iron cage from which he heard the sound of sickness, and spoke to Eugene.

    Yeah, I''d love to.

    Serpens with Eugene... Called

    But there was not much for me to do whether I followed him or Eugez.

    It was because she was able to break the locks on the iron bars holding people in, and to recognize their voices.

    I followed her around and tied them up with the ropes she gave me out of the pockets of the subspace.

    ''It''s a shame because I learned the art of trapping in the military .''

    Otherwise, I would have just let it go and played.

    By the time Serpens, who had separated the people in half and finished treating the wounded, stunned the demon once again, who came to his senses for a moment.

    What the hell is this...

    A person has arrived from the church.

    People tied to ropes, including the ruined mansion and demons.

    And looking at the Empire''s celebrities, Serpence, and the elf, Euges, they had a soft expression on their faces.

    ''By the way, the one sent from the opposite denomination came first, so the lord of Recluton now asks the emperor

    I have work left.''

    Maybe there was a sense of insensitivity to safety in a world run by demons, or it was just the security management.

    but. Because of this, the evil monkey abducted people and made them temporary shelters.

    ''Or did the demons do something?''

    That''s not my thing.

    You''ll figure it out on your own.

    I''ll explain later, can you please evacuate some people first?

    There must be a lot of people, but they are all evil, so you know... . Ah! As for the monkey... .

    I know.

    The man who appeared to be their representative, dressed as a heretic inquisitor, with a huge halberd on his back, ate my words.

    female] ?

    It is not a world where abbreviations are commonly used, but if you immediately notice it, it seems that you have picked up the meaning of the devil somewhere.

    It seems that communication within the denomination is very active.

    While I was confused, he gave instructions to the Paladins who came with him.

    One paladin remained in the basement and led the people we had separated and sent them up, and what about the rest?

    Whether it''s monitoring from above or excavating the demons, I''ll do anything.

    һ rumbling .

    The noise came from the quiet ceiling again.

    Are you taking care of yourself?

    There was no sound of the ground shaking or banging like before.

    Still, it probably doesn''t mean that Serpens isn''t burdened at all.

    For now, Serpens is concentrating on maintaining the barrier and is resting for a while. Is the expression resting strange? Anyway.

    He hesitated, then leaned back against a nearby iron fence.

    Sometimes when I look back at him, my eyes meet, it seems like he''s watching my movements.

    Only after releasing the last man did we get out of this damn cellar.

    "It''s even worse when you come out."

    Obviously, only the stairs to the basement were gone, but the ceiling was all over the place and the starry night sky welcomed us.

    What about the piles of stones scattered all over the place?

    It seemed too dangerous for an ordinary person to get through.

    It''s a pity that the paladins came. If the people had been moved by Serpens and Eugenes, the day would have been running out.

    Serpence, are you okay?

    At the appearance of the mansion more miserable than I had vaguely thought from inside,

    The guy who was enduring the weight was worried again.

    . so so.

    It''s really okay, isn''t it?

    okay.

    "I don''t think so?"

    Is it because he continued to maintain his divine power and consumed his mental power in this and that way?

    In the cold moonlight, his face was exceptionally white, and he looked very tired.

    Duke Prasidus?

    Yes, tell me.

    While I was looking at him with regret and doubt, a paladin who had just come out of the basement came up to me and spoke to Serpens.

    It seems that none of the demon worshipers under the rubble are alive, so it''s okay to remove the barrier that supports the basement. The same goes for other corpses.

    I''m glad to hear that.

    Thank you for your consideration. Then everyone please step back.

    Serpens smiled faintly, beckoning us to stay away.

    Leaving him alone and escaping from the ruined mansion site makes me nervous. However, if I remain, his burden will only increase.

    Instead of leaving Eugenes behind, I left the mansion site after being hounded by the Holy Knight.

    - Kurreung!

    Arrive in a safe place and put your feet on the ground

    When it was pasted, there was a loud noise from behind as if it had been hit, and the wreckage sank.

    Assistant!

    Wayne...? You''re alive!

    Wayne, who had been evacuated first, found me and called me warmly.

    There was no light in the basement, so I didn''t check him out.

    Serpens didn''t say anything, so I expected him to be alive, but seeing with his own eyes, he said hello to whether he was alive.

    The Duke, his aide, and the elf

    Thanks to you.

    I didn''t have time to see him, but he must have even checked Eugene''s appearance.

    From the middle, Serpence also came out to help, so he must have come out of the cage and got stuck among the others.

    Thank you so much. If you hadn''t left a letter in advance, something really bad would have happened.

    "I''m really sorry. I''m sorry I should have met you last time], I should have apologized more . After going through this, I realized just how ugly I was.

    word .

    Don''t talk about that to me, but Ser..., the Duke later. Oh, you''re here!

    It''s a name you''ve already called, but now it''s time to enter work mode.

    Correcting the title, he pointed to the Serpence approaching this way.

    Peacock .''''

    Wait, Wayne! Did you know from the start that the Duke was coming to our rescue?!

    As Wayne was about to call Serpence, a voice interrupted.

    You don''t even need to check your face. Lark, who took the lead in the agitation, is a person.

    Is that so? I was sure that he would save me, so that''s why I persisted! Were you pretending to be nice and clean by yourself so that you could live on your own?!

    Instead of weeping and apologizing, he tried to drag the other person into his own mud.

    ''Of course, even if I apologize, I have no intention of forgiving you.''

    Maybe it''s because I know it.

    I don''t know about others, but I''m a dragon

    Because I assumed that I wouldn''t be able to stand.

    Or maybe it''s because he doesn''t really think he''s wrong.

    what is that!

    Do you think that will make you really clean? You are just like me!

    Lark, what are you talking about now... H

    You traitor! I''m going to live alone...! If I had known it would be like this, I would...!

    It''s not at the level of steel.

    It''s not your fault, it''s

    It was regret for being wrong. I can''t find reflection even if I wash my eyes.

    This is not enough to worship the devil, but the devil itself.

    When looking for retired employers last year, I''m glad I met Wayne, Jack''s father, rather than just looking for anyone.

    Lark, if you met that person... .''

    Just thinking about it makes my head ache.

    - Tuk.

    When I turned my head to feel something draped over my shoulder, I saw Serpens''s face.

    When our eyes met, he slowly blinked his eyelids.

    It''s a sign that you''re fine, so don''t worry too much.

    ''It''s okay asshole.''

 CH 212

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 212

    40. The Duke and the Disappearance Case (17)

    I underestimated it too much.

    I thought it was general waste that couldn''t be recycled, but it was a designated waste that was extremely harmful.

    ''How can you talk like that when Serpence is right in front of you?''

    deserves to be angry I''m angry, it''s normal

    all.

    But Serpence just smiled bitterly.

    As for the image of the external fence, half of it is probably the expression drawn out by acting. But even that is sad.

    When I frowned, he patted me on the shoulder a couple of times and then withdrew his hand.

    This answer is a repellent fence... .

    - Puck!

    With a blunt hitting sound, nonsense

    The chattering guy rolled on the floor.

    It wasn''t that I couldn''t hold back my anger.

    Because I kicked it at the speed of light before I could do anything.

    It would be correct to say that it did not.

    "Whether it be threatening with a knife to the neck of a family member, or a blade in your stomach. Whatever the circumstances, it is unforgivable to obey the will of a demon worshiper! Trying to inject them into them is blasphemy against God, and it would be an act of turning your back on the continent... Ah, Lux.

    Maya! What can I do with this poor soul?

    A heretic inquisitor with a halberd on his back was tied to a rope and slowly stepped on the bald man, speaking holy as if praying to a god.

    A majestic voice.

    It was so serious that it was hard to ask if it was a report after taking the preemptive measures to ask him what to do after he had already been kicked and knocked down.

    Normally, I would have avoided him by thinking to myself, ''Isn''t this a fanatic?'', but today it''s the exact opposite.

    Can''t get more refreshing than this.

    I was caught up in the desire to immediately put on my shoulder and say, ''From today on, Friend 1 day, Call?''

    ''By the way, by the way, have you heard the general story from people?''

    It would have been better not to expect him to keep his mouth shut.

    Just like when they realized that Serpens had arrived, they must have been talking about selling each other out to prove their innocence.

    I don''t know, but if I quarantine people one by one and ask them, I wonder if a crime that wasn''t there will come out.

    Ah, the introduction is late. This is Luxme or not''s faithful servant, Althar F, Axt.

    He brought his right hand to the position of his heart and introduced himself by bowing his head slightly.

    It looked very reverent.

    If only it wasn''t for the person under my feet.

    Nice to meet you. About me .

    You], you know, it''s fine.

    Serpense, who did not want to waste time with needlessly introducing himself, muttered moderately.

    Although he did not know his intentions, Al Tar, who knew who Serpence was, gave Serpence the answer he was looking for.

    "I''ll ask you straight-forward. What do you plan to do with these people? Those who are definitely found to be heresy will be punished by the denomination, but other personal matters can be handed over as soon as the investigation is over. .

    As he said that, he gestured his chin to the people in the back.

    Knowing that their treatment will be decided by Serpence''s words, they look as pitiful as possible.

    built

    maybe

    Maybe it''s just because I''m not sarcastic about their behavior, so it''s only been seen in my eyes.

    If it''s true that I made that kind of expression on purpose, I''ve put a lot of effort into it.

    ''Because Serpens didn''t even care about them.''

    Normally, in this case, his gaze was directed even reflexively, but his gaze was fixed on the heretical inquisitor in front of him.

    Down under the name of the god Luxmea

    If you are a referee, it is natural to follow the results. For those who have been judged that there is no [Jo] in the denomination, how can I charge them separately?"

    At Serpence''s words, people''s expressions widened.

    It was an answer I didn''t like, but what can I do? I don''t want to associate with them anymore.

    He didn''t say that directly, but he kept quiet because he knew that such a meaning was implicit.

    Are you really okay with that? The sect''s laws are to discriminate against infidels.

    It''s only for the sake of it. According to the nobility law of the Empire, the disposition to be given to them is ."

    It''s fine, so I don''t have to worry too much about it.

    "If that''s what you mean I understand. Then, I will do my best to keep the Duke Prasidus'' high faith and honor] as quiet as possible."

    what?

    This is good news I never thought of.

    Could it be that Serpens was humbly expecting this to happen?

    "Ah I would appreciate it if you could do that."

    Serpens showed a look of bewilderment for a whopping 1 second. He quickly returned to acting mode and gave a sullen smile, but he was clearly embarrassed.

    That means it wasn''t his goal.

    ''I''m guessing! It''s not like I was giving up because I couldn''t help it anymore... ?''

    If I had judged it that way, I would have thought that I should take revenge on what happened to me.

    The more I look, the more naive and stupid

    there is a stone

    The corruption fence in ''[Master of the Holy Sword]... .''

    Originally, it was said that innocence and cruelty were the difference of a single sheet of paper.

    Well, that''s roughly it.

    ''Anyway, that''s great!''

    That''s why they say that if you put your mind to it, good luck will come.

    It seems that this world is not like a beggar.

    Perhaps because he knew about the monkey, the man with light blue hair in front of him with a sense of freshness was Eirich and

    It may be a friendly person.

    So maybe you care.

    ''Halberd and spear, a long weapon that feels roughly the same, isn''t it?''

    According to the denomination''s holy law, you should not give any favors based on your personal feelings. How easy is that?

    If there is a vicious cycle, there is also a function that becomes a virtuous cycle.

    It is a world where we live in harmony with each other.

    ''okay! Let''s help each other live! Cancer, not like that!''

    With that in mind, the delay doesn''t seem so bad either.

    Justice still lives in this world.

    Suddenly the whole world seemed beautiful.

    Of course, the moon and stars shining in the night sky pass.

    Serpens'' bluish-silver hair, which became more silvery in the moonlight, glistens through the air in the twinkling winter wind.

    Even Eugene''s bright breath, turning his head and exhaling a sigh of relief.

    until it scatters.

    ''If all the priests feel this way, would Lux Smea be trusted?''

    Oh, this went too far.

    What are you going to do tonight? If you don''t have a place to stay, I can give you an empty room in the temple.

    No, it''s fine. I have a schedule, so I''ll go back and see.

    It''s a lie. There is no such thing.

    If that''s the case, then there''s nothing I can do. After this, I will visit you at the mansion to hear more details.

    Altar let us go right away without grabbing him twice.

    Looking at his friendly expression and voice, he could tell that he still trusted Serpence.

    He left a few paladins at the scene, and headed to the temple with the rest of the paladins.

    We wanted to leave a trail], so we deliberately took the night train.

    Tickets for the luxury trains were not available, so they had to ride the trains only for ordinary people. Even then, the bed compartment was already gone.

    Ugh, I ride spacious and expensive things every day, but riding something like this makes me feel very cramped.

    Thinking of Eugenes who had consumed a lot of energy, he tore the soundproof scroll and said.

    Of course, there is no table in the middle, and the seats facing each other are wide enough for two adult men to sit on their backs.

    It''s nice to have a partition.

    Otherwise, Serpens and Eugenes would have been more frustrated by hiding their faces the whole way back.

    "Isn''t it even more stuffy if you take out a blanket in a small space?"

    As I wrapped the blanket around my body and sat down, Serpens next to me slowly moved and pushed me toward the window.

    Wow, you don''t even think about taking up a seat because you have broad shoulders!

    Had it not been for what happened today, I would have been sitting next to the really slender Euges, not the outwardly slender Serpens.

    I think I''m enduring the discomfort, but I''ll have to bear this amount myself.

    "Originally, even putting together like this is all about memories.

    Would you like to ride in a cheap car on the train? If it''s uncomfortable, would you like to cover the serpenes with me?

    No specification.

    He aimed for the human hearth effect, but the hard-hearted Serpens coldly refused.

    What about Eugene? If it''s okay with a summer blanket, can I take it out?

    If yes, thank you.

    On the other hand, Eugene is cool.

    Putting the blanket I had given her aside for a moment, she loosened her cramped armament.

    Are you still wearing gloves?

    Serpens reacted to Eugene''s action of dragging and covering the duvet again with his gloved hand.

    The cold wind coming in through the crack in the window made my hands shiver, but I almost passed by without thinking, but it was a bit strange to hear.

    "Ahaha I got it."

    Come here.

    As Euges smiled awkwardly, Serpens held out his hand with a dissatisfied expression.

    Looking at the palms outstretched in front of her, she smiled sincerely and brightly.

    built

    And he gladly put his hand on it.

    Serpens carefully removed the glove and turned it over with her palm facing upwards.

    What is this! You''re completely bruised! Why did you just put up with this?! There''s a genius wasting divine power right next to you!

    I couldn''t help but be terrified to see the purple bruises between the knuckles of my fingers.

    Serpence seems very tired. This level will get better in a day or two.

    will you? It''s nothing.

    She smiled fervently at my call.

    A day or two would be the standard for an elf.

    It was so serious that, in human terms, a week could have passed.

    It''s nothing more than just healing bruises. Shion is too serious, but Eugenes, it''s okay to be a little brazen.

    Serpens gently wrapped her hand around her, and said lamentably.

    A warm healing light from his hand

    It flowed out and soaked into her hands.

    Is he even aware of what he referred to as ''you''?

    thank you.

    Looking down at Eugene''s clean hands, Serpens suddenly thanked him.

    It was Jin the 1 who received treatment, why is Serpens thanking me?

    Were you here to help me?

    In response to his answer, Euges let out a pleasant laugh.

    "You two saved me first.

    It was. And where are we?

    "M this, no."

    That''s right. If there''s something difficult, they''re willing to help out, and if they''re hurt, they treat you first without saying anything. It''s like that.

    ...Ummm.

    Serpens quickly put the glove on her palm and let go of the hand she was holding.

    And I dug into my blanket that I was not going to cover.

    It''s because I''m terribly shy.

    I was wondering what to do if I said I''m sorry, but it feels good to get a thank you.

    "That is the result of my education."

    I patted the strange guy on the blanket.

    It was soft and fluffy thanks to the thick duvet.

 CH 213

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 213

    41. People of the Dukes (1)

    Thank you, aide! Thank you so much!!

    Jack nodded and greeted me with a small suitcase.

    Uh-huh, how many times do you say thank you? If you''re on vacation, you should go see your little daddy. Why do you come to visit me again?

    It has already been a week since I went to the Recluton estate.

    Others were still in custody in the church, but Wayne and others who rejected the will of the demons were released first.

    There was a reason that they had not heard much about them because they were often in a state of confusion and fainting from being tortured, but above all, it was because their innocence was certain.

    ''I didn''t know there were more than Wayne.''

    Yes, there were only three people including him.

    The number is too small compared to the number of people there, so it''s futile, and I''m curious as to where this is.

    Anyway.

    For that reason, Wayne went home first, and Serpens ordered Hans to give Jack Gold a special vacation.

    Before I go, I think I should say thank you again...

    That day, after hearing that Wayne was safe, he thanked him like that, but that must have been enough.

    You''re going to get scabs on your ears, so please stop.

    Lastly, say thank you to the Duke. Then I''ll be back after my vacation.

    After bowing again, Jack turned around and ran out of the mansion.

    I realized that it was boring to hear too many words of thanks.

    ''And there''s one more thing that I''ve gotten tired of lately... .''

    that''s a walnut

    who hates me the most

    If you ask me what a nut is, I am ready to answer ''walnut'' without hesitation.

    Even just thinking about it, my stomach churned.

    The promise, made unilaterally without my consent, to buy confectionery with walnuts as soon as I returned, was truly kept.

    However, the problem is that Serpens kept it too much.

    ''It''s too much to eat walnuts all week!''

    After returning to the mansion and finishing the paperwork after a long time.

    He disappeared without saying that he would come out for a while, and he bought a cookie with walnuts in it.

    Then, I should have nodded when he asked if this was the walnut cookie you were looking for.

    ''Why did I do that?!''

    From that day until today, the walnut parade has begun.

    I didn''t notice it until the next morning when the fragrant multigrain bread with walnut grains appeared on the table.

    When the walnut tart was served as a snack, the sound of ''How is it?'' came out naturally.

    ''I should have stopped him then.''

    the third day.

    I felt ominous as I put the croissant in my mouth with whipped cream mixed with walnuts.

    ????????

    When I was faced with a confectionery loaf filled with cream cheese and walnuts, I realized that there was no turning back.

    A walnut tree was planted in the middle of the garden .

    ''Why did you give me the Nutcracker?!''

    I received a gift that I do not understand in English.

    From the fifth day onwards, Eugene voluntarily left the teatime member with the excuse that he was on a diet.

    And I ate a mousse cake mixed with walnut powder.

    Just yesterday, on the sixth day, I begged Serpens to let him go.

    But he shoved a walnut-filled pinangsi into my mouth.

    It''s been a week like that today.

    ''Hey, isn''t this a bit harsh?''

    I received a call from the denomination that I would visit the mansion at around 3 pm today, and I did not have to eat walnuts today.

    I was happy though.

    Chocolate muffins with walnuts were on the table.

    ''Isn''t there a word for moderation in her dictionary?!''

    At least you don''t have to worry about getting homesick.

    If there''s something I miss, he''ll find something similar and recommend me to bite him off.

    However, as soon as I start to feel malicious, as soon as the customer leaves, I have to catch him and have a serious conversation about what he is dissatisfied with.

    I didn''t know you two would come together.

    Serpens hid her trembling feelings and asked the two heretic inquisitors sternly.

    That''s what he meant, and to put it clearly, he asked Eilrich, who was sitting next to Altar, ''Why did you come here when you''re not involved?''

    There is some overlap between the statements of the demon worshipers I caught this time and the statements of the demon worshipers I was interrogating about in June last year, so I came here to check the truth once again.

    Eirich replied.

    It was an excuse that he did not violate the discipline of the denomination because of his regrets about the world.

    ''Wait a minute. Eirich was in charge of that?''

    That being said, the advisory specialist that the denomination was so proud of at the time was Eillich.

    What the hell is this house doing?

    Do you mean overlapping parts...?

    Serpens asked Eirich a question.

    In a very cautious tone.

    In it, I could see his anxiety.

    Altar-sama will tell you about that part as well. I''m just following you for confirmation, so you don''t have to worry about it.

    Ummm... I see.

    Serpens nodded slightly, this time looking back.

    There Hans stood.

    "Isn''t the butler not leaving?"

    After the table setting is all finished and the maids leave, for some reason Hans still remains, Serpence is

    He told me to turn it off.

    Normally, he wouldn''t have stayed here, but since he even received Serpense''s congratulatory order, he should quietly step down.

    However, Hans'' abnormal behavior did not stop there.

    ''''I think that the heretical inquisitors of the denomination came to the duke''s residence today to confirm what happened in this mansion in the past.

    He thinks that it is the duty of a butler to follow whatever orders his master gives, pretending he didn''t understand the simple command to get out and saying something else.

    put on

    It''s actually a refusal of orders.

    .. butler?

    It wasn''t Hans who followed Serpense''s orders to take care of me, even though he briefly expressed dissatisfaction with it.

    Perhaps this was not expected, Serpence showed a bewildered look.

    I know what happened at the Duke''s residence in the past better than anyone else. Not only things from a very young age that the Duke doesn''t remember, but also things that happened before he was born. So, it would be better for me to stay here.

    It is my judgment that it will help.

    There is no reason to kick him out anymore.

    He knows more, and the evidence to back it up is clear, so he does not even say that he needs it.

    Okay. If that''s the reason...

    Reluctantly, Serpens answered that way, looked away from him and turned his head to look at Altar.

    There is no need to confirm that there are no lies in those unsavory stories.

    Ser at Altar''s confident words

    Pence nodded with a grim expression, as if he had committed a crime.

    It was something I couldn''t get away with.

    It would be better to do this rather than memorize each one and check it.

    I don''t really want to believe what the demon worshipers say, but they say they''ve never touched the former Duke of Prasidus or anything else.

    What is to come has finally come.

    As the devil I met on Semita Street said the same thing, Eirich

    This must be the reason why we came together.

    Eugenes made an expression of what the heck did that have to do with it now.

    I''ve been trying to make a face like her, Jill. I don''t know if it happened.

    There is no hostage as good as a living relative, so I don''t do such harm.

    Altar''s words continued.

    It was a remark that was so convincing because it was such a rubbish fit for demon worshipers.

    Besides, the killer who killed the deceased former Duke and Duchess of Prasidus could never be caught. And the current Duke...

    The demon worshipers I questioned at first claimed that too, but in the end they confessed that they had done it!

    Suddenly, Eirich intercepted Althar''s words.

    But the content is not serious.

    ''How special did you make the alternative torture?!''

    Serpens killed his parents himself.

    The fact that it was true was confirmed not only by the [Master of the Holy Sword], but also by his mouth.

    It can only be thought that the tortured evil-seungi finally made a false confession and found eternal rest.

    Eirich-sama! Are you following me for this?

    Altar-sama, please do it in moderation. Isn''t it too harsh to even say such a thing to someone who has gone through such a difficult thing?

    So, let''s make sure that the same problem doesn''t happen again.

    Isn''t that what you should be doing?

    I don''t know what the hell this is.

    It was a conversation that proved only to be true of Eilich''s words that he had an occupational disease with a shaky tone.

    Altar-sama, you probably don''t know because it was before he joined the church. At that time, traces of magic and black magic were found around the scene of the incident.

    "That much can be extracted from the blood of monsters, and if it is a monster, there are plenty of them in the Volta Mountains. Eirich

    Do you know too well?"

    I knew very well that Serpens was very meticulous and planned from an early age.

    In fact, I''m half-frozen now and my eyes are twitching.

    He looked like he did not understand why Eilic was defending himself.

    When I heard the news that my former users had been kidnapped, I knew it was going to end up like this.

    The gaze of everyone in the drawing room, including the two heretical interrogators who were arguing, was the master of the voice. to Hans

    headed to

    I know who murdered my dead master and master.

    Hans declared a bomb.

    Looking at your face, I don''t know what you''re thinking.

    You have to be faithful. If you give the vague answer that it was done by a demon worshiper in a situation like this, your master may be in more trouble.

    Yes, I know.

    Hans responded without hesitation to Althar''s advice that it would be better to just keep your mouth shut if you want to go out of your way.

    ''Are you doing this knowing that Serpens did it? So, I''m the one who''s going to throw it away anyway, so it''s like refusing an order... .''

    It''d be better for the heretic inquisitor to slap you, I don''t know what you''re talking about and my heart is racing

    Serpens had a pale face, making it doubtful whether he was breathing or not.

    Because shutting Hans''s mouth right now is nothing but confessing, ''I am the culprit.'' He held his trembling hands, restrained himself, and quietly waited for the next words.

    The one who killed the deceased master and his wife... is the deceased master.

    This is a remark that raises the question of whether the word dead was accidentally said twice.

    "Gee, butler? That, what ."

    Serpens sighed and looked up at Hans, who was standing behind him in disbelief.

    The former Duke Prasidus took his own life after killing his wife.

    Hans glanced around at the confused people, then opened his mouth again and organized his remarks.

    It was a blatant lie.

 CH 214

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 214

    41. People of the Dukes (2)

    What do you mean by suicide?!

    Eirich denied Hans''s words, saying that it was impossible.

    Serpense was equally astonished by Hans'' bombshell remarks, but for this moment, Eillich seemed more confused than Serpense.

    ''I must have been shocked to learn that his younger brother was abusing his nephew... .''

    He even heard that his brother committed suicide before the shock went away, so it makes sense to deny the reality.

    Besides, who is Eirich?

    He was also a younger brother, and he was the one who entered the church after giving up the title of guaranteed wealth and honor of being the duke of the empire.

    For me, it''s a shuddering thing, but to him, he might have been a good little brother.

    That guy, no... The former Duke of Prasidus cannot be a person with a heart so soft that he runs away from reality and risks his own life.

    I guess it wasn''t It must have been that the number of buds was very yellow since childhood.

    Because he is vicious and cold-blooded, if there is a difficult task, he will pass it on to others, and if he falls to the floor, he will trample on others and climb up. what is suicide

    ''In the first place, it was Serpence that was painful, but why did he commit suicide?''

    It''s Xinghuang who turned out to be trash anyway.

    There is no doubt that he was lying to protect the honor of Serpens.

    "It may be hard to believe, but it is true."

    Hans answered in a plain tone, as if stating a very obvious fact.

    Even with two heretical inquisitors in front of him, his speech is so calm.

    Even if Serpence was confused by his frequent abuse, he went out on his own and thought that he had mistakenly killed a dead person.

    I don''t know what kind of person he is, as I''ve only heard about Duke Prasidus indirectly.

    Instead of Eilic, who had lost his composure, Al-Targa coldly refuted Hans'' words.

    This is a story that cannot be accepted as true if there is no valid basis.

    I have a reason. I saw it and I helped. He asked me to cover up after the suicide.

    Today, that gentleman Hans detonated several bombs.

    When he turned his gaze to Serpens, his expression was very spectacular.

    Eyes wide open, eyebrows raised up, and lips, on the other hand, parted open and chin lowered.

    Is it because I''m used to not managing my facial expressions?

    In the unexpected turn of events, the appearance of the internal fence was revealed without filtration, whether the external fence had left to deal with the task in a hurry.

    Of course, contrary to his old worries, ugly

    It didn''t look like it at all.

    To be honest, it''s harder to look ugly with a face like that.

    Uh, why is that...?

    Serpens asked Hans why he was lying like that.

    His eyes fluttered and his voice trembled.

    That was the will of the deceased former master. I''m sorry for hiding it until now.

    Because of Hans'' answer, Serpence''s question is why did he do that?

    Or, it has changed into the meaning of why you can hide such an important thing from yourself until now.

    He told the current duke to let the duke know that they were killed by the demon worshipers. So that the duke can resent and hate the demon worshipers even more.

    It''s a nonsensical story.

    If the demon had removed the abused parents, he would express his gratitude and sign an exclusive contract with the evil force.

    "Do you think that''s reasonable?"

    I also think so now.

    Hans bowed his head in response to Althar''s words that it was absurd.

    Looking back now... He was crazy. He was obsessed with raising heroes to save the continent with his own hands.

    He continued speaking in a tone that seemed to be confession.

    Last year, Serpence''s proud expression on how he had grown up was no longer visible on his face.

    "The first step in the plan was the divine power.

    It started with marrying an outstanding young girl.

    Now, wait a minute. So, the plan... did it start before the present Duke of Prasidus was even born?

    To be precise, it would be correct to say ''from birth''.

    Eirich was greatly agitated and asked the question, but Hans still answered in a calm voice.

    Next to him, I heard Eugenes swallowing the wind.

    ''Alas, I forgot about this!''

    Was it that Serpence didn''t do it on purpose, or was it that he forgot about it due to lack of circumstances?

    I don''t know which one.

    But what is known to the public is !

    As soon as you return to the church, you can ask the retired users. There was no affection between them.

    No matter how sever ties with the family, Eirich was a brother with Serpens''s father during his childhood.

    I''m sure I don''t know who the Duke of Prasidus is.

    He responded that it was a gold rush.

    I can''t understand how much they pretended to be a parakeet couple in front of others, so they took it for granted that they got married because they loved each other.

    ''And how kindly he was to Serpence in front of others... .''

    If it''s such a false love, it''s better not to have it.

    If you didn''t see it at all, you wouldn''t expect it. I wouldn''t even be thirsty.

    If he does better, his warmth can become sincerity rather than acting; energy

    dealing with

    He blamed himself for not being able to receive sincere affection because of his lack of self.

    Like a mirage in the desert, it flickered before my eyes.

    Thinking about Serpence''s childhood, when he would have longed for love even more, his heart grew heavy.

    Eventually, he realizes that he can''t get it, becomes frustrated, and eventually gives up.

    What was he thinking?

    Hey, what did you do?

    Eirich with a look of disappointment

    muttered to himself.

    The question must be addressed to his deceased brother, not to Hans in front of him.

    Shocked by his behavior in abusing his son as a family, disappointed with him as the one person deceived by him.

    As a servant of the gods, he must have been angry with his actions to dictate the will of the gods.

    " Duke, did you know?"

    There''s no way Serpence doesn''t know what the servants who work in the mansion know.

    knowing that

    Eirich asked his nephew with a desperate expression that he wanted to deny it.

    If you''re asking why I was born, I know.

    Serpens smiled bitterly and answered calmly.

    He was embarrassed by Hans'' sudden action, but as the familiar story continued, he regained his composure.

    It''s a sad thing.

    How could you accept such a thing...

    Are you there?"

    It''s a story I''ve heard since I was little.

    You don''t even have to ask who said that.

    "He continued to push the current Duke into a more perfect master of the Holy Sword."

    Hans added an explanation to Serpens'' words.

    What else can push a child to the brink as much as a child born out of necessity?

    ''What if that need is not met?

    What if I no longer need it?''

    You will live with that kind of anxiety for the rest of your life.

    that should never be said.

    It is truly terrifying and terrifying.

    "And it was", until recently."

    At Hans'' words, Eirich''s body twitched.

    The question of whether death was a thing of the past was meaningless.

    Serpence''s entire life was mortgaged to the holy sword, and it was only recently that he was freed from it.

    peel.

    "According to the teaching that rest is a symbol of complacency, hobbies are luxury, and greed is a sin, the Duke has no hobbies, wants nothing, and takes minimal rest. I do.

    What Serpens was forced to give up throughout his life was what everyone sought for a better life.

    Everything you said was right.

    .Yes? Me?

    I get mad at the name that suddenly calls me

    He replied in amazement.

    I must have been obsessed with the thoughts of my late master. I thought that was the best thing ever. I was wrong.

    Now I know.

    Why did Hans lie that the ex-duke and his wife committed suicide?

    This was an atonement.

    Did Serpens kill them, or if there was another culprit? That didn''t really matter to Hans.

    the problem is .''

    Serpence is abused by her parents.

    As far as demon worshipers knew that he had, it was Serpens who was the most suspicious.

    '' He actually killed him.''

    Anyway, it was also Serpens who became difficult if such a story was kept mentioned.

    For that reason, he must have lied to me as a way to put an end to this problem.

    Moreover, recently, Serpens can''t sleep alone, so how many times have you seen him come to my room and sleep?

    Seeing you like that, you''re wrong

    I just realized that I was thinking about it.

    Well, I''m glad you found out now.

    I felt a little shaky.

    It''s not just me, but Serpense''s expression as well.

    ''I don''t want to forgive, though.''

    It''s not my thing to forgive or not.

    However, even if Serpens forgives me, I plan to tear it apart.

    Some users who sympathized with him, including a man named Lak, were intermittently

    If the state eventually crossed the line, then Hans was already over the line.

    "The only thing I have served until now is that it is a duke family, not a duke, and I followed the orders of the former duke who passed away. I didn''t even know that the current duke was suffering. I sincerely apologize.

    ...Ummm

    Serpens drooled at Hans''s apology and glanced at me.

    You don''t know what to do, so you''re asking me for advice.

    ''Should I tell you not to look at me in front of others?''

    Anyway, I don''t seem to have any desire to forgive.

    I am not qualified to have the Duke as master, nor to be forgiven, Nidi. Most of the work has been transferred to the deputy butler, and I will step down as soon as the rest of the handover is completed.

    If that makes the deacon at ease, do so.

    In response to Serpence''s answer, Hans bowed his head with an expressionless expression.

    I was about to think that this would solve the problem.

    "Very well I see. The reason he committed suicide was to keep his son in chains for the rest of his life."

    Eillich, whose face was flushed with red, clenched his teeth in an angry voice, said.

    ''Hey, Eirich-sama? It''s something I''ve felt before, what to do after severing ties with the world. continue

    Aren''t you breaking it?''

    I swallowed the horse that came up to my throat.

    I''m not in the mood to talk like that, and it''s scary because I think I''ll get hit if I do it with you.

 CH 215

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 215

    41. People of the Dukes (3)

    Gee, calm down, Eirich-sama!

    In order to calm Eirich, who was over-excited, Altar hurriedly grabbed Eirich''s arm and said.

    Of course, it had no effect at all.

    Really? Hearing this, the word Jeong-ha comes out right now?!

    Eilic looked at Althar, who was trying to stop him, with eyes that seemed to say, ''What is this bastard heresy?''

    In the eyes of a senior coworker, who had a creepy look, Altar secretly let go of the arm that he had been holding on to.

    Well, you have to be patient. If you are directly involved in the affairs of the family you came from... ah, that''s why I was going to come alone...

    Still, his mouth was still alive, and Altar groaned and mumbled as if in trouble.

    When I saw it in the Recluton estate, I looked very proud, but today

    It''s not the word.

    His ugly halberd standing obliquely next to the sofa is almost indistinguishable.

    Whoah... Hans-sama? Then, what have you been doing for 20 years or so?

    Discipline, Nabal, and having just decided to leave, Eirich ignored Althar and spoke to Hans.

    sorry.

    "How long have you been working for the Duke of Prasidus?"

    It''s been a little over 40 years.

    A person like that...!

    Suddenly, Eirich was not an outsider, but a member of the Prasidus family, pushing Hans, the butler.

    There is no face.

    If I had known you were such a person, I would have cut you off when I was a small business owner...

    Eilic stared at Hans with a face that looked like he wanted to physically chop off Hans.

    "Before I left the family, I said that I would take care of my younger brother, but this is the result?

    If it looks like you''re leaving, you should have done something to stop it!

    In the end, unable to hold back his anger, Eirich jumped up and shouted.

    At his words, full of lust for his family, Althar sighed as he looked for Luxmea.

    " I have nothing to say."

    You, what the hell are you doing?!

    Perhaps even more angry at Hans'' answer, Eirich reached out to his chin, which was leaning next to him-.

    And my eyes darkened.

    In case of an unexpected bloodshed,

    Eugese, who was sitting next to me, covered my eyes.

    Please take this spear from Altar-sama.

    Eilee! no, think again

    I thought enough!

    Fortunately, Eirich had no intention of doing anything to Hans with his spear.

    Eugez''s hand, which covered my eyes, was removed, and I saw Eirich forcefully handing his spear over to Altar.

    It''s still fine. I''ll tell you well.

    To give it to you, I''m still writing a prologue.

    It''s not going to be okay from now on.

    It''s like, ''Luxmea-nim, I''m going to go to hell after killing that bastard.'' Altar''s eyes fluttered at Eilich''s answer, as if he was saying that.

    According to the conversation, the act of handing over a weapon to a heretic interrogator to another person seems to mean renunciation."

    ''uh? Wait, did I get it right?''

    City towards Serpence for confirmation

    moved the line. I met Serpens, who blinked with an expression that he did not understand the English language.

    Roughly, it was like asking, ''Why is he doing that?''

    ''It''s because of you! I feel so sorry for you, angry with your brother and Hans, and I can''t forgive myself for not knowing that you were in such a situation!''

    Serpens glanced at Eilich with a glimmer, then shrugged slightly.

    I don''t know, it just meant that it was scary... .

    ''That''s right, face!''

    With a face resembling that of a former duke, he is running rampant in rage, so it is natural for him to be frightened.

    Eugenes should have covered Serpens''s eyes, not mine.

    So while Serpens and I exchanged glances, Eirich succeeded in forcing his spear to Altar.

    Come on, wait a minute!

    I shouted hastily, but the time was already after Eirich approached Hans and punched him.

    Whoops, I heard a harsh hitting sound

    He fell as if flying backwards.

    Hans collapsed on the floor, groaning and shaking his body.

    ''Hey, let me stop... !''

    If he had hit him with all his might, out of control, Hans would have lost consciousness, lost his life, or something.

    In other words, I did not stop even though I could have stopped enough after hearing my cry.

    Altar knew this too, and while holding the spear that belonged to Eillich in one hand, he covered his face with the other and bowed his head.

    What''s going on?

    Eirich grabbed Hans by the collar and lifted him up and asked me if one thing was not enough.

    It''s like, ''Are you dissatisfied with me punishing this bastard? Would you like to get a shot too?''

    ''Is this person originally hot-tempered, did he change like this because of the harsh work environment unique to the profession of a heretic interrogator?!''

    I''m glad I didn''t bring out the torture tool, but just flew my fists.

    Still, I''d like to dry it.

    Eirich must have overlooked how he would appear in Serpence''s eyes.

    I was mistaken for the appearance of Serpence, who behaves calmly even when he is facing himself, and looks just fine on the outside.

    ''It''s hard for Serpence to think of his dead father when he sees such a violent image, but... .''

    It''s even bigger if you project yourself.

    My pride can''t wait for the bottom

    If it is a serpent who digs into the

    "Uh, hey, that''s can''t you go somewhere else and do it?"

    I was definitely going to say don''t do it.

    However, the moment I met Eilich''s cold eyes, my mouth was reciting a different line.

    "Ah, no, hey Even if the things in the drawing room are damaged, it''s difficult"."

    From the Duke''s point of view, it doesn''t look good...

    ...Ah!,,

    Only then did Eirich come to his senses and release Hans by the neck.

    Hans fell to the floor helplessly.

    Eirich hesitated, and instead of taking Hans up and moving, he slightly pushed him with his feet and went back to his seat and sat down.

    Eirich-sama...

    Okay. Did you hear Altar-sama? What did my brother-in-law do?

    Saying so, he pushed Althar''s hand to return the spear to him.

    paid

    He tried to interfere with the will of God. It is a challenge to God''s authority. Already I am not worthy of worshiping God.

    It was only a matter of excessive religious belief. It is not to the extent of calling it a heresy...

    Still, someone has to pay for their sins. So it is right for me to take responsibility and step down.

    Eirich''s attitude was not enough to say that he was determined.

    No matter what he said, he didn''t seem to have any intention to change his choice.

    But, didn''t this happen after Eilich-sama left the family? Eilich-sama said, ''I am not a member of the Prasider family.

    "Then, who are you to blame? My younger brother who has already died and is not in this world? Or ."

    Eirich''s gaze fell on Serpens.

    I will protect you from now on, so it''s like telling me not to be serious. The dreadful eyebrows were gently curved and lit up with a friendly light.

    I can''t pass it on to my nephew.

    At Eirich''s determined voice, Yujisuga wiped away tears of emotion next to him.

    It cannot but be said that it is a beautiful sight.

    If Serpens had not looked at him with suspicious eyes one day, as if he was facing an unknown man who suddenly came to pay off his parents'' debts.

    And if it wasn''t for Altar, who was embarrassed by the fact that a talented senior at the company came after him at will, and he suddenly offered to resign due to an incident that happened there.

    ''I could have been genuinely impressed... .''

    I feel like I have eaten astringent persimmons.

    "And did you say Zion-sama?"

    Yes?! Ah, yes...

    I''m sorry a while ago. I was so red .

    "Yeah, well I get it. It made sense, yes."

    Thank you for drying me.

    Ah, yes...

    I think Althar was more zealous for him than I did.

    If you''re going to thank him for drying up, shouldn''t you be the first to do it?

    And it seems that Zion-sama had a big influence on Zhuchi''s change of mind. Is that correct?

    Uh huh... well, that''s roughly what it is.

    The answer is yes, but I don''t think I changed Hans''s mind on my own.

    ''If I talk hard, Hans is not someone who will listen to me.''

    No matter how much Serpence continues to act externally, he

    It cannot but be seen that there is a slight change in the

    And there is no way that Hans, who had been watching it for a long time of 25 years, did not notice it.

    ''The maids in the kitchen also noticed that the serpents eat sweets, but it doesn''t make sense if Hans, who serves them closer, doesn''t know.''

    Not only that, I learned that Serpens, who had never been sincere with him, had opened his heart to me and Eugenes.

    And I saw Serpens getting anxious and relying on me.

    Then you must be convinced that something is wrong.

    In the end, he must have realized that Serpens was also an ordinary person.

    ''And he must have looked back on his actions.''

    Thinking once again about the question Serpens asked back in the day, who would be helpful to him?

    I realized why Serpens had taken my side at that time.

    Only then would I remember what I had said to him

    will be.

    "Recently are you okay?" Eirich asked cautiously.

    Yes? What?

    Didn''t you say that before. Until recently, that...

    When I questioned him, he blurted his lips and glanced at Serpens.

    I could read the light of concern in that action.

    Until recently, Serpens seemed to be concerned about Hans'' words that he had been working without resting.

    Yeah! It''s a lot better than before! It''ll get even better in the future. Not long ago, I] even gave me a vacation!

    I see, thank you.

    Thank you, what.

    Somehow I shrug my shoulders.

    To the extent that I want to brag about how well I have raised Serpens.

    Serpence seems to be still wary, as if he doesn''t know why that person is expressing his gratitude to me.

    '' It will gradually get better.''

    Anyway, Eirich is a good person

    I''m glad it''s like

    Seeing Hans beating Hans without hesitation, even if he later finds out that the real culprit who killed the ex-duke is Serpens, he is likely to praise him for doing a very good job.

    It must be thanks to the grace of Luxmea.

    Eirich smiled softly and said.

    Even if he decided to quit the priesthood, it seems that his faith has disappeared.

    ''Thinking back and forth, it is certain that Luxmea sent me here.

    So, that statement is not wrong.''

    With that in mind, I nodded lightly.

    Yes, it is.

    I feel reassured that the angel of the gods is watching over my nephew.

    "Hey, I''m Ser , no, I''m being protected by the Duke in many ways, what?"

    Somehow I feel embarrassed and even bubbly.

    I work hard to take care of my children in a poor household, send them to a good university, and envy people in the neighborhood for saying I raised my children well.

    Is this what it feels like to hear compliments mixed with humor?

    i See.

    Eirich smiled softly and nodded.

    Seeing her smile like this, she looked more like Serpens.

    "Yeah, right , no, isn''t it?!"

    Words of praise feel good no matter how many times you think about them.

    Recalling Eilich''s words, he tried to answer involuntarily, but realized something strange and turned around.

    I made a hasty correction, but I know

    could the fact that it''s already gone.

    ''Who the hell said that? ''The Monkey''? Or the retired workers who were captured together?

    I can''t forgive whoever it is.

 CH 216

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 216

    41. People of the Dukes (4)

    I know. this is my mistake

    You bastard, if I''m in trouble, I''ll welcome you with open arms, and everyone else... .

    Yeah, what can you expect?''

    Heretic Inquisitor is right in front of you.

    I''d have asked you to tell me everything you know, with a piercing tool of torture in your eyes.

    He must have been terrified and said everything he could say.

    It''s my fault for knowing that, but immersing myself in a different topic and spilling out important words.

    ''I didn''t say it out loud, I just said it out loud, go beyond that?!''

    Eillich], this gentleman. I haven''t seen him like that, but he''s a very rude person.

    I was happy to be praised by my cat, so I bragged about it.

    It''s like saying can I go home and play to see it?

    And I replied that I should go to bed, forgetting the condition of the messy, dirty house.

    Serpence was also thinking similarly to me, so his eyes looking at Eirich narrowed slightly.

    I''m looking at you with disbelief.

    It''s like, ''After all, all adults are the same. After all, was that the purpose? It hurts my heart to see the eyes of a wounded child saying, ''This scammer!''

    People say that the demon worshipers called Zion ''Lion of Luxmea''.

    Eirich spoke of the information he found out through interrogation, not knowing how his nephew was looking at him.

    Just hearing it makes me want to propose to Serpens to change his mind even now, take over the lives of those people and let them rot in prison for the rest of their lives for the crime of insulting the nobles.

    "Where in the world is there a person of God like me?"

    Certainly], to be called a messenger of God

    You don''t have divine power.

    Eirich nodded in agreement with my words.

    He is obsessed with prejudice.

    ''If it''s divine power, I''m overflowing with Serpens, do I need to have it too?''

    Looking at Humanus alone, he was the master of the holy sword, but he could not properly utilize his divine power except for attack techniques.

    After all, Liena, who I go with, does it all!

    Because there is an assistant talent who is far superior to myself right next to me,

    Because I didn''t feel the need to polish it in various ways.

    It is a kind of choice and concentration, or opportunity cost.

    For the same reason, even if I had divine powers, I would not have felt the need to learn properly because Serpens would do everything for me, and I would have just left it alone.

    Well, anyway .

    Is that right? That''s right!

    "That makes it even more problematic."

    Is there any problem? It''s just not.

    At my lightly thrown words, Eirich shook his head heavily.

    But from the mouth of a demon worshiper.

    Even if I think about it, a person who is me is ''the unique duality of the name of the messenger of God This is not the case with the pressure.

    If it were me, I would have wanted to believe that the evil bastard fooled around with his legs, but somehow Eirich seems to want me to be a messenger of the gods.

    ''Do you have any belief that God will take care of you when you reach Serpence?''

    It was a fairly devastating accident. But it wasn''t really wrong.

    "So there is no need to listen to such nonsense .

    So, if Zion is not really a messenger of God, he may be stalked into a heresy trying to confuse the demon worshipers by sharing distorted information as if it was God''s will.

    If that''s the case, the words are different.

    It''s okay to say these things out loud, there''s no time to think about it.

    I must have made up my mind to leave the church,

    Since I look close to Serpence, I''m probably covering it up and defending it.

    I am the messenger of the gods! A faithful follower of Lux Mea-sama.

    I must have chosen the wrong word.

    Eirich and Altar''s eyes looked at me with suspicion.

    From this point on, Zion is the true messenger of the god Lux Mea!

    Eugene is actively defending me

    it was

    It was so active that I even wondered if I wasn''t trustworthy enough to have to do it.

    Sir Zion''s words and deeds are light and misunderstood, but when you get to know him, he is a deep-hearted person.

    Serpens also came forward and defended me.

    his behavior. Is my tone of voice that light?

    I thought I was living the average language life of a man in his mid-20s... .

    ''Isn''t it? Seriously, I was swearing around like a rebellious teenager in my prime, what did you do?! Is this enough for you to be completely grown-up? Are you above average?''

    The standards here are quite different.

    "He guided me in a positive direction. I am Lord Zion ."

    Even while I was voicing my inner complaints, Serpens continued to speak.

    The guy spoke in a shaky voice, and then paused for a moment as if something was coming up.

    I slowly closed my eyes and picked my breath.

    I think Zion is more worthy of being a messenger of the gods than anyone else.

    Serpence has a more dramatic effect, opening my eyes

    And he said, taking off the title Kyeong , which he had deliberately attached to it.

    ''Hey, it''s not an appealing joke!''

    It''s like, ''Yes, that''s right. I am a true messenger of the gods of this age!''

    "And if if it hadn''t been for him.

    I wouldn''t be where I am today.

    I thought it was all over, but it seems that it was still there.

    Serpence spoke softly with a self-helpful smile, as delicate as a dangerous candle, as if it were about to go out at any moment.

    Is it because they know that it is acting, yet they know that there is sincerity in it?

    My heart sank and sank.

    "Hey, what is that ?"

    Naturally, Eirich caught the fish right away.

    Eirich, who felt guilty about leaving Serpence alone for a long time, was a very easy prey.

    Tigers do their best when catching rabbits.

    However, Serpens misunderstood the prey in front of him as a bear rather than a rabbit, risking life and death.

    ''As long as Euges uttered the oath of the World Tree, it wouldn''t have to be done like that .''

    Although it is a assumption to the last, I wondered if it was to prevent the situation where she overuses it because of the danger of the oath; D;

    A lot has changed when I first met her. It''s delightful

    Now do you know? For a long time, the only meaning of my existence was to become the master of the Holy Sword:

    The boy deliberately blurted the end of his words and made a sad expression on his face.

    It wasn''t too difficult to imagine what would follow.

    The moment the holy sword went to someone else, the meaning of his existence disappeared. Then you would lose the meaning of living any longer.

    These words must be floating around in Eirich''s head.

    Hans also said that the former Duke of Prasidus committed suicide, so it''s easier to recall the word.

    '' Isn''t that too cruel?''

    Looking at Eilich''s white face, it makes me feel sorry for everything.

    Even since it was a wide-area period that did not distinguish between enemies, Eugenes covered his mouth and quietly wept.

    I''ll have to explain it to Eugenes later and ask him to apologize.

    Well, there''s no reason for that!

    Eilic denied Serpense''s words.

    Being the master of the Holy Sword is not the only reason Serpence exists. was saying that

    ''By the way, you''re easily rude to Hans, but you still use respect for Serpens?''

    It seems that it is very difficult to treat your nephew D.

    Serpens is treating him thoroughly as someone else, and he has not taken any formal steps to leave the church.

    is in a state of

    Most of all, it''s not unusual since I didn''t even get permission to return to the house from Serpens, the head of the household.

    Before I met him, no one had ever said that to me. There was only one, Zion.

    Oh my god, Luxmea...

    At Serpence''s words, Eirich called out the name of the god with a look as if he had been beaten in the back of the head.

    Altar was also shocked.

    Even before the Day of Choice, the Church did not take it for granted that Serpens became the master of the Holy Sword.

    It is the face that realized how much burden it must have been for the person concerned.

    Of course, I''m not saying he''s a messenger from that personal feeling. He''s proven to me that he''s a messenger.

    Now that I''ve been emotionally shaken, I think I''m going to dig into that gap and go into solidification.

    He knew that someone other than me was chosen to be the master of the holy sword.

    There was. For that reason, he constantly tried to show me the beauty of this world and the joy of living, and he taught me that I can live my life regardless of the holy sword. Thanks to that, when the Holy Sword chose someone else, I was able to accept it with a smile.

    with a slender face. But both eyes have a strong glow.

    Serpens said so.

    It is truly astonishing to see the technology that puts contradictory feelings into one face.

    Not only that, he''s my three-year-old, whom I''ve never even spoken of.

    I knew the name.

    The fraud fence uttered a brazen voice.

    ''Then, on the day of choice, is it God who covered my eyes and told me the christening name of Ador? Are you Luxmea?''

    Even if I cover my eyes and meow, it''s still oily.

    It''s really weird.

    "Ah that''s why Sion knew the baptismal name of Serpens!"

    Euges exclaimed as if he had attained enlightenment.

    While smirking, he puts the chuimsae wonderfully.

    ''Wow, that''s really embarrassing!''

    As for how injustice it is, it''s worse than eating walnuts for a whole week for one wrong sleep talk.

    Was it so bad that I showed off that I knew my christening name?

    ''Everyone! Serpens'' baptismal name means love! When you call him in the future, please call him a love fence with love!''

    I think I''m going to talk about around the neighborhood.

    "I understand. If that''s the case,

    Do you even know the baptismal name?"

    Altar asked cautiously. It was a question that deserved to be asked.

    Oh, I''m sorry. It''s out of your area.

    " Is there such a thing?"

    My main job is to deal with the Holy Sword. My Majesty the Crown Prince, who is the owner of the Holy Sword, and his fianc��e, Earl of Opulence, I know the christening name of Liena, one of the members of the Sacred Sword.

    Hearing my answer, Altar seemed to have been thinking for a moment, then took out a piece of paper and a pen and handed it to me.

    This means that you write it down without having to ask what it is.

    The baptismal name is probably the reason why you shouldn''t put it in your mouth carelessly.

    "By the way, will you get it and use it?"

    I''m going to visit Count Opulence tomorrow and check it out.

    I returned a piece of paper on which I wrote my baptismal names and asked a question, and Altar answered it, confirming it.

    And the paper went into the burning fireplace on one side of the drawing room.

    ''You can''t talk, you can burn it

    Is it?''

    I can''t understand it at all.

    I just want to express my sincere apologies to Renie, who will be faced with a situation where a heretic inquisitor from the sanctuary comes and guesses the christening name at once.

    "And there is one more question I want to ask."

    Yes, do.

    "So , what is the mission that Zion has been given as a messenger of God?"

    Yeah, it''s worth asking this question too.

    I see the demons against me

    It seems to play an important role, but in the end, all I heard from Serpens was that I had been stingy.

    He didn''t say anything like that they broke their plans by informing them, or that they were preparing for it.

    that .

    I hope you don''t ask for details. And I hope that Zion''s identity is not known as much as possible.

    I tried to explain based on the settings made by Eugene and Serpence, but Serpence stopped me and stopped me from speaking.

    cut it off

    His mission will play a very important role in the future of the continent. His actions must never be constrained or variable.

    Serpens said with a hard expression on his face.

    It was something he would never do in a normal external fence, so Altar and Eirich also took his words seriously.

    Okay. Then I will go back knowing that.

    Yeah, look carefully.

    It was only after Altar showed that he would not ask any more questions, Serpense''s expression softened. Kindness returned to her voice.

    Eilich-sama must also go.

    Altar-sama, I...

    Still, you shouldn''t have to tell the Holy Spirit directly.

    Eirich nodded and glanced at Serpence.

    He seemed to want him to hold him.

    I''ve decided to leave the church, so there''s no need to bother anymore, Serpens and a little

    I''d like to have more personal conversations about this and that.

    But Serpens never caught him.

 CH 217

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 217

    41. People of the Dukes (5)

    Eirich and Althar got up from their seats.

    Hans tried to see them out of the mansion to fulfill his duty as a butler, but Eirich refused to do so, as if he were displeased.

    As a result, even after they left, Hans remained there like a fixture.

    butler.

    "Yes, Master Sir."

    Come closer. I''ll treat you.

    It''s okay, it''s okay. This is nothing.

    To the voice of the Serpence who made up the kindness, Hans answered with a smirk, not knowing where to put himself.

    Behind his words, compared to what Serpens had suffered in the past, was hidden.

    It doesn''t look good.

    It literally meant

    If the butler appears with a swollen and bruised face in the drawing room where guests have visited, misunderstandings arise and there is no choice but to speak out.

    Realizing that, Hans hesitated and stood close to Serpens-.

    Serpens reached out towards his face, but didn''t reach it. In that state, the divine power was released.

    Now it is.

    Thank you. And , I''m sorry.

    You can leave now.

    Hans, whose face has become pale, is slightly huh.

    After bowing down and showing manners, he adjusted his clothes and left the drawing room.

    Now that everyone is out, I''ll have to ask Serpence something.

    He was picking up a walnut chocolate muffin that he had never touched before in front of the guests, and was peeling off one end of the parchment paper that had been wrapped around it.

    Serpens.

    At my call, Serpens took a small bite of a muffin and looked at me with his eyes wide open.

    why are you calling

    I don''t eat walnuts..., no, this is not important 1. Why did you do that?

    This time he tilted his head slightly to the side.

    The baptismal name! Serpense''s christening name was given to him by Serpens himself!

    "Is that so?"

    At my words, Euges looked at Serpens with eyes as if asking if it was true.

    He averted his gaze and showed a ignorant attitude.

    W], are you like that! The other person''s three

    It''s true that I got to know the name of the child through such a process, but I heard the child''s baptismal name directly from his mouth! Ugh, it''s a shame because I knew the christening names of those three... .

    You''ve said that before. So I thought I''d be able to pass it on.

    Wow, really! Even if you can''t even talk, you''re not mean!

    When I rolled my eyes and stared at it, the guy snorted loudly as if he had heard a saree.

    Now I see that his cup is empty.

    I must have drank little by little because my stomach was burning while the story of the past was coming and going.

    "I hate being mean, I hate it, I don''t like it, so don''t panic."

    I said as I filled his empty cup with the tea from the now-cooled teapot.

    The guy drank it right away.

    Even so...why did you lie to me like that? Isn''t it enough to explain what you told me?

    That''s what I''m saying! Besides, if you tell me in detail, the denomination will actively help out.

    But he cut it off and threatened not to get involved in my business.

    "Why are you like that?"

    In order to do that, you have to say that you foretell the future.

    Serpens put down the teacup without a sound and answered bluntly.

    "You''ve been speaking well so far , ah!"

    Come to think of it, things have changed now. The future I know depends on the situation

    It is fixed, not variable.

    A lot has already changed since Serpens were not on their side.

    Above all, as it is suspected that the Demon King has memories corresponding to the contents of [Master of the Holy Sword], it is difficult to say for sure how things will go in the future.

    Perhaps Serpens was concerned about it.

    Yes. If the church finds out about it, they will try to hide you deep in the Great Hall for protection.

    Cut off, you will be asked to prophesy. If it fits as well as before, you''ll be locked up there for the rest of your life, and if things don''t work out... .

    As if he didn''t want to even imagine, he blurted out the end of his words.

    It was pretty close to what I expected.

    ...only the ending part.

    Somehow, in the way he looked at him with his face straightened up earlier, he felt a sense of unfamiliar hostility.

    Are you afraid that the denomination will take me away?

    "Oh, if that''s the case, didn''t you say, ''As a messenger of the gods, Zion''s mission is to take care of me.''"

    The guy pretended he didn''t hear anything, straightened his back and took a proud posture.

    If only the sitting posture is adult, what do you do, the contents are completely childish.

    ''Maybe that''s why he strangely emphasized that he couldn''t be without me.''

    On the one hand, I wanted to talk to him if it was too much. On the one hand, I wanted to hug him as he was older because it was salty, but I also worried that I was living with him too much.

    "Doesn''t Zion also hate being confined somewhere? He likes to run around, and he likes meeting people .

    I was staring at Serpence and thinking over and over what to do, so the guy who noticed it added an explanation as if he was making an excuse.

    Well, it is, but...

    Didn''t you say you wanted to go on a trip with me?

    an elusive holiday.

    A young child said, ''I haven''t forgotten the promise we made to go to the amusement park together on our day off Ji? Isn''t that right?'' A voice of half resignation and half expectation

    Asking Lee, she brightens her eyes.

    How can I refuse because I am bothered and tired?

    Okay, okay! Let''s play around together, eat something delicious, and do it all!

    In response to my answer, the wither fence evolved into a blue fence, and my face bloomed brightly.

    Seeing the innocent smile of a child warmed the depths of my heart, and a heartwarming smile came to my mind.

    ''okay! If someone tries to take the rattle that the baby was playing with, it will cry.

    It''s a natural reaction to go up and down!''

    The one who stole it was a bad bastard.

    There is nothing wrong with a child who cries after losing a toy.

    Hmm, hmm! Hmmm!''''

    Trying to understand that in his heart, Eugez purposefully coughed and revealed his presence to the fullest.

    Serpens looked at me, and I blinked to signify that I should do as I please.

    ''You can''t tell him not to play with him for ever and today, can he?''

    A timid Aira makes a new friend

    It still seems difficult, but it is time to take control of the relationship with the friend you already have.

    He hesitated at my reaction to take care of it, and then opened his mouth with an expression of great determination.

    "If it''s Eugene, it''s okay to do it together."

    A bright smile bloomed on Eugene''s face at Serpence''s positive answer.

    * * *

    Oops! Asking about walnuts

    I forgot!

    For a while, I put off things about the demons and the Luxmea Church, and after work, we all played through travel-related books in the library on the 5th floor, and only remembered it after returning to our room.

    Well, I''ll be in your room soon anyway, so can I ask then?

    That night I returned to the mansion.

    Serpens did not come to my room.

    Now that the matter has been resolved, I thought it might be because the anxiety was resolved.

    I thought it would never come again

    After two nights only two nights passed, he hid in my room again.

    The original taste was more frightening, and I couldn''t forget the taste of guljam I experienced these days.

    Or maybe he was a little frightened when he opened his eyes and there was no one around.

    As the saying goes, "I don''t know where I am, but I know where I am.

    ''If you add one more bed to the room... . Oh, is that too conspicuous?''

    With that in mind, I opened the bathroom handle to take a shower before going to bed.

    It was time to turn around.

    Is the walnut the aide''s work?

    Aww!!

    Suddenly the door opened and Hans'' face popped out, and I was startled and threw the shower robe in my hand at his face.

    Oh! It''s a surprise.

    I retrieved the gown that covered Hans'' face and calmed my startled heart.

    Shion! What the hell is going on?!

    A heart that beats wildly may calm down

    Before, the window burst open and Eugese appeared.

    She, too, was about to wash and ran in a double sense, so she had a towel in her hand instead of a bow.

    I was just surprised that the butler suddenly appeared. It''s nothing special, you can go back to your room.

    "Are you really okay?"

    "Are you overprotecting me, even Eugenes?"

    Okay. Instead, if something happens, do you always scream like you just did?

    sure!

    Eugenes jumped out the window with an unwilling expression, the two who stared at Hans threateningly.

    Then, with a bang, the door opened in an impossible way by design.

    That is, it is broken.

    Senior! What the hell...!

    Nothing like that! I''m just surprised, it''s okay.

    It was Winston, who was supposed to be returning from training just in time.

    Break the door with a giant sword

    His appearance was very dignified, but in the future, there was a wish that he would use the windows like Serpens and Eugenes in the future.

    ''Oh yeah , It''s safe, but where''s my privacy?''

    I clicked inwardly as I watched Winston pick up the knocked-out door and put it on the doorframe at an angle, having determined that there was no threat in the room.

    "Master, what about that?"

    Fortunately, only the hinge seems to have come off, so I will call the attendant and instruct him to fix it right away.

    Hans, who had lost his senses, replied tremblingly.

    "First of all, I want to talk to you, would you mind?"

    Oh, yes. It is.

    Then go to my room first.

    Me first?

    Yes, I will give the order to the servant to fix the door and go. If it''s because I''m not sure and you''re anxious, then in Xeon''s room...

    No! It''s fine, yes.

    I quickly came down to Hans''s room through the secret passage in the bathroom.

    Up there I heard Hans telling Winston to leave the door and just go back.

    And not long after, Hans opened his door and came in.

    "It would have been nice to have visited in such a formal way."

    From now on, ah...

    Is it because I now realize that there is no future?

    Hans sighed and gave a bitter look.

    "I wish I had realized sooner.

    I would have... .

    It was a word full of regret.

    Deep regret for each fan wrinkled deep on his face.

    "So what are you going to say?"

    After watching it for a long time, it was complicated, and I wanted to finish my business quickly and go back to my room, so I immediately brought up the main topic.

    "Are you really an apostle of God?"

    "To check that now, this riot at night , ah. It was the butler who caused the riot

    Wasn''t it?

    Feeling a bit frustrated, I scratched the back of my head.

    "So what is it, the former Duke of Prasidus challenged the authority of the god Luxmea and he was concerned about it, right? I love him so much, so his parents wouldn''t make an issue of my past with me, otherwise I wouldn''t have come here, would I?

    As I started pouring out words, Hans''s face was as if what he wanted to hear was correct.

    A light of relief flashed across

    By the way, I have a question for you.

    Yes. Take it easy.

    Hans, who is not very polite, is unfamiliar and uncomfortable as if he is wearing the wrong clothes.

    You know what you said earlier. He, who died...

    That would be a lie.

    Maybe it''s because I''ve been told that I''m an apostle of God.

    Hans responded promptly, without even trying to hide it.

    "Then the real culprit is".

    I don''t know-. Does your aide not know?

    Even the apostles of God do not know what they do not know.

    Just in case I asked a question like a hint, the same question flew to me.

    I don''t know if I really don''t know, if I know that the real culprit is a serpent, or if I''m just guessing.

    Rather than stab more, let''s pretend we don''t know and move on.

    "But the deacon, who values the honor of the duke, the former duke committed suicide".

    Isn''t it the aide who said that the current duke is more important than the honor of the deceased former duke or the duke''s family?

    Before I could finish my question, Hans answered straight away.

    No, well... that''s what I said.

    Then there''s no problem, isn''t it?

    There is none, but to say that there is none at all is a subtly vague feeling.

    It also changes the very essence of a person.

    It doesn''t seem easy

    It is especially difficult to change the ideas engraved on the bones over a long period of time, especially with age.

    This is pretty good enough.

    I''m done talking], do you have any more butlers?

    I''m done, too.

    Then I''ll just go back... ?

    Yeah, look carefully.

    As if escaping, I climbed up through the secret passage to the bathroom of my room.

    ''I thought I was going to die awkwardly!''

 CH 218

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 218

    41. People of the Dukes (6)

    When I slightly opened the bathroom door and poked my head out, I saw the servant repairing the broken door.

    I think we ended the conversation too soon.

    ''But now, isn''t it strange that Hans and Hans come here and laugh and share stories and share memories?''

    In the first place, there is nothing similar to the memories of Hans and that yangban. Even if I go down again, it''s just fine.

    I think it would be better to just wash up after entering the bathroom and go out.

    After taking a light shower, I went out to the room, and Serpens spread a blanket on the floor, and Odokani was sitting on it.

    "Why are you doing this on the floor, leaving your bed?"

    No matter how much you think about it, it''s disgusting to push the room owner and take my bed.

    said the landlord, Serpens.

    It was.

    I''ve slept well in bed so far, and it''s so refreshing.

    "When did Serpens say he slept on the floor?"

    "When I was young did fainting count as sleep?"

    Could it be possible?!

    Serpence kept talking nonsense to this day.

    No matter what happens, I grabbed his arm and pulled him up, swearing to myself that I will guarantee a comfortable and comfortable bed for him.

    "Come on, go to bed, come on! Or will you keep me from sleeping in my room?"

    "It''s just my home".

    Who? Me? You misunderstood.

    The guy pouted his mouth, but apparently he didn''t like being kicked out, so he quietly climbed onto the bed.

    In the meantime, I took out the soundproof scroll and tore it apart.

    Serpens did not lie down and looked at me with smirking eyes. do you have something to say to yourself

    is the eyes

    "I thought I was talking too harshly, so I''m going to ask a little bit."

    I don''t know what you''re talking about.

    You''re playing! You''re talking about knowing how your words will sound. Saying that you won''t be as confident as you are now can mean change, but if you say that the meaning behind your existence is only to become the master of the Holy Sword...

    What I expected was right.

    He kept his mouth shut and avoided my gaze.

    I know what Serpence would be like without me, so I know that Serpence would not have taken his life as soon as the day of choice was over...

    Yeah, I''d rather have a better life that way.

    Serpens!

    He muttered self-helpful words that forced me to stop and scream his name out loud.

    This was not expected, but soundproofing was done in advance.

    That, so Serpens, now...

    "Doesn''t Seonwoo know better? What would I have done without you?"

    So, I hate myself for living my life like that. I wish I could die like that, and I want other people to believe that Serpens would have committed suicide. What, is that so?

    At best, I thought he was doing it to get sympathy.

    I keep that thought in my head all the time.

    There was a stream of questions asking if I had been there.

    When and how can this self-hatred get better?

    Isn''t that right?

    Are you saying that now?!

    If the Demon King knows the same future as Seon-woo does, why does he keep trying to pull me into his side? That''s how much I....

    Because you''re strong! You''re going to hit the back of the head anyway, so prevention is enough.

    Even though he was not satisfied with my answer, he grabbed the hem of the duvet tightly.

    Don''t be afraid of yourself.

    "How could that be?"

    "I struggled to protect myself, but that direction was just wrong. I made a mistake because I didn''t learn to protect myself. .

    It seems that you are listening to me, but I don''t know if I have reached my heart.

    Serpens stood on his knees and embraced it with his arms. It is an unconscious action.

    If Seonwoo met me after the day of the election, if not before... If he had met me after crossing the line. Can you still care for me the way I am now?

    that...

    "When you first saw me, you were so afraid How could you possibly do that? I don''t think it is. I sympathize with you for being pitiful, but at the side of the Crown Prince who is not me, so that you can kill me as soon as possible.

    I would have helped him.

    That alone cannot be denied.

    But that''s because I didn''t know what kind of person Serpens was. I thought Serpens was the first to shut the door of his heart and deceive people, but it was because he didn''t know how to express it. I didn''t even know that he was a person who was so engrossed in loneliness!

    Stupid incompetent mea, if this is the case, I''ll show you Serpense''s childhood biography rather than [Master of the Holy Sword].

    If that''s the case, I''m afraid of him when we first meet

    Instead of saying, ''How do you like my child!''

    So, will anything change now? Even if you know who I am... After I''ve already killed many innocent people...

    Still, if it were me today, I would wish for repentance, not Serpense''s death.

    why?

    I can''t help it! They say that your arms bend inward, and even hedgehogs say that their babies are nestled, right?

    Now come and see Serpens thorns

    Even if they look like they are paired up, they just look like soft fluffy hair.

    After all, a serpent can''t be shameless. He will suffer from guilt and will go out and help people to pay the price. I don''t know about serpens, but it''s a very common clich�� for an evil cadre to repent and stand on the side of justice.

    Again, a strange sound...

    Serpens had a distorted expression on his face, not knowing whether he was crying or smiling.

    The tail of the lips that were stretched out from side to side with the forehead wrinkled a lot was lowered.

    It was unclear whether he had risen or not, and he trembled.

    So Serpense also wants her to die, or that she should be dead, so don''t say harsh words like that.

    I''m sorry.

    "I apologize to Eugenes later, too. How surprised are you to hear that all of a sudden?"

    " I will."

    It would be difficult to get Eirich to apologize too, so let''s move on to this point.

    And grieve Serpens too.

    "What does that mean?"

    When I think of my own death, I feel sad, sad, and injustice. I want you to have sympathy for yourself.

    " I will try."

    Okay, let''s believe it!

    If I had said it would be so, I would have doubted it again.

    He is a guy who keeps his promises, so I believe that things will get better in the future.

    Come on! Well, let''s talk about walnuts.

    ...suddenly?

    Serpens opened his eyes in the midst of the empty lake and made a bewildered expression on his face.

    If you fall asleep in a depressed mood, your dreams are chaotic! And for Serpens, it may be sudden, but it''s very serious to me. If I can''t solve this, I can''t sleep.

    "Oh, that''s not okay."

    Serpence, with a serious expression on his face, released his arms from his knees and took the edge of the bed.

    A posture in which the body is turned sideways and the knee that was standing up and folded touches the bed, and finally kneels down

    became

    Isn''t it serious enough to get you on your knees...?

    He lowered the leg he was sitting on under the bed.

    He was leaning against the edge of the bed to see me sitting on the floor and bending his back, so it became a more natural posture than usual for a listening posture.

    If I just crossed my legs over there, there wouldn''t be a complete pictorial.

    Don''t think about it, just tell me.

    How did you know I was thinking otherwise

    Well, Serpens urged me.

    "Then I ask you, why do you keep feeding me walnuts?"

    For some reason, Serpens had a disappointing expression on his face.

    I don''t know what I was expecting with the topic of walnut.

    "Sunwoo, because I like you."

    "Where did you hear that nonsense! You felt such an outright malice?"

    If that''s the reason, it should have been the dumplings when I said I didn''t want to eat walnuts anymore.

    At least I shouldn''t have put walnut financiers in my mouth.

    But this isn''t the first time you''ve said that you like certain foods, because you value what you eat so much.

    I didn''t mean to say that I really liked it...

    Serpence put on a look of disappointment at the words that were lightly shed without much thought.

    It''s like washing cotton candy in water.

    I worked hard, but what''s left in my hands

    There is no silver and everything is scattered and vanished, the face of vain and ephemeral.

    Isn''t it that shocking?

    " Sunwoo doesn''t know."

    "What do I not know?"

    He rolled his eyes at my absurd question.

    "Didn''t Seonwoo always take only the things I like? Snacks are always the things I like ."

    "I am eating well.

    You know. I ate so well that I gained weight, so how much trouble did I have to lose it?"

    I know that if I don''t eat and move the same way, I''m going to fall, but it took me a while to get rid of it because I couldn''t stop eating it right in front of me.

    "More than anything else, do you know what I want to eat and eat well?"

    what?

    Serpens raised his eyes as if in disbelief.

    It was as if I had gone outside and had even been buried in the fur of another cat that was not my own, with a strong sense of betrayal.

    "You''ve seen Serpense often, too, I pick up spicy stuff and go around eating it."

    For me, we talked about memories and had fun together...

    Is it true that we have to eat the same food together to make memories? Besides, Serpens can''t eat spicy food!

    I can tolerate that much pain. If I get used to the spicy taste and train my tongue...

    "Is it already gone the moment I said pain?"

    It was a topic I brought up just to talk lightly, but why is Serpence more crying?

    seems to be done

    Because of the long hair that was unraveled before going to bed, she looks more innocent for nothing.

    "Doesn''t Seonwoo not want to share your memories with me?"

    "What kind of nonsense is that?"

    Before I came here. Not because I didn''t want to share the memories I had accumulated as a person named Yoo Seon-woo and not Zion Rivelon... I hope I don''t invade my life in that world...

    Somehow, I felt some kind of malice in the way he was persistently feeding walnuts.

    After I did it all, I guess it was because I was pouting.

    It''s not like that. If that''s the case, then why would I tell Serpens my real name and ask him to call me? And, in my spare time, I told him about the world I lived in... Oh yes! You ate it!

    But you didn''t light a candle.

    "Well , because there was Eugene too. Maybe it''s just because of that?!"

    what is this guy are you a child That''s right, I was a kid!

    original childish birthday cake with candles

    If you don''t turn on the light, you''ll be incredibly embarrassed.

    I wanted to give her a birthday present at the very least... but Seonwoo said he didn''t need it either, but in the end, he would only receive a piece of paper called filial piety in English...

    This is what he misunderstood.

    This guy doesn''t know the fear of filial piety.

    "Listen, Serpence. Filial piety is a huge thing. If you know how terrifying this is, Serpence will surely regret it, right?"

    I knew it.

    Serpens tilted his head with an innocent face.

    Listen, Serpense. Actually, the filial piety certificate is nothing like a blank check. No, it''s much better than a blank check! To be sowed with intestines! Huh, haha, that''s stupid!

    I''m really glad that you look really happy.

    Serpence, who was watching me smiling brightly, spoke hard with a tired expression on his face.

    And put your legs on the bed

    dug into the fire

    No, what was that reaction?!

    It''s late at night. It''s probably best to go to sleep. So, turn off the lights.

    He seemed to have understood roughly, but instead, it was clear that he thought I was an infinitely strange person.

    It''s a common occurrence. just sleep or sleep;

 CH 219

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 219

    41. People of the Dukes (7)

    Eirich, who thought he would attack the duke''s residence the next day with all his luggage, returned to the duke''s residence only after a week had passed.

    I mourn my pitiful nephew, the sweet candle he presumably likes

    I bought a fondant chocolat with plenty of collet.

    ''I think he''s the uncle of the person who has been feeding walnuts all week just because he talked about walnuts once .''

    I thought they looked alike, but their actions were also similar.

    "Ummm are you really going to leave the church?"

    Serpens tried to ignore the smell of chocolate tickling his nose, and asked Eilich.

    In that tone, ''I can''t quite understand why he is doing this.''

    The nuance of that is dripping.

    Even so, there was not even the slightest tremor in the light of Eirich''s eyes.

    Yes, I do not change my mind.

    Eirich answered firmly.

    But seeing that you have to accept this, it seems that the Holy Father doesn''t want it either...

    Saying so, Serpence reached over the table and picked up the paperwork Eilic had brought.

    It is the paperwork to reincorporate Eilic into the Prasidus family.

    So, of course, the signature of Serpens and the seal of the House of Fra Sidus were required.

    In other words, if the Pope wants to leave the Orthodox Church, he has asked Serpens to get permission first.

    ''Isn''t this kind of paperwork usually done after leaving the church completely?''

    It''s not like leaving school is not a job change, and I''d like to see if it''s not a good idea to put your name on the family while belonging to a denomination.

    Even if the registration is done later, just having these things ready in advance can cause problems.

    Still, if the Pope made this happen, there are two major possibilities.

    Either he was afraid that Serpence would not accept him after Eirich left the church, or he just didn''t want to let him go.

    Serpens seems to think that the latter is the case.

    ''Or it could be that Eirich is gritty and pretends not to know the former case.

    Personally, I want Serpens to feel the real family affection, but if he doesn''t like it, I can''t force it.

    Thinking to himself, ''I am Corissa Lou, who I borrowed,'' I vowed to watch him quietly.

    And it was then that I thought of fondant chocolat in a souffl�� cup as a dessert spoon.

    Zion, the messenger of the gods, said that there is no need for me or the Heretic Inquisitor to take responsibility for the past.

    Serpens sold my name.

    Eilrich''s gaze, which had been on Serpens all the time, reached me.

    I poured the poor spoon that didn''t even reach my mouth into the souffl�� cup.

    laid flatly

    It''s a shame it was before I put this in my mouth.

    Yeah, well... it''s not that the two of you did anything wrong. Serpence is the victim, and Eirich-sama was unaware of it because he strictly obeyed the church''s discipline.

    "Not knowing is not an excuse."

    But if you had known, you would have helped Serpence.

    But you didn''t tell me.

    peel. Inside, I was satisfied and rejoiced at the good news that was going around. I didn''t take into account how hard he must have worked and how hard he must have been in the process.

    Eirich replied with a dark expression.

    Guilt seems to drop from that voice.

    Serpence and Eilic are the same, and I don''t know why they are so gripped with guilt.

    ''The conscience that the previous duke should have been born with is divided between the two

    Did you ever do it, what?''

    Anyway, Serpens doesn''t seem to have the slightest intention of excluding me from this conversation.

    I must have seen him mention me, scary enough that I decided to watch quietly.

    I wonder if this happened or should I ask.

    "May I ask why Eirich-sama left the dukes before that?"

    that .

    Ale who seemed to answer right away

    Richie paused for a moment, then looked at me with questionable eyes.

    I remember you asked that question before... Are you really asking because you don''t know?

    The question was, why did I not know that, as I seem to be in charge of serpents in the holy sword-related part.

    It''s been a while since I became a messenger of the gods, so I don''t know much about the old days. That..., what is it? Did you hear that I was kidnapped by a demon before? Bought, he returned

    Because you handed it over to me before time... . yes, what... . We''ll go into more detail.

    There was a setting that Euges had said before, like he was possessed, but since I heard it with the back of my ear, my memory is hazy.

    Because of that, it was hard to recall the memories, so I had no choice but to say the ending fuzzy.

    Ah, such a thing...

    Eirich, who had clearly misunderstood that it was difficult to recall the memories of that time in a different way, nodded with a serious expression.

    I don''t want to ask for details.

    Come on! .

    I''m going to ask.

    Just because Eirich didn''t ask about my situation, there was no reason why I wouldn''t ask about the other side.

    That''s it, and this is it.

    Anyway, that''s just skipped over, can you tell me now? Don''t you need to know why you left the family so that Serpense will refer to it and accept it or not?

    At my words, Eirich''s gaze slowly turned to Serpens.

    He put the papers back on the table and put his hands on his knees.

    Sitting on top of it, when Eirich''s eyes met, he smiled awkwardly.

    "The reason I chose to leave my family and return to the church was because I thought my younger brother would be better than me as a lord and a nobleman."

    As a nobleman, I don''t know what his abilities were like.

    However, as a head of state and as a father, it is certain that he ate the whole thing.

    It was a stupid decision.

    Eilic looked away from Serpence and the fondant chocolate was placed in front of him.

    He looked down at Ra and said bitterly.

    The black dessert was covered with pure white sugar powder, and the insides were not revealed at all.

    The small spoon next to it was still neatly gleaming in silver.

    From an early age, he was more interested in politics than in theology. He had a cool personality and great determination, and unlike me, he had a lot of ambition for power . He was more suited to a politician than a clergyman.

    This is bad for the previous dukes

    It is unknown, but Eilich''s words were translated as ''He was a sociopath by nature.''

    "So, did you surrender your seat to the former Duke and join the Church?"

    Actually, there is a sense of absurdity in saying that we made a concession.

    Yes?

    I don''t know what kind of dog this is, but a dog that doesn''t bark sounds like a rainbow.

    If it were anyone else, it would be like a rainbow

    It might have been asked not to shout, but since he was Serpence''s uncle, he took care of it once.

    As he looked at Eirich with eyes asking for an explanation, he sighed heavily.

    Actually... his desire was terrifying.

    In the end, Eirich said that he had run away. So, the tragedy seems to have begun.

    He seemed to be saying that.

    ''How the heck did he show his lust for power, Eirich giving up his title and running away to the church?!''

    He is so greedy that he forces Serpens not to ask for anything.

    The more I got to know, the more terribly selfish he was.

    "If it were him, he would have tried to take power even after entering the church. And in the end "

    Come on, wait a minute!

    I interrupted Eirich for a moment.

    Then he cleared his mind, took a deep breath, and opened his mouth again.

    I think you were trying to say that if I didn''t misunderstand you, I would have been aiming for the papacy... is that right?

    He''s the guy who will remain.

    Suddenly, the backbone was pounded.

    "Then I was afraid I wonder if the previous duke will become the Pope and wield the power of the Order as he pleases: Uh No, it''s really scary, that!"

    After all, something truly terrifying was about to happen.

    Eirich said earlier that his judgment was foolish, but now that I see it, it was a very wise decision.

    But then Serpens... .

    Oh, I''m going crazy!

    In my heart, I wanted to pour out double lust, but I had to swallow my anger because of the two pairs of eyes looking at me.

    ''Let''s calm down... . Even so, you can''t do a pad rip in front of your blood relatives, right?''

    And I had to be especially patient in front of Serpens, who was constantly learning strange words from somewhere.

    "The reason is well, I understand. Yes, you know very well."

    To be honest, it''s better not to know

    it was obvious

    The last time I asked Eirich the same question, I think I can see why he avoided the answer.

    As a heretic interrogator, I probably couldn''t have said such a thing.

    "Then why do you want to come back to your family now?"

    Serpens asked the question, ''Are you going to come back now that your worries are gone now?''

    He was pretending to be innocent as much as he looked on his face, but asking such a question

    It seems he didn''t realize that it was the problem.

    It was like saying openly, ''I don''t know what a family bond is.''

    ''No, when you notice that I miss my family and hire Xeon by mistake .''

    It was clear that he was accepting it as a story from another world.

    Thinking that it was not something he could dare to wish for, he may have unconsciously erased the possibility itself.

    The Heretic Inquisitor was right. If he had become Pope, then it would have been the same for all the candidates for master of the holy swords, not just him.

    That''s plausible.

    He must have fostered a more perfect master of the holy sword, built a dormitory somewhere in the valley and rolled the children.

    "But as an adult of the family "

    "I don''t even understand what you said. From the moment you left the family and returned to the Church, everything about the Prasidus family has nothing to do with the Heretic Inquisitor.

    are you?"

    At first glance, it sounded like resentment.

    I don''t want to care, so I guess I just threw it away. Come on now, don''t ever say that you''re a grown-up of the family.

    However, Serpense''s eyes were transparent like glass grains without even a single point of resentment.

    ''Does this guy really think of Eirich as a completely stranger?''

    Eilich may have heard about Serpence from the time he was born, though through rumors.

    it will

    Since he is so famous as the one who will become the master of the Holy Sword, it is natural that he will hear it as long as he joins the church.

    Even if we couldn''t meet in person.

    Eirich was with him throughout his growth spurt.

    ''On the other hand, Serpens probably wouldn''t have heard the rumors about Eilich.''

    Of course, I wouldn''t have intentionally looked for it.

    Even if you happen to hear it by chance, it must have been just a horrific story about the torture expert that the denomination is proud of.

    "I will help you if you regret that you entered the church unintentionally and want to find your own life even now. I have no intention of resenting Inquisitor Heretic.

    Serpence smiles most kindly, with a friendly voice and a kind tone.

    You uttered the most cruel words to Eirich.

 CH 220

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 220

    41. People of the Dukes (8)

    Unsurprisingly, Eirich''s face was stiff and straight.

    Seeing his expression, Serpens looked at me with a puzzled expression. I really don''t know why Eilerich is making such an expression.

    ''I must feel sorry for you, but where would that be?''

    You don''t even need to leave the church if you''re just sorry. Just apologize.

    In the first place, Eirich felt sorry for Serpens because he felt sorry for him.

    So, even if it''s belatedly, it must be the result of wanting to protect him by his side.

    But what was Serpence''s reaction ahead of it?

    ''What''s the difference between just saying you don''t deserve it?''

    I said I had no intention of resentment, but

    It was the same as saying that I had no intention of leaning on it anytime soon.

    For personal reasons, he would accept becoming a member of the duke''s family, but he meant that he would refuse if he wanted to associate with him.

    I want to be a family member to my nephew who is left alone... Can''t you accept it for that reason?

    Eirich spoke as if pleading with a bitter expression.

    He avoided the problems in front of him and did not make an easy choice to solve it once he returned to his family.

    all.

    But.

    "I am not alone anymore."

    Serpence''s reply back was cynical.

    There was even a question of not knowing why he was saying that.

    ''It''s nice to deny that I''m alone... .''

    It''s hard to be happy just looking at Eilich''s face as if his billionaires have been broken.

    Serpens, you said you were alone

    It was something he didn''t like, but it must not be what Eirich heard.

    As you may have heard, it is highly misleading to say, ''When I was really alone, I acted like a stranger, and now it''s too blatant to say that, isn''t it?''

    To be honest, if it hadn''t been for Serpence, who glanced at me and smiled sweetly, I would have thought the same thing again.

    Having someone by your side to protect you.

    Knowing that you are no longer alone

    thread.

    The reality is that you can truly deny that you are alone.

    He was genuinely delighted with those things that some could only say.

    ''If you''re that happy, you can add more... .''

    The only ones he still accepts as his own are me and Eugenes.

    Just two people aren''t enough to fill his fence.

    The inside of the fence was too flat for that, and it had been empty for a long time.

    peel.

    Little by little, things were brought in and it became a place where people could live, but it was still not enough.

    Normally, one person fills more space than one large piece of furniture.

    Just as a small candle can fill a room, he needs more of that light and warmth.

    I''m sorry. I left you alone.

    I''ve never been allowed to let a horse go.

    you''ll have a hard time accepting me

    know that It would only be confusing if a person who suddenly came one day came to say that they were family. Especially for you.

    Despite Serpens'' harsh reaction, Eilerich did not give in and looked at him with kind eyes and continued speaking in a friendly tone.

    Don''t force me to accept you right away. But... just give me one chance.

    "I, I am".

    Two pairs of eyes of the same color turned to each other.

    The straight eyes and the unstable, trembling eyes collided in the air.

    Serpence like that one day, on the train, when I said I wanted to help him. He looked as if he was about to leave this place at any moment and run away.

    However, he did not run away.

    Even if he closed his eyes tightly and avoided Eirich''s gaze. He held out his hand, which was on his lap, and held it tight.

    I, I..., I don''t know. This year, I won''t have it.

    He keeps looking for a reason.

    because it''s family That couldn''t be a reason for him.

    Unreasonable affection was too foreign to him, and therefore incomprehensible, and therefore suspicious.

    But he was too emotional to keep pushing it away.

    ''I''ll be vigilant and try to keep my distance, but .''

    Agitation itself was proof that he could no longer push him away.

    I don''t know if it was a coincidence or an aim, but Eirich was on the right track.

    I understand.

    To Serpense''s words that he couldn''t understand, Eirich replied that he understands you.

    Different from a family, the denomination cannot be named again once it appears.

    The guy slowly opened his eyes, looked at the papers on the table, and spoke in a low voice as if he was speaking to him.

    make him a duke again

    It was meant to be a son.

    It is the final confirmation that you will not regret even if you return to the family.

    Thank you.

    Instead of saying that he knew, Eirich expressed his gratitude.

    It was an alumni answer, but it was also a Woo Moon-hyeon answer.

    Wait a minute, please.

    Serpens stood up with the papers. This means that we will deal with it right away.

    He made his way to the office, and it wasn''t until his figure disappeared through the door that Ale

    Richie took a deep breath.

    I was also deeply relieved and took a sip of the tea from the glass.

    Today, the scent of tea was fragrant.

    "I think that child is very dependent on the lion."

    Khope, hurry...!

    At the bizarre name that came in suddenly, I almost spit out tea through my nose.

    Wait, are you okay?!

    "Ah, yes. It''s okay for now, and then Serpens rely on me.

    Quiet, one last time, just call me as you were called.

    If that''s convenient for you...

    Ah! Cancel, Cancel! You''re becoming Serpence''s uncle, isn''t it too strange to call me Sion-sama, my assistant?

    Eirich''s expression looking at me became a little more subtle.

    That face was somehow similar to the expression Serpens sometimes makes when he sees me.

    By the way, Serpens has such an expression

    Building is when you are thinking, ''So what, what should I do?'' with a probability of 90 to 8 pennies.

    Then I will call you Lord Zion.

    With this, the number of people calling me Lord Zion increased by one.

    "By the way, considering that I was called that way, I guess the denomination believed in me as a messenger of God?"

    Yes. That''s how I came to that conclusion.

    I''m so glad I didn''t become a monkey.

    "More than that, that child".

    Eirich was about to ask something about Serpence, but the door connected to the office opened and Serpence returned.

    I''ll tell you to prepare your room in advance so that you can come in anytime.

    Thank you.

    Looking at Serpens who spoke openly and held out the papers, Eirich answered with a soft smile.

    Serpence withdrew his hand as soon as he accepted the papers.

    then .

    Serpens opened his eyes and looked at Eirich.

    His face must have been over, but there was a question about why it didn''t happen.

    Eirich also rolled his eyes and looked at Serpens.

    I''m sure you want to talk to him more.

    "Is that not eating?"

    Eirich''s eyes glanced around, looking at the dessert on the table.

    asked Serpens.

    I want to talk about something, but I don''t think there is a topic that comes to mind.

    I want to get close to my nephew, who is very shy, but the uncle who asks questions in an awkward mind... .

    ''Oh, it''s not similar, it''s just that, right?''

    As I listened to various analogies every day to explain Serpence''s behavior, I was mistaken for a moment.

    " I will eat it when I die."

    If you don''t like chocolate

    Is it?"

    At Eirich''s question, the guy''s gaze turned to the table.

    No, it''s not. Pretty..., I think you like it.

    It was an awkward reply for saying something he liked, so Eiley smiled happily and nodded slightly.

    Seeing that, I decided.

    ''Later, Serpens isn''t the only one who likes chocolate. I must say that I like sweet things in general.''

    Due to the imperial climate, cacao trees will not be planted in the garden, but I would like to avoid eating chocolate-infused desserts all week long.

    Let''s talk some more.

    There are many things I want to ask you.

    Ummm... I see.''''

    He seemed hesitant, but eventually sat down.

    Uh huh... Then I''ll avoid the seat...

    Sit down.

    Yep.

    They secretly removed their buttocks and tried to get up, but they were caught by Serpens right away.

    Once I sat down, I was able to sit back, but it''s very, very awkward.

    This is like playing cake at a friend''s house, but the friend''s parents who said they worked overtime came back and set them down in front of the table to eat and go.

    And all of a sudden, a serious family reunion begins.

    ''Uh-huh, just imagining it is terrible!''

    There is only one thing I can do at a time like this.

    just shut up and eat.

    I held the souffl�� cup in my left hand and the spoon in my right, scooped out a large spoonful of fondant chocolate and put it in my mouth.

    ''This feeling of melted chocolate gently wrapping your tongue... . Ummm~!''

    It would have been more delicious if eaten warm, but the sticky feeling of cooling down is not bad either.

    Serpens glanced at me too, then lifted a spoon and slipped into the fondant chocolate.

    you stabbed

    Sir Zion seems to be very friendly.

    Eirich, who was restless because there were so many things he wanted to ask, found me and thought it was a good topic, and fell over me.

    it was easy Why would I think these people would just leave me alone?

    When asked what kind of food he likes, it seems to overlap with someone who answered "Meatball Tomato Risotto" in front of him.

    Yes that''s right.

    Serpens answered.

    It was a short-answer type answer that I had no idea how to continue the conversation.

    He''s a friend.

    I thought it was the end of the story, but I guess it wasn''t. Serpens, who took a short breath, added more words.

    Perhaps he didn''t like talking to himself, Eirich''s darkened complexion brightened a little.

    They say they''re friends, according to rumors, Hwang Tae...

    no.

    That''s right...

    Suddenly, Crown Prince Humanus became Crown Prince, and Serpens''s friend position was also unfair.

    However, Humanus does not know that and must be facing the final ordeal by now.

    Still, I''m still friends with Eugene.

    That''s right...!

    If Eugez had heard it, it was something he would be very pleased with.

    And Eirich was also happy

    one was like

    It seems it was very welcome that Serpence said something first. Eirich erased the Emperor''s friend from his mind and smiled brightly.

    Sir Sion is a messenger and aide from God, though... Is it okay if I ask how you got to know her?

    I don''t think it''ll be all right.

    The question I asked carefully, fearing that my sensitive nephew might be surprised, gave Serpens room to refuse an answer because he was too cautious.

    ''Well, the process of getting to know Eugene is ambiguous to explain from the first meeting.''

    I put the empty bowl on the table, and Serpens and Eilic finally started dessert time in earnest.

    It means that I just shut up and ate with an awkward mind.

 CH 221

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 221

    42. The Duke''s Year-end Settlement (1)

    It''s already the end of the year.

    This means that Serpense''s birthday is approaching.

    Last year, my heart was always heavy because the day of choice was just around the corner, but I think I will be able to enjoy this birthday with complete peace of mind.

    ''The handling of the disappearance case that happened last time was also well resolved!''

    A lot of people were kidnapped.

    It was only a matter of time before it became known that they had in common that they had worked for the Duke of Prasidus.

    Now that time has passed, of course, it became known as soon as it became known. Even the Lux Smea Church cannot stop it.

    So, the denomination officially revealed that the incident was the work of a demon.

    On the church side, this and that is tedious

    They talked about it, but the conclusion was that the evil victors tried to spread rumors by borrowing the mouths of those who had kidnapped them.

    That''s what the bastards always do. There is nothing new.

    ''It was just an evil demon, what.,

    Those who heard the news accepted it, saying, ''To the demons, the Duke of Prasidus is quite a threat even if he is not the master of the Holy Sword.

    It was also nothing special, and instead, people

    The story about the ripple hit the cubicle.

    Eirich had said on his last visit that he was going to leave the church after taking turns confirming that the abductees were being disposed of.

    ''Are you going to come to the heretic interrogator who will inherit your spear to take over training as an excuse?''

    And today is Serpence''s birthday.

    Eilerich, who had regained the castle of Prasidus, returned home instead of visiting the mansion.

    Serpens greets Eilic

    This year''s birthday was also spent at the duke''s residence under the pretext of

    Although the rolling papers and the banquet were ripped off that Serpence was shy.

    ''Well, last year, everyone was a little overdone.

    Would it have been normal to hear the comment about the milk-colored peacock?

    Still, he did not refuse a birthday party with his acquaintances.

    Serpence''s birthday party and Eilich''s reception were held like that, the two protagonists, Prasidus, and I and Eugene. that

    Winston, who holds the title of personal escort for Rigo Serpens, was with him.

    Eilic lit a candle on the white cake that Eilic bought to celebrate Serpens''s birthday, Serpense made a wish, and blown it out with a breeze.

    Now that the simple gift giving ceremony is over, it''s time to talk.

    "Hey, that''s, uh what should I call you? Serpens'' eldest father?"

    At my call, Eileen Hee looked at Winston carefully to gauge his ability, and his gaze turned to me.

    As soon as that gaze fell, I noticed that Winston''s muscles, which had swelled up under his uniform, softened.

    I guess I was incredibly nervous.

    Just call me like before.

    Ah, yes. Then Eirich-sama. There is one thing you should know about Serpens.

    As I was afraid to let go of my luck, Eirich stared intently at the corners of my lips, with a serious face, pricked ears.

    Going beyond desirability to burden

    It''s a trend of close listening.

    ''Is it time for my muscles to swell?''

    I consciously gave him strength, but I wasn''t Winston.

    There was no dramatic effect.

    Let''s pretend nothing happened.

    "It''s true that Serpens likes chocolate, but in general, she likes all kinds of sweets. Nutritional aside, eating the same thing every day is boring. We need to pursue a variety of snacks!

    To be honest, the white chocolate cake was an unexpected turnaround for me.

    However, chocolate is chocolate.

    I''m sorry to say this about the food I''ve bought so far, but when the opportunity arises, don''t miss it.

    "Is that is it?"

    Yes, it is!

    Eilich''s gaze turned to Serpens, who gave an unsettling smile.

    His interest seems uncomfortable.

    Then let''s get a new cake...

    As if he was about to run to the nearby cake shop right away, Eirich jumped to his feet.

    No, no! It''s okay! I know you''ll get chocolate cake, and I''ve been avoiding chocolate desserts lately.

    I spoke as a rapid-fire prisoner to tear him apart.

    Serpens and Eilic were side by side, and they had a questioning expression on how they knew.

    Ah, so...!

    People who should be aware of it are not, and Euges alone achieved enlightenment.

    "Well by the way. Eirich-sama, are you okay?"

    "What do you mean?"

    Ailee Hee, who did not understand my question, sat down and asked what it meant in the first place.

    Shion, you missed the object again.

    Ouch! I forgot!

    Yeah?! A sophisticated way to get the other person to focus on what you''re saying.

    Wasn''t it?

    Serpens pointed out my mistake, I realized it, and Eugess heard it .

    Let''s pretend we didn''t hear anything.

    That rumor. It''s a bit ugly, isn''t it?

    I''ve heard rumors about me, but I''m not sure what''s so bad about it.

    I questioned Eilic once more, but he still had a puzzled expression on his face.

    This time it was my turn to not understand

    all.

    "From the beginning to the end! Not because Eirich-sama was angry but because he was so angry that he intervened with his personal feelings even though it wasn''t his job, and he was expelled from the church because of the death of him while using meaningless violence under the guise of interrogation. Everything that happened! Overall everything!

    I wouldn''t have made the stupid mistake of an easy kill, but something similar would have happened if the other Inquisitors hadn''t stopped me.

    He underestimated the special list of tortures that the Holy See was proud of.

    By his standards, it was not that he was ugly, but that he was cute.

    After all, there is nothing to believe in the rumors that are going up and down in people''s mouths.

    Rather than that, the treatment of those involved in the kidnapping has been decided.

    Eirich broke his luck by referring to them as those involved in the case, not the victims of the kidnapping.

    They tried to sympathize with the demon worshipers, but they were told that their right to live was threatened by kidnapping and confinement.

    Given the circumstances, the denomination has decided to help them cleanse their hearts tainted by demon worshipers and live a new and rewarding life.

    What does that mean?

    It''s all about community service.

    When I questioned the expression of a religious person whom I couldn''t understand at all, Serpens kindly translated Eilich''s words and listened to them.

    They will spend the rest of their lives with the denomination.

    It means that it will be used as a lifelong worker and will be kept under the supervision of the denomination.

    Ah, I got this too.

    I really like how smart Mea''s subordinates can get things done.

    However, those who became irreversibly corrupted by the ideas of the demon worshipers were compelled to be put to death.

    "You don''t have to interpret this."

    I thought so.

    After Eirich finished his words, Serpense and I had a conversation.

    He smiled happily when he received it.

    Eugene had a serious expression on his face, as if he was concentrating on the content, not paying attention to Eirich''s smiling expression as he put the sentence in his mouth.

    And Winston... .

    Sir Winston? Why are you so dumbfounded?

    Something like this happened... Ah! It''s nothing.

    The words, which could never be said to be nothing, poked their heads out and hid themselves.

    When I''m thinking deep inside

    It seems that the inside of the ice flowed out of the wind as he spoke.

    That''s it, there''s something I can''t say here...

    It''s okay if you don''t care. Isn''t it strange for subordinates to stand up and interfere with the master''s affairs?

    I''m glad you think so.

    As a human being, I can''t help but feel sad, but it seems that I have decided to understand and move on in my own way.

    thank you and sorry

    "Actually, there are other things that bother me."

    What is it?

    This time, it should answer any question with certainty.

    That''s probably not going to happen, but if you''re curious about the number of Serpense''s eyelashes, I''m willing to count them one by one right now.

    With such determination, I looked straight at Winston, and he leaned back as if it was too much of a burden.

    "Why is the master doing something to his senior?"

    Ah .

    From what I heard, it was the first time Winston saw a great fence today.

    Glancing at Serpence, he hinted at Eirich.

    Eirich must have heard from the people involved in the kidnapping case that Serpens spoke rudely to me, so it means that he said it because he thought it would look strange if he spoke respectfully.

    ''I thought it was a mistake because I got used to half-talking... .''

    I guess it wasn''t

    Anyway, what Winston asked is why Serpence is using non-verbal language now] , which was the reason why she was speaking nonsense to me.

    Then you should give him an appropriate answer.

    It''s not a big deal, but my friend ate and asked me to let her go.

    "Didn''t you force me to be more comfortable with you before that?"

    Serpens spit on my words in reply to Winston.

    The result is the same anyway, isn''t it okay to just skip it?

    And I decided to put an iron plate on my face.

    Whether my strategy worked or not, he burst out a small laugh as if he had no idea.

    The way he smiles, lifts a fork and cuts the cake placed on the plate in front of him, is so elegant.

    Somehow it feels good

    It seems like it would be now

    Even if you talk so softly, it''ll pass

    It seems to be giving, but isn''t it a good angle to just let it go?

    It''s not.

    I guess it wasn''t

    He erased the smile from his lips and answered with a smile.

    Oh, why!

    If it''s Shion, I''m sure I''ll make a speech mistake at an official event.

    "Wow, really. Can''t you believe me? Isn''t that the only trust between us?"

    Why can''t I trust you?

    would you? I have no doubt that I will make a mistake.

    It would be nice if you were a little suspicious of that.

    It''s like such a shrewd bastard.

    Still, I never made a mistake with the name problem!

    Shion, I don''t think that''s it.

    In place of Serpence, who was speechless at my cry, Euges stubbornly denied it.

    I did my best just not to mention my baptismal name.

    " Serpens, why did you allow Shion to call you by name?"

    I didn''t know you were such a careless person.

    Eugene and Serpence chatted amicably.

    It''s very nice to look friendly, but it''s hard to be genuinely happy because it''s a conversation topic.

    ''I hoped that the two of you would get to know each other and how hard I suffered!''

    A classmate next to me came to my class to play with me, and from one day on, I became closer with my partner, not me.

    I feel like I''m watching him flirt and flirt.

    " Are you sprained?"

    Serpens noticed my feelings like a ghost and asked me.

    From now on, I''ll have to call it a ghost fence, I can''t.

    "Aren''t you crazy?"

    No matter what anyone says, my best friend is ''you.''

    "Oh, do you know?"

    You should know.''''

    The guy smiles contentedly,

    I put a piece of cake I hadn''t eaten before putting it in my mouth.

 CH 222

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 222

    42. The Duke''s Year-end Settlement (2)

    Time passed before Serpens gracefully savored a piece of cake and ate it.

    In the meantime, there was no direct conversation between Serpens and Eilich. Still, there was no awkwardness that made viewers uncomfortable.

    ''Well, they seem to be awkward, but... .''

    It means that there was no artificial feeling like when Humanus was put at last year''s birthday party.

    After all, this year, we held two birthday parties... .

    Birthday party, twice... .

    No! I''m twenty-five and I had a birthday party last year and this year. Does it make sense to say that it''s only been twice?!

    The sudden thought made me cry and shout, Serpens carefully examining the teacup I was drinking.

    You''re not drunk. Drinking tea from the same kettle, what do you suspect?

    Really isn''t it?

    "My drinking habits, you know?"

    O Uh --,-��

    At my point, he was embarrassed and put the glass down.

    By the way, it''s only been twice... It''s definitely less.

    Yujissu brought up the topic of conversation that had almost been buried because of Serpence''s sudden action.

    Is it? Why don''t you celebrate Serpence''s birthday on the 25th of every month, until you''ve done all twenty-five?

    " it can''t be considered a birthday anymore, can''t it?"

    I thought it was a good idea, but Serpens blew the candle before it even took concrete form.

    How about something? Isn''t there a rule that you only have to celebrate the day you were born? At some point in your life when you feel happy, when you think that you were born well, that is something to celebrate. And suddenly you feel happy to be together.

    Is it not possible to say thank you for being born to the other person at any time?"

    "Is that is it?"

    Yeah!

    Still, you shouldn''t celebrate your birthday every month.

    I almost thought it would pass, but it doesn''t seem to be possible.

    I clicked my tongue and placed a new piece of cake on the empty front plate.

    The conversation continued, and the atmosphere gradually ripened.

    The people who chatter are mainly me, Eugene, and Serpens. With these three, Ailee Hee and Winston kept quiet to see the atmosphere.

    Eugene and I have always been the same, and Serpens used his usual tone of voice while speaking to me for whatever reason.

    As they interlocked, the guy''s tension loosened.

    ''There''s a certain amount of nudity left, but that''s enough... .''

    Unconsciously, he shows his true self and smiles, talks, and likes sweet sweethearts.

    His actions of eating dessert were very good to see.

    It was much purer and brighter than pretending to be innocent.

    ''Serpence should see this!''

    I want to push one side of the wall into a mirror so that he can see a side of himself that he doesn''t even know about.

    Then, while having a friendly conversation, you will be able to see your natural expression in the mirror by chance.

    That way you won''t ever say that you''re ugly again.

    ''The office and the drawing room look a little different from others... . Can you bring a full-length mirror in your study?''

    It seems not bad.

    If that''s the case, there''s no need for interior construction, so you can bring it in without his consent.

    If you put it in front of his seat, you will see it even if you don''t want to see it.

    Zion.

    Yes? Why?

    Serpence, who had a casual conversation with Eugene, called me.

    I guess I was puzzled that I was still without a word.

    "Aren''t you thinking something strange again?"

    Yes? Again? No? When did I ever think of something strange?

    ''''always ?

    Serpence is mistaken. I always live with the right thoughts!

    what?

    The guy can''t accept my pride and makes a stupid sound.

    You made a face that said you weren''t there.

    If not, let''s give a reason!

    "You can tell just by looking at what you usually say and do."

    Usually? What did I do?

    You''re me... that''s, so... to me that..., umm...

    Even when he tried to refute it, he stuttered as if there was nothing he could say.

    I understand.

    In front of Winston and Eilee, who are still open-minded, being treated like a child by me.

    He couldn''t have been able to say that he was living with a tantrum.

    Look! You can''t say it! Ha ha ha ha!!

    uh...

    It''s okay to talk like a cockerel, but once you get stuck in one of your original thoughts, you can''t think of the other way around.

    In the end, Serpens couldn''t say anything about my strangeness, but only put on a look of resentment.

    oops, sue

    Where is Zion''s conscience?

    Seeing me giggled, Eugene asked the whereabouts of my conscience in a soft voice.

    Of course it''s in my heart!

    I hope to find you someday.

    "No, you''re here?"

    "Maybe I misunderstood by looking at something else?"

    With a friendly expression and a gentle tone of voice, Yu Jis said.

    There is no sign of sarcasm, but this offends and upsets me.

    I need to change the topic.

    Ah, that''s right. Come to think of it, where is Eilich''s room? After all, I was like, ''Are you going to be on the 5th floor because it''s Prasidus?

    Instead of Serpense, who was a little pouty, I asked Eirich directly.

    you]. Earlier, Xeon... , I have given the butler the location of the room.

    Eirich corrected the title of Zeon, who is now a butler.

    The number of people I had to take care of increased, but I felt very sorry for him, who must have been embarrassed by the sudden announcement of his seniority to retire, but what should I do?

    ''Because he''s a smart guy, take care of yourself

    I guess.''

    Besides, the country also has a strong background, so there will be no point in being criticized for being young and having a short career.

    Even so, every time I went to the 5th floor, I felt something cold and desolate... . Good for you. After all, if there are people staying, the warmth of the space changes."

    Ah! That''s right. It''s a little bit like that? But by the time Eugenes started stopping by, things got a little better. When I first went, I wondered if this was the right place for people to live?

    In recent years, it has become no longer a place where people really live.

    ''Because Serpens is sleeping in my room!''

    For example, when I went out to play with the words ''There is no one in my house!'', I didn''t even have any friends. What a situation like that.

    It has been a long time since Serpens''s room now has been reduced to a place where Serpens washes and changes clothes.

    For that reason, the current 5th floor is now ''only the study, which has become ambiguous to even call it a personal study, is full of life, and the others are model-ha.

    It has become a strange place with a sense of humor.

    "Is that that much ?"

    Eirich said with a grim expression on his face.

    It''s only used by the Prasidus family, but until now, the only Prasidus was Serpens. Oops! My and Eugenes often go to the library, isn''t it?

    Yes, of course. Don''t mind me, please be as comfortable as ever.''''

    I asked a question just in case

    I, Eirich, answered with a rather welcoming face.

    "We have dinner together, okay?"

    ''''Yes, that''s fine.

    Even though I knew the seat, I did not know the occupied seat, and it would not change if the number of people increased by one more person.

    From now on, I think I can just live my life as usual.

    * * *

    And the serpenes were usually

    Boulevard, late at night came over the window of my room.

    Huh? Are you here again?

    After all, it was very uncomfortable Me?

    He asked, closing the window and pulling the curtains with a sullen expression.

    Facial expressions and actions played separately.

    No, no! Now, even if you don''t pat yourself, you sleep well, and there are people who live on the same floor of the same building, so I thought you wouldn''t come.

    I didn''t lock the windows for what I thought.

    " I think it''s just a second door."

    The windows are not made for people to go in and out.

    That''s true, but it''s not something the person who walks through the window of my room the most would say.

    Anyway, whenever you feel like Serpence is over, you are welcome to come and sleep.

    Isn''t it really uncomfortable...?

    Honestly, it''s fun, isn''t it?

    ..fun?

    Serpens tilted his head as if puzzled.

    Why does the fun come from sleeping, this is it.

    I was the only one having fun? Lying down and talking to each other before going to bed and then falling asleep. It felt a bit like a retreat or a school trip, so I liked it?

    Empty is a drunkard''s paradise, so let''s not include it.

    "Um , sure. It was a strange experience."

    "Were you just curious?"

    Fresh...

    Again?

    Seeing me constantly asking for the next one, he blinked slowly.

    They are organizing their thoughts to express their feelings in words.

    I feel excited, but my head is at peace again. It seems like my heart is refreshed, but it also warms me up... Yes. It''s fun... It seems like fun.

    Saying that, the boy looked like a child full of anticipation the day before the picnic.

    To meet his expectations, I laid a blanket on the floor and prepared myself for bed.

    He also climbed into the bed, covered himself with a blanket, and lay down.

    "By the way, the retreats I mentioned earlier and the school trips are these memories there?"

    Serpens asked in a low voice.

    Ah, that''s right! Serpence said I don''t share my memories, what should I do, but that''s not true?

    is it?

    you], yes! That''s why I didn''t say it... .

    Then tell me.

    He cut off my words and expressed dissatisfaction.

    Every time this reminds me of such and such a memory, because something like this happened back then... it can''t be.

    why?

    Because I''m enjoying the present right now.

    I can''t understand a serpent who hasn''t accumulated a lot of past to remember yet.

    He pursed his lips with a look.

    One day you''ll know Serpens.

    He stroked his hair half-tangled, turned off the lights, and lay down.

    Anyway, I''m reminiscing enough of the past and building up memories at the same time. It''s thanks to Serpens that I''m not swallowed up by longing as I live, so there''s no need to feel sorry for me.

    I know you''re not sleeping.

    Yes. Thank you.

    It''s not like he''s already drowsy, but he answered with a voice that seemed to be half asleep.

    It''s because he thinks he''s too far apart from others, so he can''t empathize well with other people''s feelings, but if you get to know him, he''s a very sensitive guy.

    Serpens.

    Tell me.

    He was afraid to call his name in a low voice and answered right away.

    "How was this year?"

    "What is the intent of the question?"

    Literally, I''ve made new friends, and I have a family that shares the same surname. There are many other things, right?

    This time, the answer did not come right away.

    He probably hasn''t fallen asleep right now, so he''s probably thinking about what happened last year.

    okay . So many things happened.

    The voice that was engulfed in reminiscence resounded sadly.

    "The days are going to continue, so why are you talking so vaguely?"

    I really hope so.

    I will.

    To do that, Seonwoo, I''ll have to keep a close eye on you so that you don''t step into a dangerous situation.

    Wow! Is it really this long?

    He jumped up from his seat and sat down and asked him, but Serpens snorted without saying a word.

    And there was the sound of tossing and turning.

    Are you going to sleep?

    Since there is no answer, it seems that it is.

    I closed my eyes, finding a comfortable position to fall asleep.

    Sunwoo.

    When I was in a perfect sleeping position with nothing disturbing hands and feet, Serpens quietly called me.

    why?''''

    Tomorrow, where I want you to go together

    there is.

    Hearing his voice, I don''t think it''s about going somewhere lightly.

    "Yeah, well. But how far is it?"

    Not really. It''s very close.

    Serpens answered in a calm, subdued voice.

    Where is that...

    һ Knock Knock Knock.

    Before I could finish my question, someone knocked on the door.

 CH 223

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 223

    42. The Duke''s year-end settlement (3)

    Although I cite retreats and field trips as examples, that does not mean that I would like the instructor to appear as well.

    Isn''t there anyone who can come at this hour...?

    I looked towards the door that reflexively sounded, and then back to Serpens.

    turned the line

    Without a sign of surprise, he sat down on the bed naturally, tidying up his messy hair and dressing.

    It means that you already knew that someone was coming.

    This meant that I didn''t want to be specific about where I wanted to go.

    "Why are you looking at me with those eyes?"

    You know your sins!

    Open the door.

    Serpens looked at me with pitiful eyes and pointed to the door with a chin.

    I want to ask him why he looks at me like that.

    - Smart.

    Someone outside knocked on the door again.

    The beat was a little faster than before. No matter who you are, you have a quick temper

    it''s ram

    Yeah, yay~. I''m leaving, I''m leaving!

    When I was about to get up, it was a pity that I had to leave the bed.

    After a short deliberation, I got up from my seat with the blanket wrapped around my body and the slippers I had taken off nearby.

    ''Is it okay if I can take care of you in someone else''s room and do something like this for you?''

    I bewitched Serpence once more and opened the door.

    There stood a man with green eyes and blue-silver hair like Serpens.

    The moonlight that leaked through the hallway window fell on his face with a puzzled expression on his face.

    What are you doing at this hour, Eirich-sama?

    That''s what I''d like to ask.

    Yes?

    I want to know what the hell is this after he comes over.

    Suddenly, the child''s presence disappeared, so I came to see if Sir Sion knew where he was going...

    Here is the disappearance of Serpence.

    Did you feel it?"

    Yes.

    Eirich looked at me with eyes that needed an explanation.

    If you think about it, the case of Eugene and Hans who witnessed Serpence sleeping here and did not ask anything is unusual.

    I can''t even say to him, who is embarrassed even if he pretends to be, ''Serpence will sleep here from now on, so don''t worry about it.''

    "Come in first."

    Then excuse me.

    Eirich entered the room cautiously.

    Then he found Serpens standing by the bed in his pajamas and stopped walking.

    I closed the door and turned the light back on.

    What are you doing standing up and talking? Let''s sit down and talk.

    "Where are you talking?"

    Looking at the tables and chairs scattered around in the corner of the room while unpacking the blankets, Eilic asked the question.

    In a case like this, it is impossible to say. To demonstrate, I took off my slippers and sat down on the blanket on the floor.

    Serpens sat down on the bed again, and Eirich thought about it, then pulled up a chair and sat down on it.

    There is no reason why Serpence is doing this here...

    "I must be uncomfortable."

    Eirich cut off my words, and said in self-help.

    Seeing the quilt on the floor and Serpens in pajamas, I came to that conclusion.

    seems to have been

    And I thought it would be worse if I made excuses like this, so I guess that''s why I said it in the first place.

    It''s not like that. It''s a misunderstanding!

    "If not, then why is that child here in such a way?"

    In response to his question, I looked closely at Serpens'' appearance.

    He had his hair and clothes in order, but, unlike usual, his hair was loose and his pajamas were wrinkled here and there.

    The brightly shining eyes didn''t belong to someone who woke up from sleep, but at least he seems to have rolled around in bed a few times.

    It''s true that I came here to sleep... Anyway, that''s not the reason Eirich-sama thinks. It''s been almost two months since Serpence started sleeping here, so it''s not related at all.

    Saying that, I looked up at Serpence, and he nodded and confirmed my words.

    Eirich is serious about what I said.

    He stared intently into my face to tell if it was a white lie or just a white lie.

    I was proud, so I faced his gaze confidently.

    I don''t think it''s a lie.

    That''s right, that''s it!

    Fortunately, he believed me.

    Eillich''s complexion brightened a little as if he was relieved that Serpens had not run away from him.

    "Then why is that child sleeping here?"

    Eilich-sama knows everything about the situation, so it''s not difficult to give an answer... Why are you asking me with the person in front of you?

    Eirich, speechless at my question, glanced at Serpens.

    I sneakily avoided his gaze, and I don''t know what I''m going to do with it now.

    If your nephew is shy, you should try to talk more and try to get closer! What if I avoid that?

    Do?

    "No, well I know that it''s awkward and apologetic makes me more cautious, I know "

    Seeing that he had a sullen expression with a face resembling Serpence, his heart weakened for some reason.

    But you were good at talking last time. You''re coming in now, don''t you think that time will take care of it if you just sit still?

    It''s not like that.

    sure?

    Eirich looked at Serpens again.

    If you don''t pay attention too much, you''ll end up like a humanus, so it''s a problem, but even if you pay attention too much, that''s a problem.

    If Serpence is also thinking that he wants to get closer to him, he may not know, but in the present state, he only draws an eternal parallel.

    ''Those who are thirsty must first dig a well.''

    I dug a well first, so Serpence snooped around and drank water.

    Are you not working hard?

    Someday, even Serpens will have to learn to approach others first, but that''s not the case right now.

    Especially if the opponent is Eirich, the older brother of the Duke.

    Serpens did his best just to accept him as a duke.

    Suddenly, I thought that maybe I was ignoring his intentions out of my greed and forcing him to accept me as a family member.

    "If that was the case, I wouldn''t have even been allowed to enter the family.

    If you don''t like it now, I''m sure you don''t like it... I don''t do it, but I say it in bulk. It''s not like I''m pushing Eirich-sama out of the way.

    Eirich looked at Serpence again, and Serpence stared openly at me.

    He seems embarrassed to talk about himself in front of his eyes.

    "Really is it like that?"

    To be honest, it''s uncomfortable, and I don''t know how to deal with that , uh , but it''s not that I hate it.

    Serpence avoided Eilich''s gaze and replied hesitantly.

    Thank you.

    "No, I can''t take it purely because "

    It''s not your fault.

    Serpens bowed his head, perhaps because he was unfamiliar with the face he looked at with warm eyes.

    And Serpens doesn''t know how to call Eirich-sama.

    Shion, Zion?

    The guy is startled and his eyes are round.

    He opened up and looked at me.

    I guessed that it was because of the awkwardness of the sentence he just uttered, and the reaction he showed now confirmed that.

    Heh heh...! If it''s a name, eldest son...Father, Uncle.... Call me whatever is convenient for you.

    Eirich, unable to hide his shyness and anticipation, spoke to Serpens.

    I think you were trying to call me big dad instead of daddy, but I''ll pretend I don''t know.

    ''More than that, I''m curious about this

    place?''

    First of all, I won''t call you by my last name.

    I also looked up at Serpens with full of anticipation, waiting for Serpens''s mouth to open.

    "Well then Bae, Uncle ?"

    Suddenly, Serpens''s mouth opened, and a small disappointment crossed Eilic''s face.

    It''s the same for me too.

    ''What is Uncle, Uncle?! Desolation Hedgesri!''

    If the word uncle is too cute and burdensome, you can call him uncle, and if the word father is awkward, you could use uncle.

    The aide was disappointed with the Duke.

    That too a lot.

    I''d like to get back to the point now.

    Well... Anyway, don''t be afraid, just ask Serpens directly.

    "That ! That''s difficult."

    Suddenly Serpens is urgently needed

    Lee said as if he was in trouble.

    I''m in trouble, what is it?

    " can''t Shion speak for me?"

    why?,,

    Instead of telling the exact reason, Serpence looked at me with tears in her eyes with a sad expression on her face.

    My heart was shaken, but if I fall for that expression every time, there is no limit.

    Sometimes you have to eat your heart out.

    Serpence is now a year or two older

    You''re not a child. Isn''t it a bit too much to rely on me for all these things?"

    But...but still...

    He was restless and hesitant like a poopy dog.

    For some reason, he seemed embarrassed.

    Ah! That''s right. It''s very embarrassing to say that you sleep with a friend because you''re scared of sleeping alone. You''re not even a little one or two years old.

    Ugh...

    Serpens shrugged his shoulders, narrowed his eyes, and looked at me.

    His eyes were filled with dissatisfaction as to where it would go if he carefully turned it around and spoke.

    "It would have been nice if Serpence had said it himself."

    No, it''s not me who did it too much, it''s Serpence.

    Okay, okay! That''s a tricky long.

    I guess I''ll have to explain it again.

    I have a lot of trouble because of my delicate boss.

    Hmm, hmmm! Then I''ll explain it properly again.

    I coughed, cleared my throat, and let go of my luck.

    Eirich, who looked at Serpens and me alternately with a puzzled expression, came to his senses and fixed his gaze on me.

    Serpence has suffered from nightmares since childhood, but the last kidnapping incident made it worse, so I

    They are sleeping in the room.

    Still you mean?

    Eirich''s face suddenly darkened.

    The voice that asked me was trembling.

    Does the ''still'' he speaks refer to until the kidnapping case is over?

    Or is it referring to the present, 10 years after the death of the former Duchess of Prasidus?

    I''m not sure which one you''re referring to, but I''m asking

    didn''t

    Because the answer is the same anyway.

    It''s a lot better now. In the past...,,

    Zion.

    As if Serpens had guessed that the word ''pump'' would come out of my mouth, he put his shoulder on my shoulder and shook his head left and right.

    I mean don''t tell me.

    Eirich''s complexion, who was sure that he had misunderstood something, was even more grieved.

    It is unfortunate, but in order to protect Serpense''s human rights, we have decided to keep our words short.

    Anyway, it''s a lot better than it used to be. It seems like you can''t sleep well when you sleep alone, but it''s a little better than before the incident.

    But still sleeping here...

    Right now, I''m just sitting down because it''s fun to sleep with me, so you don''t have to worry too much. Basically, kids this age are just trying to sleep at a friend''s house for nothing.

    yo. This.

    "Is that so?"

    Eirich asked a question, wondering about my answer.

    It seems that they have lived a life of beating heretics on a fictitious day, so they are unaware of the types of behaviors children show in the process of growing up.

    It is unavoidable. I, who is an expert, should help.

    Yes, is that so? When I was young, I told my parents that I would come to my friend''s house to sleep.

    Excuse me, but how old is Sir Zion?

    Are you okay?"

    Yes? You''re twenty-six? Oh, you''ll be twenty-seven soon.

    Eirich came out with a slightly subtle look and looked at Serpens in turn.

    He put his hand on his forehead and avoided his gaze.

    No matter what happens, Serpence will surely sleep in a cozy and soft place, so just leave the sleeping problem to me.

    Ah, yes...

    There was a slight tinge of confusion, but there were no further questions.

    He quietly returned the chair he was sitting on, turned off the lights, and quietly went out to the door.

 CH 224

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 224

    42. The Duke''s Year-end Settlement (4)

    Serpense''s hand, who would normally be teasing the pen without a break, kept quivering. It''s a sign that you can''t concentrate on your work.

    There is only one reason for him to do that.

    Serpens, you asked me to go somewhere last night. It was semi-impulsive.

    did you say?"

    ...I was thinking of telling you to go with me someday.

    He objected to my words, but he did not completely deny it.

    It seems that he is aware that he is unable to hide his impatience.

    "So, I was just thinking about it, and it just popped out."

    But I don''t regret it or do it.

    I know, I guess it''s just because I''m nervous.

    uh... .

    Serpens let out a low sigh.

    Where the hell did he get so nervous and anxious? Even when I saw it, it made me nervous.

    Even if I ask you where you are going anyway, I don''t think you''ll get an answer.

    "When are you going to leave?"

    that .

    With a hesitant expression on his face, Serpens clouded the end of his speech and lowered his head.

    Naturally, his gaze stayed on the papers on the desk.

    The guy blinked his eyes slowly, and there was no way that the contents of the papers he had been unable to concentrate on for so long were stuck in his mind.

    Serpen...

    He was about to call his name once more. He put the fountain pen he was holding in his hand on the desk with a loud clicking sound.

    By that action, he knew that he had made a decision.

    now.

    Yes ?

    When I asked the question, he looked at me with his eyes, wondering why he had such a stupid face.

    "Can I go now?"

    Did I tell you. It''s very close.

    I didn''t know anything about being crushed here and now.

    His concentration had long since departed, his heart was far away.

    As it is, it''s just a waste of time, and he seems to think it''s better to get rid of it quickly.

    The boy got up and looked at me.

    Ugh, if it''s like this, it would have been better to just have breakfast and leave right away? I just went up the stairs for nothing.

    He got up from his seat, grunting his complaints in a light joke tone.

    The guy looked like he was worried for a moment, then he raised his eyebrows and opened his mouth.

    It is inevitable that it has already risen, but going down can be omitted.

    "That means that Serpens will pick me up and jump out the window.

    Does it sound like that?"

    I shot him with a suspicious look, and he gave me a playful smile.

    Unfortunately, however, that smile was not at all natural, and it was somehow awkwardly fixed. It appears to be an attempt to relieve tension.

    If you wish.

    Put it away!

    Isn''t this the first time?

    Well, it is, but...

    The pursuit of convenience makes the world progress

    It is also the driving force behind making people, but sometimes it makes people lazy.

    As I got used to using the servators, I imagined myself riding the serpenes when going up and down the main building every day.

    Even in a world without elevators, using people as substitutes for elevators is not a good idea.

    "Are you supposed to sneak out?"

    It''s not like that.

    "Then just go up the stairs.

    by!

    I stepped forward and opened the normal door connected to the hallway, not the window door to the outside.

    Serpens followed me, and we normally went down the stairs to the first floor of the main building.

    And, as always, as I was about to head towards the front door, Serpens stopped me.

    Huh? Why?

    Not that one.

    In answering that, Serpens looked in the direction opposite the front door.

    There was a back door that is not normally used.

    Follow me.

    This time, Serpens took the lead.

    The place he followed was a warehouse located in a remote area behind the main building of the mansion.

    Serpens stopped in front of him and took out the key, holding the heavy barrel lock on the door with his other hand.

    "You said it was close, wasn''t it really close?"

    I was able to get a feel for the place I wanted him to go with me.

    Oh, give it to me. I''ll open it for you.

    I took the key from the guy who was scratching around the keyhole, who was constantly messing around and pushing him aside.

    Without even questioning whether it was the wrong key, the lock made a squeaking sound and was easily released.

    I threw a heavy piece of iron from the clasp and set it down on the floor.

    When I opened the door, calming my anxiously beating heart, the landscape revealed was that of an ordinary warehouse.

    Contrary to what I had expected, the tension was almost relieved by the neat and well-organized appearance.

    However, Serifence''s face was hardened.

    Not here.

    "Yes? No?"

    under.

    The guy spit out a single word and went into the warehouse.

    Without going too deep, Serpens immediately turned right and walked along the wall.

    He cleared away the miscellaneous items piled up in the corner and pressed somewhere on the wall.

    - Click.

    The brick right next to the one he pressed popped out. Carefully taking it out, another keyhole appeared inside.

    And he got up without a word and handed me another key.

    ''The secluded building within the mansion site and the secret space below it... .''

    Really, it was too obvious.

    I swapped seats with him, slid the key into the keyhole and turned it. There was a faint creaking sound from beyond the wall.

    Serpens, next time...

    I turned around to ask, but Serpens approached me and pressed my hand against the wall.

    all.

    - That''s right... .

    Following the zigzag shape of the bricks, a part of the wall went inside.

    The guy grabbed the place where the brick was missing and pushed it to the side like a handle on a sliding door, revealing a space hidden inside the wall.

    When I put my head inside and looked to the left, I could see the stairs hidden in the narrow space between the wall and the wall.

    there was.

    The stairs belonged to a shallow axis compared to the basement we saw in the Lucleton estate, as the subject was secretly hidden.

    ''Because this is the capital?''

    It would have been better if even half of the law-abiding spirit to be used for this had been invested in morality.

    Well, if it''s a building built before the previous dukes, there''s nothing to say... .

    ''Wait a minute. Does this guy have no fear of the basement itself?''

    I turned my head slightly and looked up at the face of the guy standing behind me.

    all.

    Even at the time of the last Recluton Manor, he went in and out of the underground passage several times in order to use the hidden path even in the dark area.

    And it must have been before I came.

    ''At first, the dark house itself was underground.''

    I don''t dare to ask if I was okay.

    Because the answer that will come back is obvious.

    To endure him, who had no choice but to collapse if he did not become blunt, was

    It was very familiar.

    Now you can go down.

    Serpens explained what he knew by just looking at the topic, skipping the parts that needed explanation.

    I didn''t thank you in the slightest.

    I know when I see it.

    The problem is that you have to solve it.

    Whether he fears only the basement here or not. It is enough to help us not to be afraid anymore after today.

    Serpens made of divine power

    I didn''t have to worry about tripping because the sphere was floated to light up my feet.

    However, due to the certain pressure I felt from the dead stairs along the narrow passage, I carefully went down one step at a time, pushing the walls on both sides.

    It''s incredibly bland, but it''s brutally brutal.

    The basement seemed to be about the same as the size of the above-ground warehouse, but it looked much wider and flatter because there were no miscellaneous items piled up.

    A musty smell stung his nostrils.

    The wall looked like it had been washed away, but it was stained with something black here and there.

    It was left unattended and the floor was full of dust.

    Perhaps if you take off all that dust, more than the wall will add more, but not less

    Those stains...

    "Most of them belong to demons."

    Ah .

    All of the things that penetrate deep into the wall and can''t be wiped off are all on Serpens'' body.

    Even though I was told that it wasn''t from me, it was difficult to be genuinely relieved.

    Here, besides the torture of Serpens, it must have been the treatment of the captured beasts.

    ''Rather than that, the Serpens at the place where the beasts were killed... .''

    I shook my head to shake the thought away.

    Even so, Serpens was afraid. Even I shouldn''t feel fear here.

    Isn''t that inside? A strange chair and

    The iron balls are rolling around.

    okay.

    The answer came back one home late.

    It wasn''t that hard to figure out the emotion in that voice.

    I took hold of his weakly drooping hand and proceeded cautiously, step by step.

    The chair I saw right in front of me was very small.

    From an adult''s point of view, a child was so small that even the place he stayed.

    When I rubbed the floor around it with my foot, I could easily find the black stain.

    I burst out in anger and my hands got stronger.

    Sunwoo.

    If you''re worried about me, stop. I''m not the one to be worried about now.

    He squatted down on the floor and looked at the pieces of iron. No attention was paid to the detailed tools.

    the biggest of them all. Perhaps the two legs of the young Serpence were bound.

    A lump of iron believed to have been found.

    "What does that mean?"

    "Will this be enough for my wrist?"

    "Why are you asking such a thing?"

    "You want to fill Serpens?"

    The guy took a step back.

    It is ironic that I did not let go of my hand holding on to such a subject.

    This joke was not very pleasant.

    Because I''m not joking.

    To prove that I was really serious, I put it on the wrist of the Serpens who was holding it.

    Even though his wrists aren''t thick, he barely got in. Judging by the pressure on the skin, I think it should be finished quickly.

    Give me the other hand.

    "What is this going to do?"

    It''s because I''m thinking too. Don''t you believe me?

    Even with a reluctant expression on his face, he eventually calms down the other wrist as well.

    gave it away

    "What are you going to do with me now?"

    You''re not going to do anything?

    ...Then am I going to be left alone like this?

    Serpens'' eyes looking at me trembled slightly.

    He meekly followed my words, so I thought he understood my meaning to some extent, but apparently he didn''t at all.

    Please, let''s use common sense!

    " Sunwoo shouldn''t say things like that."

    He straightened his face and said strange things.

    Don''t be bullshit! I know what Serpens has been up to in this place, so how could I do something like that here... No, how many times have I said I don''t like that?! Where else did you learn?!

    It''s very strange.

    I never taught him that. Before that, before we got close, he had already had such a misunderstanding once.

    And such knowledge was not a subject the former Duke could teach.

    That''s right, after all, it''s a dark place... .

    There was such a story in the chatter that the Crown Prince had arbitrarily talked about before.

    No! What did that bastard teach our pure Serpence?!

    Anyway, this bastard of Humanus doesn''t even have the slightest bit of help.

    "If it''s not like that, then why did you fill me with these things?"

    Voices saying Serpence is still questionable, because I''m all alone

    asked with

    Why would you do that?! You''re telling me to get out by myself!

    Ah...!

    Belatedly, he understood my intentions properly and let out a squeezed exclamation.

    I guarantee you], the picture I drew was never like this.

    I wanted to make him realize that the things that suppressed him as a child weren''t really a big deal.

    I wanted to let him know that I don''t have to be afraid anymore.

    However, it was all ruined because of the ignorant eye mucus humanus.

    Hey, you always said that. Please be sure to say it...

    Even so, this is not a little!

    "Sunwoo often acts outside of common sense, and misunderstandings are bound to arise if it is not accurately explained."

    Maybe it was my fault, too.

 CH 225

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 225

    42. The Duke''s year-end settlement (5)

    Anyway, it''s okay, so draw it or unravel it quickly. Uh huh, look at what doesn''t work.

    At my words, Serpence put on an outright expression of resentment.

    You''re probably wanting to put something like this on your wrist and ask what you''re talking about.

    Stop looking at my face.

    After adding one more word, the boy''s gaze turned downward.

    As he raised his arm, the chain connecting his wrist and wrist shook with a creaking sound. Serpense''s eyes fluttered as well.

    His breathing was shallow and quick. And for a moment. It completely stopped.

    һ quad

    The silver god from Serpens'' right hand

    I wondered if there was any holy power, and as it was, I broke the lock on the thing that bound my left wrist.

    The other side similarly cracked and broke easily.

    He held the broken scrap metal in his hand and looked down at it with suspicion.

    "What are you so surprised about?"

    It''s so... so simple...?

    "Is that surprising? Items that can restrict divine power are strictly controlled by the Order, so even the Duke would not have been able to find it.

    If you use a fastball, it doesn''t affect your divine power. So it''s only natural for this to happen.

    Knowing that, you said it again and again with full meaning of why, and took it from his hand and carefully set it down on the floor.

    In my mind, I wanted to throw it as hard as I could.

    Because my bronchi are precious.

    "From the beginning, for Serpence, this was just a piece of iron.

    do not have.

    Shackles and handcuffs. none of that

    Just metal, scrap metal. It was just that.

    "And it must have been the same for Serpens at the time."

    Serpens, who was staring blankly at his reddened wrist, shrugged his shoulders.

    If it were me, I would have healed him right away with divine power, but why am I just looking at it? .

    The marks left on my white wrists were clear.

    D: In regret, I grabbed his two hands and went down, and he raised his head and looked at me. There is no reason to avoid that gaze.

    "It was not such a lump of scrap metal that suppressed Serpense. When he was so young that he couldn''t even remember, he was so helpless. The fear engraved on his body and mind must have bound him and restricted his actions.

    "It must have been frightening and frightening. He must have obeyed without even thinking of the option of rebellion. He was restricted from acting in the name of responsibility, and no accidents were caused by violence.

    It''s raining... . I just had to endure it."

    If I''m wrong, or if you feel like I''m arguing, please let me know.

    Serpens shook his head without saying a word.

    The only thing that can bind Serpence now is only Serpence''s own will. You don''t have to be afraid of such an insignificant piece of iron anymore.

    The same goes for things."

    This time he nodded.

    When I smiled lightly, he also smiled immaturely.

    Then get out of this dusty space quickly. If you have something to say here, say it quickly. If not, go back to your office and breathe in the fresh air. Oh, heal your wrist and neck as well.

    Sunwoo.

    Serpens looked at me and called my name.

    With the light emitted by the holy power sphere floating in the air, his green eyes sparkled as transparently as jewels.

    Those clear eyes did not suit this place.

    It was a noble light that should not be buried in the dust.

    Yes, tell me.

    Thank you, for coming with me. If I had been alone, I would never have had the courage.

    At his words, I couldn''t help but laugh bitterly.

    This place must have been neglected for a very long time. You can tell just by looking at the dust that has accumulated under your feet.

    It will take only a year or two for so much dust to accumulate in this place where the air is questionable.

    ''And when you think about the way you get here .''

    It was easy to see that he hadn''t given the second key to anyone.

    That''s why Hans couldn''t even come in, and instead of cleaning it, it was a torture tool.

    It could not have been thrown away and must have been left as it is.

    It meant that it was such a terrifying and terrifying place that I couldn''t even order it to be removed.

    Thank you for telling me to come with you.

    "Why is Seonwoo , ah that''s right."

    He tried to question my thanks, but changed his words to show that he knew something.

    As much as I once said to myself that he wanted me to lean on him. Why did I thank you for your help

    You seem to have a vague understanding of what you are expressing.

    Then let''s go!

    okay.

    Serpens nodded happily in reply.

    We went back the way we came. The secret passage leading down to the basement was definitely locked, and the junk that had been set aside for a while also found its place.

    As much as the air in the basement was turbid, the air outside was extremely refreshing.

    Please go back to the office first and wait.

    While enjoying the fresh air and going up the stairs of the main building, Serpens suddenly spoke up.

    Eh? Why?

    Instead of answering my question, he pointed to the hem of his sleeve. There were black handprints left on the sleeves of his white jacket.

    I rolled up his sleeve with my hand that had touched a pile of dust and got it on.

    Damn! Be careful.

    Aren''t you laughing too much?

    Are you laughing? Me? The Duke was mistaken.

    He bulged out his lower lip to see if he was sprained and went up to the 5th floor.

    I washed my hands in the bathroom sink on the 4th floor, returned to the office, and quietly waited for Serpense.

    It''s been a while since he didn''t come, so I was worried and thought about going to his room.

    Serpens opened the door to the office with a lot of moisture in her hair.

    and came in

    "I thought you were going to come in just to change clothes, but did you come after washing?"

    There was nothing I could do.

    It was just embarrassing to go in and out of the dustbin.

    In addition, there is nothing wrong with children because they have a weak immune system and have a habit of washing them thoroughly.

    "Still, serpenses tend to shiver too neatly."

    "Sunwoo: Do you hate washing?"

    You don''t mean that! Every day

    Since you are washing me thoroughly, will you please stop looking at me for being dirty?"

    It was a joke.

    jokes are bullshit. To the subject who looked me up and down with utterly terrified eyes.

    I''ll totally believe that.

    "I asked if it was because Serpens was so concerned about cleanliness or something like an obsession with perfection."

    that .

    The guy didn''t go to his seat, he stopped, and he was in trouble with a serious face.

    lost

    I was happy and grateful that they listened to my words seriously and worried about them.

    But at the same time, the stopped steps felt as if I had tied his two legs together.

    ''It is inevitable that childhood trauma leads to excessive attachment... .''

    However, if you try to cut it off forcibly, you can''t do that because it will leave a bigger wound.

    He also has separation anxiety, so for now, I''ll be by his side so he can feel secure.

    I have no choice but to watch

    Even though he said he was going to bind himself a while ago, he politely reached out his hand.

    The behavior is all due to one problem.

    ''Because one day I might disappear suddenly.''

    Why does separation anxiety arise in the first place?

    I don''t know when I''ll see you again. It is because of the fear that they will be separated forever.

    Of course, this is not the only cause of separation anxiety.

    There is also an example of expressing anxiety because they want to depend on someone because they are afraid of being exposed to an unfamiliar environment alone.

    However, in the case of Serpence, it is separation anxiety caused by the fear of losing me forever.

    It''s something he''s too familiar with to do it alone.

    ''Time will solve it... , would you like to?''

    hard to be sure

    "I don''t know. Do you think it should be changed in Sunwoo''s view?"

    In a little while, after eating three o''clock every day, I''ll come to check my mouth to make sure I brushed my teeth well.

    ...what do you mean by that?

    "It just means that Serpens do what they are comfortable with."

    Serpens frowned.

    He must have felt that he was the first to speak up and then reply without sincerity.

    It''s strange for me to say this and that about the hygiene of a grown-up adult.

    "You treat me like a child, and I treat you like an adult only when it''s convenient for you."

    Is that a story that you want to be treated like a child in the future, or is it that you want to be treated like an adult in the future?

    It was a little confusing.

    Anyway! There''s nothing wrong with being clean, so you don''t need to fix it unless you feel uncomfortable and stressed.

    It''s enough to just change clothes, would that offend you?

    If you can''t change clothes right away

    what if the situation? Do you feel like you''re just angry, out of control, anxious and anxious?

    Serpens shook his head with an expression that he did not understand why he had to do that.

    Then it seems that Serpense''s nature likes things that are neat.

    "Are you saying that you can''t fix it?"

    Even if I tell you to fix it, if Serpens doesn''t want to fix it, it doesn''t matter if you don''t fix it.

    How long have I been like this?

    I don''t know if I should point it out.

    First of all, looking at the face of the dazed guy, it seems that there is still a long way to go.

    End of this discussion, what are you going to do with the basement of the warehouse?

    Though it''s enough to throw away things... The stains on the walls and floors seem to be difficult to use as a warehouse unless you repaint them.

    Now that I see it, this guy seems to be a huge efficiencyist.

    I have a lot of money, so I thought the answer would be to just demolish the building and build a new one, or just leave it alone.

    Did you know

    I didn''t know how to use it first.

    If I had known this would happen, I would have left the keys to the former butler...

    The boy muttered a little to himself.

    Before heading there, it was completely different from his reluctance to even mention it accurately.

    "By the way. If I had done a little painting every time I had the time, I would have been really clean! Shall I call you for a moment and hire you as a cleaning service and a painter?"

    "There is no shortage of warehouse buildings.

    You don''t have to.

    If so, the only conclusion left is abandonment.

    Still, it bothers me that there are such atrocious torture tools around. I feel like I have to stop by sometime and throw away all the things there.

    ''Didn''t I say that I would put it in my pocket and dispose of it before going upstairs?''

    this is not a bit It''s worse to throw it away.

    If you put a large-size waste sticker and put it out, it won''t go away on its own.

    And it''s even worse to keep it in your pocket until you get a chance to throw it away.

    ''Well, maybe someday I''ll have a chance to throw it away.''

 CH 226

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 226

    43. The Duke and the Darkside Demon (1)

    There is one thing I need to make sure of before the year is over.

    Slowly, the time has come when the demons will attempt their first demon summons.

    That''s right, the sun will change soon...

    When I set the mood and opened my mouth, Yoo Jis also responded with a serious expression.

    all.

    On the surface, it looks elegant and old-fashioned, but in reality, it''s just a Serpence busy savoring ��clairs.

    Unlike Winston, who sat idly with a listener rather than a listener, his willingness to actively participate in the meeting stood out.

    Shion predicted last year that the first summons would be held in a dark area, didn''t you?

    "Uh, um well, it seems like there was a past like that.

    "Why are you reacting so shaky?"

    Looking at me avoiding my gaze, Yuji Su asked, as if wondering.

    Shit, it seems that the information that our side is taking over the dark district has leaked out to them.

    Yeah? How do you do that , ah!

    All of a sudden, Eugenes put on an expression that reminded him of an amazing novel.

    Of course, she herself would think she had attained enlightenment, but in my opinion it is. Serpense''s thoughts are probably the same as mine! .

    "By the way, the assistant to the Duke of Argento was also summoned by demons there.

    Did you know you were going to lose? i See. Indeed, I understand.

    I still don''t understand. Further explanation is requested.

    Noting that he, the traitor, had given the information to the Empire and spared his life, it was speculated that the Emperor of the Empire had ordered the Serppens to be sent to a dark place to take control of it, in preparation for it.

    indeed.

    It was a very plausible story as it is far from the truth today.

    Based on real events,

    Are you saying it''s a fiction?

    ''Then do you correct this or not? That''s the problem... .''

    I glanced at Serpens. The guy who made eye contact with me blinked a couple of times.

    For now, it just means to move on.

    But it was the middle of this year that the Empire got that information. Is there any possibility that they decided that they couldn''t completely take over the Dark House?

    In response to Eugene''s opinion, Serpens quietly shook his head.

    You suspected it and investigated it.

    If that''s the case, it won''t be difficult to find out that someone unidentified has long held the hegemony of the dark house.

    This novel seems to have been a relay novel.

    Serpence handed over the baton to Eugenes and wrote down the story.

    And if you think about how that person has improved Amhokga...

    That''s right. Abolished the slave auction held in the dark district, and raised it to the sun,

    Yes, the transaction was induced to be eradicated . Just looking at it, it is closer to the ideology of the Luxmea Church than to the devil''s worship.

    And he was now inducing the illusion of Eugenes.

    It''s also not welcome that demons are summoned from the dark side.

    I''m sure]... If the devil runs rampant, the location of the Dark House will be discovered, and if the devil worshipers sit there, that''s a big deal. It''s like being the owner of the Dark House and becoming the devil''s slave in an instant.

    With Serpence''s fan, the story quickly reached the end.

    Even if they don''t know that he was a Serpence, they probably know that if a demon is summoned there, Serpence will come to stop him right away. That is...

    Yes, perhaps Zion is concerned about that.

    I went back to Moro, but I arrived at my destination properly.

    But today, Serpense''s tone is strangely...

    The three of us enjoy refreshments every day

    It''s been almost half a year since I''ve been flirting. Moreover, in recent years, Serpens has started to open up to her rapidly.

    In other words, there is no way that she, who has noticed, could not have noticed the prestige that permeated Serpense''s tone now.

    Yes?

    Serpens tilted his head.

    Then he took turns looking at me and Winston, pretending to be innocent, as if asking if there was anything awkward about his tone.

    In the process, Serpens and his eyes

    Master Winston stiffened.

    It''s nothing. I must have misunderstood something.

    As if Yujis understood, he nodded his head slightly and corrected his own words.

    It wasn''t that he really thought he was mistaken, but he thought that Serpens was just acting as an external fence because of Winston.

    ''The Demon Lord knows the future I know, and we know that the Demon King knows , no, what are you talking about?"

    Anyway, even if it was discovered later, I think he was going to make excuses for noticing it because of Winston.

    Anyway, that''s roughly the situation. So, what do you think?

    By the way, didn''t Zion say that the purpose of demon worshipers is to summon demons into the dark?

    Even though he didn''t say it, Eugese raised his hand and asked a question.

    There are only four people, so I wonder if it is necessary to do so.

    "Yeah, well I did say that. But then, a variable arose, so the plan changed.

    Could it have been? Summoning someone stronger than the demon that I had fortified in advance, or deploying additional guys to poke around when Serpens fights the devil... .

    "Or doing a bucket operation?"

    "It could be, and so on."

    To see if there was an answer, Euges lowered his raised hand.

    The fact that demons are summoned to the dark side will not change.

    Is it because it''s not a question?

    Serpens did not raise his hand and immediately expressed his opinion.

    "Why do you think so?"

    It''s a closed space cut off from the outside. It''s hard to get help even if you''re in danger, and there''s no way to know when a problem arises outside.

    In the end it''s the same thing.

    The dark district is the best environment to attack the serpents, and at the same time, it was perfect to take advantage of the serpent''s absence.

    Summon a suitable demon to fight Serpence and kill time

    Therefore .

    "What does Zion want to do?"

    Yes? Me? Why?

    Because they''re after you.

    Ahh! That''s right, that''s right!

    Come to think of it, the devil misunderstood that I was like a god of this world.

    It was so absurd that I forgot about it.

    "You really "

    Shion, there''s something else to blink.

    Serpens lowered his head and touched his forehead.

    Afterwards, Eugenes said with the nuance that it was too harsh.

    Both had serious expressions on their faces.

    It''s no big deal. I''ll go with you.

    Is it okay? It could be dangerous.

    As I shrugged my shoulders exaggeratedly and spoke sympathetically, Serpens gave me a worried expression.

    "Is it dangerous to stay here?"

    uh... .

    I can''t do it because I''m afraid Serpens will run out of impatience. What should I do as my guardian?

    Not only that.

    If I choose to wait in the mansion, Serpens will leave Eugess and Winston here and head to the dark side alone.

    If the demon that appeared in [Master of the Holy Sword] came out as it is, it would be a little reassuring, but there is no guarantee anywhere that it will.

    The level of demons that can be summoned right now is there, but it''s a demon.

    If you consider this time as a golden opportunity and succeed in summoning a strong demon by overdoing it.

    ''Isn''t it? [Because the demon summoned by the master of the holy sword was the one who passed over to the main body... .''

    If you find a suitable vessel, it is possible to summon a stronger one without needing to overdo it.

    You can''t send him there alone with such a problem.

    If Humanus arrives on time, he might be able to help Serpent, but the demons are swarming inside the dark house.

    If you block the site, even that will be far away.

    Then it''s better to just go all together.

    ''If something happens outside, Humanus will take care of it.''

    It''s a little cocky to have as a friend, but his qualifications as the master of the holy sword have been sufficiently proven through [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Zion.

    why?

    Thank you.

    It''s very pathetic to say thank you with eyes like you''re sorry you''re about to die.

    "Why do you hold on to something so natural?"

    "Then what should I say?"

    It''s enough to say, I''m wearing it shoulder-to-shoulder, thank you! If it goes well, I''ll definitely buy you a meal!''

    "If it''s a meal, I''m providing it every day Oh, that''s right. Did you want to eat out?"

    How do you go about eating out in the dark?

    all. It''s not urgent right now, is it?

    It seems that the point is a little off, but sometimes eating out is not bad, so I decided to just move on.

    I have a question.

    Winston, who had been listening silently, raised his hand carefully and opened his mouth.

    Because Euges raised his hand earlier, he seems to think he needs to raise his hand to get the right to speak at the Illuminati meeting.

    Sorry to say you don''t have to

    It looks like I''ll do it, so I''ll have to adjust it.

    You], I acknowledge Sir Winston''s right to speak. Ask a question.

    Hmmmm...! There are a lot of things I want to ask, but...

    It''s okay, so feel free to ask. It''s not like I''m going to go right away anyway.

    Then I''ll ask.

    I don''t know what the hell you''re trying to ask.

    "Is there a black hole in the empire?"

    ...Yes?

    I''ve heard that the Empire strictly cracks down on illegal activities, and the Empire I''ve seen is like that. And even if it''s a dark area, it''s usually not safe, isn''t it?

    It was such a natural story for the three of us, so I didn''t even think of explaining it.

    As the conversation progressed, he felt sorry for him, who must have been sitting there idly, without being involved in the conversation or understanding it.

    The ''Dark Street'' we speak of is a huge underground city. The Empire cracks down on illegal activities, so everyone gathers there.

    Underground city...?

    Winston followed the words I had said with a look of disbelief.

    Yeah. It''s not in a metaphorical sense, it''s really underground. It used to be the underground holy place of Lux Mea1, but as you all know, you still haven''t been able to find it?

    Yeah?! Wait, Sion! Is that uh, where?

    Wow! You didn''t know Euges?

    I looked at Serpens. With the meaning of what you''ve been doing without saying a word.

    It''s been back and forth a few times, so I thought you would have noticed.

    Wow, what a shame.

    "From what I''ve heard it doesn''t make sense that such criminals have created such a robust underground city. I overlooked it because of the prejudice that it is a hotbed of crime."

    do you go through it again? If it were me, I would have been scrutinizing Serpens.

    Eugenes first reflected on himself.

    It is said that a gentleman reflects on himself when something unpleasant happens, and a small man blames others. .

    ''Wait, then, am I going to be a dwarf?''

    Still, since Serpence was more deadly than me, I think I may have walked halfway.

    Anyway, the dark district is such a place, so it is cut off from the outside world.

    For some reason, Winston''s face looked more confused than before.

    He put his palm close in front of Winston''s eyes and waved it to get his Earl back.

    Hey? Where did the person who said he had a lot of questions to ask?

    Well, then the story that the master is in control of the dark district...

    "Ah that."

    I guess I just called you

 CH 227

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 227

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (2)

    Thoughts that I should have left it alone ran through my head for a moment... .

    ''By the way, Serpens didn''t do anything bad, did he?''

    If I scolded the bad guys, I was punished, and I didn''t do anything wrong.

    There''s nothing to be embarrassed about.

    ''If you have any questions, you should ask them from time to time! How difficult is it to answer

    If you leave your curiosity unattended for a long time, it will be strangely twisted and turned into a misunderstanding, and one day you may hit the back of the head.

    Thinking like that, I think I did a good job of waking up and asking.

    That''s what it is... Wouldn''t it be easier to understand if I explained the background first?

    I''d appreciate it if you could.

    Although not known abroad, cancer has long been a troublesome problem for the Empire. It is certain that it exists, but you have to be able to find out exactly where it is located? So, Serpence was in charge of the investigation. It was just a spectacle. Do I have to say that it is the perfect environment for a parasitic monkey to live?

    Oh, I guess you know.

    Contrary to his answer, he had a cryptic expression on his face, but he said he knew, so he grabbed hold of it and explained something.

    It''s not that important, so let''s skip it.

    Anyway, demon worshipers will try to summon demons, and the election is based on the decision that the safety of the public should be prioritized over criminals. But let''s just leave the dark streets alone, the slaves we talked about earlier or drugs. Serpence was forced to step forward because people who had nothing to do with it suffered damage "

    What about Zion?

    The 1, who is hard at work explaining to Winston, Euges raises his hand again

    lifted up and hugged me.

    "Yes? Me? Why me?"

    "Isn''t Zion the one who assumed that demons would be summoned to the dark side and came up with a plan to manage it?"

    ,,...Yes?

    All of a sudden, I don''t know what kind of dog grass it is, and I don''t know if it''s the sound of knocking on a pongchang.

    Naturally, my gaze turned to Serpens.

    ''Now, Euges seems to be making strange noises. Why did such a misunderstanding arise?''

    Serpence, who received my gaze, raised his hand slightly with a look of helplessness.

    He''ll explain it for you, so he asks Eugenes to look after him.

    Thus, ''raising hands'' was adopted as an official expression of expression at the Illuminati Conference.

    At that time, it was before it was revealed that Zion was a messenger of the gods. It was my guess that Zion said that it was her own reasoning.

    "Is that so?"

    Yeah, what I discovered was

    This was before Zion became my aide.

    I now understand why Euges found my existence in Serpence''s Dark Street pacification.

    It was because I thought that Serpens had taken over the place because I said that a demon would be summoned in the dark.

    ''It must have been a setting error!''

    I was talking here and there, and I started to get confused about who, what, and how much.

    It is even more complicated because several settings are glued together.

    Sometime I have to catch me and organize it, I can''t do it like this.

    Actually... I wasn''t sure of my guess until he revealed and confirmed his abilities. I thought the possibility was high, but the possibility is only a possibility, isn''t it?

    Serpens acted out his characteristic pitiful expression and spoke in a voice without confidence.

    I take drugs to fill in the hole in my settings to protect my settings

    there is

    The fact that I was disobeying His Majesty''s orders was very sinful, and I always wondered if I was doing well. Is it possible that they are blinding the crime with the cause of the cause? . Every day was very painful and painful."

    It''s not like he''s making up words that don''t exist at all. In fact, he was tossing around in contradiction.

    but.

    ''What''s wrong with breaking the rules?

    You must be creeping.''

    can be predicted

    It was a word that was brought out to conjure up loyalty to the emperor, conscious of the knight Winston.

    In fact, it is safe to say that the words added after it are auxiliary verbs to decorate it.

    It''s okay for Serpens to have a little more confidence in her decisions. There were good reasons to think so. Serpens did not get any benefit from cancer or anything Above all, am I here?

    Euges spoke as if exposing Serpens.

    As if she didn''t know she was going to say something like this, there was a bit of embarrassment on Serpence''s face.

    ''You should have heard it when I told you to do some self-deprecation.''

    Saying such things makes me feel sad, but if someone who cares about the person who says it listens to it, the billionaire collapses.

    He learned a good lesson today.

    Not only me, but that version of Serpence

    However, he regained his life that had been stolen by many people. so .

    Oh, I see. I made a speech mistake.

    Serpens hastily interrupted Eugene''s words.

    However, he could not do anything until his face was red with embarrassment and embarrassment.

    Eugenes, who met that face, laughed out loud, and the guy pretended to drink tea without heat.

    It is truly a delightful sight.

    " What kind of shit is this?"

    Winston couldn''t hide his bewilderment and asked me in a quiet whisper.

    "The first place we met Euges was in a dark street. Serpens saved me from being sold into slavery."

    After listening to my explanation, Win Stone let out a short exclamation.

    Oh, that''s right! For reference, externally, there is a setting that the Illuminati scouted the rulers of the dark districts, and the scouted rulers of the dark districts scouted Serpens as the Illuminati spokespersons.

    " what did you just say?"

    Winston asked again if I didn''t understand properly because I repeated the word too many times.

    I condensed and organized the same content as much as possible in my head and opened my mouth.

    The setting is that the Illuminati received the Amhokga long ago, and Serpens was scouted as a spokesperson for the Illuminati around July.

    Why is that...

    "Are you doing anything complicated?"

    That''s right.

    You''re a secret society, aren''t you? You have to have some degree of mystery!

    In response to my answer, Eugene nodded with satisfaction, and Serpens shook his head.

    Incidentally, Winston had an expression that wanted to hear what kind of dog this was.

    The Illuminati is an organization centered on Zion, the messenger of the gods, not me, the Duke of the Empire. As I said before, I do not belong to any one country. If it turns out that I am one of the key figures of the Illuminati,

    Naturally, the Illuminati''s actions will also be tied to the Empire.

    It is always the responsibility of the person who regrets to step forward.

    Serpens opened his mouth to explain why he had created such a setting.

    "However, communication always comes when you need it. That''s why I called myself a spokesperson. If I was just passing along, wouldn''t it be possible to reject any unreasonable request?

    He calmly controls the rate and the voice he speaks is very immersive.

    Winston nodded with a look of understanding enough, and thanked the master for his kind explanation.

    Do you have any other questions?

    "That , heh heh."

    Serpens asked Winston, acting as a caring master.

    When asked the question, he was about to say something, but suddenly coughed as if he was speechless.

    Seeing that, Serpens tilted his head and tilted his head.

    Sir Redford?

    Oh! Oh, nothing.

    I heard a question about how it can be so irritating that there is something to be concerned about.

    It''s questionable, but did you think that asking questions even though the other person is trying to hide it is against your setting?

    Serpence was obsolete and didn''t point it out.

    It''s the four of us going to the dark side.

    Only?"

    Winston hurriedly asked the question, as if he had suddenly remembered it. Anyone could clearly see that the purpose was to turn the talk.

    To put it bluntly, he didn''t even seem curious.

    Yes, I think it should.

    Isn''t the old man going with you?

    For a moment, I wondered who the title "senior" was referring to, but without thinking for a long time, the answer came out quickly.

    "I think that place is the past Luxmea.

    Since it is a sacred site of the denomination, I think it would be very shocking if the uncle saw the current state of it... . Even if it''s not, someone has to protect the mansion, right?

    As Serpens said, if you show such a scene to a former heretic inquisitor, your eyes may turn.

    It is right to leave it behind not only to protect the health of the people in the duke''s house, but also to protect Eirich''s mental health.

    You know how to think like this, and it''s amazing.''

    Of course, the holy land where he has fallen is just

    Maybe the reason I didn''t want to let them know that I was watching them also played a part.

    ''Strictly speaking, should I say that he had in mind that he would be shocked and disappointed by his own actions?''

    But that doesn''t mean that everything Serpens said is a lie.

    The underlying desire was that those who had a crush on him would not be hurt, either mentally or physically.

    Anyway, Eirich guarded the mansion.

    It is unfortunate in many ways.

    At least, there won''t be a development like I came here after dealing with the devil, and the house was gone.

    By the way, I have a question for you.

    As I slowly raised my hand and spoke, Serpens nodded, suggesting that he speak.

    Did you hear when they''re going to summon demons, or have you picked up anything?

    Isn''t it Zion who said we should have a meeting before the end of the year because the devil will be summoned soon?

    I know the approximate time, but I don''t know the exact date of execution. Even at that time, I''m not sure what will happen because there are variables involved, so I suggested a meeting to discuss the matter.

    At my words, Serpens looked at me asking if it was something like that, and I responded with a look that said it was.

    "It would not be pleasant for the masters of the Holy Sword to join the party, so the timing itself will not change. I will try to summon him as soon as possible."

    Ah, so it is.

    Even if it rots, the word Junchi is not for nothing.

    In fact, even if it was just a bastard that had strange knowledge or instilled in Serpens, the fact that he was the master of the holy sword did not change.

    The strength of the group, including Anima, is considerable.

    In many ways, the devil''s side only wanted to prevent us from joining forces with the Holy Swords party.

    "Then I think the time would be around early to mid-January. But is that so?"

    After all, it was the beginning again.

    So, for the time being, I''d like to think about living in a dark area.

    Yeah?! What?

    " I''m sorry, but I think I heard it wrong, can you say it again?"

    I and Euges doubted our ears and asked Serpens, but .

    Given the reaction, it seems that you have heard it correctly.

    The results did not change.

 CH 228

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 228

    43. The Duke and the Darkside Demon (3)

    Of course I''m going to look for more information in one way or another, so I thought you''d get an answer asking you to wait a bit, didn''t you?

    Actually, there are days that are supposed to be the date of the decision.

    I just poked, but the serpens skips the middle process and the result

    came up with

    The second Sunday, rumors are circulating that there is a special item coming up at the auction house.

    "Is it something special?"

    The problem is that I checked the list of items that would be uploaded that day, but there was nothing special about it.

    It means that someone deliberately spread the rumor.

    Not everyone involved in the dark district is always there, so it''s a great effort to attract as many people as possible.

    "Then, can''t we just prepare for that day?"

    But, if that''s the bait? While waiting for that day and resting your mind, you might summon a demon to do something.

    I think that might be the case.

    Are you worried about eating problems?

    I was seriously thinking to myself, and all of a sudden, Serpens made an odd noise.

    I don''t know why you''re looking at me like that.

    Isn''t that why it didn''t get serious? Oh, but after listening to it, I''m a little concerned about that.

    If not, what''s the problem?

    He acted like he didn''t listen to me on the topic he had brought up about eating first.

    Even if it''s not certain, it is. Shouldn''t that have come out before the talk of hiding in the dark?

    Hmmm.

    He averted his gaze with an expression that he had something to contend with.

    I thought about his routine for a moment.

    Of course, he was with me during work, and after work, we played together, and even when we were sleeping.

    Of course, he wakes up earlier than me, but considering the eyewitness accounts of seeing him heading to the gym at dawn... .

    "When did you go to Amhokga?"

    "When are you sleeping?"

    Look at this bastard?!

    In the past, if you went out after midnight and closed your eyes for a while, recently, you may have changed your eyes to closing your eyes and then going back.

    I wondered if it was because I was worried that I would wait for myself in an awake state.

    Don''t look at it that way. Once this is over, I won''t go there again.

    "If something similar happens in the future, I will wake up and talk about it."

    "Of course it should.

    It''s best not to create the job itself, but... .

    It was not an area that Serpens could control.

    I would have to deal with those disgusting bastards quickly so I could stretch my legs out and take a leisurely sleep.

    I''ll skip it because it''s more urgent right now. Then, I''m asking you saying you''ve been there. Were there any other suspicious movements?

    He shook his head at my question.

    "Up until now, I have kept the intervals as irregular as possible when visiting there.

    all one. But the times were almost constant.

    It means that the gangsters in the dark house might be planning something without their knowledge, so they visited and monitored it unexpectedly.

    And what time is... .

    "Because I had to go out at night without people knowing. But these days, that has changed. So did you see something back then?"

    This time, of course, the head of the guy who had thought it would move up and down moved left and right again.

    But what about the time he visits?

    There was no way I was just talking about it.

    I didn''t see it in person, but it means that there was something different than usual.

    No one was supposed to be there.

    "So you mean that scorpion man?"

    Considering that I was referring to pronouns on the assumption that I knew, there was nothing else.

    He nodded his head slightly, indicating that he was also right.

    It''s not gone at all, is it?

    It''s not. I went to see you the other day.

    He was acting as usual.

    Aren''t you going out to do business for a while?

    It won''t be. He knows it''s cool to call subordinates rather than standing in person, and when he meets someone, he prefers to invite them to his place.

    There is no other little moth

    In short, it wasn''t just that he was doing something to avoid Serpence''s eyes, it was said that he was plotting a difficult task to even deal with in the dark.

    I''m not sure...?

    It''s just heartbreak. But he''s the one who''s more than anyone else who''s happy to see a demon summoned in the dark.

    Well... I guess. I was enjoying the fierce three-way battle inside the dark district, but there must have been a sense of emptiness as Serpence pushed it away by force.... Serpense stopped all the crimes that made money, but still, it''s about Lee In-ja. I thought it was going to happen, but they say that there are two more people on top of it . Rather than enjoying the pleasure of being the head of a gang, they are treated like a barge chief and only work on fictional days "

    As I lined them up one by one, I thought that the Scorpion deserves to welcome the summoning of demons.

    At least the bad guys won''t try to stop the crimes and pleasures they want to enjoy.

    "Did you get paid?"

    Why?

    " Then what does that person eat?!"

    Do you have any income from the store?

    Ah, yes...

    Yongha who hasn''t run away

    all.

    He had to run two jobs because he couldn''t get any money from his main job, but eventually he got his hands on summoning demons... .

    The heart attack became more pronounced. If a demon is summoned in the dark, he must be deeply involved.

    "Should we even care about the welfare of criminals?"

    It''s not like that, but it''s said that even a mouse bites a cat when it''s cornered.

    "Is it necessary to use the analogy of a cat in the same situation now?"

    Meow, meow, what the hell is that person saying?

    In fact, I thought that the person who was more serious about cats than anyone else might have been Serpens, not me.

    Just looking at how sensitively they use words that have been possessed.

    For reference, all the proceeds from the dark district were anonymously donated to the Luxmea Church.

    "Yes? Why are you in the church?"

    There is no social welfare organization as transparent as the denomination in this Canaan continent.

    Unlike incompetent Mea, the current Pope seems to be doing a very good job.

    If there are no signs of darkness inside, isn''t there a possibility that a demon can be summoned from the outside?

    When he was satisfied with the news that sacrificing the well-being of the Scorpion had improved the welfare of many, Eugese raised his hand again and asked the question.

    "Considering the current continental situation. It won''t be easy to go unnoticed and collect sacrifices, but the possibility itself is hard to rule out.

    Is that the case...? Maybe they want to use a demon summoned from the outside to attack the dark district to secure a new offering, and even summon a second demon.

    There is no creative economy.

    ''If it goes according to Eugene''s words, will it be completely serious? Wasn''t that just the beginning?''

    Take it easy.

    I wonder what''s so good about summoning demons that they are doing such a labor at the end of the year or the beginning of the year.

    "Serpens, even a low-level two

    It must be difficult, isn''t it?

    I don''t know. I''ve never seen a demon before...

    Oh right.

    There was a strong perception that Serpens could deal with demons in my head, so I was confused for a while.

    Anyway, then it''s better to wait in the dark area and hit it right away... But isn''t summoning a demon just like a sacrifice? There must be a summoning magic circle or something?

    So before they are ready

    I need to see a solution. and . I''ll have to think about what''s next.''''

    Serpence frowned as if it had become troublesome.

    It seems that he thought it was more comfortable to deal with the demon that summoned them as a sacrifice than to catch the criminals one by one.

    But if Serpence doesn''t appear in public, won''t the demons notice?

    Anyway, you know we''re watching over there, too. We''ll be prepared for that.

    Not good news.

    Our side has all of our hands exposed, but the other side is showing only half.

    "By the way, where are you going to stay?"

    No matter how much you guess we''re hiding, you can''t just openly kill us in the Scorpion''s tavern.

    If the hiding place is found, there is a risk of being attacked.

    "At first, I was going to use one of the secret passages, but it could take a long time, so I had to go to a suitable shop.

    I''m going to steal it.

    Why is he talking like a villain?

    I wish they paid more attention to word choice.

    I looked back at Eugene and Winston with concern, but they had serious expressions on their faces.

    I guess I was the only one who thought so.

    There is a small pawnshop near the passage that physically connects to the outside. If you occupy it, it will be easy to receive news from both inside and outside.

    You''re talking about the passage that connects to the cave.

    Seeing that it is nearby, it seems that it is not directly connected to that place, and you have to cross it a little bit.

    "Is it equipped with the basics? A bathroom or something like that."

    The owner of that place is also a person who lives in a dark area. It seems to serve the purpose of residence as well.

    Perhaps it was with that in mind that the place was marked.

    Because of that, the pawnshop owner suddenly lost both his job title and his house, but

    After all, once the devil appears, it can no longer be used.

    If you think that you are preparing your heart in advance, you will not lose anything... What do you mean?

    "There is only one room, but there is a warehouse to store things, so if you clear it, there is enough space."

    Those items must have been left by someone to borrow money.

    However, once the amphitheater is cleared, these are things that can never be found again.

    I think it would be ok to throw it away beforehand.

    The problem of eating... It''s unfortunate, but eating out seems to be difficult.

    "I have no desire to eat out in the dark, so stop saying sorry, right?"

    It is questionable whether there is a proper restaurant in such a place, and even if there is, I do not want to eat it because of the questionable ingredients as well as hygiene.

    You can pack a packed lunch in advance and put it in your pocket pocket, well. I''ll ask the kitchen for it.

    "If you need anything other than that, pack it in advance."

    How well-prepared am I to say that? Is that the person who carries a blanket in that subspace pocket?

    Serpens stared at me with an unsure expression, then turned his head.

    Sir Redford.

    Yes, tell me.

    To the master''s call, Winston responded swiftly, like a freshly enlisted private. The angle is very tight.

    By the way, I forgot to give this to the Lord.

    "What is this ?"

    A space pocket.

    As Serpens spoke, holding out his subspace pocket, Winston''s eyes widened.

    I was a little surprised too.

    ''You haven''t given it to me yet?!''

    Does that mean that Winston was carrying a lot of luggage when he went to the Volta Mountains?

    As much as his physique, the volume of clothes is a joke

    this would not have been It is not something that can be fixed immediately if the armor is broken, so I would have brought a spare.

    Besides, Winston hasn''t put in any seeds yet.

    Sogeun said he carried all his burdens by himself.

    ''Volunteering is good, but think about the welfare of Winston next door!''

    When I shot him, he coughed a little as if he was stabbed in the conscience.

    Hmm, hmm...! Everyone has one, so there is no need to feel burdened.

    Ha, but such a valuable thing

    Eww...

    "It''s always good to keep things simple. If it''s too much of a burden, you can consider borrowing it for a while.

    Serpens, who could have helped the simplification, left it alone, said.

    Thank you. I will return it as soon as this is done.

    Keep it with you Sir Redford for the time being. You may have to go on a long-distance business trip in a hurry as the demon worshipers grow stronger.

    I can''t afford to pack up.

    Yes, I understand. Then I will know that and prepare thoroughly!

    Winston accepted the space pocket with a look of disappointment.

 CH 229

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 229

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (4)

    The people''s sun was bright.

    The thought of going into an underground city where there is no sunlight since the beginning of the year already makes me cramped.

    I never dreamed that the Illuminati''s first camp would be held in a dark place.

    ''People have to get the sun... .''

    After I put my last luggage in my pocket, I unintentionally looked towards the window.

    The window slid open without a sound. If I hadn''t checked that side in good time, I would have never known that the window was open.

    It was doubtful that someone had oiled it.

    Serpens calmly stepped into the room even when our eyes met.

    "Are you sure that I''ve packed my belongings well or have you come to supervise?"

    "It''s not like that. Before we go wait a minute. Where''s the bed?"

    After closing the window, the guy who turned around realized that the bed had disappeared and gave a bewildered expression on his face.

    It''s in a space pocket.

    Why?

    Why? Isn''t it normal for people to sleep?

    Serpens tilted his head to the side.

    I followed him in the same direction

    tilted the dog

    "Is it because I forgot to buy a sleeping bag? Don''t worry, I knew it would happen and I even packed Sunwoo''s stuff."

    "No, what the hell is that?! sleeping bag? I''m shivering~?!

    ...why are you reacting like that?

    I don''t know why Serpense''s tone of voice is like that.

    It wasn''t like that before.

    There is a pocket in the subspace, does it make sense to leave a comfortable bed like a bed and bring a sleeping bag?!

    " Are you serious?"

    Of course! This magic pouch that gets sucked in and pops out just by bringing a large object to the entrance is an innovation and revolution in the moving industry! Isn''t this really a thing? Why don''t you try to restore this technology?

    "There have been several attempts to restore it, but each time people are sucked in "

    The guy blurted out his words.

    They didn''t mention their end, but what happened next was obvious.

    If you unintentionally put your hand in to take out the one who has been sucked in, you will be locked in the same way.

    Suddenly, the pocket in his hand felt like a monster that swallowed everything.

    The last question was not to be asked.

    Ah, anyway! Humans are creatures that use tools, and human development has been accompanied by the development of tools. If there are such useful tools, shouldn''t they be actively used?

    At my words, Serpens had a look on his face as if he was saying, ''It''s bullshit, but it''s reliable.''

    I can see that Serpens is not greedy for sleeping, but everyone else will bring their own beds.

    It''s not.

    No! Are you betting? Filial piety?

    ...bread?,,

    The first time he heard the name of bread, he fell into deep consideration.

    I tried to explain, but somehow

    I felt the will to see, so I decided to wait quietly.

    The wait was very short.

    Soon after, Serpens, who analyzed my usual speech and behavior patterns and came to the conclusion that ''It may not be the name of bread as it is what Seon-woo is talking about!'', nodded as if he understood.

    Then he spread out two fingers. It means take two.

    Okay, Cole!

    There is no reason to refuse a bet that is as good as a winning one.

    Okay, then, Serpens, go quickly.

    Bring your bed... Oh! Wait, in this way, if I add another bed to my room, no one will know?!

    " if the furniture was full, didn''t it get frustrated and not let go?"

    Isn''t it?

    Wow, why did I just come up with this idea? Am I stupid?

    Trying to admire my brilliant idea, Serpens made a pathetic expression.

    At first glance, I feel sorry for me because of the drooping corners of my eyes.

    He seemed to be here.

    I have something to give to Seonwoo before I go to get a bed.

    Are you going to give it to me? I''ll just give it to you on the way or when you arrive. What did you come to your room for?

    I said this, but I couldn''t help it that my mouth was stuck in my ears.

    Anticipation surged with a foreboding feeling that something great and amazing would be given.

    ''If it''s enough for Serpens to come and give it to you, it''s not an ordinary item!''

    I''m sure he pulls out his pocket pockets

    I glanced at him as he opened the door and put his hand in.

    Fortunately, Serpens succeeded in taking out the desired item safely without being harassed.

    The object was a clear, transparent gem the size of an adult man''s fist.

    Hey, great, dope...!

    Could there be any more beautiful gems like this in the world?

    Since the surface was not smooth, I could tell that it was a raw stone and not a processed one, but that does not mean that its beauty has faded.

    Light scattered on the uneven, angled surface, and shimmered with dazzling brilliance.

    It is so shiny that it feels like the room has become brighter. It is a serpentine-class sparkle.

    I wanted to give it to you by processing it in my heart, but only Dwarves can handle it...

    Of course! It would be blasphemy to leave such a thing in the hands of a human rather than a dwarf craftsman!

    I was worried that I might get fingerprints, so I pulled out a handkerchief and held my hand.

    spread out on the floor

    The wealthy fence touched the jewels with her bare hands as if it was nothing, but as a small citizen, I couldn''t afford to do that.

    It is blasphemy.

    Put it here, here!

    Hmm... .

    I acted like I was going to give it to you right away.

    He looked at the jewels in my hand and me in turn with a look of uncertainty.

    Oh, that''s disrespectful! I''m going to lose it.

    See Is that so? Then just let me take a look!

    No matter how rich the fence is, it seems to be an expensive item that makes it difficult to give it as a gift.

    Of course, if such a gem was that size, it would be expensive.

    ''Then why are you giving me this all of a sudden? Is it a death flag? Shouldn''t it be okay?''

    He was about to slowly withdraw his hand, but it was quicker for Serpence to make up his mind.

    He''ll put the jewels on the palm of my hand

    it went

    I don''t know if it will work in this state, but it would be better to have it on my body.

    Yes? Does it work?

    The boy made an unfamiliar sound.

    ''Is it something like a jade plate or a germanium bracelet?''

    The jewel, which seemed sacred until a while ago, began to feel like a pseudo fortune teller''s crystal ball.

    If it hadn''t been for the warmth that came through the handkerchief, I would have believed it so.

    Oh, oh, it''s warm! Is it really a fantasy world? The hand warmer is also fantastic!

    It seems that he was worried about Shion''s body, which is prone to cold, so he saved these things.

    As he was rubbing his cheeks with a handkerchief wrapped around his self-heating jewel in admiration, he put on an expression that he had seen something bizarre.

    Didn''t you know what it was?

    "Since Zion is also a noble, it seems that he has memorized the types of jewels to avoid embarrassment wherever he goes, but nothing comes to mind.

    I saw... . A nobleman from the countryside is so expensive and precious luxury that he can''t even wake up to death?

    Perhaps you thought my answer was overdone, Serpens put his forehead on his forehead and took a deep breath .

    "Why did you say blasphemy?"

    "Just because it''s divinely shiny and pretty?"

    "But why , uh uh! Wait a minute, is this really Shinseong-seok?!"

    He looks at me and nods his head

    it was thanks

    ...Is it just a fever stone?

    No! No! Sorry!

    I tried to apologize in haste, but the guy''s protruding lips showed no sign of going inside.

    That wasn''t enough, so I packed my head and turned it away.

    ''Don''t even do that... .''

    Unlike manastones that can be generated naturally by combining the magical powers of nature, sacred stones can only be created by humans.

    But like an instant magic stone

    It''s not the kind of thing that can be photographed.

    ''More than 6 months... . It usually takes about a year?''

    The result of condensing divine power with a clear purpose over a long period of time is the sacred stone.

    Also, the purpose must be pure and good, and sincerely desire it.

    ''Otherwise, it will not be created at all, and even if his will is shaken along the way, the sacred stone will break and the divine power contained in it will be broken.

    It''s all flying away, what''s wrong with me... .''

    It seems that even a little bit of miscellaneous thoughts during prayer will fade the color and reduce its function.

    In other words, it is difficult to make, but it is even more difficult to make it well.

    Moreover, as the will is reflected in the process of making, it functions only for that purpose, so it is impossible to block it.

    Charging is also impossible without the manufacturer.

    ''I didn''t give it to you in the last kidnapping case.

    From the looks of it, it was said that it was being made until recently... .''

    And by giving it to me, it means that he prayed for my safety.

    You must beg unconditionally. This is all my fault.

    Oops, I''m the bad guy!

    Wow, I thought it looked divine somehow! Hey, it was a really sacred thing, wasn''t it?

    I guess it''s because Serpense''s heart is in it, it''s really warm! Holding it like this makes both my body and my heart warm.

    I feel like I''m losing!

    I am very glad that you liked the function of the stove.

    Oh, no! I don''t mean that. I''m really sorry! It''s all my fault!

    The repeated apology seemed to have relieved her a little, and I could feel Serpens staring at me with a squinting glance.

    "Do you want me to forgive you?"

    Sure!

    If you want to be forgiven...

    Yes, yes! You say it!!

    "Are you barking like a dog?"

    "Of course so, yes?"

    I don''t know what the hell I just heard.

    He moved the sacred stone he was holding in both hands with one hand, and covered his ears with his fingers.

    "What did you just say? Could you say it again?"

    If you want to be forgiven, bark like a dog.

    I also purged the other ear, and Serpence said something was wrong with his remarks.

    He tilted his head over and over as if there was even a single point.

    The sense of disparity grew even greater because of the innocent expression on the face.

    ''Humanus, you bastard! What the hell did you teach Serpence to make him say things like that?!''

    The word "relentless, quiet, quiet," did not come out of nowhere.

    Those who approach food will turn black, and those who come close to injections will turn red.

    "Is something strange?"

    Of course it''s weird!

    Why? Seonwoo made me cry like a cat.

    I guess I was also a red friend to Serpens like Humanus.

    Like the pillow I slept on the day I dyed my hair red.

    So, I dyed Serpens red.

    ''''That, that... . I did it, but... !

    Then what''s the matter?

    You can''t go anywhere and say that! You understand?

    I was worried, so I asked him, but he looked down at me with a victor''s smile again.

    It''s clear that you think I''m just taking it out because I''m ashamed to bark like a dog.

    So you won''t be forgiven?

    The King! The King of the Kings!

    "Right, right:''

    I barked with all my might, and the serpens were loud at the sound of dogs in my soul.

    He had a satisfied expression on his face.

    I feel like I''ve finally accomplished what I put on my bucket list. His face was full of pride.

    He must have been looking for an opportunity for revenge all along.

 CH 230

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 230

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (5)

    Arriving in Amhok Street, Serpens subdue the owner of the Dazza Goza Pawn Shop.

    What about that person? If we let him go, our base will be discovered, and that''s why we''re holding him. .

    It reminded me of the memory of putting the guy in the room that I suppressed by tying it up like that in the Bastul Kingdom before.

    There was also the inconvenience of having to be bothered when talking, and having to be stunned by Serpens every time he woke up.

    I asked the second prince''s pardon, and I asked him to take care of it for a while.

    Oh, that''s right! There''s a gate in that estate.

    "You know about the Dark Side."

    When it was just me and the two of us, he just spit out ''2nd Prince'', but for some reason today, a tail was attached to it.

    Naturally, a name conscious of Winston

    am.

    Just in case I add, this person is not an ordinary pawnshop owner. All those who live completely sedentary in this dark area are those who cannot live outside.

    Usually, when this happens, it leads to a story like, ''Because they are such heinous criminals, they are being chased by public authorities.'' Right?

    okay.

    With a small nod, the excuse fence wrapped the prospective prisoner who was the owner of the pawnshop in a black cloth.

    It was packaged from head to toe, but unfortunately, it was easy to recognize that the contents were human.

    Serpens put the cocooned reserve prisoner on his shoulders like a bale. It looks like they are going to dump the body.

    Then I''ll be back, so don''t make an accident and wait patiently.

    Wow! If someone you don''t know hears it, they''ll think I''m in trouble every day? Don''t you, Sir Winston?

    If you''re so proud, why don''t you ask Eugene?

    Winston looked at Serpens.

    While hesitating, Serpens spoke in a tone that seemed to be kindly inviting everyone.

    Of course, the content was full of chatter.

    Hey, this doesn''t work!

    Serpense burst into laughter at my action as if I was truly sorry.

    And his gaze turned to Eugenes, and she nodded with a face full of determination.

    I''ll take good care of Shion. Don''t worry and go.

    Yes, I''ll go then.

    With those words, Serpens pressed the hood down deeply and went out of the pawnshop.

    In the meantime, let''s clear the warehouse!

    We locked the store door and entered the warehouse.

    The warehouse, which was thought to be messy, was surprisingly neatly organized.

    Various objects are arranged neatly in a hanging decoration like a bookcase in a library.

    At the entrance, there were small items that looked cheap at first glance, and inside, there were items such as precious metals and works of art that would cost quite a bit even if they were put up for auction.

    Considering that the items were sorted according to the amount of money, it seemed like they were trying to sell them if they didn''t find them after storing them properly.

    ''Hey, most of the people who left things here are gambling addicts, so there''s very little chance they''ll find you.''

    The only exception is when they come to make up for the shortfall when loading items at the auction house1.

    You don''t have to keep this space as it is for someone who has no guarantee that it will come.

    It''s enough to find it and return it if it''s a car, so first of all, securing a space for us to live in is the first priority.

    Sweep up the expensive stuff, and pick out the useful stuff from the junk... Huh? Some crazy guy got the house documents as a mortgage? It''s going to cost a bit, but we can''t go and take the house, so just throw it away!

    I''m doing this; don''t we feel like righteous people for some reason?

    It''s a bit

    Eugenes made a strange noise for a while, but the cleaning proceeded without any problems.

    It''s really useless, except for things that are difficult to dispose of, like the house documents I saw earlier, all of them were sucked into the subspace pocket.

    The innermost decorative cabinets were completely put away.

    Of course, it''s not mine, and in the 6th subspace pocket with no definite owner.

    Now, all that''s left is a prickly pear

    If you push it and sweep away the dust, you''ll be fine... ."

    - Tang tang tang tang!

    Suddenly there was a knock on the door from outside.

    The sound was so strong that even in the warehouse you could hear it.

    Knowing that the bright-eared Euges is with him, it''s probably not Serpence.

    What should I do?

    It''s not going to be hidden for a day or two, it''s impossible to keep the door locked and locked. Let''s open it first.

    In response to my answer, Eugese put on the hood she had taken off for a while and went out of the warehouse.

    Me and Winston covered their faces and followed her.

    Wait, I''ll open it.

    Can you please?

    As Eugese approached the door, Win Stone stopped her.

    Anyway, I don''t know who''s behind the door, but it''s better for him as a knight to go out than for a ranged archer.

    Meanwhile, someone out there

    Gai banged on the door with the momentum to destroy it altogether.

    - Crackle.

    I know you''re here every day, sir, so why did you grow up like this...?

    This customer, presumed to be a regular, seemed to be very good at controlling his anger.

    As soon as the door opened, the customer, who had been angry with a slurred tone, noticed the giant Winston and took a humble stance.

    "What did you come here for?"

    "There were things I wanted to entrust to, but it seems like there were none.

    The customer''s neck shrank at the overbearing Winston''s voice.

    In such a lawless zone, it doesn''t seem easy, but what is more taboo than that is to flirt with someone stronger than you.

    Crawling in front of a strong one is also one of the ways to survive in this street.

    "What do you want to say?"

    I must have been to the wrong shop... Excuse me, but can I go back?

    Winston looked at me and Euges as if asking if I could just let him go.

    ''Of course not!''

    It seems that he has some close acquaintance with the store owner, but it is difficult to go around talking about seeing suspicious people after letting them go like this.

    I feel the need to justify why we are here and explain it in a way that he can understand.

    Eugenes also shook his head as if he had come to a similar conclusion.

    Hey, it looks like you''ve come to the right place.

    place? Where are you going?"

    Hearing my words, Winston shuddered.

    He grabbed the shoulder of the customer who was walking backwards, pulled him into the store, and closed the door.

    Why, why are you here?

    You can''t lose customers to other stores, can you?

    Where did the original owner go, can I ask...?

    "Do you think it will?"

    The customer glanced behind him, but there

    was only Winston blocking the entrance.

    Realizing that there was nowhere to escape, his complexion turned pale blue.

    "What I just said was a joke, and you seem to be a regular customer, so I should explain it of course!"

    Ah, haha... a joke...

    I passed by and the owner here looks so weak. It would be great if we could protect him. Of course, there is nothing free in this world, right? All those who say they will do anything for free are scammers. So we are scammers.

    To prove that this wasn''t the case, I asked for some protection.

    The customer pretended to listen to me, nodded his head from time to time, and gave an artificial smile.

    Still, in my head, I think it''s bullshit.

    Because that''s what I''m thinking too.

    "It''s good to be protected, and it''s good for us to make money. Isn''t it a world where we live helping each other?"

    "Isn''t it?"

    "Yes, yes ! We have to help each other and live, yes."

    The dark guys know the spirit of mutual aid.

    If you still have a conscience, it''s like putting saliva on your mouth before telling a lie. I was so excited that a snort came out of my mouth.

    Anyway, what did the owner refuse to do? So he just didn''t have to protect him from us.

    It''s not morning, where is the owner?

    Did you ask if you went to My colleague took it with me, so I think it must be somewhere underground by now. Oh, is this also underground? Ha ha ha ha ha!

    He threw a gag of conversion and conversion, but the atmosphere became cold, probably because no one understood.

    ...don''t you laugh?

    "��, ha ha ha ha !"

    When I stabbed the customer in embarrassment, a very good reaction came out.

    It seems that if a person seizes power because of this taste, he will be destroyed by keeping his body next to him.

    "So, what items did you come to drop off?"

    Hey, is this...

    The customer did not put his hand in the inner pocket and it hardened.

    His gaze was directed to my side. All of a sudden, Eugenes took out a bow and was aiming at him.

    Perhaps he was wary that the customer might threaten me by pulling out a weapon or something.

    ''It''s overprotective, but considering that this place is a dark place, isn''t it?''

    Reluctantly, I gestured to Winston.

    "Can you do a body search for this person?"

    Winston nodded his head heavily, and after a while, jotted down the customer''s clothes.

    It seems that the customer was thinking of rebelling, but as soon as Winston grabbed his wrist, he quietly followed the judgment as to whether there was any hope.

    What the customer was holding in his hand was an ordinary leather pouch, but there were a lot of daggers, awls, and unidentified powders all over his body.

    ''Isn''t this enough to catch something else and then change it after seeing the situation?''

    There is enough possibility.

    As Eugese was still aiming at the customer, Winston opened the leather pouch and delivered the contents to me.

    brooch?

    Yes that''s right!

    I''m asking just in case, isn''t it because it''s annoying to deal with stolen items?

    No! My mother loved it.

    Poetry is a thing... .

    He''s a very bad guy.

    It''s not enough to go back and forth in such a dark district, do you even touch the things you love?

    Isn''t this a pure filthy child? Your mother raised you to the point where you went through a lot of hard work, so you can''t do filial piety...

    "Your mother won by gambling. And now with gambling funds , she told me to change it quickly."

    I''ve done all my mother''s errands, and now I see that she''s a filial son!

    There is no soy flour family.

    "So, how long have you been looking for it?"

    Yes?

    Jesse Sun, Jessie Sun! Don''t you know?

    In this case, it is better to have the other party offer the price. It is a product of experience gained through trading game items.

    ''It''s not that I have an eye for jewelry .,

    To tell you the truth, I couldn''t even tell if the red jewel in the center of this brooch was real or fake.

    If there was a serpence, I would have set the price just by looking at it, but it''s no use looking for someone who isn''t here.

    That, that, ...man Asu.

    Yes? What?

    I think he said something, but the customer was muttering so much that I couldn''t hear him properly.

    "Two hundred and eighty, no, seven hundred thousand Ash?"

    "Seven hundred thousand ass?"

    Oh, no...! That''s, so...

    You''re talking straight! So why not freeze?

    Oh, that''s , keep, it''s two and a half million ah!

    No matter how much Winston grabs his shoulder from behind or Eugese points his bow at him.

    I don''t think his liver is too small for a guy who walks out in the dark.

    "How come the price is going down, so this isn''t a fake, is it?"

    Oh no! Never!

    Never, really, really?

    Somehow it''s a bit awkward What kind of bastard has the price of jewels drop like this?

    With a skeptical heart, he showed the brooch to Euges.

    How do you feel? Is it real?

    "Well ? I don''t know."

    Perhaps because he is an elf who does not have a bath in water, he is not very interested in jewelry.

    I showed it to Winston and asked if it was real, but he also shook his head.

    "Once again, one last question. Is this really true?''

    That''s right , heck, no. I guess.

    In the end, he confessed the truth.

    It seems that it would be difficult to take more time because it is an errand for my mother. Seeing you squeal like that, isn''t that the same kind of personality a mother is?

    Thinking about it that way makes me feel a little sad.

    It''s a good feeling! 150,000 ass is enough, isn''t it?

    Yes, yes?!

    "Fake?"

    That, that...

    I guess I was moved by taking care of you so much

    all.

    In some ways, it looked like they were eating mustard while crying, but we must not forget that this place is a dark place.

    If you believe what you see, there are thousands of people who will cut your nose in front of you.

    You have to limit yourself to the end.

    Which pawn shop in the world gave you 150,000 Asuna for fake jewels? If you get caught doing something other than here on this dark street, you''ll be very much in jeopardy. You know?

    "Oh, I know it''s all.''''

    It''s like a filial son, I''m thick

    I''ll take care of you.

    Wouldn''t it be cool if I rummage through my pockets here and take out money?

    That doesn''t mean you can''t take away Eugene''s or Winston''s money.

    "Do you know where the safe is?"

    To my question, the customer pointed to the back of the counter. There was a dial-type built-in safe.

    If it was openly put like that, I think the pawn shop owner was one of the most talented.

    Yes, even though I was swept away by Serpens.

    "You don''t know the password do you?"

    Reluctant to ask Winston to open the safe, he cut it like a piece of paper.

    And he took out exactly 150,000 ass and handed it to the customer.

    Thank you, guest! See you next time!

    Keep, Khoo...!

    As the errand was very urgent, the customer ran away crying without answering as soon as he received the money.

 CH 231

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 231

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (6)

    The door, which had been closed with a bang as the customer ran out, opened again before the sound had disappeared.

    "Who is that person?"

    The new entrant immediately asked a question and closed the store.

    He was wearing a deep black hood

    However, it was immediately recognized by his voice that he was a serpent.

    I''m just a guest.

    In response to my cheerful reply, Serpens walked on the hood, and asked why the customer was running while crying.

    I wish Serpens had come a little sooner.

    "Did something happen again?"

    I heard the guy''s question translated to mean ''Have you ever had an accident?''

    He said he believed in me, and he believed in me at all.

    It wasn''t a human attitude.

    However, if you catch the pods, the same words as last time, ''I have no doubt that you will have an accident'' are sure to come back.

    Don''t hurt yourself by touching it, and pretend you don''t know.

    "The customer who just left left this with me. But there is no one who can evaluate jewelry . Serpence knows how to look at jewelry, right?"

    "To some extent."

    Serpens spoke softly, as if nothing had happened, and held out his hand.

    To say this guy like that means he''s at the level of an expert. I coldly put the brooch on the palm of his hand.

    How do you feel? It''s a fake, right? He tried to get 280 of this, but he caught me.

    Hmm... .

    Whether or not I was joking around, Serpens looked closely at the brooch, turning it around and shining it into the light.

    Expert force flows.

    It''s not the best, Jimin һ, it''s a prize

    A ruby of the same rank.

    Yeah? It''s strange. Did the guy who left it say it?

    It''s not badly maintained, and the jewelry and metal frame work is pretty good. It doesn''t look like it was touched by a Dwarf, but it''s the work of a human Jing-in with considerable skills.

    Is this real?

    okay.

    I leaned back to the hood I was wearing because of the customer, and looked closely at the brooch in his hand.

    Looking back, I don''t know.

    ''It''s been like that since I saw the god Seongseok made by Serpence the other day... ?''

    I didn''t feel any pink.

    "How much is this?"

    "If you look at the auction price, I think it will be traded between 3 million and 4 million. Considering that this place is a pawnshop, if you set the price .. at least 2.5 million?"

    "No, why did that child leave after receiving 150,000 ass while entrusting him with this?"

    Serpens didn''t say anything.

    all.

    They just look at me like a thief.

    "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Ask your conscience.

    Saying so, Serpens took my hand and placed it on my left chest.

    Because that kid said it was a fake with his own mouth?

    "You must have driven it like that."

    It''s not?

    "Be a little more calm about your actions.

    Why not take some time to reflect?"

    When I think about it, it seems that things went that way.

    When I asked Eugenes and Winston, I meant to ask what they look like, not if they are real.

    The answer to the question of whether it''s real is that I don''t know, so it sounds like I said it''s not real.

    ''My scary brother and sister threatened their lives and told me it was fake, so I had no choice but to nod my head!''

    It''s enough for the customer to run away crying

    I understand.

    As I nodded with that thought in mind, Serpens moved my hand to the opposite chest.

    " what are you doing?"

    Looking at his face, it seems that he doesn''t have a conscience there...?

    Aww! Our duke, you''re done with mischief!

    It doesn''t seem like it''s here either.

    Serpens, who had given up on finding a conscience, removed my hand that had rested on my chest and placed a brooch on it.

    I left the 3 million dollar bill with 150,000 Ars, so I''ll come back soon. Keep it separate.

    Preload!

    I tucked the ruby brooch into my subspace pocket.

    Next time we meet, I must explain and apologize.

    "Still, umm well done."

    Yes? What?

    Since we hit the price like that, if there were rumors, no one would come?

    However, it''s not bad in the end.

    I mean, if I had opened a real pawnshop, I would have rolled it up.

    Serpens decided that no more customers would come, so he locked the shop door altogether.

    Then let''s even clean the warehouse!

    Even?

    Do you think we were just looking at the store without doing anything?

    Serpens expressed his doubts.

    What do you do when you just sit blankly? Put it away quickly and roll around

    is better Now, Serpence is here too, so let''s help! Everyone go, go!

    I took the broom out of the subspace pocket, put it in Serpens'' hand, and headed to the warehouse.

    I didn''t forget the broom of the store, which stood at an angle at the entrance of the warehouse, and I took it with me.

    Me and Serpens with broomsticks swept the floor, while Eugesie and Winston moved the cabinets that had leftover teeth to the edge.

    Serpence was the first to use the brush, so he carefully looked at my actions.

    He swept the floor vigorously.

    He swept the same spot over and over again with a will not to leave a single speck of dust on the floor.

    It puts a smile on my face as a child who has just entered elementary school and is brushing hair for the first time after school.

    "By the way, what are you going to do with Euges?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "A bed, there must be a room the owner used here, wouldn''t it be more comfortable to sleep there?"

    Well? The room that such a person used is that

    Because I don''t want to use it... .

    Eugene, who moved the last cabinet, leaned his back against it and gave a worried expression.

    I understand. When I heard that I also had to use the former aide''s room after my death, it was no joke.

    ''By the way, my room was cleaned by the maids.''

    Did a guy who lives in a place like this sleep there knowing what he was doing alone in his room?

    I don''t like it either

    If only three minutes are not uncomfortable

    I want to sleep here too, is it okay?

    yo. This?

    I''m fine, so will Serpence... Winston?

    It doesn''t matter as long as Eugenes-sama isn''t uncomfortable.

    Despite my promise, Euges looked at Serpens with concern.

    Serpens received the attention, returned the broom to me and nodded at her.

    Only after confirming the appearance, Eugese thanked us.

    Then the cleaning is over and it''s decided that everyone will sleep here, so let''s take out what we''re going to put out in advance, right?

    Actually, I''ve been waiting for this time now.

    The moment when Eugene and Winston pulled out the bed and Serpense''s nose was flattened.

    He has to realize that I wasn''t the one who was really lacking common sense 1, who was talking about common sense on a fictional day.

    ''There is a subspace pocket that can be carried on the bed!''

    Carrying a sleeping bag in there means voice calls and

    It''s like using only text messages.

    I can''t believe that a serpent my age could be such an analog human being.

    Ah, true! Sion, did you bring your sleeping bag?

    Yes? Spit, what?

    Of course! Knowing that, I even bought Zion''s stuff.

    Eugene smiled triumphantly and pulled out two sleeping bags from his pocket.

    Euges, I''m disappointed.

    Ah... did I do something wrong?

    yo. This? It''s not that Zion looks insignificant or anything like that, it''s because there seems to be a corner where he''s a little fussy... .

    It''s not like that. I''m very grateful for your caring for me, but...!

    Thinking about it, maybe it was normal.

    There is a fact that I overlooked, but after getting the subspace pouch in [Master of the Holy Sword], the main character and party still insisted on sleeping bags.

    I wonder why you don''t carry a bed with you in terms of that gong

    Let go and forget it!''

    One filial piety that has not yet been fully used has been blown away.

    "I did I do something wrong?"

    No. It doesn''t take a day or two for Zion to behave abnormally, isn''t it? Don''t worry about it.

    "Is that so?"

    Yes, it is.

    Serpens smiled and spoke to Yujis about my aphorism.

    It''s like an ugly guy.

    Winston? Did you bring it? The bed.

    " you mean the wrong sleeping bag, didn''t you?"

    Wow, really!! Everyone is disappointed!

    Eugene and Winston were bewildered at my reaction.

    In the meantime, Serpens alone quietly smiled the victor''s smile.

    How could not one of them think of bringing a bed?! Serpence, though, I thought you two would have brought a bed!

    Unless there is a verse in the Luxmea Doctrine that says that overnight stays must be done in a sleeping bag.

    Maybe the two of them often sleep outdoors, so it might have become a habit to pack a sleeping bag every time?

    It seems plausible. So, he must have never thought of the idea of bringing a bed.

    It''s unusual for you to think of bringing a bed to a place like this.

    No? Because this is a common idea?!

    I don''t know, but readers of fantasy novels with subspace pockets must have questioned it at least once.

    am.

    ''Why don''t you put a bed in it even though it has a subspace pocket!''

    It''s really incomprehensible.

    If the current situation was being serialized as a novel like [Master of the Holy Sword], everyone would have left comments that sympathize with me.

    All readers must have agreed that it is natural to carry a bed.

    ...Zion.

    Serpens gently patted my back in pain alone.

    When he raised his head to see if he could comfort him, he could see the victor''s smile on his face.

    I was even more engulfed in a sense of defeat and turned away from that smile and lowered my head.

    But did he even expect that?

    As if waiting, Serpence''s palm was waiting there.

    Oh, I see! I''ll give it to you on your own! Let''s not show it!

    I grumble, the subspace of the problem

    He pulled out two filial piety cards from his pocket and placed them on the palm of his hand.

    ...Wait, things are different.

    Yes? Can you?

    He looked closely at the shard of paper on his hand.

    The word filial piety was written in large letters, and below it was written ''I will filial piety'' in Serpens'' handwriting.

    And his signature on the back.

    It is undoubtedly the right to filial piety that Serpens gave me-.

    "Is this right?"

    . Isn''t that what you wrote and gave to me?

    Yes?! If that''s the case, then I''ll be hyo, eup...!

    He quickly covered my mouth. It''s completely become a habit.

    I let him go once and then I removed his hand.

    "If that was the case, it would have been given a different name, wouldn''t it?

    I didn''t calculate this situation, but this time I''m going to put on a victor''s smile

    It seemed it was his turn.

    "The two of you always feel like that ?"

    I turned my eyes away at the hoarse voice. We can see Winston covering his mouth with a hand that looks like a pot lid and slyly asking Eugenes a question.

    He must have thought a lot about asking a question, and even now when he asked the question, his expression was not serious.

    Isn''t that right? It seems like you''re taking a little more seriously because you''re in front of Winston-sama now.

    "Are you uncomfortable?"

    Oh, no! It isn''t.

    Winston waved his hand and took a few steps back.

    ''Do you think you are being bullied?''

    In the future, I''ll have to add more conversations.

    When I first saw him, I thought he was a chatter because he talks a lot.

    At that time, I was so smitten by evil that I vomited out what was inside, so naturally, my words became longer.

    Having been around him for a long time, I could see that he had a reticent personality.

    But being reticent doesn''t mean it''s okay to look away.

    ''How can Winston melt naturally, and Serpens can recognize him?''

    I''ll have to think about it seriously.

 CH 232

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 232

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (7)

    Serpens acted when dealing with Winston, and Winston looked at Serpens'' eyes.

    That''s weird. really.

    ''Did Winston pay attention to Serpens like that?''

    Serpens is shivering.

    Even so, Winston''s attitude was definitely strange.

    In a way, it is natural for a knight to look at his master''s mood in order to gain trust.

    But apart from that, Winston''s appearance looked somewhat dazed.

    Before the entrance exam, he looked like a high school 3rd grader who got even an 8th grade in the last mock test.

    ''I think the biggest cause is the kidnapping incident... .''

    Someone tried to harm the master,

    Did the knight find out about it only after all the incidents were over?

    Even with the title of personal escort?

    It''s like finding out that your child is being bullied at school only after a bullying event.

    Saying you didn''t know because the child didn''t tell you isn''t even an excuse.

    It is the parents'' fault for failing to build a trusting relationship so that the child can trust and rely on them.

    ''In the first place, if you are a guardian, you will notice

    Well, I should have asked what happened.''

    There were definitely signs.

    Late at night, Eugenes and Hans visited my room several times, and Serpens was completely lying down.

    No matter how much Serpence went in and out of hiding, there were limits.

    ''I don''t know if you''re sleeping shallowly, how do you hide your presence while you''re in a deep sleep?''

    You seem to be sleeping deeply, but there is no sign?

    It''s just lyrics.

    He''s not sleeping, he''s fainting, so he needs to be taken to the hospital right away.

    ''The other knights don''t know, but Winston, who uses one building, would have noticed.''

    But for some reason Winston didn''t ask that.

    He told me about the Illuminati and the messengers of the gods, so you were optimistic that Serpens would tell you if you wait patiently?

    perhaps.

    Conversely, I may have been pessimistic.

    It was clear what had happened, and

    Knowing that God had no choice but to notice it, he didn''t say a word about it.

    ''It''s a matter of trust... .''

    I heard the story of a child and a guardian as an example, but Winston is not the guardian of Serpens.

    It was the same with other articles.

    Therefore, Serpence said that it was a job that required confidentiality, and he made the knights understand by saying that he could not lead the Knights and had a minimum number of personnel.

    Anyway, he left Hans with instructions in case he was late and the evil spirits couldn''t stop them.

    Even without explaining the situation in advance, the expression acting that everyone believed that they would move quickly was an added bonus.

    ''The problem is that the excuse is not even an eye-watering thing for Winston... .''

    Perhaps the duke himself did not come up with an excuse for sleeping in the aide''s room every night.

    He''ll be like that too, because it''s currently in progress.

    Zion?

    As I was thinking about this and that, Serpens called me as if wondering.

    "What are you thinking so deeply about?"

    "How can I make four people sleep on two beds ?"

    "Isn''t it just fair that everyone sleeps in their sleeping bags?"

    Serpence replied lightly, as if he was worrying about something like that.

    That sounds like a very big deal.

    Absolutely not!

    why?

    Did you hear about Serpence? The promise I made to Eillich that I would guarantee Serpence''s comfortable sleep no matter what happened. How long has it been since you promised to leave it?

    Wasn''t it just a slurred word?

    Isn''t it? Are you serious?

    With eyes full of sincerity

    I looked straight into Serpens''s eyes.

    He looked at me for a moment, blinked his eyes, then turned his head and exhaled a little.

    I mean, you know, do what you want.

    The cow horns were also pulled out quickly, so I quickly pulled the bed out of my pocket.

    "Oh my God that you brought a bed wasn''t a joke, was it true?"

    Eugenes exclaimed at my creativity.

    It was a reaction as if it was amazing to hear, but that must have been my misunderstanding.

    That means, ''Are you serious about saying, ''No matter what?''

    "What kind of obvious question are you asking?"

    If anything happens to be homeless outside...

    He was also a smart person, so his ability to apply was different.

    If you look at one, you know the heat, and she was already worried about the outdoor sleeping environment.

    There must be a large tent in the duke''s mansion that can be used as a temporary barracks for long-distance campaigns.

    I''m thinking of sleeping in bed.

    Ah! When the weather is nice, wouldn''t it be better to sleep while looking at the stars?

    "It wasn''t like that but I think it''s a good idea."

    Eugene''s ears perked up.

    Because of her dazzling change of posture, Win Stone gave a bewildered look on her face as if she had been unable to keep up with the flow of the conversation.

    And Serpens narrowed his eyes and glared at me.

    The strange person is the light in my eyes, asking me not to increase it any more, since one person is enough.

    "Don''t be like that, Serpense, please get out of bed quickly. Wouldn''t that be the way to get a quote?"

    Wouldn''t it be great to sleep in a huge bed when you''re a Duke of the Empire?

    With such hope, I urged Serpense, and he reluctantly opened the entrance to the subspace pocket.

    Eh?

    The subspace pocket spit out only a king-size bed. The reaction that they were not pleased with the size far below expectations came out of nowhere.

    Serpens glanced at me with a look into why he was reacting like that.

    "Aren''t you supposed to be sleeping in a bed big enough for a duke of an empire to roll around ten laps?"

    "What standard is that?"

    It can''t be this way. I''ll check Serpens''s room as soon as I get back to the duke''s house.

    It''s a bad habit to force yourself just because you don''t like the situation.

    The guy spoke as if he was giving a lesson to a flirtatious little child.

    Treating a friend as a child, I don''t know where the habit came from.

    I can''t help it. I''m an adult who can be content with what I''ve been given... I''m going to assume Eugenes sleeps in my bed and the three of us sleep in Serpens''s bed?

    It''s nonsense.

    "No, you can! Tet", no

    It''s like playing with blocks, with Sir Winston lying in the middle and me and Serpens lying on the left and right with their heads at his feet!

    " Didn''t you promise to guarantee my bed?"

    In fact, I vaguely felt it as I spoke. I don''t think this is a bit

    It''s not enough to sleep next to someone you''re not even close to, should you sleep with that person''s feet by your bedside?

    There is no high

    I''ll just sleep on the floor.

    I dared to put my feet next to the master''s face

    Couldn''t, Winston claimed an uncomfortable sleeping position.

    ''Winston''s welfare is so low, I''m sorry to put him to sleep on the floor... .''

    Serpence has to go to bed unconditionally, so I''m the only one left.

    But it''s strange that I, the weakest person here, sleeps on the cold, hard stone floor.

    '' Everyone will be against it.''

    Even Yuji Su, who had been assigned my bed earlier, seemed uncomfortable with this situation.

    She looks like she wants to say something

    He looked at us through the oyster.

    nothing to hear

    I''d rather sleep on the floor, so please don''t fight over the bed, or something like that.

    You often come up with bizarre and not ingenious ideas, but conversely, if you get caught up in them, your vision narrows.

    While he was pondering over what to do, Serpens squeezed his temples and said as if in pain.

    At his words, Eugene also pointed out something.

    Is there any corner? ''Oh, as expected,'' he let out a short exclamation.

    What am I missing?"

    Isn''t there a bed that the owner of this place was using?

    "If there was such a thing, you should have said it right away, why are you talking now?"

    Your idea was so absurd that I was at a loss for words.

    "You know that blaming others is a bad habit, right?"

    Serpens pouted his lips with an expression on who is speaking now.

    killed

    Anyway, thanks to the 3rd bed, all problems were solved smoothly.

    Winston hurriedly took the pawnshop owner''s bed, wondering if I should sleep in a good bed and give up the seat next to Serpence.

    Even though his feet were sticking out of the bed because of his height of over 21n, he was very satisfied.

    ''Is it uncomfortable to share a bed with Serpence like that?''

    But what''s the point of letting him sleep like that?

    I took off the bed cover and the duvet, and put a new duvet that was rolling in my pocket.

    It seems that Eugenes liked the allocated bed too.

    She was already wallowing in bed. It''s a very desirable attitude.

    ''It would be nice if Serpence imitated him... .''

    The guy couldn''t tolerate going into bed in the same outfit he had been walking around, so he headed to the bathroom to change clothes and wash.

    After that, I don''t know if the condition of the bathroom will be okay.

    ''If I had known this would be the case, I would have cleaned the pawnshop owner before handing it over to Frederick .''

    Contrary to concerns, Serpens did not run away from the bathroom, startled by the dirty bathroom.

    Since I chose this pawnshop considering the problem of washing, I guess that the cleanliness was also meticulously taken care of.

    And not a short time passed.

    He returned to the warehouse, wiping off his wet hair with a towel. The one that looks soft and fluffy is probably the towel from the peacock''s house.

    Also, he was not wearing a pajamas, but a shirt with a relaxed fit and pants that looked good in activity.

    It''s a neighborhood where you never know what''s going to happen, so it''s probably because you''ve been prepared so that you can get into a fighting stance right away.

    ''I''ve only brought a bunch of pajamas with the intention of lounging around here... .''

    What has already passed is unavoidable.

    In the future, I decided to put my entire wardrobe inside.

    ...why is the sleeping bag on the bed?

    I think he checked the bed while I was scanning Serpence''s attire.

    Seeing that one of the sleeping bags that Eugenes had pulled out was stuck on his bed, Serpens expressed his doubts.

    I think he''s worried that Shion will accidentally crush the serpent while sleeping.

    Eugenes also answered, waking up from the bed as if he was going to wash up.

    At those words, Serpens put on an absurd expression on his face.

    But I couldn''t help it either.

    It is clear that my bad sleeping habit will kick the serpent who is sleeping soundly, stealing the blanket, and pushing it into the corner.

    Does Serpence know how guilty it is to accidentally crush a child while sleeping? Because if my mother says she''s still drunk, she hugs me and apologizes for that?

    It''s something I don''t even remember, but it doesn''t seem like I''m usually surprised.

    In the testimony of Count Ribelon, the rumor that Zion is the most docile is really popular.

    Was it a thread?!

    Eugese, who went out of the warehouse, must have heard my voice too.

    When she returned to the Burinake warehouse, she shouted with a look of astonishment.

    Hey, was there such a rumor?!

    You], have you not heard of Winston? Shion has been particularly introverted since childhood, so it must have been a lot of concern for her family."

    " it''s just a rumor, isn''t it?"

    "It''s hard to see that these words came out of the mouth of Xion''s younger brother, Zeon.

    no.

    Eugese explained in a tone that seemed to be telling a ghost story, and Winston''s eyes fluttered wildly.

    Still, I thought it was just a rumor...

    Two pairs of eyes turned to me.

    Serpens turned his head away as if telling him to take care of himself.

    ''Zeon is also working at the duke''s residence, so why are these rumors still circulating?!''

    Of course, I forgot about it, thinking that it would be erased from everyone''s mind.

    However, if such a conversation is still going on among users.

    There may have been a working rule that said that if Xeon looked uncomfortable, he should never make eye contact.

    ''There is no other Neapolitan ghost story .''

 CH 233

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 233

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (8)

    Eugenes came out every morning, lunch, and dinner through a hidden doorway in the dark side.

    Her main job was to make contact with the duke''s secret agent, who was waiting near the cave, and to receive information from the outside.

    Serpens in the morning and afternoon

    I''ve been to the dark streets twice.

    Scorpion, whom he selected as a person of interest, had already vacated the store before we even entered the dark district.

    After several days of monitoring and waiting, the Scorpion did not return.

    ''It''s not that I ran away late at night because I couldn''t eat Ji?''

    It was a reasonable suspicion, but since the timing was the beginning, it was more likely that he was entangled with the demons.

    Is it because there is no one to manage the dark district?

    The dark district, which had its own rules, became a complete chaos.

    Several times a day, the men trying to rob the pawnshop came, but they were robbed and ran away.

    We couldn''t get rid of them even if we caught them right away, so we left them alone to give away what we had.

    Occasionally, customers slapped the price and drove them away.

    - Knock, Knock, Knock, Knock.

    Someone very politely opened the store door

    knocked

    it''s the first time

    A question arose as to whether there were still such polite people on this street.

    But that''s only for a short time.

    ''Where in the world is the guy who knocks on the sales witness shop door and comes in?''

    I had a foreboding feeling that it would not be a normal toray.

    Originally, in this behind-the-scenes world, those who speak and act politely are the most dangerous.

    It means that you can afford it, and it means that if someone argues with you, you will be happy.

    There is no such thing as a complete psycho.

    I''m anxious, but if I don''t answer, I may try to catch a tantrum.

    Fortunately, Serpense and Eugene are both attached to the store, so there shouldn''t be any problems.

    "Yes, please come in."

    I made up my mind and invited guests. The door to the store opened and the person who came in was Gu-myeon.

    I think the tension can be relieved.

    Hey~, who is this? You''re our first customer!

    Ah, how are you ?

    As I greeted them warmly, the guests bowed their heads and greeted each other.

    "Are you looking for something else to entrust?"

    �, I''m here to find you... .

    You''re coming to find your stuff, so why are you so nervous?

    I smile and talk lightly

    Now, the guest showed an awkward smile.

    I wondered if I had disposed of things, so I took out the ruby brooch I had kept in my personal subspace pocket.

    "Since it was 150,000 ass, can I give you 200,000 ass?"

    "200,000?!"

    Crazy, is this real?

    It''s only been a week and a half, but 1/3 of the principal is charged as interest.

    not the interest of this world

    ''Have you ever won a lot of money by gambling after changing money?''

    So, if it''s a review, it''s an understandable amount.

    "Do you think your mother made a lot of money?"

    Yes.

    My prediction was correct. A guest who knows what morality is.

    However, contrary to the positive answer, the customer''s expression looked gloomy.

    I must have been very scolded by my mother for accepting too little money last time.

    "Ah! There is a guy in our certificate who can appraise jewels, and he said that if you sell it well at auction, you can get up to 4 million ass. The lowest price is about 3 million? Did you know the customers?"

    "That, that I knew, I thought "

    As I smiled shyly and said sorry, for some reason, the customer''s face turned pale.

    "Everyone, next time I''ll come to find you again."

    Eh? Why? Why aren''t you visiting me now?

    "I don''t have enough money, a little a lot.

    It seems like it, shudder! NS.

    After saying those words, the customer ran out crying like the last time.

    It is strange that he calls 200,000 first and runs out of money.

    If you''re just going, why the hell did you come... ?

    You kicked it out.

    I am?

    Pointing at me with his index finger, I asked, Serpence nodded.

    I can''t agree with that. how much i

    I greeted the guests warmly, but drove them away.

    Shion, the flow of that conversation just seemed to say, ''If you want to get things back, give them at least 3 million arcs.''

    I was bewildered, but this time, Euges uttered an absurd remark.

    3 million is 20 times the principal.

    Common sense, I wonder if that makes sense.

    Where in the world is such a person?!

    I just get lucky to apologize

    It was just that, but I didn''t know it would have been accepted that way.

    Was business this difficult?

    Solertia, a witness who runs a prosperous magic scroll shop in the capital, became respected.

    And you took it out of your personal pocket.

    Why?

    "It''s the same with me when Shion just declared that she would have it."

    Then, after claiming that real jewelry is fake, I took it for a low price and said, ''This item belongs to me now. get it back

    Would you be the person who said, ''If you want to, give me twenty times the money you received.''?

    it''s robbery A robber has appeared!

    I was just saying that Serpens should keep it separate...

    When he stared at the possessed Serpence, he took off the hood he was wearing and made a sad expression.

    His handsome, good-looking face boasted a great appeal today, and I was thrilled.

    "Am I even more embarrassed?!"

    you use your face rudely this is half

    it''s chick

    * * *

    After the day the customer who had entrusted the ruby brooch ran away crying, he never returned again.

    Not only the guests, but the people themselves were completely cut off.

    Not to mention the occasional unfamiliar customers, as well as the robbers who came to rob the pawnshop.

    According to Serpens, the new

    It is said that the owner of the pawnshop is rumored to be a bastard who is completely evil.

    There are rumors that people who went in to the robbery had their emergency funds hidden in their panties also taken away from them when they went looking for them in a hurry.

    Who on this street is as kind as us? To be honest, only us are good and the rest are all bad guys."

    It''s so ridiculous that it''s almost nonsensical.

    Eventually people will sell more

    Rado found another pawnshop, and we left the store empty and lounging in the warehouse.

    Except for Winston.

    Eugene and Serpence went out several times a day Is it because Winston didn''t?

    If you don''t move, is your body itchy or are you worried about muscle loss?

    In any case, Winston worked out by himself in a corner of the warehouse every day.

    But how can a person only exercise all day?

    Winston, who said he doesn''t like snacks, got bored and ate the cheese crackers I had given him one by one during his break.

    Eugene lay down on the bed, turning the bookshelf with one hand, and holding a cookie with citron jam in the other hand, bit by bit.

    Shaking his legs, he is having a very relaxing time.

    "Because I''m doing this the other day, doesn''t it seem like the last hope of the continent, where I grew up by hiding in an underground holy place to defeat the demons?"

    I think the book you are reading is like that.

    Aside from the fact that we are going to overthrow the very underground holy land of Am Hokga, it seems too easy for us to be the last hope of the continent.

    Especially the Serpens...

    Serpence, who had no work to do, had all the documents he had brought to work confiscated and wandered around the warehouse for a while.

    I''m worried about the safety of this place because I''ve been away for a long time, and I''m thinking of doing origami.

    I see Winston''s eyes.

    Well, take it like that.

    Heo Yeon-gee kept coming and going in front of me, so it got a little crazy.

    I lure him with a snack to keep him in place, and put him on the bed.

    Serpens told him how to eat and drink in bed, but I seduced him by waving a chocolate bar and telling him to be careful, and he gave in.

    ''It''s packaged, so you don''t have to worry about getting it on your hands, maybe that''s what you were thinking.''

    It was a very stupid idea.

    The chocolate bar became a small bite-sized biscuit and a cookie.

    Cookies start with a fluffy madeleine, go through sabre cookies, and finally pastries.

    His upright sitting posture also gradually collapsed.

    Placing a pillow on his back, Serpens gradually leaned back and began to slide down.

    And now.

    He was lying on his side with his head crooked, and in a bad posture, he chewed the citron jam cookie that Euges gave him.

    are leaning

    The person who thoroughly washed and changed clothes before going to bed was no longer there.

    " Why are you looking at me like that?"

    It''s just nice to see.

    Seeing my happy smile, Serpens got up and sat down.

    Tomorrow is auction day.

    It was a warning to keep your mind straight as you don''t know when a problem might arise.

    Compared to before entering the dark district

    Those were the words I didn''t want to hear from the guy who had become the most indolent.

    Has that already happened?!

    "The thief is numb," Euges asked, screaming as he closed the book in surprise.

    Serpens looked at her with a pitiful expression, rubbing his fingers over the plate of cookies to shake off the crumbs.

    He looked at him with the eyes of Eugesu astonished.

    "But isn''t it too quiet to say that tomorrow is the execution day?"

    I looked up at Serpens while lying on the bed and asked a question, and he shook his head.

    I don''t know because you''re staying here all the time, but it''s not enough to say that it''s a mess right now.

    ''''How?

    Ummm... more than when I first came here?

    It''s not something to be taken lightly.

    I closed the novel I was reading, got up from my seat, and sat cross-legged.

    Winston also stopped training. Wiping his sweat, he went to his bed and sat on the edge of it.

    At that time, the three powers were in balance, but now they are divided into large and small groups and are fighting for the right. The area is reorganized every day, so it doesn''t even make sense to investigate.

    "The manager is gone, but so quickly?"

    "It means that there is someone who encourages you."

    The only people who will benefit from doing that are the demons.

    greed and the struggle to satisfy it. The murderous intent that appears in the process and the resulting corpse.

    There is no better material than that to summon a demon.

    It''s so cluttered, do people come to the dark side to buy something they don''t know what it is?

    They say it''s sacred stone. It''s also of high purity.

    In response to Serpence''s answer, his hand unconsciously turned toward his chest.

    At most, the sacred stone received as a gift was hidden in the subspace pocket and never taken out because someone might sense the divine power.

    Why is such a thing coming up in the dark auction house? do people believe that? It can''t be used for anything other than what it was originally created for.

    Because it is.

    I looked at Serpens with eyes that needed a detailed explanation.

    "All sacred stones must have a clear purpose and purpose.

    It''s not a vague idea of wanting to protect people, it''s a specific person. Or, only the desire to protect certain objects can be contained in the sacred stone. If the goal is to maintain the barrier that protects the area, the producer must have a strong attachment to the area.

    what you already know.

    If it were possible to protect the unspecified majority, the sacred stone would have become the main product of the denomination.

    Therefore, there are cases in which the purpose of the sacred stone is lost before all the divine power contained in it is exhausted. For example, ... the number of people targeted

    In case of death or death.

    Why is he looking at me while saying that?

    My heart is pounding because it sounds like someone is trying to save my life.

    ''Wait a minute. In the beginning, the demons were always aiming, weren''t they?''

    It was a no-brainer.

    They''re money-blind bastards, Serpens will take care of that.

    "Uh, um is that so?"

    If you lose your purpose, you will no longer be able to fill your divine power with the death of the maker.

    All sacred stones that have been collected are collected from the church and offered to the god Luxmea according to a set ceremony."

    Gathering away all those pretty sacred stones.

    There is no such thing as a complete greedy person.

    The problem is the sacred stone that has the remaining divine power. The sacred stone that no longer consumes the divine power will have eternal beauty.

    Oh, now I understand! Even if it''s not, it''s an incredibly rare and special gem, but it''s even more pure, so you''d want to have it even more.

    You want to enjoy that beautiful figure alone every day, right?"

    "Why? No?"

    No. You are right.

    For some reason, Serpens had a shaky expression on his face.

 CH 234

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 234

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (9)

    By the way, the realms of the Empire are all protected by the Holy Barrier. Aren''t they all maintained as sacred stones? Is there anything like theft?"

    "Not all holy barriers are maintained with holy stones, and if there is a sacred stone, it will be used first, but usually it is maintained through holy water."

    I know roughly what it feels like.

    As it is a barrier that protects a territory, the security will be strict.

    If I risked my life and hid in such a place, Shin Seong-seok was nowhere to be found, and only holy water was fluttering, and I would be inexhaustible.

    Luckily, even if there is a sacred stone, if it is cloudy and hazy and has no commercial value, that is also a loss.

    Still, those who will try will try, but most of them will be beaten.

    However, the sacred stone is just divine power.

    You can charge it by blowing it in, but how do you manage the holy water?''

    As I imagined changing the holy water little by little like changing the water in a fishbowl, I didn''t feel the sanctity of even an eye drop.

    "The situation in Rivelon''s territory would be similar], it seems he wasn''t really interested in the business."

    Serpens widened his eyes and added four legs.

    It is a warning not to be suspicious of the information that comes up when you look inside your head.

    That''s for Dad and Karon-hyung to figure out.

    I would. Ah! Does Vivi make sacred stones for the Count of Rivelon?"

    It could be.

    Serpence nodded in agreement with my words with a serious expression.

    This conversation was established because he knew that the contents of Vivi were actually Zion.

    Eugenes, not knowing this, looked at us with his arms raised saying, ''My brother/guardian is a genius!''

    Apparently, Bibi is just a one-year-old baby, so other people can''t see it.

    It sounds like an absurd story.

    ''Wait a minute? Getting older when the sun goes down is the same as where I used to live... .''

    I stopped overlooking it.

    The fact that this place starts counting from 0, and the country I live in starts eating one year old immediately after birth.

    ''Based on the age-counting standards here . I''m the same age as Serpens... ?''

    I carefully reviewed the contents of [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Come to think of it, it''s not the 25th year since the Holy Sword came down, but the Holy Sword is mine.

    25 years have passed since the beginning of the year. Or, it seems that he expressed that he chose the owner of ''Genie Seo''.

    ''Isn''t it a little cheesy?''

    It''s been a long time since I''ve read it, but I can''t help but remember such a detailed expression.

    Now that I think about it, it''s just a feeling that I wish I had.

    He glanced at Serpens sitting next to him.

    The guy who received the gaze tilted his head as if there was something wrong.

    Clear, transparent green eyes gleamed with pure light.

    ''Okay, let''s pretend we don''t know!''

    After all, he was (twenty) six years old.

    Even if I count my age based on this place, it''s �[�� that I''m twenty years older.

    My birthday is earlier, too, and Zion''s body, who has come in now, is definitely twenty-seven.

    when considered in many ways.

    I can''t deny that I''m an older brother than Serpense even if God Luxmea comes.

    The truth and the unchanging truth.

    Other than that, you can hang cinnamon-flavored candy that Serpens hates.

    "How is the Prasidus estate? Do you also use the sacred stone made by Serpens?"

    Eugene raised his hand and asked Serpens a question.

    The shoulder of the guy who was asked the question shuddered, and then he drooped down.

    No. I''ve tried many times, but... Maybe it''s because there are already two Holy Stones, I''m not sure I''m desperate.

    It failed.

    "Two?!"

    In response to Serpence''s answer, Euges opened his eyes and asked a question.

    He seems to be more concerned about that story than the story that he couldn''t create a sacred stone to protect his territory.

    I was just talking about the fact that there are many more estates without the Holy Stone, so it was enough.

    It''s unfortunate.

    "The one that my uncle made during the days of Sogaju, and the treasure of the church belonging to the estate in the territory.

    It was donated by the director of Yukwon.

    At his words, Amelia-sama''s smiling face came to mind.

    Is there a wish to protect the children of the nursery school?

    And Eirich . I think I''ll have to call him Godilrich-sama from now on.

    ''You mean that you regularly visit the Phrasidus Spirits to recharge your divine power, right?''

    Serpence This child said, ''Thank you, Uncle! I love you!'' and making a heart above his head, he can''t help but love him.

    Even thinking about it again, Uncle did too much.

    So I shot him fiercely.

    Rather than that, what is important now is not the sacred stone of Prasidus Territory.

    Oh, that''s right. I''m sorry.

    He turned away from my gaze and encouraged Eugene to return to the point.

    There was another culprit for the story to go sideways, but Eugese apologized with a look of disappointment.

    "Are you sure that the sacred stone will come up at the auction tomorrow?"

    I checked it again the other day, but it''s still not on the list.

    "I still have to attend the auction house."

    Upon hearing Serpence''s answer, Eugene muttered with a thoughtful expression on his face.

    Those who come after a holy stone that is sure to be sold at a high price would be rich merchants or nobles.

    Even if it''s not that, once the sacred stone

    There must be many people who want to take a look.

    The demons will aim for that time.

    These guys who come and go in and out of the dark must have been sleeping, but I couldn''t just let them die.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], the empire stumbled as the nobles entwined with the dark family escaped one after another, and eventually collapsed.

    ''Baby bastards, they used their heads... .''

    This is because �[t people are heartbroken.

    Sincere love for each other

    If there is, shouldn''t it be a matter of exchanging divine holy stones with those with divine power?

    Everyone is unhappy because they only have greed to possess the sacred stone.

    What a heartbreaking popularity that such a pretty Shinseong-seok could not even be made because of the cruel and compassionate world!

    Of course, I don''t care because I have Shinseong-seok.

    There is no Shin Sung-seok, but only me!

    ''As soon as you go out to the dark side, you should watch it with Yuji. to Xeon

    Can I take a look at it sometime? And when you meet Hugh Manus, you must be proud!''

    I was so proud of myself that I tapped my hand on the side of the chest where the pockets were located.

    I raised one child really well.

    "Zion, are you listening?"

    Serpens frowned slightly and spoke. You must have noticed that I was thinking differently.

    Yes? Ah, female]. I''m not listening. So, there, umm... What should I do?

    It''s not that Shion has to do something, I was talking while you were at the auction that it might be a good idea to check the secret doorway and gate side.

    Instead of Serpense looking at me with pathetic eyes and exhaling a sigh, Eugese kindly explained the conversation they had gone through.

    All those who have already entered will be flocked to the auction house, so he was talking about checking the number of additional people coming in.

    If you use the spirit of the wind, you can

    It is a mission that is perfect for her, as even a doctor can deliver it.

    "Would there be some distance between the cave and the gated building?"

    So I''m going to ask Tierra for the cave side. Oh! Tiera is my friend, the Earth Spirit.

    I already knew it when I appeared in [Master of the Holy Sword], but as if I had heard it for the first time, I let out an exclamation of ''Aah~!''

    The Spirit of Wind is Iron 1, the Spirit of Fire is Volkan, and the Spirit of Water is Mar. I remember it being that name.

    It''s not the name Euges gave,

    Each had their own unique name.

    There is a possibility that it can be detected as the distance is away, but you have to accept that. The purpose is to confirm that the demon worshipers are coming in anyway.

    "If that''s the case, wouldn''t it be better for both of us to ask the spirits and Eugene to stay with us?"

    In case you don''t know. If there is anything I can stop the demon worshipers from doing, I have to stop it.

    As she said that, she smiled brightly.

    " are you really okay with being alone?"

    It seems that Serpens has definitely accepted Eugenes.

    In the past, I would have said just like that, but now, with a worried face, he was showing anxiety.

    Then he glanced at Winston.

    You are asking with your eyes how about taking him as an escort.

    If I take Winston-sama, who will protect Zion when a battle breaks out?

    One arm is enough to wield a sword.

    It means that you will fight with me with your other arm.

    Of course, my opinion was not taken into account.

    I will be safe from enemy attacks, but the safety of my semicircular canals will not be guaranteed, and as a result I will have to empty out what is inside.

    Just imagining it is terrifying.

    If a dangerous situation comes, I''ll call for rescue and run away, so don''t worry. It''s better to be alone when hiding or running away.

    Eugene said calmly, telling Serpense to be at peace.

    Serpens nodded his head slightly, presumably thinking that she was right.

    ''However . How come it doesn''t seem like it''s turned into a winston dump? Is this okay?''

    just as expected. Winston''s complexion didn''t look very good.

    I don''t feel very depressed or discouraged, so it didn''t make it any better.

    A face that seems to accept it calmly

    all.

    Then, can I stay next to Sir Winston if I have a car?

    As I raised my hand and spoke, Winston looked at me with a surprised look.

    I made eye contact with him and smiled.

    "No matter what happens, I will definitely protect you."

    thank you!

    said Winston as if determined with determined eyes. It was very reliable.

    However . Why does the side of the head sting a little?''

    There was also an embarrassment on the face of Eugene, who should have been smiling warmly.

    I didn''t have the courage to check it out.

    But you can''t just pretend you don''t know. I closed my eyes and turned my head.

    I closed my eyes, so of course I couldn''t see anything.

    I slowly opened my eyes.

    As expected. Serpens was looking at me with a look mixed with gloom and betrayal.

    If you fight with me, the serpenes are uncomfortable. What if the bad guys just target me and attack me? I''m in danger too, but the serpenes might get hurt because they''re trying to stop them, right?

    uh .

    I can understand it in my head, but my heart doesn''t seem to be able to do that.

    Serpens nodded, but his eyes were still droopy.

    No, think about it! Serpens

    If I move violently, won''t I get motion sick too? Imagine you''re in the middle of a fight and I''m vomiting. Dirty is also dirty, and if a serpent steps on it, ugh!

    Oh, I see. Okay, now stop talking.

    It was quicker for him to cover my mouth than to explain the different dangers of a tripping and falling.

    Shock therapy is also the best.

 CH 235

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 235

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (10)

    The morning of the last day in the dark was bright.

    It was late in the evening when the auction took place, but when I woke up, Eugene was already out.

    In order to prevent encountering the demons in the narrow secret passage, Hung''s affair was placed on the side of the hidden entrance early.

    He must have gone to sow a spirit in the ground.

    And I''ll be hiding right at the gate.

    "How was your meal?"

    "I thought the words would come out."

    For some reason, Serpens had a triumphant expression on his face and threw something at me.

    I lowered my head and checked the thing on my knee. A very familiar looking leather pocket.

    I quickly patted my chest. There was nothing that had to be.

    I was told that my arms were free to move, but the zipper of my sleeping bag went down to just below my navel.

    So... before Eugenes left, you brought a lunch box for the day, so you asked him to praise him?"

    It was just after waking up, but the Serpence behavioral analysis circuit worked perfectly.

    The tip of his chin went up about L5 degrees.

    - Tuk.

    Then, I heard something falling.

    Winston was looking at us with surprised eyes, holding a gigantic sword that gave off blue skies.

    Was he brushing his sword and controlling his mind to prepare for today''s battle?

    A hollow scabbard lay next to him as he sat on the bed, and a piece of cloth fell at his feet.

    The sound I heard earlier was probably the sound of falling.

    "Are you still not awake?

    If it were, it would be time for the sun to rise in the middle of the sky.

    Serpense, who had proven by action that my interpretation was perfect, said with a smirk.

    At his words, I hurriedly checked the pocket watch I had thrown on my bedside.

    It really is already time for lunch.

    "Did I become so lazy?"

    I couldn''t believe it.

    He took a nap and didn''t go to bed late, even though he took a nap, he took a meal and sent him off.

    In the end, that record was only broken.

    You''re the only one who hasn''t washed here. I''m going to take a look around Amhok-ga before the auction opens, so please wash up and come.

    As I was staring blankly at the clock hands in despair, Serpens sounded like a parent bringing their children to school.

    "Uh me too?"

    Yeah. After the patrol is over, I''m going straight to the auction house.

    There''s plenty of time until the evening, so if Serpence goes back and forth alone

    It would be a room.

    It seems uneasy to come out and leave Winston alone in a place like this.

    "Ugh, if that''s the case, there''s nothing I can do about it."

    I took off my half-draped sleeping bag completely, got up from my seat, and sat back down.

    "Why are you sitting down again?"

    "I''m going to go brush my teeth after eating anyway, but I''m going to do it all at once."

    Because I''m basically an efficient person.

    He wrinkled one of his eyebrows at my sarcastic remarks.

    If it weren''t for Winston, he must have sarcasticly said that he was misrepresenting someone who was a little more efficient.

    This means one thing.

    The guy had been hanging out with each other for over two weeks, and he was still keeping a distance from Winston.

    * * *

    Before I left the pawnshop, I missed something

    Again, I checked carefully to make sure there was no such thing.

    Not only the bed, but also my toiletries in the bathroom, I swept them all into my pocket.

    ''I will never come back here again ?''

    There were still unfinished homework assignments, but I also built up my own memories.

    Thinking about it that way made me feel sad.

    But what to do? It is right that the city of these criminals disappears.

    Next time it will be properly equipped

    I left the pawnshop, promising that I would enjoy a perfect vacation there.

    As Serpence said, I thought there would be loud fights here and there on the street, but it was quieter than I thought.

    Some covered themselves and avoided their gaze, while others rolled their eyes like an animal looking for prey.

    It is like the eve of a storm as they walk around cautiously, guarding each other.

    It''s probably because of the thing that''s going up for auction today.

    Serpens leaned close to me and spoke briefly.

    A sacred stone is an item that does not have an upper limit.

    This means that many people must have brought a huge amount of money or goods to buy it, and this means that the atmosphere is temporarily formed.

    There were some who looked like they were looking at us, but they gave up and moved to look for a new prey.

    It''s thanks to the two people who are escorting me like crazy on either side of me.

    We go round the dark streets

    He was not involved in any incident.

    I don''t have any helpful information... it''s completely nonsense.

    The people who picked it up said it was only a story about the struggle for supremacy of the dark family.

    They say they are playing a game of noticing who and who is located and what business they have.

    My eldest brother died in a battle yesterday, so what do you think we should do now?

    That idiot still makes power

    I didn''t, how about going under it?

    Arthur, if you go under him, the door of suffering will open wide.

    Etc.

    ''Anyway, today, everyone would be nothing but pieces of tissue paper .''

    I just wasted my time.

    I expressed the opinion that it would be better to go to the auction house in advance in this case, and I responded to whether Serpens had similar thoughts.

    Without delay, we headed straight to the auction house.

    Unlike last year''s reckless attack, today I entered as an official guest.

    Yes, the ticket is here. Then we will guide you to your seat."

    When Serpence handed over the ticket that he had cut in advance, the employee who had checked it returned it and said:

    Why is that person so respectful to mere pieces of paper?

    Serpens, who got the ticket back, whispered in my ear that he had seen all the strange people.

    There was a sense of urgency in that voice.

    Just think of it as a grievance for a service job.

    It must be difficult.

    Although there was still quite a bit of time before the auction started, there were quite a few customers in the assembly hall.

    Maybe he thought it was better to sit blankly than to be pickpocketed for nothing.

    I glanced at them with a squint and walked after the staff.

    We thought that the appearance of us hiding our faces would come out, but there was no difference in the clothes of the others.

    Each time I walked forward past the seats, my eyes followed.

    It was the eyes of a competitor.

    We arrived at the front row, staring at each other.

    The assigned seat was not in the center, but at the far right.

    ''If the demons appear anyway, you have to fight instead of running away, so did you get a ticket for the front edge?''

    If you get caught in the midst of people wandering around, you might become a lost child.

    And the missing child will be me.

    I hope you get what you want.

    When we were seated, the staff left with a strange laugh and nonsense.

    Most of the guests attending today are people who have come to seek the sacred stone, and even if it is not, the items on the auction house are unconditionally one item at a time.

    It is impossible to get the item that every customer wants in an auction house.

    ''Isn''t that a word that only speaks to us?''

    In other words, it was a call to spit out all the money that you have without any money in the bloody price competition.

    It''s like the guys who have grown strong.

    I stared at the back of the employee who was moving away and then turned my head.

    We have dinner.

    Did you mean to come in to eat?

    Serpence said he regretted it, but quietly took over the lunch box I had given him.

    Winston looked hesitant.

    However, Serpense also refused what he received, so he finally accepted it.

    It''s not polite to smell food in public, but what should I do?

    It''s more ridiculous to question the morality of notarization in a dark, lawless area.

    ''There were a lot of people who killed people without hesitation, and that''s about it.''

    It''s not that I want to cook on the spot, it''s just that forgetting a packed lunch is aegyo.

    But the two people sitting next to me might have different ideas, so they bow their heads and aggressively take out their lunch boxes.

    went out

    In particular, Winston didn''t seem to have eaten a few bites, but returned the empty barrel to me. That''s awesome speed.

    Even when I was in the military, I couldn''t achieve that speed.

    Big cluck, chubby!

    As I was admiring Winston''s empty lunch box, I heard a coughing sound next to me.

    Serpence, who is slow to eat, must have eaten in a hurry.

    Drink some water, water!

    I quickly took water out of my pocket and handed it to him.

    Serpens drank it at once. And I returned the empty water bottle along with more than half of my lunch box.

    Normally, it would be difficult, but I thought I would pretend to be fed by force, so I handed him a paper bag containing butter cookies instead.

    The guy gnawed at it without a sound, whether he even noticed it.

    Experience...!

    While I was eating my lunch box, someone approached me and gave me a coughing sound.

    Winston jumped up from his seat and Serpens put his hand on the sword''s handle.

    Ho, maybe... Do you have any more lunch boxes? Our master is hungry... Of course, I''ll give you the money.

    When I asked if it was an employee who came to prevent eating, it was just a servant with a hungry owner.

    If you think about it, it''s like handing over money to a competitor, but it seems like you''re quite hungry.

    it went well

    After all, living in the dark today

    It seemed like it would be over, and the lunch box was slowly passing away.

    I sat Winston first, then opened my mouth curiously.

    Give me a price line.

    Yeah, yeah?! That''s , can I take a look at the menu first?

    "Of course not!"

    I took out a new lunch box and opened the lid to show it, and the servant who looked at the food while moving his upper body bought three lunch boxes for 120,000 ass.

    I do not know which nobleman

    They seem to have found quality materials.

    Starting from the beginning, the lunch box was sold out for a fixed price of 40,000 ah, and the smell of food was everywhere.

    "What delicious smell is this?"

    After everyone''s meal, those who entered late sniffed their noses and grabbed their hungry stomachs, but I didn''t know.

    I stroked my tummy with satisfaction, and reached out my palm to Serpens.

    " it looks like I''m more hungry than before

    D, aren''t you fat?

    You misunderstood. I just ate.

    is it ?

    Serpens tilted and placed a butter cookie on the palm of my hand.

    Wow, Khume...!

    Why? Would you like to eat together?

    No. I''m fine.

    I thought it was a signal to ask for a snack for himself because he was coughing], maybe it wasn''t.

    Winston is the salt biscuit I give you

    refused

 CH 236

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 236

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (11)

    As of 30 minutes before the start of the auction, people started pouring in at once.

    They must have thought that they had left their own way, but it happened because people all had similar thoughts.

    It''s good that you came early.

    Right.

    Serpence responded lightly to my words, which were close to talking to myself, and suddenly held out her hand.

    I reflexively spread my hands out with the palms facing up.

    The paper bag containing the cookies was folded into the shape of a note and placed on the palm of my hand.

    Yes.

    Serpence is throwing trash at me now.

    ''Originally, the children ate all the sweets

    Are you giving the funeral home to the guardian?''

    I didn''t throw it on the ground, so I''m not going to be scolded.

    He would have praised him if he had gone one step further and threw it away in the trash can, but unfortunately, there was no trash can anywhere in the hall.

    I had no choice but to shove the note into any pocket.

    "Aren''t you going to open it?"

    Serpens asked in a voice that seemed disappointed.

    I had a thought.

    When I handed the origami, he unfolded it and played the same folding game several times.

    If he folds the paper, I should do the same.

    ''But you just put it in your pocket!''

    A great sense of shame ensued.

    I took out a piece of paper from my pocket and carefully unfolded it.

    There was something written in a beautiful handwriting.

    '' I hope anyone here participates in this

    What is your name?''

    Not many, just three lines. All of these are names I''ve heard of in the advisory council.

    If my memory is correct, three �[] I remember him talking a lot.

    In particular, they are people who talk hard like Kkondae.

    ''Is this the reason you agreed to the saying that it was good to come early?''

    It was an expression of his will that he had to maintain the empire, so he couldn''t pick out all of them, and that he would only get three of those who usually bothered him.

    I re-folded the killer and tossed it into the sac pocket.

    What, there''s nothing? You''re like a naughty master Yoran! Were you surprised to know that I did something wrong?

    I shuddered and performed an ad-lib, but he did not accept it.

    He turned to Winston. He also did not accept my ad-lib, bowed his head and turned away from me.

    The auction is going to start soon.

    La.

    Serpens said as he pulled out a hand sign with a number on the seat handle.

    Even if you do not participate in the auction, it means to pretend.

    Me and Winston followed him and picked up the sign.

    ''By the way, this auction is going to go down anyway, isn''t it okay to call it anything?''

    I suddenly had a thought.

    The number assigned to me was 26, exactly Serpense''s age.

    This is clearly the revelation of the god Luxmea to actively participate in the auction.

    It doesn''t matter if the monkey doesn''t appear.

    ''Serpens will surround me and help me escape!''

    Whenever there is an auction scene in a movie or drama, I thought I would like to try it at least once, but I got that opportunity in an unexpected place.

    The auctioneer who had just stepped onto the stage announced the start of the auction.

    My hands are already itchy.

    The first auction item is this opal necklace. It has an antique design with soft curves...

    The auctioneer explained the value of the item in detail. It was explained that the value was considerable when viewed as a work of art rather than an accessory.

    When I heard the explanation while looking at the large opal boasting various lights, it felt like it was, but I was not deceived.

    Those things are nothing more than stones rolling on the floor compared to the sacred stone in my subspace pocket.

    goes

    I don''t have the desire to have it as much as Humanus''s, but I''m going to raise my hand.

    The starting price of the auction is 3 million ars. We will raise the unit by 100,000 ars.

    As soon as the auctioneer finished speaking, I raised my hand holding the sign.

    Customer number 26, number 300. 45, 310. 67, 320...

    The speed was the fastest I had, but the auction was not a first-come-first-served game.

    I thought that no one would spend money on the first item just because of the rumors that Shinseongseok would come out, but it seems that is not the case.

    Since they are wealthy people, they may think that this is just a joke.

    "410, do you have any more?"

    The auction price, which seemed to rise rapidly, stopped shortly thereafter.

    This price seems to be just right.

    When the auctioneer called the number 410 twice in a row, I relaxed

    raised his hand

    No. 26 came out 410. Don''t you have 420? 420? 420, 420-. Yes, then this beautiful opal necklace was sold to customer 26!

    It''s something I don''t have to hang around with, no one to give as a gift, and it''s unknown whether or not I''ll be able to get it in the first place.

    So, the sound of pounding the hammer with the words that the bid was successful gave me a lot of pleasure.

    It wasn''t that great of a thing.

    Serpens said in a shaky voice.

    I was told to focus on the auction, but that didn''t mean that I was going to win the bid.

    I know. Compared to the fist-sized jewel that the master gave as a gift a few days ago, that''s just a stone rolling along the roadside.

    But why...

    I just want to see you feel good. Can''t you?

    The guy was quiet.

    Although it was not visible under the hood, the pattern of Serpence''s behavior was obvious.

    He must be making an absurd expression on his face.

    Yes, do whatever you want.

    "Then can I get more bids?"

    the way you want.

    With his permission gone, there is nothing more harsh.

    A second auction was in progress, so I immediately raised my hand.

    After that, a few treasures were placed on the podium.

    went up and went down My hands go up and down accordingly and are very skinny.

    That didn''t mean his mouth was playing. It''s a romance to shout a high price out of the blue at an auction house.

    ''Do you think this is the fun of spending money? ?''

    As a result, most of the auctioned items were successful.

    Before Shin Sung-seok came out, maybe it was to get rid of a competitor who seemed to have a lot of money, or he gave up a successful bid a few times to someone who had no intention of buying it and raised the price for nothing.

    There were times when I took a break because my arm hurt.

    ''By the way, it seems to have progressed quite a bit .''

    It was still quiet.

    Serpens wondered if he had noticed something, so he inadvertently stopped to ask him a question.

    With successive bids, people''s eyes are on me. Not only that, but there were too many ears to ask a question out loud.

    [Is there anything suspicious?]

    I''m the guy''s hand on the armrest

    I wrote letters on my back with my fingers.

    I think he also wrote something on the palm of my hand, but I don''t know anything other than that it tickles.

    [again]

    So, after I wrote the word [again] three times, Serpens got frustrated and took out a pen and a piece of paper.

    [The entrance seems to have been blocked from outside the door. Even the guards are the first faces I see."

    It was literally the size of a piece of shit, thinking that someone might read it over his shoulder.

    I could barely read it until I half buried my face in the paper.

    As I was about to write an answer on the back of my hand, Serpens took out another pen and handed it to me. I think the guy was ticklish too.

    [Can''t you feel anything about the guards?]

    [okay. And take a writing instrument with you.]

    something is behind

    It''s disgusting to feel uncomfortable, but there''s nothing bad about it.

    [Can you feel the energy of Shin Seong-seok?]

    [at all]

    [What is the energy of black magic?]

    [I don''t think it''s there yet. But he used a special tool to hide his energy, or I simply didn''t notice it.]

    Serpence took the paper because he was wasting it. Black lines were drawn on the white paper.

    I don''t know why this guy is so insecure about everything.

    ''In the case of tools, there is a possibility, but .''

    The most representative examples are subspace pockets and magical restraints.

    The subspace pocket prevents the energy of the items stored inside from leaking out, and in the case of a magic restraint ball, it works on both sides.

    In fact, the magic constraint ball means ''Magic constraint ball, it has the function of blocking and hiding the flow of all qi except for divine power.

    ''Was it a rappelo? I remember it being made of that kind of metal... .''

    Usually, in order to handle metals or jewels with magical power, the Dwarf''s skill

    power is essential

    However, in the case of a rappelo, it is possible to transform its form regardless of the dwarf''s ability, perhaps because of its nature to push away all energy.

    ''If it wasn''t for that, things like magic constraint spheres wouldn''t have been floating around.''

    For that reason, in [Master of the Holy Sword], the demons risked to hide their black magic and wore magical restraints.

    ''Damn bastards".''

    But I can''t even pierce the eye holes

    It''s much better than something like a new leather suit.

    Anyway, that''s not what''s important right now.

    [Anything from Eugene?]

    [none]

    I can''t think of anything more to ask.

    In this case, it would be better to just write down the information that Serpens knows.

    [What else do you want to say?]

    I was writing the answer right away.

    The boy''s hand faltered.

    Then, if something came to mind, he fumbled and scribbled something down.

    [What do you think of the winning bid?]

    It was a question that was not helpful at all in the current situation.

    I roughly put the sign on my left hand up and down, and then I wrote again.

    [What do I know? If the devil ran rampant anyway, everything would be ruined]

    [Is it bad?]

    [Since I''m just playing an auction, I''m serious.

    Don''t you think so? If you act like a walnut, next month I will only give you cinnamon-flavored candy]

    Faced with my intimidating text, Serpens folded the paper a couple of times and put it in his subspace pocket.

    It must have been such a terrifying threat that it was hard to even see.

    Then it''s finally the last order! I think many of you have come here just to see this.

    His eyes turned toward the podium at the story that sparked his ears.

    Auction house staff pushing carts to auction

    I saw him approaching her side.

    On top of the slick, silvery trolley was a box wrapped in crude brown leather.

    ''What, is Shin Sung-seok really there? Where am I from?''

    I''m not the only one with doubts.

    Rumors are just rumors. it''s not certain

    Nevertheless, many people flocked to get it.

    I was skeptical, but I came with a lot of money and it was

    was this real

    It''s a tense moment.

    The son-in-law became quiet, and everyone''s eyes were focused on one place.

    Even the auctioneer in the dark district who seemed to be a better fit for the show host, who had exaggerated explanations for this auction, was also silent.

    The auctioneer and the staff pushing the cart made eye contact and nodded.

    Finally, as he untied the leather knot that wrapped the box, a dark red jewel floating in the transparent glass case caught his eye.

    It is a color that makes you goosebumps just looking at it.

    ''That''s never Shin Seong-seok... !''

 CH 237

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 237

    43. The Duke and the Devil of the Dark House (12)

    The eerie dark red gem had the power to attract attention strangely.

    It''s not because it feels beautiful or seductive.

    Rather, it is full of disgust and disgust. I felt an instinctive sense of rejection. My stomach churns and my head feels dizzy.

    Calm down.

    Serpens spoke urgently, pressing the back of my head firmly.

    The dark red gem disappeared from view, and the gray stone floor caught my eye.

    The back of the head warmed as if he had spilled divine power in a rushed mind. At the same time, the anxiously beating heart calmed down, and the nauseous sensation disappeared.

    Come on everyone! Don''t be fooled by that!

    Serpens got up from his seat, took off the hood he was wearing, and threw the cow.

    ri hit

    A silvery divine power emanated from him and spread widely in waves. At the same time, his bluish-silver hair, which had been dyed brown, regained its original color.

    There was the sound of whistling from all over the place.

    I was so excited too.

    ''There''s no way he could have been possessed by such a thing''.''

    Serpence must have hit my head as soon as the jewel appeared.

    Still, it felt like a very long time.

    That means that the senses were distorted, and if a really long time had passed in that state, I might have gone crazy.

    '' That''s blood jade.''

    Manastone, Black Manastone, and Holy Stone are the result of crystallization by condensing the energy of each.

    Rather than a mineral, it is closer to an aggregate of qi.

    On the other hand, blood jade is nothing more than a mass of blood and flesh gathered and compressed with black magic.

    It is also used as a medium for black magic and as a sacrifice for summoning demons.

    According to the demons'' expression, ''The quality is inferior to that of live sacrifices, but it is easy to manage and carry, so it is easy to collect a large amount of sacrifices.''

    It seems that humans are canned food to fill the stomachs of some devil.

    I doubt whether they are aware that they are the same person.

    F, Prince Prasidus...?

    "Bar, what was that just now?"

    "Shin Seongseok . What about Shin Seongseok?"

    People who had come to their senses thanks to the divine power murmured as they recognized the Serpens.

    Those who looked at the situation calmly due to the temporary effect were immediately startled and left and right.

    Questions arose here and there, from the question of why Serpence was in such a place, to the question of what they had just seen.

    Sir Redford, protect Zion.

    Serpents make people panic or

    Or, he drew his sword and ran up to the podium.

    Still, I didn''t forget to put a protective barrier around me and go.

    - Kang!

    Serpence''s sword, which had been swung in the correct trajectory to cut through the entire glass case, shook.

    It was because a ball of iron that seemed to boast a heavy weight flew and hit the sword face.

    There was a crackling sound, and only the pitiful glass case was broken.

    Instead of swinging the sword again because of force, he flew to the side and avoided it. The daggers were pierced in the place with a faba-bak sound.

    Taking advantage of Serpens avoiding his body, the guy who threw the dagger reached out his hand.

    As if he had waited only for this moment, the bloody jade flew away and soaked into the palm of his hand.

    It''s like finding my place.

    No, that''s a little weird, isn''t it?''

    This is a phenomenon that has never been seen in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Judging from the fact that he threw a non-magical weapon, he wasn''t a warlock. When he looked at his �[�� face, it was as if he had seen it somewhere.

    ,Ah! It''s the boss of the female barge!

    It was difficult to recognize because of the blackened white and the squiggly lines engraved like a tattoo on his face.

    Reverse eyes were a characteristic of a demon who accepted magic energy into his body through a contract with the devil, and I don''t know what that magic circle-like line is.

    Ah, I''m a demon worshiper!!

    someone shouted

    And at the same time, a squeaking sound was heard.

    When everyone is confused. The demons disguised as guests hid behind the guards, under their protection, and unleashing the magical restraints.

    Apparently, the location where they were located was towards the exit.

    ''also. The first thing that flew was probably the restraint ball Scorpion was playing.''

    A question that was not at all curious has been resolved.

    Do the auction house customers have heads?

    He ordered his escort to attack.

    Winston frankly stood by me at Serpens''s orders.

    The knights and the guards drew their weapons and bumped into each other. The devil''s hands to release the restraints became urgent.

    Judging by the timing at which the restraint ball flew, the Scorpion seemed to have been released quickly].

    It seems that Jjajangbap in the dark district is not going anywhere even if it makes a contract with the devil.

    I ruined everything because of you!!

    Apparently, the demons revealed the identity of the master of the dark house to Scorpion.

    Fortunately, it was a line that could be interpreted as ruining the current work if you listened to it without knowing the circumstances.

    He''s just joined the evil faction, so he doesn''t seem to know the basics of agitation.

    However, seeing the shame of throwing memorabilia stained black only in the direction I am in, I can see the number of buds that will grow into a great devil.

    No, what are you blocking?! Wins

    He''s keeping his tone, and putting on a shield!

    Serpense''s gaze turned towards me.

    But instead of answering or making eye contact with me, he swung his sword.

    As if watching a 3D movie with a fantasy background, the trail of a pure white sword flew toward me.

    Of course, that''s not what I''m aiming for.

    һ Puong!

    The black magic that came from the back splits in the air and is converted into smoke by divine power.

    got angry

    Winston stared at it as if the chicken chasing dog was staring at the roof.

    I don''t even know what kind of magic flew away, but Winston seems to have noticed it and tried to stop it.

    '' Wouldn''t it be possible to fix a scorpion if you pay a little attention to me?''

    It is doubtful whether he is struggling to leave enough room to block attacks coming from other directions.

    It looks like it can afford it right now, but it will be difficult if it continues like this in the future.

    Duke! Please help us too!!

    I turned my head to see if this sounded like nonsense.

    The man who raised his voice was screaming while holding his escort knight, revealing all his bare face.

    Others have knights fight ahead to break through the exits, and raise their swords to defend themselves.

    It''s a very good thing to do.

    ''Why are you covering your face?''

    Looking back, I think I saw a similar face at the advisory meeting. Are you a child of an advisory council member?

    Please protect me even if I see my father, I guess it''s something like that.

    I am also protected, so I am not qualified to point it out... .

    Hey, who is this? Is the council member''s son also here? Do your parents know that you come and go in these places? How much effort did His Majesty the Emperor tried to find and destroy the dark district.... The council member knew it but was hiding it! This is for the Emperor

    Are you treason?

    "Yes, yes?!"

    Wait. Come to think of it, all these guys here are people who have come to buy Shinseongseok with money? Is this a cult? You, I just remembered your face.

    Anything else I could point out.

    Surprised and startled, Iwnyi put on a splendid mask on her face.

    But it''s already too late.

    The name on the cookie bag killer will soon be in four lines.

    ''Everyone is so eager to cover their faces and run away quickly, can''t they be like that without thinking?''

    Others must have thought they were fighting with their mouths shut because they were shy.

    Survival is a top priority, but you can''t just survive.

    He completely hides his identity from Serpens and runs away. If that doesn''t work, the evil spirits should take the lead in the punishment and reduce the guilt.

    What''s more, there''s a bunch of bad guys at the exit, so we have no choice but to do our best.

    The skills of the guards are higher than that of the knights.

    It was far behind, but thanks to the support of the Warlock, it was almost in balance.

    But, considering that Serpens and me sometimes have magic flying over them, it seems that the demons are a little more dominant over there.

    Of course, in this case, Serpence is overwhelmingly dominant.

    Why the hell...! I can''t win! I can''t, I''m going!!

    The Scorpion burst into tears.

    After looking away for a moment, the distance had narrowed.

    Because of that, the Scorpion didn''t even think of attacking me, and only managed to block the Serpens'' attack.

    ''It''s even worse if the guy who lost his power by losing to Serpens who doesn''t use divine power wins by making a contract with the devil.''

    It''s okay to be still breathing.

    I guess I''ve used up all the memorization I had, so I just grouped them together in the shape of a sharp blade and shot them as much as I could.

    The last dagger in his hand is in danger of being broken at any moment.

    I''ve definitely given you a chance. Come on, wait a minute! If you lend me a little bit more, just a little bit more strength, we can win!

    Suddenly, the Scorpion started talking to himself.

    It was absurd for anyone to hear. No one will be persuaded by that.

    Dark red smoke began to leak out of the black lines drawn on his face.

    Flame] All . I''m also concerned about the blood jade that he absorbed earlier.

    ''These bastards, the living ones.

    Did you draw a demon summoning circle on your body?''

    must be stopped quickly.

    Serpens must have noticed it too, but for some reason, he seemed to hesitate strangely.

    Now it''s time to fulfill the contract... ''He was never said to be Duke of Prasidus!!

    After drawing a summoning circle on his body by enticing him to give him strength, he must have revealed the identity of Serpens.

    If you kill the Darkside Boss, this power is yours, and if you fail, your body and soul are mine.

    I think it''s almost like a contract was signed.

    This is clearly a fraudulent contract.

    Dark red smoke enveloped Scorpion''s body. Even so, the smoke continued to come out.

    һ brim T

    The three swords of Serpens full of divine power and the daggers soaked in dark magic collided.

    The shock wave dissipated all the ominous smoke, but the expression on Scorpion''s expression that was revealed again was already someone else''s.

    The ugly black lines on the face disappeared, and the whites returned to their original state.

    Conversely, the hair and eye color became darker and darker.

    It is proof that Magi has been perfectly captured, and the person who did it would not be the Scorpion.

    We''re a little busy, can''t we help?

    The devil chuckled with an expression that he wasn''t sorry at all.

    Serpens quickly swung his sword at the relaxed demon.

    The demons dispersed like smoke, gathered together for a moment from ten steps away, and then scattered again by the sword swung by Serpens.

    "Wow, cool-! Why don''t we talk without doing this?"

    A demon appeared out of nowhere among the villagers.

    Even if it turned into smoke, the damage caused by the divine power was unavoidable.

    Serpens tried to catch up, but was blocked by a human barrier and stopped.

    Aww-!

    Because of the demon that suddenly appeared, people were scattered and scattered, and magic extracted like a thin needle fell like rainwater on their heads.

    Serpens quickly reached out, and a silver curtain spread wide and protected the people.

    But is it because of a sense of guilt for not being able to stop the summoning of the devil that happened right before my eyes?

    The boy''s expression was very sad.

 CH 238

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 238

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (13)

    ''If you''re going to summon a demon right away like that, why did you display the bloody jade?''

    It''s not meant to brag, so maybe it has something to do with U:Ma said he''s busy.

    The bloody jade on display has a different purpose, and it was not the original plan for that demon to be summoned by sacrificing the people of this place.

    Neil?

    ''..But why are you busy?

    He is also concerned about the fact that there is no contact from Eugenes, even though the demons are summoned and a dreadful magical energy has been emitted.

    Although ignorance is good news, it is difficult to ignore it.

    Serpens, who had stopped for a moment, moved again.

    After digging through the scattered people, he reached the front of the devil in an instant.

    Looks like I''m going to cut down the devil at any moment

    As he ran, he stopped again. I couldn''t swing my sword.

    This is because the devil snatched the hair of the fleeing man and held it out like a shield.

    Are you sure you can''t kill people?''

    When Serpens began to attack, the devil asked with a surprised expression.

    There was a mockery that seemed to ask, as if on your subject?

    It was bullshit and something caught on to ignore it.

    ''The reason why I hesitated without killing the Scorpion who became a Demon is, Seol

    mind .''

    That''s what I was watching.

    I don''t know what this guy is trying to do. A sigh came out.

    Is it strange? I''m sure he''ll tell you...

    Serpence slammed the ground once again, aiming for a gap where the devil was always vigilant.

    It was an attempt to avoid the hostage and stab the sword into the demon beyond.

    However, the demon blocked the attack by simply bringing the human shield to the place that Serpens''s sword would reach.

    The hostage writhes with a blue tired face, looking at the sword that had stopped in a precarious position as if it was going to pierce his chest.

    At any rate, it was bound by the black mist of magic, so it shook and swallowed the painful breath.

    ''A demon that uses fog... .''

    [Master of the Holy Sword] Uh] The demon in the dark district that came out was nothing but an extra passing by. It was ''Jeori itself, with no features or anything.

    The demon that first appeared was so absurd

    How foolish were the readers at the time because of what happened.

    In the meantime, it was revealed that the true owner of the dark house was Serpens, and Humanus waged a fierce battle with him.

    ''And part 1 ended with the devil scouting and taking Serpence away, didn''t it?''

    In other words, the demon that appeared in the dark area was only an auxiliary device to strengthen the impact of the first part boss, Corruption Fence.

    To put it in a nutshell, the guy who confronts Serpens is another demon.

    The devil controlled the power of his grasp so that the hostage did not die, and the more the hostage was, the greater the struggle of those who hung on the notary.

    The struggle to get out of his grasp was rather a boon to the devil.

    In the barrel where the hostage was shaking irregularly, it became more difficult for Serpens to avoid him and stab his sword.

    The devil threw a dagger at Serpens, aiming for the moment he stopped.

    A light movement, as if wiping off moisture from your hands. But the dagger is like

    It was shot like a bullet and flew away aiming at the guy''s forehead.

    Serpens avoided it by tilting his head slightly.

    But is it because of forcibly pushing magic into the dagger that has already run out of durability?

    The dagger exploded with a sudden bang.

    As if he had expected it too, he calmly mixed the scattering pieces of metal around his body with divine power.

    ''But why do you look so good... ?''

    Last year, when Count Pgnuto and Serpence had a fight, I couldn''t see anything.

    No matter how hard the body sight training was, it is strange to see every single movement of the Serpence even taking into account the pauses.

    After that, I found my body strangely light and full of energy.

    ''Did you give me a buff when you pressed my hair earlier?''

    I thought about the possibility of the effect of the sacred stone, but it is still out of the subspace pocket.

    I didn''t pay, so it wouldn''t be.

    The nature of the subspace pocket. It is possible for the holy water within it to absorb black magic, but it is impossible for the divine power to come out.

    I don''t know the exact principle either. Is it like osmotic pressure?

    Anyway, it seems that the intention is not to get hit by Aman''s attack and to avoid it if you see it.

    I am grateful for my heart, but I only think of it as a waste of divine power. What''s the use of being in a protective barrier anyway?

    For now, it doesn''t help anyone other than making the fights easier.

    ''Are you thinking about taking out Shin Sung-seok as well? No, let''s stop.

    The people who came after the sacred stone are all over the place.

    If you take it out for nothing and Akseung provokes their greed, you never know what will happen.

    Since Winston is guarding him right in front of him, no one will be in a hurry to make a fool''s errand, but it''s a different story if he''s caught by magic.

    Why? It didn''t matter if these guys died?

    Despite Serpens'' ignorance, the devil continued to speak.

    I don''t know why the busy guy talks so much.

    Who''s going to raise a rumor? But?

    If there were no witnesses, they would say something like an assassination and fall for it.

    I thought it was bullshit and passed it on, but it''s a Moing: that other people didn''t hear. Hee hee, I''m scared to breathe

    I heard it turn on.

    Perhaps he thought it was impossible to get out of the exit, and a crowd of people flocked to the podium and banged on the wall in amazement.

    Even after the Aurors were mobilized, only small scratches remain on the wall. There were no signs of collapsing or breaking.

    The demons must have done something.

    This time, Serpens ignored the devil''s words.

    I avoided the pillar of fire rising from under my feet, and cut the flying black sphere.

    all.

    He got a hint from the devil''s words and stunned the guards who rushed to him while ignoring the defense.

    Due to the intrusion of the devil, the knights pulled out, so Serpens had to deal with them alone.

    I groaned, and I got angry.

    Hey, you devil with no pride! Are you afraid of one-on-one? Huh?!

    Of course not scared!

    " Uh, that''s right?"

    Not the reaction I expected.

    Feelings of embarrassment or absurdity swelled up at the demonic attitude that was so imposing.

    It wasn''t just me who felt that way. The thumping noise reminiscent of a construction site stopped for a moment.

    Sir Zion...!

    After the demon appeared, Serpence spoke for the first time.

    Judging from the fact that he even gave it the title "Kyung", the meaning of ''Don''t upset me, it''s shutting down] .'' was clear.

    To put it mildly, it is a warning not to be exposed to danger by attracting the devil''s gaze.

    It was a warning.

    Yes, you were there?

    The devil grinned. It was just an ordinary laugh, but I felt a sense of dignity.

    Is this unfortunate or fortunate?

    It was someone other than me that caught his attention.

    "There, you you were originally supposed to be on our side, weren''t you?"

    Unconsciously, his gaze turned to Winston. Then, his eyes met with Winston, who was looking around while being alert to the devil''s words.

    His two eyes fluttered.

    ''I made a mistake!''

    He pretended to be looking elsewhere and avoided his gaze, but it was already too late.

    We didn''t mean to harm you. We were just trying to train you to become stronger. Excuse me for not asking for consent in the process. It was to give you the power to get revenge...

    The devil was always talking nonsense all the time.

    It''s a rationalizing remark like the previous Duke of Prasidus or a beggar.

    ''It''s like they''re obsessed with scouts!''

    I know that the evil forces are in the mainstream of warlocks, so a skilled vanguard is desperately needed, but this is still very poor.

    Serpens ran to block the devil''s mouth, but had to retreat because of the spear blade that suddenly rose from under his feet.

    Serpence! For now, ignore the stupid demons and guards and solve the warlocks first!

    However .

    What the hell are you worried about?!

    It seems that his head is already filled with thoughts that the devil must shut his mouth.

    What kind of possibility did you see in the words of the devil that you can''t find even if you wash your eyes and search for persuasion? .

    Do you really think your handsome master really considers you a knight? You''re wrong! To the end, we''re just watching you out of fear that you''ll stick with us!

    Oh, that''s it.

    This was a lot to worry about. That way, we''ll get to know each other sooner rather than later.

    ''If I had left Winston to attack me at the very least, the devil wouldn''t have noticed so easily!''

    It is a disaster he has brought on his own. Even the catastrophe was a real-time escalation.

    Anyone can see that Serpence was agitated.

    Without being able to deliver a single blow, he ran towards the devil.

    At times like this, even though I know that I have to ignore it, my eyes keep turning to this side because I am worried. slow to act

    lost.

    ''Hey man, you ! Don''t look this way, don''t you turn your eyes?''

    He sent a signal with his expression and glance, but to no avail.

    Rather than the words of the devil, Serpense''s actions shook Winston. With a blank expression on his face, he could tell how shocked Winston was.

    Seeing that, the devil burst into madness.

    Khahahaha! Look, that distrust towards you! We don''t. A strong man who protects the front of the master who believes in you.

    Don''t you want your shield to become a sharp sword that cuts through your master''s enemies?

    It''s all dog shit.

    It was said that they would use a meat shield as a sword and arrowhead, and drive them to slaughter innocent people.

    Rather, it would be more harsh to seduce you by saying, ''When you come to my house, I''ll take you for a walk every day and play ball together''.

    He really wants you. He will be your true lord!

    I''ve been talking about it since a while ago, but my name is

    Do you know and scout?"

    what?

    "The basics of scouting aren''t there, the basics! If you didn''t know, you should have known, right?"

    I remembered everyone calling me a black knight in [Master of the Holy Sword], so I stabbed him a bit. It was still something I had done.

    He doesn''t know his name. And it will be the same for the Demon King.

    Sir Winston, you can just ignore what the devil says.

    Did you know that your main specialty is alienation? It''s all about trying to put things between us.

    Did you say Sir Winston? The reason you didn''t confirm your name was because he was going to give you a new name, and you thought that the old name didn''t matter! There''s no need to listen to the author. Aren''t you just blurry?

    I wonder if there are all these immoral bastards.

    Is it okay to go ahead with such a strategy without even looking at the demon king?

    It''s ridiculous, I can''t speak.

    Come on, Black Knight! We desperately want a faithful knight like you! Break that barrier and hand him over to us!

    What the devil says, ''He is a word that refers to me, needless to say, �[��.

    Somehow, it seems to have become a kitchen towel for an event attached to a 24-roll toilet paper.

    It''s not enough to break up between Winston and Serpence, and trying to take care of myself is too greedy.

 CH 239

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 239

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (14)

    Winston is a man of integrity and justice.

    The reason he went the wrong way in [Master of the Holy Sword] is because of his former master and his demons, who can''t even remember their names anymore.

    If only I had met the right master from the start. The demons are looking at him

    If I hadn''t

    Winston would never have been so corrupted.

    ''Didn''t you even show your disgust when you were told the tricks of the Fallen fence?''

    But in the end, seeing Winston moving as planned, he despised and ridiculed Corruption for being a contradictory man.

    Now that I think about it, it seems that Corkpence was looking at his past in him and demeaning himself.

    Humanus, on the other hand, saw possibilities in him. He found the light buried in the darkness and reached out his hand.

    You are not the kind of person who would be in such a place, and he suggested that you stop playing evil and join them.

    But Winston refused the touch.

    The reason was that he was already a magician who made a contract with the devil, and he killed a lot of people, and he couldn''t abandon the grace that saved him.

    Without knowing that the enemy who drove him to the limit was a demon.

    They were made fun of by them, and they sacrificed their lives as their faithful dog.

    ''Evil, devil, demon lord, everyone

    Why are you really buying it?!

    In any case, the conclusion is that Winston will never fall for the devil''s words, even if he is tormented by them.

    The problem right now is Serpens.

    Like a rippling wave, Serpens''s sword, which drew a flowing flow, lost its leisure and moved in a straight line.

    The softness disappeared, and bitterness and sharpness stood at the tip of the sword.

    '' Are you going to catch someone like that?''

    The speed itself seems to have slowed down, but a pounding sound that had not been heard until recently began to be heard.

    Nettle liquid, the sound of ripping through the air is quite intimidating.

    Even before the sword reached its destination, the strong wind shuddered the opponent.

    It is a heaven and earth difference from before, when only the breeze fluttered in the passing place.

    The guards, unable to withstand the fierce prestige, could not easily approach them and retreated.

    ''Huh? When did the number go down like that?''

    The number of security guards standing with their feet on the ground can be counted on one hand.

    The number of warlocks remained the same, but that was unavoidable.

    It''s because Serpens couldn''t penetrate deep between them, keeping a distance where he could run to me right away.

    Fortunately, the number of escorts was greatly reduced, so the warlocks were drawing only small magic circles that could be formed quickly.

    If that''s the case, Serpence won''t be in any danger, so I think you can rest assured.

    What are you hesitating about! Come on.

    attack!

    As his side was shrinking in real time, the devil who said he was afraid of one-on-one shouted again.

    I don''t know how Masae has structured this lineup so that such a coward came out from the very beginning.

    How selfish are the demons who are dealing with Serpens?

    You''ve been worshiping that guy!

    Just imagining it is far-fetched

    If I were an evil spirit, my morale would drop and seep to the ground

    would have disappeared

    ''A popular operation that stimulates the protective instinct to attract knights?''

    It''s unlikely, but it''s too unsightly to say that. If I were on the same side of a guy like that, I wouldn''t be able to hold my head up because I would be embarrassed.

    I was curious about what the scouted party would think, so I looked at Winston''s expression.

    He was troubled with a serious expression on his face.

    You''re looking at Winston with a blank look, he feels my gaze and he looks at me

    saw.

    Is what the devil said true?

    "What do you mean?"

    The reason why my lord accepted me as a knight.

    The reason for asking this question to me, not Serpence, is probably because of the setting of ''God''s character''. The question is whether he knew the future in that way.

    There was no sign of anger or agitation in their gaze.

    When we first met, the golden eyes glowing with a calm and calm light

    was strapped

    I don''t want to face those eyes and tell a lie.

    But is it okay to make excuses?

    I''m not saying it''s not without excuses, though, because I don''t know if they''ll come up with some dirty tricks to bring Sir Winston back to the floor. In the process...

    Okay. That''s enough.

    Winston cut my horse in half.

    It wasn''t that he didn''t want to hear any excuses. Rather take a long time

    He seemed relieved, as if he had found the answer to a problem he had not been able to solve.

    Yes! Break the barrier as it is! Kill all the humans in this place and offer them as sacrifices!

    All of a sudden the devil mumbled strange things.

    Could there be more demons hiding among the auction house customers?

    Me and Winston checked the podium. People who had given up on breaking down the walls gathered together, waiting only for a chance to escape.

    Somehow I felt cheap.

    Cuckoo...!

    Just listening to it made it sound like it was suffocating.

    Looking back, Serpens'' sword was piercing through someone''s stomach. It is a hostage that the devil shakes like a toy.

    I couldn''t see it in person, but the situation at the time was roughly pictured in my mind.

    The moment Serpence counterattacked while avoiding the demon''s attack, the demon must have shouted.

    He was distracted for a moment by caring about my safety, and the result was

    the current situation

    ''What kind of nonsense was that? .''

    Winston was just a bait.

    From the beginning, it was clear that the intention was to induce Serpence to show a gap.

    And the operation seems to have been remarkably successful.

    The guy froze in surprise as he held out his sword.

    Serpens turned his head slowly and his eyes met. He was trembling with terrified eyes.

    completely defenseless.

    ''Where did the devil go?!''

    Whether it was a splash or where he was hiding and looking for an opportunity, I couldn''t see it anywhere.

    First of all, the important thing is Serpens. That kind of devil doesn''t really matter.

    Chi, calm down! He''s not dead yet! Slowly draw the sword and heal...

    Heuk-!

    Shut up...

    It happened so quickly, sleep

    The crash has stopped.

    ''What just happened?''

    Serpens listened to me in a panic and slowly drew his sword.

    But the trembling hand seemed to not be able to do what he wanted, and the guy started crying.

    Seeing that defenseless appearance as an opportunity, the guard monkey ran at Serpens... .

    ''The surprised guy reflexively drew his sword and swung it... Ji?''

    After that, red blood splashes everywhere.

    Something heavy fell to the floor with a thud.

    Oh, that''s definitely dead.

    Ugh...!

    I was so embarrassed that the words came out without going through my brain.

    Those words became a fuse, and the cry that Serpense had been holding back leaked out.

    Yes. I rang the serpence in front of a lot of people.

    Wait, senior...?

    Wait a minute, let me understand the situation.

    I will.

    Winston called me with the expression that he had seen something bizarre, but delayed answering for a moment.

    Let''s think about it.

    The external fence has not yet killed anyone.

    Most of the Akseungs I met during this time died on their own, and those who survived were captured. One escaped, but that was the exception.

    An external fence with a soft heart that can''t kill bugs, even when slaughtering monsters in a mountain range overflowing with monsters.

    The official murder is today.

    This is the moment.

    ''A person called an aide cannot heal the heart of a wounded boss! You sound like you''re definitely dead, so obviously it''s weird!''

    But right now, I''m too embarrassed and confused, so I don''t know what happened.

    ''No, what''s going on?''

    Serpens didn''t want to kill in front of me, but the mean devil''s dirty shit and the human shield.

    I had committed a murder before.

    And the guy who thought I might be afraid of him took the lever and started crying.

    ''Okay, the situation is over!''

    No one approached him now, probably because he thought that if he approached Serpence he might be killed accidentally.

    ''Can I go out?''

    I thought it would be okay to go out from the inside, so I reached out my hand. Unfortunately, I felt a hard film.

    Even before the danger disappeared, I guess I knew how to roam around the barrier at will.

    Serpence''s mind became unstable and the barrier''s light was noticeably weaker, but it was not at a level that I could break with my own strength.

    ''If Serpence, who was in a panic after asking Winston to wake him up for nothing, misunderstood, wouldn''t it be a big deal?''

    Thinking back on it, the whereabouts of the devil are not certain, but it seems too dangerous to go outside the barrier.

    ''Oh, I''m really anxious to death!''

    If you see that it still hasn''t come out, did the devil jump out because he was scared?

    It seems that the monkeys are also looking at the liver to sneak away, can I miss it?

    I''m also worried about Yujis without contact.

    I, over there... Duke? Serpens? It''s fine, so please calm down.

    It can''t be all right.

    I was trying to appease Serpence, but Winston spoke up in a complicated voice.

    Bewildered for a while. him and i

    I soon realized that the subject of what I was saying was different.

    "It happened in an unprepared situation, so it will be even more difficult."

    Well, that''s right.

    It''s a little late, but it''s a kind of custom that anyone who wields a weapon goes through at least once. I''m sure your lord will overcome it.

    The only person who can understand my feelings in this dark area right now is Eugenes, but he is not by my side.

    Winston isn''t bad, but right now. Wait a minute, Yujis

    I thought it would be nice to have it replaced.

    "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    it''s nothing.

    If it''s because of the devil''s words, don''t worry.

    ''''Yes?

    The only thing the devil talked so hard about was alienation.

    I think I want to say that I have no intention of joining the evil forces and that I have no intention of withdrawing from my knighthood oath.

    I''ve known for a long time that my lord doesn''t trust me.

    Unless it''s Humanus, anyone can''t help but notice.

    I really don''t know why. I was just vaguely... I was thinking that it must be because I couldn''t entrust important tasks due to my lack of skills. But now I know the real reason, right? Prove me without haste It''s a matter of doing it.

    Thank you very much.

    But I wasn''t the one to listen, and I''m now a serpent

    I am very concerned about the condition of

    "Because the lord is loathsome to his people, he is concerned that they will get hurt, and he is only paying attention and being vigilant. Isn''t that a lot of doubt?"

    I agree with the previous statement, but I do not agree with the statement that there is not much doubt.

    what to do

    Therefore, I have no intention of blaming the master. There are many people to protect, so please understand that there is no choice but to do so.

    That means that Serpens is mentally ill in narcissism.

    When you''re ready, tell me again, will you go and comfort me or bring me back?

    My job is to protect you.

    weird.

    Hearing what you just said, you seemed like a very flexible person, but now you can''t find a flexible loan either.

 CH 240

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 240

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (15)

    Serpence was still smirking, but was only surprised for a moment.

    Judging from the fact that he doesn''t even run away and keeps a close eye on him, it''s not serious.

    With the reaction speed you just saw, even if the devil suddenly jumps out and surprises you, it won''t be a problem.

    ''Ugh, I really thought my heart was going to fall!''

    I''m going to have to give it a go when I get home. I can''t finish meowing today.

    Is it reasonable to say that the enemy was hesitating because he was worried about the harm of others1 and the enemy was attacking him for his own life?

    Where is that?

    Aren''t you distracted by other places-, are you suspicious of your comrades, or are you preoccupied with the battle situation?

    How can I not worry about this

    Sun?!''

    Even though I am in a place where I can see it, how much worse it is in a place where I am not.

    Wouldn''t it have been caught even if Ak Seung-yi threw a typical voice phishing comment such as ''I''m kidnapping your aide''?

    Even if he wasn''t completely deceived, he would have gotten caught up in the enemy''s pace while in a hurry.

    ''Even a first-year elementary school student who runs his first errand must have sold less than him!''

    Now the year is changing (twenty) six years old

    Even now, the spirit is still a baby, baby.

    If this is enough, you should call Vivi hyung.

    '' Is that your brother?''

    Where did you hear the sound of the genealogy twisting?

    We reached a reasonable agreement just to have them call me hyung.

    You should have decided on the penalties, now it''s your turn to deal with the things in front of you.

    "What are you all doing? Aren''t you catching the demons?''

    " Yes?

    "What are the monkeys , no, we yo?!"

    When I spoke to the people gathered on the podium, they answered with a smirk.

    that si. The demons were slowly approaching the door while watching Serpens.

    My words were the accelerator, and a monkey grabbed the doorknob.

    - Rumble, Rumble!

    The door didn''t open.

    When you think about it, it''s normal. Because the door was locked from the outside.

    It was an act that I had done to confine people on my own, but it was a sudden evacuation.

    A demon that can turn into smoke could seep through the cracks in the door and open the door, but he couldn''t see a single hair as he really ran away.

    do it I was still scared, but seeing Serpence''s One-Shot to Kill, it was worth it.

    Evil is an abbreviation for demon worshiper.

    Quiet, what I said to you is correct. They and you both ate the same thing because they tried to run away, so shouldn''t it be possible to do something extenuating?"

    Ah !

    The demons use magic! They''re about to break the door! Hurry, Hurry!

    I couldn''t have arrested everyone here anyway.

    Even if you make them pay for their sins, not now. It is right to catch the demon after the problem is solved.

    I don''t think these guys with clean backs

    Hey, if you go there and shave it off, things will come out.

    Perhaps they realized the intent of my words, the knights who had been fighting in the front row quickly jumped out and subdued the demons.

    Serpens had most of the guards stunned, so things went fast.

    ''Isn''t it really a rope, not a bed or blanket, that is essential for living in this world? ?''

    Following Serpence and Eugenes, a rope came out of Winston''s subspace pocket.

    However, today''s harvested succulents had so many numbers, so there was no way they could do it. Reluctantly, I tore their clothes and tied them up.

    It''s quite lax, but unless it''s a magic constraint sphere, it''s there.

    ''And at the same time, as many as the number of warlocks + 1, magic constraint balls are rolling on the floor!''

    Today, the demons are learning what it means to be harmed by their schemes, and they are starting to learn very deeply.

    While looking at the learning site with joy, I was lying on the floor.

    The military song stood up from the booth.

    One of the guards who had passed out was waking up, but upon closer inspection, the clothes are different.

    A person who was used as a devil''s meat shield.

    '' Hey, was that guy alive?''

    I thought it was a two-kill, but it was a one-kill.

    I thought there was no hope because Serpens dropped his hand so much while stabbed.

    A faint white light flickered from the hand holding the stomach.

    It seems that he saved his life with his own heel.

    I died and came back to life, so I just need to rest.

    He exerted his wounded fighting spirit for extenuating circumstances, and jumped into the task of tying up the stunned monkey.

    ''Oh oh !''

    It is the feeling of wanting to give him 120 points out of 100 for his tenacity and even give him a standing ovation.

    While the demons are being subdued, Serpens seems to have subsided in surprise. The tears seem to have stopped.

    I think I calmed down after seeing what I said and did as usual.

    But maybe I was worried about the blood covered in it, he couldn''t get closer and looked at me from a distance.

    It wasn''t like that during a fierce battle, and it wasn''t that Serpens had a hobby of dipping blood.

    I was able to avoid myself enough. Failure to do so was evidence that he was confused.

    ''There is no sunfish ��

    I motioned for Serbokchi to come closer.

    After hesitating, he took off his cloak covered in blood and rubbed his face before approaching.

    As he got closer, the smell of fishy blood wafted through him. It''s not unbearable.

    Are there any injuries?

    Was that the first thing you said to me while I was watching in a safe shield?

    "Is that what I think I should ask?"

    Hey, this is my blood...

    I have eyes too, I''ve seen them all.

    Serpence seems to be concerned about the blood that splashed on his face. He rubbed his face with his shirt sleeve.

    I can''t tell if it''s because of the blood on my red cheeks, or because I rubbed my skin too much.

    There are a lot of things I want to say, but I''ll go back and do it.

    "Ummm sorry for the ugly appearance."

    The boy bowed his head as if embarrassed.

    By the way, the devil? Did he completely run away?

    I still feel a presence. It seems to be hiding somewhere here, so please stay out of the way.

    I thought I was scared and ran away again.

    I''m glad Winston dried it.

    Serpens bowed his head slightly to Winston, who stood by me until the end, even though he did not believe me.

    With a complex expression of gratitude and regret.

    They too have to go back and share.

    He seemed very angry.

    You don''t know what''s going on outside? Haven''t you heard from Eugene?

    There was no contact, but a considerable divine power is felt outside.

    The conversation between the two of them is not something to be talked about in front of others.

    I pretended I didn''t know and asked Serpens another question, and he answered right away.

    "A divine power?"

    It seems that the master of the holy sword has come.

    Ah, that''s right! Go to the Second Prince, His Majesty.

    Did I tell you?"

    It looks like he passed through the gate.

    If that''s the case, he''d have joined with Eugese, so I think we can let go of our worries.

    ''Is it because of Humanus that the devil said he was busy?''

    Even so, it is

    Even Serpence is scary, but if the master of the Holy Sword appears, I won''t be able to handle it.

    How did you get the timing right!

    "When I visited the Second Prince, His Majesty,

    I left you a letter asking you not to come here and be prepared for any unforeseen events in the capital.

    If you saw that the date and time were just right, you would have written it down.

    The fact that Humanus came here even after receiving the letter means that there were no problems on earth or that there was only a small disturbance.

    ''This is Yu who Serpens wrote such a letter, what... .''

    It must have been to protect the earth, but that was the second.

    The biggest reason is humanus and darkness

    Maybe it''s because he didn''t want to hang out in the family.

    I understand. However .

    "Have I not heard of that?"

    Ah... When I visited the Second Prince, I suddenly remembered that I had to leave a letter...

    The guy made excuses with a look on his face.

    It means that he left the letter as soon as he wrote it and didn''t have time to get me checked out.

    Serpens muffles his tongue and makes a pitiful expression on his face, it''s crazy

    all.

    ''Even if it''s not, the disgraceful title of an aide who made a boss cry, what will I become if you come out like that?

    There are some things I did wrong, so I''m going to hit it with the teacher in moderation.

    "No, that''s I was a little worried because I didn''t hear from Eugene. But I would have been relieved if I had known that His Majesty the Crown Prince was here.

    hand meaning not to worry too much

    and exaggeratedly exaggerated.

    It''s also Jimshi''s expression on the guy''s face. It soon got darker.

    You must be thinking that I am forcing myself to pretend to be bright.

    ''Oh my gosh, you look like you''ve become a terrible aide in the world who made your boss cry twice!''

    Even the target is the Duke of Phra Sidus, who has an angelic face and a gentle and kind heart.

    There is no evil garbage that is second to none in the world.

    However, if you rant here, only his black history will be created. Terrible dilemma.

    In this case, it is best to just change the topic.

    But what about all those demons?

    I''m going to use the cave entrance. If you include the Crown Prince and his companions, even by waking them up and making them walk, you will be able to control it well enough.

    "Then, wouldn''t it be more convenient to weave them in one line?"

    I deliberately said in a loud voice

    And the effect appeared immediately.

    The monkeys were woven into a long string by the auction house customers like gulbi.

    And if your Majesty comes, you will be able to immediately find the hidden demon with the power of the Holy Sword.

    Finding a demon within a certain distance is one of the main functions of the Holy Sword.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], it was useful when chasing demons or escaping from them.

    Can''t you find the Duke?

    The devil has spread his energy widely, so I don''t know where the main body is. If I had tracked the energy from the moment of fogging, it would have been possible, but... I missed it because of my lack.

    External fences have been intruding, but in the end, it is said that they do not know.

    Judging from what the mistletoe is doing, it means that it is hiding somewhere in a crevice, but there must be one or two crevices.

    There is no way to know whether it was hiding in someone''s puffy robe or seeping through the hard armor.

    It is not a standardized form, and there is no guarantee that the fog will move in bulk.

    If you spread the divine power widely? I saw earlier that even in the fog state, it seems to be affected by the divine power.

    It is difficult to inflict damage enough to reveal itself enough to spread it lightly. However, it will consume a considerable amount to fill this space with divine power. To deal with the devil in that state...

    Ah, then that''s it.

    I thought the explanation would be long, so

    roughly cut off

    Why don''t you just wipe it out with a torch? It''s the power to burn only the unclean.

    " are you serious?"

    My words are always full of sincerity.

    Serpence''s eyes lit up. His slightly open mouth and wide-open eyes let him know that he is astonished.

    And at my answer that followed, he put on a gloomy expression.

    The dynamic facial expression change is disconcerting.

    It''s like, ''I saw something terrible in front of my eyes, and I went crazy with that shock... It''s like saying .'' I don''t know what Serpense''s gaze meant.

    Besides, all of a sudden, you hear a loud roaring noise around you.

    What am I missing?

    "What the hell was that reaction?"

    It''s nothing. I just don''t know how to say so radically that Lord Zion should burn these demon worshipers alive...

    It''s nothing, asshole!

    It was only natural that the body of a warlock with black magic was included in the unclean thing burned by the torch.

    I was missing the obvious part.

    In other words, I unwittingly ordered the slaughter of Serpens.

    Chwi, chwisop! Duke, please cancel it!

    You], then I''ll just wait.

    Yes, yes! I hope you do!

    I''m so glad Serpens didn''t carry out my words right away and confirmed it.

    I breathed a sigh of relief inwardly.

 CH 241

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 241

    43. The Duke and the Demon of Darkness (16)

    By the way, Duke.

    "You only called me by my first name, so are you the Duke again?"

    Anytime when you are told to be careful not to make a naming mistake.

    Serpens had a gloomy expression on her face, saying that she now calls her the Duke. Myself

    Maybe he''s worried that he''ll feel distanced from seeing him harm him.

    I feel like I''m on the same level in front of others, so I''m reflecting on myself. We decided to eat with friends, but shouldn''t we keep the public and the living?

    Are you really okay?

    Did you say something I couldn''t say?

    For some reason, Serpens said, ''My aide can''t say something like this... ?'' he said in a nuance.

    His face is full of anxiety and nervousness.

    It looked like he was anxious to get me out of the barrier, grab my head, and look around to see if there were any injuries or mental abnormalities.

    It is a hypersensitivity reaction.

    Rather than worrying about me, I should take the time to look back on whether I am staying sane.

    This, this! He''s lost his soul and hasn''t come back yet! Calm down. Everyone has a first time. It was just today.

    It looks like he''s going to say something. He opened his mouth and bowed his head with a sorry expression.

    I must have been the one who was really surprised, but it seems that I think that I can''t do tea because of myself.

    I want to return to the mansion soon. When are Humanus and Eugenes coming?

    But you know, Duke. That''s what I was going to say earlier...

    Say it.

    If the Crown Prince comes, you''re sure to catch the devil, right?

    "Yes, I will."

    "Is there any chance of escaping before then?"

    "If there is movement, I can spot it right away."

    That boils down to one conclusion.

    When Serpence is unconscious, he tries to attack, but when he sees his lethality rise vertically again, he seems to be stumbling because he is scared... .

    ''If you just hide like now, you''ll just have to meet the expected ending.''

    The devil must come before Humanus comes.

    will come wet At least it''s better than 2:1

    Instead, this time, the dead will really attack.

    Serpens must have noticed that too.

    Even though he knew that fact, he was gently touching the demon''s anxiety about what to do when Humanus came.

    '' Is this child angry?''

    I pray that it seems like I want to hit him directly.

    Feel the trembling fear of death approaching. Well, it''s like a symbol

    also do

    Don''t worry. The devil will never get out of this place.

    If it was a normal external fence, he would have said it softly with a smile telling him to be safe.

    Now he spoke firmly with a face full of determination.

    Not even an assumption that there won''t be. declared unequivocally.

    And suddenly he reached out to me.

    - Kwaang һ!!

    Suddenly, there was a loud roar from behind, and a cracking sound was heard from somewhere.

    Serpence''s hand came in, ignoring the Holy Barrier, snatched my wrist and pulled it out.

    - Clap!

    Ahh!

    With how quickly he pulled it, his body slightly floated in the air. Damn it because he kept holding his hand, no

    Had it been, I would have been thrown and rolled on the floor.

    After putting my feet on the ground and barely balancing, I looked back at where I was standing.

    ''I heard that tigers come when I say them, but the devil takes another bite and attacks?!''

    Could it be because he thought that Serpens would no longer hesitate even with humans?

    The devil ate the shape of the bowl and revealed his true form.

    Overlooking Winston''s crown

    large enough to be present. The black body, whose eyes couldn''t even tell where it was, was swaying without a definite shape.

    The black smoke emanating from his body was reminiscent of soot from a factory chimney, and just looking at it made the air feel stuffy.

    Serpence stopped the demon''s attack in front of me.

    A thin three sword scattering silver light intercepted his fleshly fists that were rising from a black haze.

    As the sword slashed the magic that wrapped around his fist and burrowed inside, it immediately distorted its shape and became a mist that swept over us.

    Suck-!

    I stopped breathing instinctively, but it was an unnecessary action.

    Serpence grabbed me by my side and stepped back.

    ''No, what . okay. Of course you''re going to hit me, huh... .''

    Even when wielding the hostage as a shield, Serpence tried to dodge and attack.

    It''s not intentional, but after taking the hostage once. There was nothing that could not be done twice.

    What''s more, the guy who was beaten up was still alive and moving. There is a strong possibility that the attack will be carried out within the limit of not getting hurt and not dying.

    If it''s a Serpence, it''s possible enough.

    On the other hand, how was it when you treated me?

    Even after reassuring safety, he continued to express his anxiety. perfect as a hostage

    It has one requirement.

    I bet, if I were in the hands of the devil, Serpens wouldn''t even be able to wield a sword.

    ''Oh, I''m sick inside... .''

    Even if it wasn''t, my stomach was churning, but Serpens heard it. It''s like you''re going to die because you''re shaking so hard in a position that puts pressure on your stomach.

    The devil wears magic and uses physical power to attack it head-on, but he also naively shoots magic at me. When the Serpence sword is swung, it flattens like a mist and we

    rushed towards

    Even if the mist penetrates the respiratory tract, Serpence will be able to deal with it with divine power, but I can''t.

    Because of that, Serpens had no choice but to step back, swinging his sword wide.

    ''Really, let me die after you die, that''s just the prize?!''

    The snout, which had been fluttering arrogantly before before, had vaporized and even disappeared, the devil just attacked without a word.

    Defending moderately and aiming for gaps

    The strategy seems to have been abandoned.

    However, Serpence didn''t just stop and dodge.

    The demon''s body made of mist did not shed a single drop of blood no matter how much he cut. There is no reason for him to hesitate to swing his sword.

    The sacred power of Serpens'' sword rose like a blazing flame.

    The destructive power and cutting power will be greatly reduced, but it is more advantageous to widen the area of the divine power to deal with the devil who freely turns his body into fog.

    all.

    Ugh...!

    Without a mouth, the devil groaned.

    Serpence was moving around and avoiding the demon''s attack, but suddenly ran up and swung his sword.

    no hesitation in movement

    As time passed, the particles that made up the devil gradually consumed, and my stomach fluctuated and ran wild.

    I shut my mouth desperately.

    Uhhh... uhhhhhhhhh...

    Slowly, the limit was approaching.

    And it seems I''m not the only one facing the limit.

    What would happen if you were prepared to die and attacked using all sorts of lethal techniques, but did not inflict any damage on your opponent?

    If one''s own life fades away, but the other person is fine.

    And if the moment of death is approaching every minute.

    Now the size of a child, the Fog Demon flew swiftly towards the exit.

    Escape is impossible if you think rationally. But in the face of an irresistible force, that was all the devil could do.

    Serpence, who reached the limit, threw me at Winston, and slammed the ground vigorously.

    Like a comet moving with its long tail, it flew away with her long blue-silver hair...

    Unfortunately I didn''t see it. because.

    Week

    I really did my best.

    Cover your mouth with both hands. I can endure it, I have to endure it, repeating countless times.

    To minimize the shaking, he curled up and grabbed Serpens''s arms with his elbows and thighs.

    So I endured and endured.

    Without any preparation, it was thrown away. Because of the shock he received from colliding with Winston.

    In the end, the dam fell.

    Are you okay...so?

    Winston vomits in his arms.

    patted my back carefully and asked.

    How dare you doubt the loyalty of such a good and just knight, such a savage fence!

    ''Serpence, you bastard! Seolmi knew I had reached the limit and passed it on to Winston, didn''t I?''

    That''s a reasonable doubt. Anyone other than me would have thought the same.

    I can''t forgive you any more

    I''m sorry...

    Ah, no. It''s fine it''s fine.

    Winston''s voice saying it''s okay

    How did it sound like it was ripped off?

    While I was working so hard to recall the lunchbox I ate earlier, another hand, not Winston''s, was placed on my back.

    I immediately felt a sense of calm in my stomach.

    Are you okay?

    It was Serpens.

    I stared at him, pulling my head off Winston''s chest. The guy who received the gaze shuddered and shrugged.

    As if I''m so sorry I don''t know what to do

    make a face

    a familiar face Now, I am not the type to easily fall for that number.

    But there were too many eyes watching.

    ''I''ll pass this one time, really! Next time, there will be no soup!''

    Promising the next, I wiped my lips with my sleeve.

    "What about the devil?"

    It''s over.

    Sighs of relief erupted from here and there at Serpence''s words.

    And at the same time.

    - Kwaang!!

    The entrance door was also blown.

    Beyond the door, the holy sword party, including Eugene and Humanus, stood proudly.

    "Are you all okay?!"

    Seppy! I''m here!!

    Eugenes confirmed our well-being, and Humanus

    If he hadn''t drawn his holy sword, he would have mistaken himself for coming to play.

    Welcome back. Would you like to check if there are any demons around?

    Did you miss it?!

    ''''I caught it, but because the summoned demon has the ability to turn into fog... . Please confirm it with the power of the Holy Sword.

    Serpens just ignored Humanus''s greetings, and made him work hard.

    In a tone that seemed to work hard, Humanus

    He said, holding the holy sword with both hands, closing his eyes and concentrating.

    Meanwhile, Serpence talked to Eugene.

    Are you all right, Eugene? Since you haven''t heard from me, Lord Zion was very worried.

    "Only Zion? Wasn''t Serpens worried about me?"

    I was very worried, too.

    He smiled softly, hiding his intentions that the tactic fence was going as planned.

    He sold me to avoid answering the question if I was okay.

    After swearing at me in part, I turned Yu-Jis''s attention to that.

    Ugh... what does this smell like?

    Where did the squeaky sound come from? When I checked the direction of the sound, Anima was clutching her nose.

    She glanced up and down at me and Winston, then lifted the staff in her hand.

    A magical thread was embroidered in the air.

    In an instant, the magic circle was completed, and it became a blue wind, wrapped around me and Winston''s body and disappeared.

    The vomit that I evacuated also disappeared.

    The wet clothes became soft and fresh as if they had just been washed and put in the dryer.

    In front of great magic, the law of conservation of mass went home without even showing a business card.

    After performing a surprising move, as if this was nothing, she shortened the staff taller than herself to a small stick the size of a span and tucked them into her sleeve.

    thank you!

    Thank you.

    Eww , there you rinse your mouth or something.

    As Winston and I thanked him, Anima took a step back and disappeared behind Liena''s back.

    Now that it''s time to say thanks, I decided to take it as a sign of taking care of my own body.

    ''If you had opened your mouth earlier, would you have even gargled?

    To ask for an encore, I''m still close with her.

    Reluctantly, he took water out of his pocket and rinsed his mouth.

    Anima-sama didn''t mean it with bad intentions.

    Liena spoke on behalf of the woman hiding behind her back with an apologetic expression.

    "Yes, I know.''''

    Thank you for your understanding.

    Through [Master of the Holy Sword], I already knew who the anima was.

    she avoids strangers and attacks

    Talking negatively is just an instinct to protect your self-esteem.

 CH 242

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 242

    44. The Duke and the Dark House Later (1)

    So, in the end, Shion...who ran with it?

    Eugene asked.

    The prime suspect is Serpens, but it was Winston who was covered in vomit and water.

    A certain demon appeared and

    It seems that he is more concerned about the battle than with the .

    ''That was the decisive factor, but... .''

    I didn''t know that I would come up with it before any other possibility.

    To Serpence, ''What had foretold the catastrophe that could occur when fighting with me seemed to have been erroneously engraved in Eugene''s brain.

    ''Still, there''s a corpse over there,'' huh?''

    Now that I look at it, I wasn''t in a hurry. The robe that Serpens took off

    covered the body.

    I was unconsciously trying not to look at it, so I just discovered it.

    If it''s not a big deal, it''s an action that doesn''t matter. But sometimes these small considerations can make a bigger impression.

    ''Oh, if that''s the case, I shouldn''t have weakened my heart when I''m scolding you later... .''

    In retrospect, it happened because I was taken care of.

    The ego starts to fight with the ego that says it should be stingy at least once.

    my butt hurts

    Weren''t you sick...?

    I suddenly frowned and asked Yu-Jis as if worried.

    It''s not something that can be done right now. I''ll have to postpone my worries to narcissism.

    That''s right, motion sickness. The Duke was fighting for me, and at the decisive moment he threw it at Sir Winston.

    I didn''t do it on purpose. The devil was trying to run away, so I ran after him.

    cover... .

    Eugenes looked at Serpens with his mouth wide open, and he hesitated to make excuses with an embarrassed expression.

    Her gaze turned to me this time. I''m going to ask you if what he''s saying is true.

    I shrugged my shoulders to indicate that I didn''t know, and Serpens''s eyebrows drew an arm.

    "Then why did you bring your aide to this place?"

    I''m chasing Serpens, but Humanus, who has finished detecting the demon, doesn''t notice.

    intervened

    This is a sharp question on the subject of Humanus.

    "What was the result?"

    Huh? Demon detection? Nothing.

    I''m lucky. I have to hand over the personalities of the demon worshipers today, so it''s better to postpone the investigation here and return to the capital of Iman.

    Thus, Humanus'' question was immediately ignored.

    I didn''t notice, but Humanus, who knew the priority of work, took his eyes off me and looked around.

    Are those tied up over there demon lords?

    Yes, that''s right.

    "Then what about the others?"

    These are those who participated as guests in the auction house.

    "Are you saying they''re the ones who usually go to the dark area?"

    Humanus'' eyes sharpened.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], Humanus was angry at the presence of a cancer hump. It''s not about leaving this place unattended, it''s about the scent

    It''s probably because you can''t see people who used to enjoy rock.

    But you helped subdue the demon worshipers.

    Sepi, you''re too broad-minded, so you''re wearing a mask.

    I was so broad-minded, I sometimes gave my readers sweet potatoes, and Humanus, who heard the sound of hogu, cast a southern fire on me.

    "Not everyone here has come to this place with a bad heart. After hearing the rumor that the sacred stone is being put up for auction, it has fallen into the hands of greedy people.

    not to go in. Maybe some of you have come to deliver it to the church, don''t you?

    Serpens put his hand on his chest and said in a nuanced tone, ''I believe that the people of this world are good!''

    Everyone gathered here, including Serpens, knows how absurd that is.

    "Shin Seong-seok?! Did something like that come up?"

    This is a rumor spread by demon worshipers to lure the nobles of the Empire.

    Edo, it is quite possible that you have shed some light on how to get in here and about the Holy Stone.

    "That that''s it."

    Their purpose is to weaken the power of the Empire. Holystone is the bait for it, and to cast them out is what demon worshipers desire most.

    Hearing Serpense''s words, Humanus made a squeaky sound and looked at the auction house customers with a conflicted expression.

    "All of them volunteered to fight the demon worshipers.

    Why don''t you go in and out of black houses and treat sacred objects like ornamental jewels?

    The external fence looked at people with the gaze, ''I trust you.''

    With an angelic innocent face, they dug into their consciences at random.

    Okay, I''ll see Sepi today, so I''ll just pretend I don''t know.

    Thank you for your understanding.

    It''s okay to say goodbye like that. It''s my job to think of the empire. I''m more grateful for your consideration.

    Saying that, Humanus stopped while trying to shoulder Serpens as usual.

    What Serpence said last time must have been a bit of a shock.

    I didn''t think it would be fixed for the rest of my life, but I was expecting a response like this right away.

    That''s why people seem to use shock therapy at the expense of side effects.

    Khhum! Instead, if there is evidence that you went in and out of the dark district later, it will be too early for you, so you better be careful not to get caught.

    Humanus brought his lost hand to the front of his mouth and coughed in vain, threatening the shop customers for nothing.

    Everyone had their sins committed, so they bowed their heads and crawled on their own.

    One of them stood out in particular. He leaned back and hid himself behind the other''s back.

    Ah! There are people who aren''t! There are those who wear colorful masks. Everyone else takes care of themselves when fighting, and the duke is fighting the demon, but what are you doing without protecting yourself?

    I screamed!

    What?! Someone like that devil worshiper?

    Humanus'' eyes sharpened like a knife at my taunt.

    "And there were people who said that if I bought Shin Seong-seok, I would put it on display in a secret place in my house . It was exactly the same as Count Moslicker''s voice I heard at the advisory meeting."

    "When did I , suck!"

    Count Moslicker raised his voice as if it was unfair, then quickly covered his mouth. But it''s already too late.

    "Sefi, don''t you think you should look after those people?"

    " Yes, do as you please."

    Thus, Earl Moslicker and the son of an unknown nobleman were bound together with the demon.

    I also wanted to pierce the names of the other two people on the killing book, but no one would fall for the same trick. Be content with getting rid of the loudest person.

    As he looked at Serpens with a proud expression on his face, he blinked his eyes.

    it was

    It''s a compliment that you did well.

    Well then, we''ll go out first.

    Did you think that if you stayed like this, you might end up in the same situation?

    Someone spoke awkwardly in an artificially low voice.

    "Oh, oh, the gates are all broken, are you okay?"

    He called them up, saying that Humanus had come up late.

    Naturally, I was like, ''Yes, I have a secret doorway.

    It''s okay to know!''

    The existence of the doorway itself was not well known in the first place, so it may be that you are keeping your mouth shut because you don''t know.

    Anxious voices were coming from all over the place, wondering if they were locked up.

    ''What the hell did Humanus do, let the gates be destroyed?

    As the master of the holy sword, there is nothing to do properly.

    If there is a way out, I know. If it''s okay with you, let''s go out together and help the demon worshipers evacuate.

    Would you like to come?"

    For some reason, this comment seems to be an excerpt of some of the quest lines of the game NPCs.

    Because it was a necessary quest to get out of the dark district, there was not a single person who refused Serpence''s offer.

    "Is that also information from the Illuminati?"

    "Did you even hear that?"

    Yeah. So, of course, I thought the Illuminati would also be there... Maybe Sepi, didn''t you just leave the work to you and run away?

    Humanus looked around

    said.

    The tone seemed to be worried about where the innocent Serpence might have been deceived by a suspicious group.

    Even though all the members of the Illuminati are here, you have to be misunderstood!

    Could this be the woe of the secret society?

    At least the dark elves, the masters of the dark district, should be here.

    That''s a hundred times correct.

    Hearing Humanus'' words, Euges can be seen paying attention.

    Even now, he seems to be contemplating whether he should sneak out and wear makeup.

    "That His life or death is uncertain."

    Yes?!

    Serpens shrugged his shoulders and opened his mouth in a sad voice, and Eugene, whose life or death had suddenly become uncertain, was startled and screamed in response.

    Winston didn''t just scream, and his eyes widened at the sight of Serpens lying without saliva on his lips.

    Money is the way to go, tell me as you go

    I''ll give it to you.

    That, yes...

    Seeing Serpens speaking in a gloomy voice, Humanus nodded.

    We woke up the stunned demons and came out of the auction house.

    The scenery outside was a barren ruin itself.

    There was not even a shadow of a human being to be found in the streets.

    All the doors were forcibly ripped off or left wide open, and at first glance, the appearance of broken furniture in between.

    could check

    There were, of course, no money items. It seems that the mob once swept through.

    Euges, what the hell is going on...

    What do you mean the life or death of the Dark House master is uncertain?

    Whether there was, I''ll ask again later.

    Eugenes doesn''t seem in the mood to explain it.

    I promised later, and moved to the seat next to Serpens.

    The person who managed the dark district under him appeared as a magician. Even so, I said that it is strange that the situation in the dark district is going unusually recently... Perhaps, with a high probability, by him...

    Oh, that can''t be!

    As if it was hard to keep up with the words anymore, Serpence blurted out the end of his words and spoke bitterly.

    Eugenes vehemently denied it.

    Isn''t the owner of the dark house a team too?

    It''s not!

    Bur] I met, he wasn''t like that.

    At Humanus''s displeasure, Eugenes wept.

    Serpence also reinforced Eugene''s opinion.

    The owner of the dark house was also wary of him. Although he treats him as a limb because of necessity, he refers to him as a man of the dark house who can betray him at any time. Then...

    "Hey, have hope! Even if you were seriously wounded by fighting the demons, it''s clear that

    You will be alive! Are you the one who conquered the dark district? If that''s enough, you must have prepared some schemes to avoid the body just in case!

    It is a battle between those who want to discard the used settings and those who want to reuse them.

    Looking at Eugenes, who retorted with a desperate expression whether he liked the setting, Serpens smiled faintly.

    Euges'' statement is also true. I think I was too hasty. Yes, you are still alive.

    Looking towards the direction of the Scorpion''s tavern, Serpens spoke with a faint voice.

    Thus, the life and death of the owner of the dark house came to an open end.

 CH 243

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 243

    44. The Duke and the Dark House Later (2)

    Huh? Didn''t the �ڲ� say that Iniri t�� came out earlier? Did you catch them all by yourself?

    Puror, who was following us two or three steps behind us, suddenly asked if he had any doubts.

    Serpense lowered her head with a bitter expression at her question.

    It was purely my mistake that the devil was summoned.

    Yes? It''s a mistake...

    What?! Sefi made a mistake?!

    Puror''s counter-questions were buried by the voice of Humanus.

    He shouted so loudly that Anima, who was walking blankly, was startled and almost fell.

    The demon was summoned using the demon''s body as a vessel. Demon worshipers drew a demon summoning circle on his body and prepared blood jade to be used as a sacrifice, etc.

    was finished.

    "Is it possible to draw a magic circle on a human body?"

    Humanus paused Serpense''s explanation for a moment and looked back at the Anima and asked a question.

    Like an office worker who does nothing on the way home from work due to poor cell phone battery management. The focus returned to Anima''s eyes, which had been lost.

    It''s possible. It''s just that the process of engraving it is painful, and when magic is activated, it sucks not only mana but also life force. Because it''s alive''

    My flow is not stagnant, so in terms of activating the magic circle, it would be better than engraving on inanimate objects?"

    I''ve never heard of magic being used that way...?

    Because it is strictly forbidden in the tower. Even if the target is not a person, it is taboo to engrave magic on living creatures.

    Anima frowned and said with a look of disgust just by hearing it.

    But, if you have a magic circle engraved on your body, you can get a lifeline when you''re in a car.

    Could this be?"

    As if he had heard the word taboo, Furore spoke to the anima with a slightly tempting expression on his face.

    Indeed, he is from a mercenary who risked his life for the rest of his life.

    Anima''s face wrinkled even more at her words.

    "Aren''t you talking about wanting to become a magic test subject at all? It''s artificially twisting the flow and creating a new path that shouldn''t be there. Even if you don''t activate magic, cracks form in your body little by little, and it gradually spreads until eventually.

    will shatter like broken glass?"

    Isn''t it okay to engrave for a short time before an important battle...?

    Assuming you use it in a short period of time, you can endure it once or twice, but if you''re going to use it that way, it''s better to buy a scroll. That''s what a warlock would do.

    " that''s it."

    In response to Anima''s continued explanation, Puror snorted and wiped the back of his neck with his palm with an expression of disappointment.

    Seeing this, the anima snorted and turned her head away.

    Oh, I''m sorry. I''m a little out of touch. Anyway?

    When the speed wagon Anima finished explaining, Humanus spoke to Serpens again.

    If you are an ordinary person, your emotional lines have all collapsed in the meantime, but if you press the smoke fence, go away from the vending machine.

    The guy immediately made a sad expression on his face.

    if . I killed him right away...

    Otherwise, the devil would not have been summoned.

    uh ?

    But I couldn''t do that. Even though I knew the opponent was a demon... I hesitated to take his life with his sword pointed at him. Just because he was once a man and wore human skin .

    Well, come to think of it... Sepi, you''ve never been there before.

    No object was needed.

    At Humanus'' words, Serpens burst into tears with a face that could not be helped.

    and nodded.

    Someday like I did Eugenes knew that Serpense''s actions were acting, but he had a look on his face that he felt sorry for him and didn''t know what to do.

    Why are you blaming yourself for something like that? It''s like that in the first place. It was really hard for me too... Sepi, it must have been especially true for someone like you who has a soft heart and cherishes life. I understand.

    " is that the answer?"

    Serpens made a bewildered face.

    The question is, why don''t you criticize yourself for letting the devil be summoned to the continent?

    Humanus was perplexed by the guy''s reaction.

    Huh? The demon was summoned, but you caught it before it caused a lot of damage? Everyone makes mistakes. Whether you can fix it or not is important, and you''ve solved it. Is there any problem?

    By the way, Sepi, you''re making mistakes too, right? Always with perfect lines.

    I thought... . Human and good looking!

    Humanus smiled furiously and patted Serpens on the back with his palms.

    Serpens was wearing a thin shirt because he had taken off his coat earlier, and because of that, a really squeaking sound rang out.

    ''dare ! Do you mean to beat Serpence''s precious back so mercilessly like that?!''

    No matter how nice you are, you can''t help but cry.

    Perhaps he noticed how I felt, Serpens, who had been quietly welcoming me, twisted his body to avoid the touch of Humanus.

    Violence was not the goal, so Humanus did not stop him from fleeing.

    "Is it because of those who were victims of demon summoning?"

    He didn''t seem to even think about avoiding it because he was uncomfortable.

    What should I do with these eyes?

    I really don''t know. Serpense also seems to have no idea.

    But they said they had blood. You don''t need to blame yourself for what has already happened out of reach. I don''t know if you promise to make an effort to prevent that from happening in the future. Wouldn''t it be conceited?"

    Ummm

    Worrying about me, I was bloody and nabal, and the humble fence that didn''t even think about that for a minute or one second drooled.

    '' I mean, it''s a bummer, but seeing what he''s talking about, he''s like the main character.''

    Luxmea''s selection of Humanus as the master of the Holy Sword is a very good cut.

    It would have been great if the Holy Sword had only the Eyes Enhancement buff applied.

    Now that I''m done with Mick''s ordeal, what do I have to say, but... Until the day of choice comes, I think I know how much burden we''ve burdened you with.

    Yes?

    I''m glad that I had a colleague by my side over the past year, and I may not have been able to do it alone.

    I don''t know how many times I did There were many times when I was able to overcome because I was with my colleagues. At that time, Mida, I thought of you.

    Humanus scratched his cheek as if embarrassed and spoke, Serpens looked at him with the eyes of ''What are you thinking of me?''

    Of course, he pretended to listen seriously as much as he looked on his face.

    I think that you have been carrying the weight that I share with my colleagues, so I''m grateful and I''m sorry... But thank you for reaching out your hand willingly first.

    Yes ?

    Serpens made an expression that he did not understand English. Seriously, not acting.

    After chewing deeply to see if he had ever reached out to Humanus, he concluded that he had not.

    Why, you said on the day of choice.

    In response to Humanus'' words, Serpens said, ''It''s not my fault that I came up with that remark first.

    On the day of choice, anyone who knew the events that took place there would have remembered the same thing.

    Can not help it. It is irresistible.

    ''As if Humanus was still there.''

    Serpense also remembered the same thing as me, so his expression became subtle. Not knowing what expression to make, he raised his eyebrows and raised the corners of his mouth awkwardly.

    It''s a face that anyone can see.

    It''s embarrassing...!

    If you know what Serpence and I have in mind, you may not know that you are the one who is ashamed.

    The master of the holy sword alone bears all the burdens

    Saying you don''t have to. And those words that I would not let go of everything, leaving everything to the master of the holy sword.

    Ah .

    Serpens let out a short exclamation at Humanus''s remarks.

    He probably didn''t mean it that way, but to Humanus, he could have thought that Serpens had reached out a helping hand in the first place.

    "At the time, I was just confident and cool, and Sefi is full of responsibility, I hate it.

    You know what you said You reached out a helping hand so that I wouldn''t be weighed down by the weight... . Did you realize that only recently?"

    I didn''t know that Humanus would have accepted Serpense''s words like that.

    Serpence, who was just trying to defend himself to manage his image, made up a shy smile according to Seong-hyeon''s old saying that good things are good.

    If someone you don''t know sees it, they will only know that you are ashamed of the compliments pouring out in front of you.

    ''There is no such thing as a completely misunderstood novel,

    Nothing else!''

    Liena put her hands together and looked at Serpens with respect, and from Purore''s mouth, ''Oh... ''!'' came out.

    Eugenes turned his head and wiped away tears as he remembered Serpence''s past, and Winston opened his chest, proud of his master.

    I''m glad that you have a trusted colleague right now-.

    Serpens, who had been in pain for four months because he could not trust his comrade a while ago, looked at the ground and hurried his steps.

    And me too. No matter what happens, I''m your friend, so you can trust and rely on it.

    For a long time, is it because of the depth of emotions that Humanus has shoveled?

    Usually at this point, it is enough to shake, but Serpens did not show agitation. It just shows a faint smile.

    And the conversation stopped for a while.

    It was also because Serpens wasn''t sure what to answer to Humanus'' words, but rather,

    is probably due to the traces of the battle.

    May I ask what happened?"

    Serpens skipped Humanus, whom he had been talking to a while ago, and asked Euges a question.

    About an hour from the start of the auction, these guys came in through the gate.

    An hour later, the auction was about to close.

    I wondered if Serpence had intentionally informed me of the time zone, and when I asked him, he blinked quickly.

    she denied

    "At that time, I thought I would contact you, but immediately after that, people appeared through the five gates at the same time, and suddenly they explode?"

    "People exploded?!"

    Unknowingly, I was shocked and shouted at the unexpected explosion ending.

    Even at my screaming shouts, Eugene calmly nodded.

    "According to Anima-sama''s explanation, their bodies were implanted with black magic, and a trigger that exploded when exposed to a specific wave of magic was attached.

    do. And that magic wave passed through the gate magic and arrived at the destination."

    Rather than finding and destroying numerous gates scattered throughout the Empire, it was better to destroy the five gates in the dark district where they gather.

    What came through the gate meant that it was nothing more than a terrorist bomb in human disguise.

    Are they demon worshipers? Or is it a miserable person who has been captured from somewhere?

    If the explosion was enough to destroy the gate, it would be difficult to even find its identity.

    feel uncomfortable

    And right here Demon worshipers appeared on the cave side as well. And they bombed all the way here to block the entrance. I ran from the gated area to here and was not in the mood to contact them.

    It was said that the demons were trying to bury us alive.

 CH 244

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 244

    44. The Duke and the Dark House Later (3)

    The huge wall that covered one side of the underground city was torn down, revealing the entrance to the cave leading to the outside.

    Heaps of stones that made up the wall were scattered everywhere, and he was caught in his feet with every step he took.

    Scorched marks here and there, sword marks deep in the ground, broken arrows, etc. Traces of the battle continued to the cave.

    It was welcome that there was no need to go through complicated secret passages, but it was not at all pleasant since I heard the news that I was about to be buried alive.

    "I was surprised when Euges suddenly said that the wall had to be broken, but when it was revealed through the collapsed wall that demon worshipers were planting black magic stones at the entrance of the cave..."

    When he arrived at the scene, he seemed to remember the situation at that time, and Humanus stuck out his tongue.

    I thought the collapsed wall was also the work of the devil. just to save time

    It looks like it was a forced breakthrough.

    ''but. The exposed wall only acts as a shield, and it has nothing to do with supporting this place.''

    Upon entering the cave, the anima floated several spheres of light notarized.

    A bright light not only fell on us, but also on the demons and those who followed and watched them.

    The pitch black darkness lifted, revealing the interior of the cave.

    Broken and broken stones, small cracks on the walls and so on. There was a spirit of battle, but compared to the entrance

    level of no.

    There were also signs of temporary repairs, such as stone pillars rising out of the blue and supporting the ceiling, and walls of different colors in the middle.

    ''Is it Anima''s magic? Or the spirit of Eugene?''

    While fighting the demons, their magic gave a shock to the inside of the cave, and it seemed to be rushed to prevent it from collapsing.

    One peculiarity is that there are holes in the ceiling and walls at regular intervals.

    "This is the hole where the black magic stone was embedded. Just in case, I retrieved all of them and put them in the pocket of the space."

    Eugese, who noticed that I was carefully examining the hole, answered the question.

    Considering that the spacing is constant, it may have been installed for the purpose of a chain explosion.

    "I thought they were going to destroy the entire cave so that even magic could not penetrate it, so it was connected all the way to the outside."

    Why is there a shadow of a person in the darkness

    I said that I can''t even see my nose.

    Maybe it''s because the demons did things like Hansel and Gretel''s bread slices to make it easier for people who don''t know the way to get out of the cave.

    It''s probably not that I drilled a hole for that, Jimin. It is often the case that results that are different from the intended ones come out.

    ''Did you mean to run away this way while robbing the dark district when you saw Humanus and his party come out after slaying the demons?''

    It seems like there are more bastards hiding in the road we didn''t pass, waiting for them to be safe, but they

    There are too many things to be concerned about to find out.

    Although the personnel who participated in the auction are helping to transport the demons, this is because there is only one way out.

    Words help, in fact, it''s just accompaniment.

    Where is that?

    In what month will you find those who are determined to hide in a wide underground city full of secret passages?

    I can''t believe the lord of this place, Count Puscator, so I let the church know about the cave.

    Better to have it monitored.

    After walking for a while, I can see the end of the cave.

    Meanwhile, Eugenes explained in detail what he had been through.

    Throughout the fight, instead of using attack magic, Anima focused on defense so that the cave did not collapse.

    Humanus and Puror came to the fore and fought.

    The story that Eugenes himself aided them, and that Liena improved her physical abilities with divine powers, etc.

    "I''m not fighting with these guys.

    Even though it''s a note, for some reason, the hap (��) fits perfectly. It was a strange experience."

    It was the same in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    The Holy Sword and the party were almost completed puzzles, and the last piece to fill in the gaps was Euges.

    The faster Furor joined, the better his hands and feet would fit, and Eugene''s sharp eyesight, he would have shot an arrow at the right cow.

    If it''s awkward, that''s even weirder.

    that she was originally with them

    Serpense''s lower lip, who knew it, crept forward, and quickly snapped into place.

    "But did all the demons run away? Why is there no one there?"

    "No, it''s the other way around. If it''s late, I might blow up the cave from the outside, so I didn''t have time to capture them because I was in a hurry. So..."

    Eugenes looked into my eyes and blurted out the end of his words.

    Serpence is the result of overprotecting me every day. Eventually, even Eugenes started overprotecting me.

    "So where did you put the corpses?"

    As if glad he wasn''t surprised by my question, Euges let out a light smile.

    And the sound of the footsteps of Serpens, which had been regular, paused for a moment.

    ''Am I weak in strength, am I weak in heart?''

    There are other people who are the weakest, and I don''t know why I''m the only one being so cheap.

    "Once we gathered them in one place and buried them. The cave entrance was exposed and the demon worshipers

    I also killed them, so I think people will flock to this place. You can''t go around looking for things that will make money, and steal important evidence or items related to black magic."

    Looking at the last dark street scene, it is a very plausible story.

    ''I had a plan to completely overturn the interior of the dark district and turn it into a wasteland .''

    It was no longer necessary.

    In the past few days, all kinds of disputes have erupted in the dark, and in the process, many data have been erased.

    Other important data must have been taken care of by the dark gangs when the Holy Sword and the party were playing with the demons in the cave.

    Above all, the most important material under the Scorpion Tavern was destroyed by Serpens long ago.

    "How much fresh air is this?"

    "It was a Wednesday when we came here, so exactly 12 days."

    Even though it was a self-talk that was uttered out of emotion, Serpens responded kindly.

    You''ve been stuck in the warehouse for 12 days!

    I want to commend myself for my patience. No, you should be commended.

    "Don''t you think I worked too hard? Duke, give me a break!"

    "It doesn''t matter, but what are you planning to do during your vacation?''

    "Of course it should be stretched!"

    " Work has been delayed. I will give you a vacation after it''s over."

    The boy looked at me with sullen eyes.

    To speak two words with one mouth. You should put cinnamon candy in your mouth like that.

    "We''re going to take a break from the cult to hand over the demon worshipers, but what will Sephi do?"

    Even in [Master of the Holy Sword], the church was used like an inn. It seems to be no different now.

    There is no easy way to give up the advantage of being able to relax without being vigilant about your surroundings. The church welcomes

    It was.

    As the Luxmea Church faltered and factions split, it could no longer be used habitually.

    Anyway. Humanus'' words were in the form of questions, so it was late today, so it was an invitation to rest at the church and go up together tomorrow.

    "I''m thinking of going back to being a duke."

    "At this time? If you ask the church to borrow a carriage, you''ll have to lend it to me, but... you''re going to hold me back to take a break?"

    "I thought it would, so I kept the family''s wagon waiting."

    It was expected.

    Knowing that today is D-Day, it is natural to prepare ahead of time to go home.

    "You must be tired, but just take a break.

    "No, I''ve been away for too long since the beginning of the year, so I have to go back soon."

    Before departure, I left some of the power to Eirich to handle urgent matters.

    There is no need to hurry anywhere.

    Whether you go now or tomorrow morning, work will only start tomorrow afternoon anyway.

    Because I''m going to put him to sleep until then.

    And Serpens would have expected it too.

    Nevertheless, there are two reasons why he refused the invitation of Humanus.

    First, because Humanus is uncomfortable.

    Second, I hate sleeping alone.

    The denomination will definitely give you a private room to rest in peace, and Humanus will occupy the room right next to him.

    If that happens, it becomes far more difficult for Serpens to come to my room.

    "Didn''t you leave most of the work to your uncle?"

    " Yes? Have you ever met him?"

    "He said he looked like you, so I was curious... haha! But, I contacted him in advance and went to see him. Was he very welcome?"

    He''s not even a friend, but it''s the first time I''ve seen a guy who goes to a friend''s house without a friend because he wants to see his friend''s uncle.

    A little, a lot of countries . In fact, it must have been very curious, but it is not that it is not polite.

    ''I was bored of waiting in the capital... ? During that time, do some practice.''

    I''m worried about Eilic, who was happy to hear Serpence''s childhood story, but would be disappointed by the story of Humanus, whom he didn''t know well.

    Judging from the fact that Humanus is smiling and talking,

    It''s only certain that it didn''t creep.

    Instead, I would have cursed a lot on the inside.

    ''Are you not late for chatting with this child of Humanus, Eilich?''

    doubtful

    I blinked with the meaning of asking Serpens about it. Serpens received the signal I had sent and blinked to signify that he understood.

    "By the way, you came later than the time I left in the letter, did anything happen?"

    "Oh, that?

    Darida is about to leave, but when a guy in the square says he''s a demon worshiper and says there''s going to be a massive terrorist attack today... ."

    you]? But can you come here?"

    "It''s okay. After I caught it and investigated it, it was all a lie. It was a plan to prevent me from going to a dark place, or something..."

    Humanus said, shaking his head as if he was bored.

    The investigation'' will most likely be torture.

    "Anyway, because of that, I waited in the capital to prepare for terrorism and was late. If he had opened his mouth a little later, the gate would have been broken and he would not have been able to go to the dark area.

    I almost would have been buried alive.

    It takes a very long time to re-dig a collapsed cave. Much less, the cave is long and complex.

    In addition, considering the possibility of a secondary collapse, it is difficult to predict when Eugenes will be able to escape even with the help of the spirits.

    However, if we dig up the ceiling, and then the ceiling of the dark area collapses, it will be buried.

    "thank you."

    Serpens hid his nervousness and expressed his gratitude to Humanus with a smile of relief.

    It doesn''t seem like it''s too bad that I got help from him.

    "Thanks between us, what!"

    "...thank you so much."

    "No, are you okay?"

    "No. Someday, this grace must be

    I will pay you back."

    Serpens completely denies the relationship between us, as Humanus said, and expresses a firm will to pay off debts.

    "Yeah, yes. If you want to, you should..."

    As the same conversation was repeated over and over again, Humanus raised the white flag first.

    "Then, to talk about how to pay it back, today at the church..."

    "It was found that his words were false.

    , but maybe even that statement is a lie. Just in case, I''ll go to the capital first and check it out."

    "Yeah, just do whatever you want!"

    "Thank you for your understanding."

    Serpens put a soft smile on his lips.

    He said he couldn''t spit on a smiling face, but facing that smile, Humanus let out a sigh instead of saliva.

    "Then you''ll be fine. 1. I go to the church anyway; the devil worshipers

    We will transport it."

    "No. Still, we are together until the church..."

    "Okay, I''ll do what I want."

    "Thank you for your consideration."

    Serpens pretended not to know at the words of Humanus, who was sure to be upset by anyone, and gave thanks again with a soft smile.

 CH 245

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 245

    45. How to discipline the Duke (1)

    We went to a nearby inn to visit the Prasidus family''s coachman, who was tired of waiting.

    After enjoying his leisurely vacation at the luxurious inn that Serpens had reserved, he greeted us with a wide smile even at late night calls.

    ''...Is it a true story of welfare?''

    I got into the carriage, feeling the dazzling welfare of the Prasidus family anew.

    As the wagon started shaking, Serpens, who had been tense all the time, relaxed and let out a tired breath.

    It was his first battle with the devil, and he was procrastinating. He must have used his divine power quite a bit.

    Besides, mentally, I continued to push myself away, so of course I was tired.

    ''''Serpence, are you okay?

    Patting him on his weary back and asking questions; He suddenly grabbed my wrist.

    Uh-huh? Why all of a sudden...

    That''s what I''m going to say.

    Yes?

    Are you really okay?

    Serpens frowned and asked a question with a distressed expression.

    It''s not something the worst-looking person would say.

    Isn''t this the time to comfort me?

    What is the most surprising and shocking topic of the day that makes you cry?"

    Come on, wait a minute!

    I wondered what the hell was going on with this, and Eugene, who was sitting in a distant place, hurriedly interrupted the conversation between the two of us.

    Then he summoned the spirit of the wind to cut off the sound.

    Serpens, did you cry? Standing in front of others? What the hell happened?!

    As soon as the sound barrier was created, Eugenes started pouring out questions.

    I don''t show my feelings in front of others

    It doesn''t seem that it''s too embarrassing to say that Serpense, who doesn''t know, even cried.

    Moreover, I expressed concern. I realized that it wasn''t acting that was conscious of other people''s gaze.

    Calm down for now. I''ll explain.

    I twisted my wrist and removed Serpens''s hand and said.

    It would have been impossible if he had tried to hold on to it, but he graciously let go of my wrist.

    Touching the wrist that has regained freedom

    explained to Eugene.

    "Hey, such a cruel thing !"

    Eugenes could not hold back his anger and trembled. Her voice is full of anger that she couldn''t hide.

    Serpence seemed to remember what had happened again, so he bowed his head and grabbed his right hand with his left hand.

    "Is Shion okay?"

    You can''t turn away forever.

    Even if the villain has an accident, [Master of the Holy Sword] appears on the side of justice and takes damage.

    It is not a story that solves problems before they occur.

    Evil deeds end in simple happenings, and when the incident is over, it is not a children''s cartoon that everyone can laugh at.

    Someone dies, someone else loses a small person.

    Someone must shed a tear, Lindy.

    In order to reduce those tears, the world has no choice but to fight with weapons.

    It is not a battle of ideologies, but a battle between those who want to protect and those who want to harm.

    There is no compromise.

    You don''t have to get used to it...

    You never said you''d get used to it, did you?

    "Then, are you going to continue to suffer?"

    He said with a look like he would burst into tears if he touched it again. The voice was buried deep in guilt.

    I never said that.

    Don''t pretend it''s okay.

    So, pick up people and shake them

    Are you Dan? Admit that it''s not okay, and vomit out everything that''s inside?!

    Well, it''s not like that...!

    that it isn''t. I am well aware that this is simply my enlarged interpretation.

    But it''s true that we provoked the devil without waiting for Humanus to bring the holy sword.

    The devil must have attacked you anyway. However, we can''t wait for him to come and keep vigilant, can''t we?

    "And?"

    "He, and .

    The boy clenched his hand even tighter.

    No matter how much power was put into his hand, a tendon sprouted on the back of his left hand.

    If it wasn''t for that demon, I wouldn''t have seen such a thing in front of you... If he had taken the form of a demon from the beginning... If he hadn''t used a human as a shield... If I hadn''t hesitated... I , I , uh !"

    His voice seemed a little shaky, but he finally burst into tears.

    Tears poured down her face with a face that she wanted to die.

    Are you crying again?!

    Ugh...!

    No, I didn''t mean to be patient.

    Whoa... . I''m sorry. I, I''m so bad... .

    That''s rather what I''m talking about.

    It was my fault for making him feel so insecure.

    ''If you are determined... , I''ve been doing this since the last disappearance. very bitterly

    Even then, I thought I was prepared enough, but in the end, I couldn''t protect him until the end.

    The misery I felt at the time. Maybe even worse than that.

    He''s feeling it right now.

    I carefully placed my hand on the back of his left hand.

    "Euges. When an unavoidable battle is fought, elves don''t entrust everything to the spirits, they pick up their weapons, don''t they?"

    Yes, yes? It is.

    "Why?"

    My sudden question, I was bewildered for a while

    Noticing the intent of the question quickly, she cleared her breath and calmly opened her mouth.

    That''s because it''s a fight for myself. If I ask them to kill the enemy, it should be comfortable. I don''t need to train my body, and the pain of harming my life can be reduced. It''s not because I''m doing it with my own hands. But it''s It''s a burden I have to carry, isn''t it?

    With a benevolent expression, Eugene

    I looked at the transparent wind curtain that wrapped around me.

    No, maybe there is a wind spirit in that direction, and he is looking at it.

    just invisible to my eyes.

    She may be looking into each other''s eyes, making eye contact with a friend who has been with her for a long time.

    Even though you borrow the power of the spirit, you must not forget that you are the one who raises the weapon against the enemy. To realize that the weight of life is never light. Accept the karma and

    Endure it] Do it. In order not to pass it on to a dear friend. We elves carry weapons.

    A soft but powerful voice resounded softly.

    This is what I read in [Master of the Holy Sword]. When you hear it with your ears, the degree of touch is different.

    I squeezed the crying boy''s hand tightly.

    I can''t fight with Serpens, but I can bear that weight. Please let me do that.

    "Ha, uh , but "

    I prepared my mind to that extent and followed it. and . That doesn''t change me.

    ...sh!

    As if stabbed in the corner, the guy swallowed a breath full of weeping in surprise.

    "I''m probably going to have a hard time every time something like this happens."

    If that''s the case, I''d rather...

    You will not get used to it or become insensitive to the death of others. But I do not intend to be buried in suffering.

    The head of the guy who had been looking down all the time was raised.

    His face turned towards me.

    "I have to grow up too."

    ,,Castle page?,,

    you]. growth. It''s not that the fundamentals change, it''s not that you don''t feel anything. You will be strong enough to persevere and overcome. I don''t break down like this.

    The guy hiccups without a word.

    I couldn''t see my expression properly because of the overflowing tears, so I blinked my eyes and let the tears flow.

    So, I''m really fine. I hope Serpens will be fine as well.

    "You you really "

    "Isn''t he handsome and handsome? I just want to call him hyung, right? I know it well. I understand."

    When I said shiveringly, he made a face that didn''t know whether he was crying or smiling, and then put his forehead on my shoulder.

    Gomib: C.

    He thanked me in a low voice.

    Laughter flowed from his action, he just laughed and opened his mouth cheerfully.

    Haha, thank you? I''m going to scold you from now on.

    As if surprised by my words, the guy raised his head and looked at me with his round eyes.

    I looked up at him confidently, wondering what to do.

    No, then, did you just want to move on? Did you run away from your conscience?

    "What are those eyes that say that you are sad?"

    Serpens quietly lowered his eyes. That''s a great reflective attitude.

    "Do you even know what you did wrong?"

    "O O uh "

    --9 - �� -

    It''s not uhm, uhm!

    The boy tilted his head slightly downward.

    A reddish pinna caught my eye through the bluish-silver hair.

    Anxiety goes away and coolness returns

    Now, it seems that he realized how shameful he was too late.

    Today is just the beginning. Considering the fact that they tried to bury us altogether, all the demons we saw today must have been abandoned. Even the summoned demon''s ability to be foggy could not escape the crevices of the collapsed cave. It must be because he has the ability. Well, although Serpence was slick.

    Well .

    "The enemies we will face in the future are getting stronger, and they are so drunk with madness, so are they willing to die?

    The guys Pence faced today were the weakest of the demons, you know!

    Ah, I know...

    "Why did someone you know do that?"

    Did I say it was forever?

    Serpens had a mouth, but could not speak.

    Today, Serpens said, ''Ugh, that''s a surprise!'' and a weak and weak guy who can do it came rushing in and it''s over! What would have happened if a high-ranking executive attacked in the same situation?!

    That, that...

    What do you think!

    You''re hurt maybe?

    Serpence got hurt while caring about me, or the bad bastard got slapped. Which one would be more upset to me?

    ''''Jeon ruler?

    Why did someone you know so well?!

    At the insistent words, the guy raised his head and looked at me with wrinkled eyes, and he was captivated by a disgruntled sound.

    I had my heart that was about to be weakened.

    You shouldn''t just accept a child because she''s pretty. It''s a shortcut to ruin a child.

    Sometimes you have to be strong and learn how to point out that you are wrong.

    "Never again I will never do that."

    "Really? Can I trust you?"

    He nodded his head hard, not paying attention to his messy hair.

    Okay. Let''s believe it one more time.

    Thank you for trusting me. I will make sure that something like today does not happen again.

    He stopped nodding his head and said with a smile of relief.

    I think you know it''s all over now.

    But I have no intention of ending it here.

    If in the first place he had only planned to finish by hitting Serpence, he would have quietly scolded him in his room after returning to the mansion.

    Not this kind of mouth [in the car.] .

    And what, nothing to say to Winston?

    Ah...!

    Serpense''s hand twitched. I could feel his hand wiggle under the palm of my hand.

    Winston reacted to my words as well.

    When the topic suddenly turned to himself, Winston, who had been stunned, was startled and his huge body shook.

 CH 246

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 246

    45. How to discipline the Duke (2)

    sorry.

    Serpens bowed his head to Winston and apologized in a sullen voice.

    Winston didn''t know what to do at the master''s apology, so he quickly waved his hand.

    "It''s okay, �[��. I''m Senior or Wee Lydia ."

    Yujisuyo.

    I knew right away that I was not trusted compared to Yuji-sama.

    As soon as Euges applied for a correction of the title, it was reflected.

    Winston, while correcting his words, looked trembling. It is questionable whether that is a major problem now.

    Either way, Eugenes was very satisfied.

    If you knew, why didn''t you ask anything?

    Serpens raised his head gently and asked Winston a question.

    Knowing that you are not being trusted, why have you been following me silently? I''m asking for it.

    To be honest...

    At the auction house, in a calm voice, Gee, who showed his ambition to win the trust of the master by proving himself,

    Now he hesitated and blurted out the end of his speech.

    Serpense''s eyes were like, ''That''s right.'' As if to say, when it sinks coldly.

    " I was afraid."

    Winston''s mouth opened.

    My lord is strong enough to not even dare to attack me, so I was afraid he would get an answer that he didn''t need me. So I was afraid that he would throw me away.

    Knight Winston revealed his weakness.

    His face, speaking of his own weakness, seemed stronger and stronger than anyone else.

    Facial expression, not appearance. the emotions in it.

    It was like that in the past, but I think it''s like saying not now.

    I''m not... the great man Sir Redford knows.

    On the contrary, Serpens, who was called strong by Winston, showed weakness.

    It is not Sir Redford who should be thrown out for not being worthy, but it is me. Contrary to popular belief, I have neither a noble will nor a strong heart.

    do . Without mental strength, it will only cause a situation like today.

    Thanks to Winston first acknowledging and revealing his weaknesses. Because I had already seen all the things I couldn''t see before crying and screaming.

    Serpens said as if despondent.

    I''m not sure. What I can do and who I can be responsible for.''''

    The boy vomited out his words as if he was sighing with an attitude of not being confident.

    As for self-esteem, I washed my eyes and looked for it, but I couldn''t find it, and I was filled with only a sense of self-doubt.

    As the demon said, I had no intention of accepting the Lord as my vassal. However, the reason is slightly different. Unsure of himself and unstable. I wanted to serve Zion, not someone like me.

    At Serpence''s words, Euges looked at me:

    Mouth clenched, but I wasn''t familiar with serpents, but lip reading. Still, I roughly hit it with my eyes

    If you do, you will be asked if that statement is true.

    I smiled bitterly and nodded my head.

    I don''t deserve anyone''s respect.

    I cannot agree with that.

    Winston stopped Serpence, who was running on the edge of self-deprecation.

    Your sword deserves respect. Not only me, but everyone who wields the sword is of the same mind. The master said that he was weak in spirit, but that also doesn''t make sense.

    all.

    "It doesn''t make sense what do you mean?"

    According to the creed of knights handed down from ancient times, it is said that learning a sword is training the mind and body.

    ". Are you claiming that my mental strength is also strong because of my strength?"

    Serpens said in a sarcastic tone.

    Rather than criticize Winston.

    He just rides on a mighty divine power

    I''m just tired. Unlike others who have built up their strength step by step through hard work, it was a disparaging word for themselves.

    I don''t mean that. So... how to put it into words...

    Winston, who hadtily waved his hand to deny Serpence''s words, blurted out the end of his words.

    I scratched the back of my head as if worried.

    "Your master often looked at my sword]- He gave it to me. Each time I felt it. He was truly a wonderful person . That perfect posture that doesn''t show any flaws or anything like that.

    Oh, and the clean trajectory of the sword being swung... . And point out where my sword went wrong, and even suggest ways to improve it... .

    I''m sorry, but I don''t know what you''re trying to say.

    Serpens interrupted Winston''s gibberish.

    "I just wanted to say that the master''s swordsmanship showed traces of a lot of effort. I felt that it was the result of countless trials and errors. Is it a state that I built up while thinking....

    As a bearer, how can you not respect such a person?"

    It''s just that I''ve been driven by the responsibilities I''ve been forced to bear.

    That''s why I respect you even more. How can you say that someone who has achieved this level through repeated efforts to fulfill an undesirable responsibility is weak?

    I don''t know how to express it, but I''m good at talking.

    Saying that you don''t have a horse is just an excuse.

    Actually, I don''t want to convey my meaning

    I thought it was because the sound was not earnest.

    They do not make any effort to convey their own words, but are selfish in wanting others to recognize their thoughts.

    It is an act of passing the responsibility on to the other person, saying that you were bad for not understanding me and not understanding me because of my lack of words.

    ''The more you do something, the better it gets, and it''s the same with words.''

    If you are really desperate.

    Countless times, I think, ponder,

    ripped and trimmed. Will I be able to convey my intentions to the other person somehow?

    If the knowledge you have is not enough, you will develop your expressive power by reading a book or rummaging through a dictionary.

    If your mouth doesn''t go away despite your earnestness, before blaming yourself for not being able to talk].

    You should question whether you are keeping your mouth shut in order to avoid responsibility because you are afraid of the consequences of speaking up.

    "If the lord was really weak, he would have given up such responsibility and ran away.

    will. But the lord didn''t do that.

    That''s because I can''t do anything except what I learned

    Because I don''t even know... .

    Countless . There will be no choice. I don''t have it... . It has to be

    Is this what ingrained self-hatred is?

    If I could just say, ''I''m so amazing!'', I would feel more confident and at ease. I feel sorry for the guy who inevitably denies it and suffers from it.

    Winston, who could not have imagined that Serpens would react like this, said with a bewildered face that he did not know where to put himself.

    "But not now, is it?"

    I patted the back of his hand softly and spoke to him, and he looked at me.

    "The work of the dark house has been prepared for a long time, and it''s a work within the Empire, so let''s say it is. But Serpens continued, ''You''ve been thinking about what''s going to happen. You said you didn''t know.

    Yes it was.

    "Now that I know how to rest, I know what''s more fun than work, and I know the joy of eating good food. Like others did to Serpens, I didn''t leave all the responsibility on the master of the Holy Sword. I could have enjoyed it all and wondered, but I didn''t.

    that .

    Serpens hesitated and pursed her lips.

    "Serpens, do you know that?"

    " what do you mean?"

    "Choice Day. If people criticize Serpense for not receiving the Holy Sword, and you have a hard time because of it. Serpense''s power is excellent, and knowing that this world needs it. I thought of running away together. .

    ...what?

    He asked my surprise confession as if he couldn''t believe it.

    Mouths wide open and eyes wide open. And his confused eyes showed how surprised he was without filtering.

    It seems that Eugene and Winston were a bit surprised, but let''s move on.

    Hey, didn''t you say that?

    You want to protect the continent? And thanks to Humanus sacrificing it, the public opinion wasn''t bad either.

    Uh, um... it was.''''

    You], it was a very noble sacrifice.

    "It''s not , it''s not."

    As I looked at the distant mountain through the window and spoke vaguely, he let out a deep sigh as if he wanted to stop talking about it.

    "Stop talking about that . What does running away mean, please explain that first."

    Literally? I was going to play and eat for the rest of my life in disguise and frolicking in a deserted town. I also took a peek at Ladrava''s legacy along the way.

    Perhaps I forgot what to say to my dazzling plan, Serpens said, ''Huh... .''

    Shion, is it okay to be a messenger of the gods?

    You], I will. serpent woo

    Giving up is my main job. I haven''t been told to do it myself. Originally, the oracle would give you a lot of rolls, so wouldn''t it be a proof that you should put it together to suit your taste?"

    Is that really okay?

    sure!

    Having learned the truth of the oracle, Eugene had a puzzled expression on his face.

    Conversely, Serpence, who had lost his mind for a while, regained his consciousness with an expression on his face saying, ''Sunwoo is talking nonsense again.''

    "Stop talking nonsense, why are you talking about that now?"

    I just want to say that the serpens seem stronger than I thought.

    "Every day you treat me like a child ?"

    At Serpence''s response, Winston opened his mouth and said, ''Ah... .'' and let out an exclamation that did not know whether it was lamentation or admiration.

    The way he nodded his head was a reaction as if an old question had been solved.

    "It''s different from that. Even at a young age, the wick can harden, and vice versa.

    it''s good the young and the fragile and the weak. It is not synonymous. Are you there sometimes? A child comforts an adult. People who are weak-minded and cannot say harsh words to others, but do not tolerate injustice when faced with injustice. Can you really say that such a person is weak?

    " I am not that kind of person."

    Yes, yes. Let''s say yes. For now, I''m just giving an example.

    "Don''t you think that the conversation keeps going in vain?"

    How long will that serpens be

    Are you going to continue to humiliate yourself?"

    The boy pursed his lips in dissatisfaction.

    To come out like that is to protest that it is too shameful.

    So, now that you have the option of running away, what do you think? Do you want to give up all your responsibilities and what is and run away in search of freedom? Or are you going to keep trying? !"

    You, really.

    Serpens let out a long breath

    all.

    Then he lowered his head as if in thought and took a quiet breath. His back went up and down a little with each inhalation and exhalation.

    Not long after, he raised his head.

    I... now want this life to go on.

    Look at it.

 CH 247

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 247

    45. How to discipline the Duke (3)

    I secretly exhaled a sigh of relief.

    ''thank God !''

    Although Serpens offered a choice in the belief that he would not choose to run away, he was not 100% certain.

    Only one chance.

    There was a feeling of uneasiness in my heart that I was not going to turn the head of the wagon like this and go to some mountain valley.

    But the guy didn''t. It was kind of a concern.

    ''You have grown a lot!''

    I was worried about when my child would grow up. I just didn''t feel it because I kept it by my side all the time and looked at it every day.

    I am so glad and grateful for that dazzling growth, as if I brought the sneakers I bought in abundance because they got smaller.

    Tears of emotion welled up.

    Did you want a life of playing and eating so much? If you don''t like working, it''s okay to just keep your seat.

    Okay? So, Serpense''s work increases? It''s not even tears in that sense in the first place!

    "What does that mean- or what does it mean?"

    Serpence will come naturally to you when you grow up and have a child.

    When I said that in a faint voice, somehow the guy''s face hardened.

    Serpense licked her lips a few times with a blank expression, then succeeded in making a difficult sound.

    You must have had a child...

    No! No!! What the hell are you doing wrong?!

    Before coming here, it seems that they misunderstood that I had a child.

    At a young age, in my mid-20s, I almost became a father.

    Hmm...

    "What''s with those suspicious eyes?

    It''s a carrier!

    Yeah, that''s fine. I''ll trust you. But if you have the courage to tell the truth, even if it''s me...

    Stop talking nonsense and wipe your face! What are you doing with your tears in your eyes?

    You were holding hands.

    Just take it off!

    I let go of his hand and pulled out a towel and a water bottle from my subspace pocket.

    Wet a towel in water and handed it to him, and he wiped his face with it.

    Khume!

    I turned my head to the sound of a sudden cough. Winston was holding on to it, as if something was hanging around his neck.

    Oh, right! Winston, were you talking to Serpens? I''m sorry to interrupt.

    No, I''m fine.

    I''m glad that you do. If you don''t get this right, the problem gets bigger. You know what I''m talking about, right?

    " I don''t know."

    Why don''t you know?

    As I tilted my head in a puzzled mind, a towel suddenly came out from my side.

    I put the towel returned by Serpens back into the subspace pocket.

    "But, I know very well that you treat your master like a child."

    "If you know that, you know everything, huh?"

    Despite my cheerful reply, Winston continued to put on a puzzled expression.

    It''s probably because he doesn''t like my way of treating his master like a child.

    Because... .

    ...maybe I also fall into the category of children to seniors?

    Winston, where are you hurting? What kind of arrogance is that? What in the world is such a huge baby!

    Winston looked at the 180-and-a-half baby fence sitting next to me.

    The guy who received the gaze blushed at the shame that came to see him belatedly.

    "You keep calling me ''Sir'', so I asked just in case."

    Yes? Me? When?

    I just called you by name.

    Hearing it, it seems like it was, but the words that had already left my mouth were scattered in the air, leaving no lingering aftertaste.

    Just because I want it, there is no way it will become an echo and be heard in my ears.

    Reluctantly, I pressed the play button on the automatic counting device.

    "Once at the pawnshop, when Euges discusses living in the warehouse with us, once when he takes out the bed, and once at the auction house when he fights mine. Just what I heard

    Six times.

    Explanations flowed out of Serpens''s mouth, who had been stabbed in the side. There really is no vending machine.

    Why the hell did I not know? And why is Winston arguing about it now?

    "No, what I call myself Winston all the time, so I don''t even know it "

    That''s why I told you to change that habit.

    "Still, you haven''t called Humanus yet, have you?"

    Serpens shook his head. It''s a very ugly expression.

    This is most likely a response of ''I do not doubt that I will make a mistake''.

    Now that this has come to pass, let''s throw away the title of senior Winston and call him comfortably! At the very least, remove the word ''nim'' and call him ''Seon-senpai'' in a friendly way! Hearing ''nim'' from someone who is older than me It''s a bit cumbersome.

    "Is it okay if I call you by your first name?"

    Even today, Eugenes threw out the words of savage murder.

    It was so sharp that it was pierced.

    No, what''s the topic of conversation?! We weren''t talking like this!

    It must be because of your strange behavior.

    If you look at the root of the problem, Serpence will act like a child.

    Isn''t it the first time you treated me like a child?

    So, you don''t like it?

    Serpence came quietly, and Euges gave him a pitiful gaze.

    ''Then why are you fighting for a vagina?''

    Anyway.

    The problem we need to solve now is not the title between me and Winston, but the relationship between Ser Pence and Winston.

    So, what are you going to do with Winston? Even though I''ve seen all the tantrums and foolishness in front of my eyes,

    Do you want to take me?

    When I first met you, why did the master look at you...

    Except you.

    I think I know you said that you are more knightly than anyone else.

    "At this time?"

    It is questionable whether he even said that in the first place.

    I just remember that I said something like that, my attitude is more upright than a knight... .

    Over time, me and Winston. two

    One of the memories seems to have been distorted.

    "To the master, a senior was a knight who protected his heart."

    Uh, um.

    Winston, you idiot who knows nothing but chivalry!

    I got goosebumps because I couldn''t cringe, but I have to be patient.

    I still respect the lord. Also, I may not be able to become like a senior, but I want to protect my lord.

    Perhaps Serpense''s Tears as a Knight

    It seems to have touched Seo''s protective instinct.

    In that sense, serpenes can be said to be the master''s timber suitable in many ways.

    Usually, the main content of the Knight Sado is to share the dream of a master who is weak but strong in will, but sometimes there must be such an opposite situation.

    ''In the first place, there is no law that the master is always an adult, right?''

    Serpens alone became a duke at the age of fifteen.

    With that in mind, it is not at all strange to have a child as a master.

    NS.

    That''s right, what do you think, Serpence?

    I don''t understand I don''t get it.

    Serpens. This world has perfection as its ideal, but it doesn''t want a perfect person. The standard of perfection is different for each person in the first place, so how do you meet that?

    Is that so?

    "Yes, that''s right. If someone forces a serpent to be perfect, it means that he doesn''t see the serpent as a human.

    But that doesn''t mean it''s okay to hum. Of course that''s bad too.

    A serpent would be able to discriminate that much.

    "I want everyone to be the person they need. I want them to fill each other up and build organic relationships. Being perfect means that they can''t be filled any more. No. Serpense knows that well, right?"

    Naturally, the guy nodded.

    If there''s something suspicious about Winston that I''m not aware of, I can''t help it.

    There is no such thing.

    Or you''re reluctant to get close, or if you''re together, you''ll feel bad...

    The guy shook his head.

    "Should I feed you more?"

    Well, that''s... umm...

    " Really?"

    I don''t know what to say.

    I wrapped him in my arms too much

    seems to have turned

    I can''t understand why Winston is talking to me like this when he''s sitting across from me.

    I am your lord, you are all my knights, why can''t you speak, why!

    "Now, how am I supposed to say something like that ."

    Seeing you say that, do you have any intention of accepting Winston as a knight?

    I thought it would be helpful in the first place, so didn''t I bring it to the dark side? No matter how hard I try, my body is one.

    Because it''s just...

    Serpens said as if lamenting at the cruel reality of not being able to use self-immolation.

    I think you''re right that I brought Winston to my escort station.

    "Why did such a person do that before?"

    "Thinking with your head and how you feel when you face a situation are very different."

    Oh, yes.

    Indeed, he was a person who was doubtful about the function of the Shin Seong-seok he made.

    Then, in the end, neither Shin Seong-seok nor Winston could be used properly, and it just ended.

    "Okay, so as a lord, say something."

    Can''t you stop stabbing your side?

    Isn''t this button?

    Serpens grabbed my hands and held them out to Winston.

    "I wish you all the best in the future. He , uh . Win Stone, Sir?"

    Ah... yes! Leave it to me! Do your best!

    I''ll do it!

    I don''t know what I''m trying to do best. Perhaps even Winston didn''t know the answer.

    As proof of that, I''m not sure if I should hold onto my hand and keep holding it, or if I should let it go now.

    ''Still, I did my best for a serpent.''

    There were no slurred words, but I conveyed my intentions well enough.

    Eugene, who has only recently been called by his first name, has a slightly embarrassed expression on his face, Jimin-, on the other hand, the guy.

    is willing to grow.

    ''Yeah, it''s really hard to open a hook for the first time!''

    Isn''t it possible to spend years every time you meet someone and open your heart?

    Of course, it had been over a year since I met Winston.

    Serpence is now over..., Winston, if there''s anything you want to say, just say it!

    How long do I have to hold this hand?

    "Personally, you let him go right now.

    It would be nice.

    Winston looked at Serpens, and he nodded.

    And only then did my hands regain their freedom.

    This world is not flexible.

    Anyway, if you have any questions, let''s do it from time to time! Just a hand, a title, etc. It''s been 10 days since you first came to the pawnshop, isn''t it?

    It was so natural, I thought I heard it wrong at first. Then the master and Yoo Jis-nim called them by their first names too, so I thought it was an extension of that...

    "Did you get pricked by the way you treat Serpens as children?"

    "Are you going to treat me like a child?"

    I will refuse.

    Winston hardened his face and said firmly.

    Again, the only person who could welcome this kind of treatment was Agiffence, who still needed the attention of a guardian.

    "Khume by the way, can I really ask?"

    Sure!

    Before coming to the dark side, I wondered if I should say something or not, so I guess I have something to ask.

    To Serpens, not me.

    I''m sure it''s because I''m slowly looking into the guy''s eyes. It seems that he is still cautious about asking Serpense directly.

    ''''If you have any questions for me, feel free to ask.

    I know it''s a strange question, but... The reason why the master cried at the auction house wasn''t the shock from the murder, it was the fear that Xion-senpai would be shocked when he saw it.]

    Did you throw... ?

    At Winston''s question, Serpens tilted his head.

    "You didn''t know?"

    What do you mean by asking something like that?

    After getting into the carriage, he talked about it all the time and even cried himself, but he even wondered what he had heard.

    It may be difficult to understand, but yes, that''s right. That''s it. Seeing such a scene, I think I''d be afraid of myself. My stomach is weak.

    It also helped... .

    Your lord... seems to be overprotective of your seniors.

    I''m still going crazy because of separation anxiety.

    Separation Anxiety?

    Yes, separation anxiety.

    Winston blinked, wondering if there was something strange in my words.

    Then the master sleeps in the senior''s room every day...

    Again. As expected, Winston noticed it.

    I just didn''t ask.

    Oh, it''s just that I don''t want to sleep alone. At first I came here because of a nightmare, but I just sat there.

    "Then, did you know what it was and were struggling inside?"

    ...my skills are not reliable, I thought you were doing it to protect the senior yourself.

    Hey, that''s not it! There''s Yujisu in the next room too, so what happens to Yujisu when he says that?

    Eugene nodded and agreed with my words.

    By the way, I had no idea Winston would have thought so.

    Hearing the answer to his long agony, Winston put on an expression of utter despair. Was it just for that reason that he hesitated and suffered so much?

    Well, you must be feeling that kind of emptiness.

    "So, if you have something to say, you have to do it right away. It only gets worse if the time goes on?

    You must speak. Either for yourself or for others.

    Okay. Then I''ll tell you.

    Yes, do it! All you can do!

    As if he had finally made up his mind, Winston looked at Serpens with a stubborn expression.

    Serpens also looked at him with a nervous expression.

    Sir.

    Say it.

    Senior is... really steamed.

    " Yes?

    Winston slowly raised his hand and pointed to my stomach.

    After evacuating the contents inside, the stomach is very thin Did not do it.

    Serpense, who looked in disbelief, poked my stomach with his finger. his eyes fluttered.

    " The way to lose weight quickly is to lose weight quickly. Do you not know?"

    "I don''t know what that means, but I do remember that it took me a long time to lose the fat I gained last time."

    Serpens shook his head as if there was no hope.

 CH 248

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 248

    45. How to discipline the Duke (4)

    When we arrived at the peacock mansion, it was dusky dawn.

    Eirich, apparently waiting for a long time without sleeping, greeted us in casual clothes as we got off the carriage.

    Have you been well? Are there any injuries?

    Yes.

    Serpens responded to Eilich''s actions as he looked at himself while speaking in a friendly tone.

    It still seems a bit awkward, but it doesn''t seem that he doesn''t like the interest at all.

    Serpens didn''t dare avoid Eirich''s scrutiny of him.

    This blood...

    He appears to have found blood on his shirt sleeve and pants.

    Eirich reflexively mumbles

    Now, Serpens stiffened.

    It was obvious what the guy was thinking. I was nervous because I thought I was going to be criticized, so my back tightened.

    I''m glad you''re safe.

    Contrary to Serpence''s concerns, Eirich smiled relievedly.

    He realized that the blood on his clothes was not caused by the guy''s injury, but that it was someone else''s blood.

    Is it because the expected words did not come out?

    The taut string of tension

    In an instant, it loosened up, and Serpens'' shoulders drooped noticeably.

    "The Crown Prince was this helpful?"

    This is a question that seems to have forgotten for a moment that the owner of the holy sword is Humanus, not Serpens.

    Hagi-ya, claiming to be a self-proclaimed friend, doesn''t really know anything, and doesn''t even notice. I can''t help but feel bad.

    Why Serpens said he wasn''t a friend, it must have been very heartbreaking.

    If I had been Eirich, I would have doubted that the god Luxmea had fallen asleep on the day of choice.

    you]. Thanks to you, things worked out.

    Serpens did not mention how specifically Humanus helped him. Eirich didn''t really care about it either.

    I did a very big job, but the handling is very unfortunate.

    Yeah, you worked hard. It''d be better to go home and rest today.

    Yes. I, umm... Thank you for your concern.

    I buy it.

    Have you gotten used to worrying about others?

    If it was the old Serpence, I would have hesitated for a long time. Or the words that were played with pretense. There was a moment''s hesitation, but he put it in his mouth with sincerity.

    In response to Serpence''s thanks, Eirich smiled softly without saying a word.

    The three of you also worked hard , it''s over. Come in and rest.

    Now it seems we have caught our eye.

    Eirich gained weight.

    He looked at me and said, startled. It''s a look that makes you wonder if it''s true that you''ve suffered really hard.

    It''s because of stress.

    Was it like that?

    Serpence had a look on his face as if he had attained a great realization at what I said casually. Even the slightly shocked face is D..

    Why do you believe it?

    He''s gaining weight, so he''s never had any swelling, so I can''t tell.

    Sir, don''t be fooled.

    It is a good thing that Winston was able to speak without hesitation.

    It''s just that I''m sorry that the content has become a part of the story.

    Serpens, who had come to his senses thanks to his loyal words, looked at me.

    Then I''ll go to bed for a while. �[H Cock, let''s go back to the dormitory, too! See you later, Duke!

    I pushed Eugene and Winston on the back. Of course, there was no way he could be pushed away.

    Eugenes waved his hand lightly, Winston.

    He nodded his head and then moved on his own.

    * * *

    After returning to the room, washing up and getting ready for bed, Serpens sneaked in through the window.

    The bed has increased.

    The bed I was using was torn down in the dark, so I told Xeon that I would use an empty bed and brought it.

    To put Serpence''s bed in my room, I had no choice but to remove my bed or do a large-scale furniture rearrangement Tetris.

    Uh huh, how the heck does Zeon nagging me about how much weight I have gained and the bed has been shattered....

    Thankfully, it ends with verse 1 because Xeon is ready to go to work. If it hadn''t been for it, I would have gone to shower now.

    Don''t lie down like that, move a little, didn''t you?

    Having said that, I have nothing to say.

    If I had known this would happen, I would have done something beside Winston while he was working out.

    When I couldn''t respond, he snorted triumphantly. I think I put the saying that I''m not fat, I''m swollen.

    Oh, that''s right. I''m done talking about my age, so let''s sit down for a while. Let''s talk for a while.

    Aren''t you going to sleep?

    You can sleep late and wake up later. You''ve already passed the good bedtime anyway.

    I said, standing there to put out the fire

    He sat on the bed next to me and looked at me.

    I tore up a soundproofing scroll so as not to disturb the bright-eared Eugenes'' sleep.

    "What else are you going to say?"

    He''s a good-natured guy.

    Serpence asked if what he had scolded earlier wasn''t enough.

    Why is Serpens so insecure?

    " what does that mean all of a sudden?"

    "If a person compliments you sincerely, why

    Can''t you just accept it straight away? It''s not about being humble, you''re just denying it.

    Yeah, I...

    I''m not finished yet.

    I don''t want to see him talk nonsense again.

    Well, since I know the environment in which Serpens grew up, I understand. But, anyway.

    If the other person is polite

    You can take it lightly, but today Eun: Isn''t it?

    A welcome reply came back.

    It is okay for nobles to exchange lacquer words on their faces in the banquet hall, but it means that it is difficult to accept words with sincere respect.

    It would be acceptable to praise the fake fortune-telling external fence, but it also meant that ''the words to praise the real self cannot be easily affirmed.

    "So I should have accepted it more.

    Even if you say something, it''s no use if Serpence denies it. No matter what they say, they start denying me, ''Isn''t it?'' . Well, at first, I think you are a person who lacks self-confidence, and I will work hard to explain how great you are. But what if it repeats?

    ...Ummm.

    He didn''t even ask if he knew the answer.

    You''ll be exhausted and exhausted. Who wants to waste energy while complimenting? As a result, fewer and fewer people praise Serpense with sincerity.

    will hear it.

    "Does Serpens want that kind of result?"

    He shook his head at my question.

    It''s not a difficult story. It''s not an unknown story.

    However, the strange feeling that has penetrated to his bones makes it difficult.

    I... I''m not sure I''m really a good person.

    "Don''t try to ask someone else for the answer. You don''t have to.

    is in himself.

    As I said, poking his chest, he put his hand on his chest.

    If the answer had come out like that, I wouldn''t be doing this right now.

    I opened my mouth with a heart of feeding baby food.

    What do you think Serpens'' strengths are?

    "What? Those eyes that seem to say ''Did I ever have something like that?''"

    Serpens was bewildered, and I was stunned.

    This child, do you really think there is nothing wrong with you?

    "No, you really don''t know?!

    I told him not to deny it, but now he is silent.

    "Wow , I''m really stupid. There are some things that Serpens are good at. Say what you see right away."

    What do you want to say?

    "Isn''t it supposed to be the first answer that comes out of the face?"

    Ummm... It''s a little good impression. Thanks to that, it helped a lot in building an external image.

    The results obtained are positive, but the evaluation was absurdly bowed down.

    I couldn''t understand how he could end up with a face like that and ''look a little nicer''.

    Haven''t you been using your face too aggressively for something like that? Didn''t he know that he had a handsome face and wrote it down?

    Endless questions lingered in my mind.

    Doesn''t it look a little nice? It''s not like that, D!

    "Do you look very good?"

    ... People around me praise her for her angelic appearance, but what the hell! Have you ever just taken it as ''looks good''?

    "Wasn''t it?"

    It seems that he was not able to relate directly to the word strength, but lived with great pride in being good.

    Maybe he thought it was the last bulwark to hide his ugly inner self.

    As if it had collapsed, Serpens had a distraught expression on his face.

    Looking good is right, but that means that''s not everything.

    A light of relief flashed across his face.

    Zola is so handsome.

    Sleep..., what?

    No, don''t follow that!

    What does Zola mean .

    Aww-!!

    It was so ridiculous that the rest of the words came out in vain.

    It is too early to explain the etymology to a pure baby fence.

    As I screamed and froze, he shut his mouth with a look of disappointment. It seems difficult, so I won''t ask any more questions.

    And you''re incredibly strong! To the extent that I hate others! Isn''t it because you''re confident in your power?

    "It may still look like that, but

    Compared to the enemies you have to fight with... .

    Serpens? What did I say earlier?

    As I spoke in a soft voice, the guy covered his mouth with both hands and inhaled.

    You''re completely wrong with what you''re comparing them to! No matter how angelic a Serpence may be, he''s still a human being, so you can''t compare him to the devil! No right? The devil won!

    Serpens put on a look that said, ''He was a weak man.

    Do you really think it''s enough if you don''t say anything? Like a child, thinking is one-dimensional.

    Well, that''s right. The demons that will be summoned in the future will get stronger, and the demon lords will be stronger than that. In [Master of the Holy Sword], I was careless and got hit in the back and left, so I can''t figure it out... It''s not an extinction, but a reverse summoning. Considering that he has ceased to exist and that he is the original owner of power, he may be stronger than the Demon Lord Fence.

    "O uh " mouth

    "But what does that matter?"

    " are you saying that after killing your spirit?"

    "Then why are you upset by this?"

    The boy bowed his head.

    Anyone who sees it would think I''m killing him.

    Demons are of different races, and demon lords go beyond that and are demigods at all. Well, do you have any goals to challenge the realm of the gods by developing your own armed forces? If that''s the case, I''ll support you!

    Isn''t that possible?

    Then don''t criticize yourself by comparing them to them.

    As if my words sounded forced, Serpence pouted his mouth in dissatisfaction.

    As the guy thinks, the force is correct. But the guy was also being forced.

    It''s good to have a sense of improvement in the future, but if you don''t have confidence as a foundation, you''ll get tired of impatience early.

    I don''t know. Maybe I could be stronger...

    What if I can''t get stronger? Serpence is strong enough even now] . You know it, too.

    How the hell did you roast a child like this?

    As the saying that no matter how strong you get stronger and stronger, always comes back as an echo, he said, ''I am still strong enough.'' You seemed to be unable to agree with that statement.

    Did I tell you and my sister? If there is something that Serpens lacks, other people will be able to fill it.

    Did you fight against the demons in [Master of the Holy Sword]? It was all possible because of my colleagues. Serppens have crabs now, right?"

    Hmmm.

    If you can''t get stronger, you just have to learn to fight together.

    I wanted to point out the good points, but I pointed out the shortcomings.

    But if you don''t point this out, he''ll push himself for the rest of his life.

    Let''s think of it as a step backward for one step forward.

    Serpense, find only 10 of your strengths within this week.

    Ten?

    If you can''t fill it all out, you''ll have to shout ''I''m so handsome!'' in the mansion''s concourse as many times as it''s not enough.

    what ?

    Serpens looked at me blankly with a bemused face.

    So tell me about your strengths, you should have put something on it. Now that I have come to regret it, it is too late.

    Then we''re done talking, so go to sleep.

    let''s catch Go and put out the fire!

    Come on, wait. Isn''t it too much to suddenly notify like this!

    Cheer-!

    Don''t pretend to sleep!

    As I quickly lay down on the bed and put the duvet back on, the guy scolded me. He is so desperately stricken that motion sickness rises again.

    I walked back on the blanket and looked at him.

    "Are you going to increase it to twenty?"

    Good night.

    As if when he shook me, he gently covered the duvet I had uncovered and patted him a couple of times before turning off the light.

 CH 249

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 249

    46. The Duke and the Suspicious... (One)

    I am hungry.

    I felt hungry and opened my eyes.

    The room was dark, but thanks to the sunlight coming in through the gap in the curtains, I could tell it was midday.

    Actually, I was worried that I would suffer from nightmares the whole time I slept.

    Even if I borrowed it, I can''t remember what it is.

    The only thing I remember was a dream of soothing the crying selfish fence.

    I turned my head slightly and looked to the side, and I vaguely saw Serpens sleeping in the bed next to me.

    ''Isn''t this the first time I woke up before him?''

    This is the first time except for the occasional waking up to go to the bathroom. It''s a long time to live in the world.

    Fighting the devil and pouring tears, he knows a lot without knowing it

    must have been tired Maybe it''s because I''ve come back home after a long time and my tension has been relieved.

    I reached for the pocket watch I had placed by my bedside.

    - click

    The lid opened, and the clock hand caught in the dim vision pointed to 2:05.

    I slept really well.

    How was it possible to fall asleep so easily, the Serpens in front of me

    I wondered if he had even written divine power to me while I was sleeping.

    ''I have a heart attack, but I don''t have any physical evidence.

    I narrowed my eyes, looked at him, put down the clock, got up and sat down.

    Now the question is whether to wake him up or leave him alone... .

    I want to sleep more, but it''s already past lunch time. After washing and changing clothes, it''s snack time.

    If you miss now, you''ll be there until evening

    it gets worn out

    ''After dinner, the lunch box I vomited last night . uh... .''

    For some reason, I was too hungry for a meal or two. That''s three meals a day.

    He had plans to lose weight, but he said that a starving diet was bad for his health.

    I pulled my foot out of the duvet and placed it on the edge of the mattress on the bed where Serpence was sleeping. I bent and straightened my knees a few times and shook the bed, and the guy opened his eyes.

    Ummm...

    "Wake up, shower, and eat something?"

    .How much more do you plan on stabbing?

    Aren''t you awake? It''s past two in the afternoon.

    Hearing my words, the boy opened his eyes and jumped up from his seat.

    You don''t have to rush like that, do you?

    . He will come.

    Serpens said with a serious expression.

    That voice is so serious, Demon Lord

    I thought it would show up.

    However, if you think about it for a bit, you can easily realize that the person he spoke of is just a humanus.

    When Humanus comes to the capital, the Duke will come to visit him, so it means that you have to finish the preparations before that.

    Then why are you going into my bathroom? You''re not going out the window?

    can''t you go out in your pajamas in broad daylight?

    It is a declaration that we will wash and change clothes here.

    very just varied.

    * * *

    As soon as he finished eating, Serpence clung to the head of his office desk, telling him that he had to write a report on dark affairs.

    ''Dana has to be finished before Humanus comes, what''s the matter?''

    I got a message from Humanus that he would come to me around five o''clock, but nowhere was it written that I should write a report.

    In other words, Serpence is working by making a cut line at will.

    ''Why are you writing the report in the first place?''

    Judging by the time of the arrival of Yeontong, Hugh Manus must have been face to face with the Emperor at Bona Mana Imperial Castle.

    They''re good friends, so when we meet, we''ll talk about this and that. Of course, there will be conversations about what happened in the dark area.

    After all, Humanus must have been talking about everything, but I don''t know why he bothered to write a report and post it.

    ''At that time, I will think about my strengths.''

    If you think of it differently, such a steady point is an advantage.

    Then I came to find all the strengths he should be looking for.

    " You went on a business trip for a long time, didn''t you?"

    Yes?

    As I was watching him with displeasure, he suddenly let out a strange noise.

    "Why are you writing a report now?

    Were you not lamenting?"

    How did you know? Are you a ghost?

    "That''s what you think, obviously."

    Serpens didn''t even look at me, teasing the pen and snoring.

    A sense of defeat for an unknown cause made fun of me and ran away.

    This bastard knows me so well... !''

    Anyway, what he says is that what he is writing now is a report of a long absence, before a report that he had killed a demon.

    I got closer and glanced at the report.

    Before the demon was summoned at the racecourse, the dynamics of the dark family were written one after another.

    ...do you have to write something like that every time you''re away?

    I didn''t take a vacation for personal reasons, isn''t it?

    uh..! Is this why everyone is running their own business or private business? You don''t want to write a report?

    I''m really fed up.

    I''d rather write a childcare journal, but I don''t want to write a report full of such atrocious content.

    Sunwoo.

    why?

    If you''re not going to work, why don''t you go out and do some strength training with Sir Winston?

    I haven''t processed the paperwork for a while and my hands are itchy. Oh, I really want to work!

    Saying that, I ran back to my seat.

    Contrary to the words spoken, I really hate working.

    After taking a long break from work, playing is so much fun that I want to play more. I don''t have a computer or a smartphone, but playing is always new and exciting.

    Even thinking about cancer, I was suited to playing.

    But did I say that nothing in the world goes the way we want it to?

    For the crime of being an aide, being imprisoned in a prison called the duke''s house, in a prison called the office, and punished for handling paperwork.

    Even today, I am a stone named after work

    waiting for the room

    big"! Tears cover my eyes!''

    But if you don''t finish the paperwork on time, Serpense''s bad illness will recur.

    I can''t give up my habit, and I''m going to slowly stretch out my demonic beasts towards the pile of papers.

    If you don''t eat snacks and maintain a good life routine, you''ll fall for it, and now is the time to focus on paperwork.

    ''And if you have to work out, you''d be better off with Serpence than with Winston.''

    Winston is a ruthless hard trainer

    all.

    The weight loss effect killed me, but I thought it would kill me in other ways as well. I couldn''t tell if I was going by train to the Duchy or to a diet camp.

    ''At that time, I promised myself that I would never gain weight again... .''

    Humans always make the same mistakes over and over again. He shook his head, trying to shake off the memories of that time, and picked up the pen.

    Neither Serpence nor Serpense opened their mouths, so only the squeaking noise filled the office.

    It wasn''t the fierce noise of a pen''s head hitting a book and a desk hard, something you''d hear during self-study class in high school when the SAT fell on the instep.

    A soft, gentle tickling sound, scraping the paper, landed in my ears.

    If you are determined to focus, this is the perfect environment for concentration.

    The paperwork has come to an end. It has been a long time since Serpence finished writing the report and started working on the paperwork.

    Why did you rush to write the report?

    Choi I don''t know

    �R

    A knock sounded.

    The current time is five o''clock. It''s to announce that Humanus has arrived. Me and Serpens moved to the drawing room.

    Yesterday..., no. It''s past midnight, so is it today? Anyway, because I got up early, I thought he was going to participate in the advisory meeting, but he said he didn''t come?

    Humanus, who arrived soon after, sat down and asked a question in a tone that seemed to ask for his regards.

    Oh, that''s right! Advisory Council!

    Yes, it was originally meant to be like that, but when I arrived in the capital and tried to write the report, I suddenly got dizzy... I contacted him saying that he would put it all together and report it tomorrow.

    For me, the advisory meeting was the martial arts spectacle itself. Because of that, there

    I forgot for a moment that it was a place to discuss important issues.

    Of course, that''s just me.

    Serpens remembered it well and even sent a letter to the imperial family.

    ''He woke up late in the afternoon, so did he tell me to write it down before he came to my room to sleep?''

    I stuck my tongue out and looked at Serpens.

    But somehow, the side faucet stings. Looking around, I saw that Humanus and the group were looking at me with strange eyes.

    I guess I need to keep my mouth shut.

    "Has the letter not arrived?"

    No, if it''s a letter, it arrived well.

    "Then, did your Majesty feel very uncomfortable ?"

    No way!

    Humanus waved his hands in embarrassment at the pitiful expression of Serpence, who was getting better and better.

    No, that''s not it! It wasn''t like that before..., no. What does this mean?

    not . I think I reported right away when I was tired before... .

    It''s an attack I''m aware of. There''s no way Humanus, who knows nothing, has the talent to face it.

    Humanus began to gibberish.

    Still, it was not enough to understand what he was trying to say.

    ''Last year alone, as soon as the subjugation was completed, I went up to the capital, beat up the demons, and participated in the advisory council. I did everything I could.''

    It was probably the case before

    I will.

    This time, I seem to be particularly tired... I''m sorry. I must have been living in an unfamiliar place for a long time without realizing it.

    "Are you okay now?"

    Seeing Serpens speaking as if he was guilty, Humanus asked worriedly.

    Previously, it was a Serpence who finished her role in a tired state.

    When I heard the news that such a guy voluntarily extended his holidays, I was worried about how hard it must have been for him.

    seems to have been standing

    You''re all right now, and you''ve just finished writing the report for your Majesty tomorrow... .

    I cried.

    At Humanus'' words, Serpens was unable to finish his speech, and his shoulders trembled.

    He paused for a moment, like a dead electronic device. The only thing that moves is the eyelids.

    After the long eyelashes went up and down a couple of times, Serpens who finished his judgment slowly blushed. That''s how it happened anyway

    It''s playing a naive fence.

    Well, that''s..., umm...

    What are you ashamed of? I had a really hard time at first too. I didn''t cry.

    It is also His Majesty the Crown Prince.

    The demon bastards are the ones who killed or killed countless innocent people. You don''t have to focus on them all.

    "Yes, thank you for your kind words."

    At Serpens'' flattering remark, Humanus''s nose rose without knowing that it was high in the sky.

    ''If you look closely, that bastard of Humanus, you mean you''re arrogant in front of Serpens?''

    But that doesn''t mean he treats Serpence as a rival or feels inferior.

    Normally, the great thing about Serpence was to buy high, and in other parts, he pretended to be good.

 CH 250

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 250

    46. The Duke and the Suspicious... (2)

    ''Is Humanus originally so bad at pretending to be so handsome... ?''

    At least in [Master of the Holy Sword], this wasn''t the case. In other words, this is only for Serpens.

    I was able to find the cause without difficulty.

    "Then the bandit leaders took a strange drug, and suddenly they got bigger.

    Isn''t it growing? Demon worshipers were involved. I was embarrassed, but I calmly .

    The story of Humanus has at some point turned into his own saga.

    You''re amazing.

    Serpens pretended to admire.

    There is not even the slightest hint of sincerity in the lines, but making it look like sincerity is really a skill.

    ''Anyway, the bottom line is that the Serpence keeps teasing me, so it''s more exciting than that!''

    Serpense''s intentions are obvious.

    You must be hoping that this moment will end soon.

    Because of that, I was talking roughly, but because I couldn''t speak bitterly, the story became longer.

    There is no other sight of a returning student who has been discharged from military service sitting down with a freshman and pouring out military sagas one after another.

    Perhaps the behavior of Humanus was not like that, Furor giggled and whispered something to Liena.

    After hearing the whisper, Liena only smiled softly. So what kind of conversation went on, no

    I do not know.

    Sitting between the two of them, Anima looked at the table blankly, with her back bent and her chin crossed.

    ''More than that, [Master of the Holy Sword] didn''t have the development of the bandits taking drugs and powering up... ?''

    What would happen if Humanus and his party were weaker than when they were [Master of the Holy Sword], so they were growing up very strong thanks to the Spartan education of the devil.

    Of course, as the demons show more aggression, it cannot be viewed in a positive light.

    "So that''s when Liena struck a barrier ."

    Wait a minute, there''s one catch.

    Did you finally catch the number that could close the mouth of Humanus?

    Serpens raised his hand slightly and interrupted Humanus.

    "What does it take?"

    Listening to your majesty, it seems that you entrust all matters related to treatment and barriers to your colleagues... . Is that correct?

    Yeah, that''s because Liena is better than me.

    Practice is .

    Liena said it''s good to learn a little bit, so it''s a bit creepy... But first, handling the power of the Holy Sword is more important, isn''t it?

    It''s a story we all know.

    However, Serpence had a serious expression on his face, as if he had just found out.

    Although the holy sword takes the form of a weapon, it is not the essence.

    that is , so it''s harder to control... .

    Where did the person who was making the most of the flirtatious gossip went, Humanus slowly turned his head to avoid his gaze.

    After he got the Holy Sword, when he recalls his appearance in the battle with Serpens, I get a rough idea of what those words mean.

    ''Originally, Humanus didn''t even use his divine power well in any way other than attack, right?''

    Shooting games, rhythm games, and puzzle games require even the same improvisation game.

    As if the user''s physical is all different.

    Attack, heal and buff, barrier.

    The three techniques differ in the way they use the divine power.

    I''m still not familiar with this technique, but the Holy Sword''s influence makes my divine power go wild, so I''m sure it will taste good to train.

    By analogy, the difficulty of the rhythm game ''Flight of the Bumblebee'' was introduced to someone who only played shooting games.

    I don''t know if it starts from low difficulty and gradually goes up. Or maybe if you were born with a genius sense of rhythm.

    usually never do

    ''By the way, what you received as a reward for the first trial is an auxiliary weapon that helps control the power of the Holy Sword, isn''t it?''

    Then you should be able to

    Have you not heard from the denomination about the Volta Mountains?

    "I should have listened But wouldn''t it be enough to just stop the barrier from breaking?"

    "Of course, it is best not to break the barrier. However, that cannot be a fundamental solution.

    If they know they can''t make it, the demon worshipers will try to break it again and again.

    Once you break it, the demonic spirits will pour out, and the energy inherent in the demon core will spread to all directions.

    The evil forces cannot give up after only trying once or twice.

    You have to show that you can recreate the barrier, and then you will stop knowing that even if you try hard, it will be in vain.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], Humanus could not recreate the barrier.

    To be precise, I didn''t even dare to try it.

    It was not long after the empire collapsed that the mountain range burst.

    Humanus was arguing with the devil in Amon. Belatedly, when they headed to the Volta Mountains, it was already like a field of demon water.

    Demons and summoned demons who manage it. And it is almost impossible to strike the barrier again while facing the monsters.

    No matter how successful it is, there is no one to protect it,

    Stop it if you break it with

    ''No matter how many times I think about it, the collapse of the empire was too fatal.''

    Saying that there must be a country that can take the place of the empire, what about the fact that they created a lot of corpses while fighting each other?

    Of course, it is the result of fanning the evil forces from behind.

    This would not have happened if the empire had not been destroyed in the first place.

    I''ll try first. It would be nice if I could concentrate on training for a while...

    "Anything else?"

    Serpens expressed his doubts at Humanus''s lamentable words.

    I heard a call from the Principality of Fold. Recently, there has been a mass disappearance in the Principality, and it seems to be the work of demon worshipers.

    "You mean the Principality?"

    The Duchy of Fold is a small country near the Lumen Empire.

    Originally, it was called a kingdom and its territory was also large, but as a magic core was created within the territory, and the empire took over it for its management, the number of people in the country was greatly reduced.

    The place where the magic core was formed

    Without the Volta Mountains.

    It is said that the Empire had no intention of taking their territory at first.

    The problem is the resources of the Volta Mountains.

    ''It''s not that the Empire was aiming for that .''

    In the original Volta Mountains, the flow of magic was smooth, and it was an environment where a lot of plants needed for the manufacture of magic reagents grew.

    For the same reason, magic stones were also quite buried.

    The Duchy of Fold, the kingdom at the time, had quite a bit of fun with it, but overnight

    It has become the cake of the picture.

    I''ve been messing around with the barriers, wondering if I can''t eat them using those resources somehow.

    Deciding that they could not be entrusted with management, the Empire extended its territory to the Volta Mountains.

    It was not enough for the Fold Kingdom to lose a large amount of money, and the Empire hated it and the land became smaller.

    ''The economy is in turmoil and the national power is inevitably weakened.''

    It is attacked by other countries that have taken advantage of that gap, and it shrinks further and collapses.

    rushed right before

    What would be unfair to say that a warlock did a crazy thing to gather the magic that flowed across the continent and create a magic core within his own country.

    It is true that he tried to make a hole in the barrier because he was blinded by the gains in front of him.

    Reluctantly, the Fold Kingdom requested help from the Empire, and as a result, it became a subordinate state of the Empire and is maintained until this day.

    "At first, I tried to solve it on my own, but it was not enough.

    Even if I send an employee, I keep disappearing... . Did you say that the last information you received was that some kind of magical energy was detected?"

    uh... .

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], I had neither heard nor seen that Humanus had received such a call.

    Serpens, who knew this, was in trouble and let out a sound of pain.

    And you said you saw bloody jade at the auction house.

    Your Majesty says that the bloody prisons are the missing persons of the Principality..., that''s it...

    Serpens are the missing people, full of blood.

    He seemed afraid to bring up the question of whether he thought he had heard it.

    He blurted out the end of his words and gave off a sad expression.

    It may have been prepared slowly from a long time ago, but I think there is a possibility.

    "So, are you going to go by yourself?"

    so be it.

    Without a moment''s hesitation, Humanus answered.

    On the other hand, Serpens expressed concern.

    Are you worried that it might be a trap of the demon worshipers? It''s okay, the current prince is a trustworthy shiram.

    Prince Rusty Russe Fold.

    She is the first leader to declare support for Humanus, who lost the empire in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    And kept it till the end.

    He did not betray the Holy Sword''s party for a moment or be swayed by the demon worshipers.

    ''The singularity is that Hugh, who lost his fiancee

    What about the fact that he had a history of getting married when he suggested Manus get married?''

    It was a political objective to achieve a dream.

    The longing is, of course, to put the principality back on the ranks of the kingdom.

    After the collapse of the empire, he secretly claimed to be the kingdom, so the neighboring countries did not want to recognize it.

    They were excluded, ignored, and ostracized at all international conferences.

    Because of that, in order to secure legitimacy, she became the heir of the empire, Humanu.

    It was intended to welcome Sui as a national official.

    However, Humanus refused, stating that he could not marry for that reason.

    ''It is said that it is one''s own leadership that makes the king''s seat, not the recognition of the king of another country. or the support of the people. I used to say blah blah blah blah blah blah.''

    Afterwards, he really fell in love with Humanus, but he did not show any regrets. It didn''t even contain what was rejected.

    As the head of a country, he only supported the master of the holy sword to protect the continent.

    He''s a trustworthy person when I think of him as a reliable backer of the Holy Swords party until the end... .

    ''It''s kind of awkward.''

    It is the principality''s longing to get out of the empire, but the empire is still alive and the current emperor has no intention of liberating the principality.

    Now, there is no country that ruthlessly touches the principality, which is a subordinate country of the empire.

    The Duchy of Fold is the only vassal state on the continent, and its military and economic development is poor.

    Empire because it was a country that was greedy and tried to endanger the continent

    This is due to the repression of

    ''The moment the empire breaks its hands. The principality has become a herbivore freed to a carnivore cage.''

    Right now, in order to prevent the demons from collecting corpses for sacrificial use, they are preventing war by imperial military demonstrations and the denial of the denomination.

    What if the monkey problem is solved?

    National development does not happen overnight.

    For that reason, in the Principality of Fold, along with liberation, as a reward for blocking their development, 100 years

    They have been asking for protection between them.

    ''Yeah, what . Since there are soldiers who have been secretly raised, I can''t just ask them to release me, so I must have made such a request... .''

    In addition, the existence of the military is only revealed after the fall of the empire.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword] it was said that it was a means to protect the people of the country from evil spirits, but right?

    Since the empire was destroyed, no one pointed it out. No one is naive to think that''s all there is to it.

    Even Humanus knew it and passed it on.

    Because the empire collapsed, it became just as it was said.

    Yeah. I think so too. But can''t you trust everyone under him who isn''t the Prince? Even in the Empire, there were people who had their hands on them.

    Serpens said so, but King Gong is also suspicious, so he can bet the dessert he will eat tomorrow.

 CH 251

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 251

    46. The Duke and the Suspicious... (3)

    ''It''s definitely winning.''

    Perhaps, the King''s summoning of Humanus was just a butterfly effect.

    The secret slave trade was abolished and the arena was closed.

    As a result, the evil forces, whose sacrifices were not readily available, took the people of the principality.

    may have been kidnapped.

    If the king finds traces of a demon while investigating the case, it is natural to report it to the owner of the holy sword.

    '' If you think positively.''

    However.

    In other words, that the future can be changed means that our side can be turned into the other side.

    Serpens and Winston, who should have joined the evil forces to be honest, were also on the side of the continent.

    Can you watch Humanus'' back till the end?

    With that in mind, Winston was also loyal to the evil forces until the very end.

    There is no guarantee that the opposite will not happen.

    ''If the evil forces really ate the principality . Isn''t that too much?''

    I only stole two individuals, but it is too disgraceful to steal an entire country.

    Even though Serpence was a staff equipped with force! I even ate the final boss! And the Black Knight Winston was also an executive!

    Still, Serpens is the back of the devil''s head.

    , and Winston was only a pattern executive!

    I''m aware of that. But the damage could be even greater, can''t we just leave it alone? If even one demon is summoned, the power of the Principality won''t be able to handle it.

    Your Majesty is not against going to the Principality itself. How can you let it go after you hear that there are victims?

    The conversation between Edo Humanus and Serpens continued while I tinkered inside.

    Of course, the acting of the smoke fence continued.

    It''s just that there is a part that takes a little bit...

    As if worried about whether Serpens could say something like this, he hesitated with a hesitant expression on his face.

    "What part?"

    I heard information that the Principality of Fold is secretly raising troops.

    What?! Where did that information come from?

    Humanus interrupted Serpens and asked a question urgently.

    In response to that reaction, Serpens pretended to be hesitant and slowly opened his mouth. It''s obvious what the answer will be.

    It is Illuminati

    The words that came out of the Illuminati chief''s mouth were �[��. That''s not entirely wrong.

    "Where did the Illuminati get that information?"

    I''m only a spokesperson to the end... In fact, I''ve only heard this information as a way of knowing.

    But, I''m telling you this out of frustration.

    Serpens, who had the title of aide to the Illuminati chief, said with a gloomy expression on his face.

    Of course, secretly raising an army does not convince them that they are turning their backs on the Empire or partnering with the demon worshipers. It may just be the timing of the envy, so they may have prepared it for self-restraint.

    Serpens added a voice like, "I believe that goodness resides in the hearts of the people of the world."

    all.

    His green eyes twinkled with faith and hope. Of course it was smoke.

    Still, if the information is genuine, I doubt it.

    Humanus said with a squeaky sound as if he had a headache.

    Seeing this, Serpens made up a bitter smile.

    In fact, Serpence is just suspicious as always, with the mindset to be as careful as possible.

    An ordinary fence of doubt

    all.

    But, is it because he knows the track record of his diligent work in [Master of the Holy Sword]?

    It felt like I was being ripped off somehow.

    Furor, what do you think it sounds like?

    Well... it doesn''t sound like you''re talking about the peacock''s absence, but somehow the back of the head is tickling.

    To Humanus'' question, Furor scratched the back of his head and answered.

    Humanu, who seemed to be asleep for a moment

    He looked back at Serpens again.

    Sepie, when did you hear about that?"

    It''s been awhile since I''ve heard it.

    "Did you tell your father?"

    Since there is no solid evidence yet, I thought it might cause conflict for nothing...

    When asked if he had reported to the emperor, Serpence bowed his head as if he had no regard for it.

    I must have been investigating by myself again. Three blood, you''re all good, do anything alone

    It''s a matter of trying to resolve it.

    "That''s I''m sorry."

    "Hey, there''s no need to be so gloomy ?"

    Seeing Serpens with a sad kitten-like expression, Humanus was greatly perplexed.

    Anyone who sees a face like that would have no choice but to react like that. It''s about empathizing beyond understanding.

    But the problem is that Serpens also showed a look of embarrassment.

    It didn''t show as big as Humanus, but the corners of my eyes trembled very slightly.

    all.

    In his eyes, he said, ''I had no intention of doing anything like this against Humanus... ?'' I could sense the question.

    ''You, this child, this... ! Is it a habit?''

    Every time I scolded him, he avoided nagging with a crying expression like that. I think this is called karma.

    You can''t take the face you''ve already made.

    Serpence continued to maintain a puzzled expression.

    "Mi, I''m sorry. I think I was talking too much. I didn''t mean to say anything, just... , I''m sorry!

    "No. Even so, Lord Zion received a lot of criticism like that, so I was trying to fix it."

    Strange glances caught my eye, who was a leisurely spectator.

    Suddenly, he became an aide who pointed out the duke. Even if it''s true, there''s no room to refute it.

    "No, what the duke is the type that works a lot, isn''t it?"

    Did I say too much?

    Serpens sitting next to him tapped his feet and warned him not to speak as soon as it came out.

    Then, when we report on Amhok''s work, we will also report on this matter as well.

    Before Humanus could open his mouth to respond to my words, Serpens brought back a topic that had been off the hook for a while.

    No. I''ll tell you later on the way back to the Imperial Palace, well. And I''ll investigate the Principality''s army as well.

    Yes ?

    While we are investigating the demon worshipers in the Principality, let''s find out together, huh? Or would you like to go with Sepy too?

    Ummm... no.

    Serpens pretended to be in serious trouble at Humanus'' suggestion, shaking his head flutteringly.

    In the first place, the results of the investigation are not important.

    It was before I came to this world that I started raising the military in the Duchy of Fold. The military is definitely there.

    Still, there is no reason why Serpens brought up this story. I just don''t trust Hugh Manus.

    I wonder if Humanus will get hit in the back of the head if he goes to Chile. So, fear of losing the master of the holy sword, which is the main force1.

    It''s to make him aware.

    "I have work to do."

    Serpens, who had just been told not to try to solve the problem alone, spoke up again.

    The word really disgusting comes out of nowhere

    come.

    Humanus also made an expression of what the hell was going on.

    I''m going to visit the tower.

    Matop?!

    Anima, who had been bruised, reacted promptly to the word Matop that came out of Serpens''s mouth.

    actually . I''ve heard from the Illuminati that U]ma worshipers are trying to target Fruito-san''s loved ones.

    Another Illuminati?

    Humanus asked with a suspicious expression.

    The anima referred to may have thought of ''sister'' in her head, and her complexion turned white, and she hesitated.

    Even if there is no warning from the Illuminati, check it out] It''s something you should check. I can count on one hand the number of times I''ve seen Mr. Pruitto, so I can tell that Mr. Pruito is overly dependent on a specific person. . The demon worshipers couldn''t have gone unnoticed.

    Serpence casts in-laws.

    It was pointed out that if a loved one was taken hostage, the Anima would be swayed by the demon''s words.

    "Somehow, to a letter saying that he would come alone, he replied that he should bring his colleagues as well .

    Yes. Right now, only Pruito-san''s people are targeted, but I don''t know what will happen in the future.

    It was a warning to everyone to be careful in advance.

    At Serpens'' words, Humanus looked around his companions.

    If it''s my father, it''ll be fine. I''m not the type of person to be rocked, and I''m always with the members. Don''t be brave and just send me a message telling me to avoid dangerous requests, and I''ll take care of myself.

    Furor''s words were full of faith and pride toward his father, the Mercenary King.

    Liena''s precious people must be the temple family of the branch where she was, so there was no need to worry.

    I avoided it if the demon worshipers avoided it, there''s no way I''d sneak around the temple.

    Instead of opening her mouth and saying something, Liena looked at Anima with a pitiful gaze.

    That place called Illuminity...is it really reliable? It''s a bit suspicious! How do you know so well about information that no one knows about, and when you have such information, why don''t you go out on your own? Why are you asking someone else?! I can''t even see my nose!

    Anima, who had been showing signs of nervousness, could not bear it and vomited anxiety.

    That''s a reasonable doubt.

    But the Illuminati were always on their own. They are just hiding their identity.

    Moreover, the group �[�� is headed by someone who runs around suspiciously. Suspicious things are unavoidable.

    I understand that you are vigilant. You are so precious that you have no choice but to do so. I think that''s why the Illuminati are saying this instead of solving the problem themselves.

    Wouldn''t it be better for you to check yourself than to leave it in the hands of others?

    is the question

    I''m really thinking like myself.

    However, the anima is no different in that she is a genius with extraordinary abilities. She couldn''t deny Serpence''s words and bit her lip.

    "But you can''t go."

    Anima chewed her lip and said melancholy.

    As a companion of the Holy Sword, he must follow Humanus to the Principality.

    Leaving him alone, he could not leave for the Kingdom of Prune where the tower was located. Information about the dire situation in the Principality

    Even more now that I heard it.

    '' If it hadn''t been for the promise I made with my older sister before I left, I would have abandoned all of them and headed for the tower.''

    Anima''s older sister may have foreseen it.

    She said that she should not abandon the owner of the Holy Sword because of her, and repeatedly emphasized to the anima so that she would not run away to her.

    Anima had to promise to stand by the master of the Holy Sword and help until all was done.

    "That , I''m sorry too. I didn''t know that the Principality would send such a request."

    Ugh...

    Serpens had a troubled expression on her face, and Anima had a face that looked like she was about to cry.

 CH 252

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 252

    46. The Duke and the Suspicious... (4)

    Then how about when you take over the principality, Sepi, and we go to the tower?

    Just a few minutes before, Humanus, who had exclaimed that he would take over the principality, cautiously gave his opinion.

    As if he was embarrassed by what he said, his facial muscles were awkwardly stiff.

    I don''t think that''s a very good decision.

    why?

    As if it wasn''t even worth reconsider, Serpence shook his head.

    After that, Humanus'' questions followed like a tag.

    Maybe it''s a two-way operation. Bind the master of the Holy Sword and his companions to the Principality

    "Are you saying that your goal is to target my sister?!"

    I''m assuming so.

    Anima got excited and intervened in her sister''s business.

    What should I do with the Illuminati being suspicious? Jimin is simply denying reality out of anxiety.

    Everyone knows that the more you cherish and depend on it, the more your value as a hostage increases.

    ''Looking at the Serpence'', huh.''

    Anima is also suffering from separation anxiety.

    Even if it doesn''t, I''m uneasy because I''m forcibly separated from my guardian, but I''ve even heard that the guardian could be wrong.

    I understand even if you are denial and angry

    there''s nothing you can''t do

    If the crybaby fence had been in the same situation, it would have been crying.

    "As Your Highness said, if I go to the Principality and you go to the Tower. The demon worshipers who think their plans have been found out do not know what kind of sudden action they will take. Otherwise, there is a possibility of committing a vicious thing that is hard to imagine "

    Even though Serpence was just talking about the possibility, it seemed like it was a sin to tell such a story.

    He lowered his gaze and hid his sad eyes with rich eyelashes, and said with a pitiful face.

    Seeing him, the holy sword party trembled at the wickedness of the demon worshiper and expressed their anger.

    '' Wait a minute. From what I hear, it''s a bit strange, isn''t it?''

    According to Serpens, it sounds like the demons are aiming for Anima''s sister right away.

    However, it was much later that she became involved in the demon summoning.

    The Empire fell and the Volta Mountains

    It happened after the system was broken, so this year, Hubin at the earliest. It''s late next year.

    It''s unlikely that the demons will hit the right timing and cause an accident, but I won''t touch it so hastily as it can trigger Nima''s awakening.

    ''Because he was the type of person who would kill himself without delay if he thought that he might be caught by a demon and used as an anima.''

    I won''t do anything about kidnapping, killing, or using it as a devil''s vessel.

    However, it was awakened in [Master of the Holy Sword]

    When you think of Nima''s ''sister''s revenge!'' on her lips and bursting with magic... .

    It seems like the devil king cub, who knows the love between the two, will do something.

    Anyway, to conclude, Akseung hasn''t done anything yet.

    In other words, the current Serpens are framing them.

    Principality work aside, it''s a two-way operation?

    Kidnapped ordinary people to attract attention, and behind the scenes, to the small person of the Holy Sword party.

    Crabs are demonic!

    There is no such thing as completely irresistible garbage.

    ''But they''re basically bad guys, aren''t they?''

    My kid might talk a little bit behind the scenes.

    However, I saw it with the intention of preventing elements that could become a threat in the future in advance.

    I will definitely save Pruitto-san''s precious people.

    Yeah, Sepi is a trustworthy person. I''ll assure you.

    At Serpens''s words, even Humanus stood up to help, and she nodded as if she understood too.

    But, like Serpens, who was told not to fight with me, Anima''s expression became depressed.

    She bowed her head with a sullen face.

    Dirty demon worshipers... I''ll kill them all

    Contrary to her gloomy expression, her voice was full of enthusiasm.

    Anima, who had been muttering alone like that, suddenly shook her head at what she was thinking.

    hit the

    Doesn''t that mean that demon worshipers can''t get caught up in their plans, no matter who''s heading to the tower, it''s just as dangerous?!

    If that''s the problem, you don''t have to worry. You still had to go abroad. All you have to do is pretend to stay there and sneak out.

    I wondered why he was talking about the tower right now. I guess I was just thinking of stopping by on my way to a foreign country.

    This child came out to meet a friend,

    Go to a cafe and drink the seasonal promotional drink that you have fortified, stop by a pharmacy on the way home to buy an over-the-counter medicine, and shop at the mart.

    It is obviously extremely efficient.

    "A foreign country? Where? What else did your father make you?"

    No. I think I''ll have to order a new sword, so I''m going to visit the Terrarum Kingdom.

    At Serpens''s words, Humanus glanced at the holy sword with a sinful expression.

    Either way, Serpens is a holy sword

    Without giving him a single glance, he pulled out an old sword from his pocket.

    This is the first sword I see.

    The luxurious handle stood out, but there were so many teeth that it could not be regenerated and there were incontinence here and there.

    It seems better to melt it and make a new one than to rewrite it.

    "Is this the sword you used to fight the devil this time?"

    Yes. This is a good sword as it is, but it can''t withstand the clash of magic and divine power properly and it has become like this.

    I did. There are a few dwarven swords my ancestors used, but they didn''t fit me well... .

    It''d be better to set it up sooner rather than later before a stronger demon appears.

    I think so too.

    I listened to Serpens and looked closely, but it was the first sword I had ever seen.

    It was similar in shape and length to the sword he used in the dark district, but the hik design was slightly different.

    In short, it means that you are cheating by breaking the sword of Ammon.

    Still, he got the right sword

    It''s true that I have to dance.''

    Also, in order to process the Holy Stone, you have to go to the Terram Kingdom.

    For that reason, I decided to turn a blind eye to his fraudulent practices.

    "Surely] Most people stay nearby and check the process until the sword is completed, so people won''t think it''s strange either."

    Humanus murmured and nodded his head slightly.

    The cost of entrusting a dwarf to a dwarf for production is enormous, so he stalks around until it is complete.

    there were a lot of people

    There were some Dwarves who were offended by meddling in the craftsman''s work, but since it''s personalized, most of them do, and it seems to confirm the work in the middle.

    When it comes to custom suits, it is similar to trying on clothes that have been sewn on before they are finished.

    "But if you want to visit the tower, you don''t have time to watch the production process, right?"

    When placing an order, please be specific and it will be fine.

    I''m kind of sorry...

    Serpence is a joke when it comes to swords.

    Aji smiled quietly at Humanus, and put the shattering sword into the pocket of Aspace.

    Judging by the fact that he had prepared a broken sword on purpose, he must have attached Humanus and his party to the Empire, saying that they had to monitor the Volta Mountains even if they were not working in the Principality.

    He must be too, because he hasn''t touched Nima''s older sister, who isn''t a demon yet.

    You may have a plan, but you don''t know what it is.

    I sent Humanus and his party for nothing.

    If the monkey''s proboscis is not seen, the reliability of the information provided by the Illuminati will suffer in the future.

    If that''s the case, that''s fine... , I guess.

    I felt a little sorry, but I guess I didn''t want to show off, the Anima said, pretending to be arrogant.

    "So the question is can you tell me about him?"

    ...the dubious group didn''t give you any information?

    It is considered not polite to give and receive other people''s personal information.

    I bowed. After all, isn''t it Mr. Pruito who knows him best? In many ways, I decided it was better to hear directly from Mr. Fruy Toh than with a third party."

    ''''What , you know... !

    When do you pretend to be arrogant and put on a pouty face?

    Anima, who was overcome by Serpence''s cowardice theory, raised her nose and shrugged her shoulders.

    Perhaps he thought that she had recognized his friend, and Humanus was also proud.

    My sister''s name is Edna Benevolen, and she''s twenty-nine.''''

    At last, I was able to find out her name, which was wrapped in a veil.

    Jimshi is also deeply moved.

    His hair is a friendly dark brown and his eyes are soft lavender, and you don''t know how pretty they are! It''s a color that goes well with my sweet and gentle sister. It''s soft and smells good...

    Useless TMI started pouring out. The speed of the horse increased.

    His party, including Humanus, made a familiar expression.

    It seems that the pride of Anima''s older sister that I saw occasionally in [Master of the Holy Sword] was only a small part.

    Serpence took her pride with one ear, and nodded her head in response.

    "Is there any place that Mr. Benevolen often visits or visits regularly?"

    Without letting the Anima catch her breath for a moment, Serpens quickly asked a question.

    Ah, yes! I spent a while at the orphanage before my sister came to the tower...

    Finally, useful information began to appear.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], her sister''s use as a devil''s vessel is closely related to the nursery school where she came from.

    The head of the orphanage joined the demon cult and tried to sacrifice the children there as a sacrifice to summon demons.

    Edna''s ability was significantly lower than that of the anima, but she was a capable wizard.

    And because of that, it was marked as the devil''s vessel.

    ''Was it a ploy to shake up the anima from the beginning, or was it destined to become that way even if it wasn''t an anima .''

    Anyway, the day she visited the nursery, the plan was put into action.

    As usual, the nursery school arrived with presents and snacks, filled with screams instead of the laughter of children.

    Ordinary members of the Demon Church, disguised as robbers, say they want to make a living.

    Pretending to loot, killing children and trampling on toys.

    Edna saw the scene and went wild and killed them.

    The moment she gathered the corpses of dead children and embraced them.

    The demon summoning circle that the demon had hidden was activated, and the demon permeated the rift in the mind caused by the deaths of children.

    He provoked the flames of anger that did not go out even after completing revenge.

    So she became the devil''s vessel.

    ''Aren''t you supposed to call me a scum worshiper at this point, not a demon worshiper?''

    While I was chewing on the bastards while looking back on what was said in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Serpens found out the name of Edna''s orphanage from Anima and the area where it was located.

    Since the head of the orphanage is related to Tsusungi, it is likely that he is trying to use it as evidence that the Tsusung forces tried to attack Edna.

    "When are you planning to leave?

    are you?"

    After obtaining all the necessary information, Serpens asked Humanus about the future schedule before the Anima spoke again.

    I''m going to leave as soon as the sun rises tomorrow morning. Sepi, how about you?

    I plan to leave as soon as possible this week.

    Surprised by Serpence''s answer, the rest of them looked at him blatantly without realizing it.

    How could it be that it was strange to plan an overseas trip without saying a word to me?

    ''It must have all been a dog trick to avoid shouting handsome in the mansion''s concourse!''

    If you thought that I would pass you over because it was outside the mansion, you would be greatly mistaken.

    It''s just that the mansion''s concourse is changed to another place.

    Oh, I''m sorry. I should have told Sir Zion first...

    It''s like this auger fence!

    Just try not to fill in 10 good points. I will definitely not leave it alone.

 CH 253

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 253

    46. The Duke and the Suspicious... (5)

    Huh? Are you going to take Lord Zion with you?

    Externally, I''m only going to shoot swords, but wouldn''t it be strange to leave an aide behind?

    Serpens skillfully answered Humanus'' question.

    popped right out with no delay

    Judging from what you see, it is presumed to be a line prepared in advance.

    However, it seems that it was not enough to dispel the suspicions of Humanus. He shuddered and opened his mouth again.

    It''s true, but... you took him to the dark side.

    I was just going through it a little bit. It seems that he had doubts in his heart.

    Serpens smiled awkwardly as if he was in trouble at Humanus'' universally reasonable question.

    Of course, there is no way that excuses could have been given to Fence. just play

    would be

    I didn''t take it, Lord Zion followed.

    It''s not wrong, but it''s just annoying. What kind of drugs are you planning to sell today?

    The odds of speaking frankly about his separation anxiety are lower than the Scoville score he can tolerate.

    At least he''ll try to wrap me up. I prepared my heart and waited for the next word from him.

    We are investigating the deeds of our demon worshipers and preparing to confront them.

    During this time, he said that he would take responsibility for the whole life so that he would not worry about other things . It might be dangerous, so you don''t have to, so I can''t be comfortably alone as my boss is having a hard time.

    It was kind of a concern.

    There were some adaptations, but there was no big difference from the real thing. It is undoubtedly true that I was responsible for all aspects of my life during my stay at the pawnshop.

    For a more comfortable sleep, I made a bed, took out a packed lunch at each meal, and packed snacks.

    To the extent that Serpens, who had always maintained a stiff posture like a wooden stone, melted onto the bed.

    We are proud that we have provided a very good welfare.

    I should have stopped you, but I had no choice but to be stubborn.

    Then what do you do? If someone doesn''t take care of you, eat, sleep, and rest. I know for sure that I''m not a person who doesn''t do anything properly.

    Kim, who was always concerned about the words

    part was blown away.

    He''s the guy who took the papers to the dark side saying it''s not worth killing time.

    At least I followed him, so I went back to the pawnshop and rested, thinking that I should protect him. Otherwise, this child would have been abused by going round and round in the dark all day.

    I am always grateful to Sir Zion.

    If you know, be nice to me.

    Ummm... I''ll try harder.

    Serpens gave a serious answer to the jokes and jokes, and I

    was at a loss for words in embarrassment.

    ''Are you going to try? I still think I''m doing too well... . How much better is this guy thinking?!''

    As he vomited his flagship inwardly and looked at him, Serpens made an expression as if there was something wrong with him.

    It is the image of a foolish person who could not find the problem in his remarks.

    The words don''t try came up to the tip of my chin, but it was strange to say that in this situation, so I just swallowed it.

    "I expected it from the time I called him by his first name instead of his surname but seeing the jokes exchanged, the two of you seem to be very close?"

    Indeed, the undisputed Huma-Eunsae took Serpens''s answer full of sincerity as a joke.

    I''d rather be happy His ignorance was exerted in a positive direction today.

    We''ve been together all day, wouldn''t it be weird if we weren''t close?

    "But with my former aide"."

    Sir Zion is so bright and sociable.

    you''re not good When I''m with you, I feel at ease without realizing it, so I''m just hanging out with friends in private.

    Serpence replied with a smirk.

    Due to the reason they were blatantly blaming each other''s positions, Humanus'' facial muscles, which had never been called by name, trembled finely.

    It''s like a face that has eaten even bitter persimmons.

    "So, it''s like between you and me, right?"

    Your Majesty will inherit the empire

    do you have to If you treat me too friendly, one of the dukes, I don''t know what to say next. So it is right to keep the middle ground.

    To Humanus'' question, Serpens gave a clerical answer instead of expressing his true intentions, ''Are you daring to get and compare?''

    You know that you''re careful for me, you know it''s a little sad sometimes, don''t you?

    Seeing Humanus talking without energy as if he was sad, Serpens was quiet.

    He drew a bitter smile.

    Depending on the point of view, it may be a liberating expression of ''How long is this child going to stick around?'' or an expression of apology saying, ''Forgive me for having to do this.''

    My interpretation was undoubtedly the former, but Humanus will understand the latter without any confirmation.

    By the way. I missed the timing earlier, so I didn''t ask, is the only Illuminati member I''ve met in person the dark elf, the boss of the dark district?

    The reason for missing the timing was probably Serpence''s pitiful expression and Anima''s anger.

    I had 3 seconds of silence for the humanus who was hit by two protectors.

    No. I''ve only met Ji-min, the chief, once.

    Yeah? How are you? Are you someone you can trust?

    Yes. He was a very good and kind-hearted person.

    When do you snort when you say you''re smart? As if I had no words to express, Serpence explained my name

    all.

    Maybe it''s because it''s difficult to infer my identity while explaining things for nothing.

    Somehow, I feel like I''ve been denied my sincerity in the face.

    "Will I be able to meet the Illuminati leader too?"

    Humanus'' wish has already come true.

    We have met several times in the past, and it is proof that we meet now.

    Oh, I''m not suspicious! I''m just curious, and I''m glad I got help.

    I also want to say hi... .

    Since Serpens had shown trust, Humanus added his words carefully so as not to offend him.

    However, there was still a tinge of thinking that it was a dubious and dubious group.

    A group that suddenly appeared one day.

    On such a topic, he murmured that he had been chasing after the demons for a long time, and released information that others did not know.

    Even if the evil forces are aiming for the back of the head and misunderstanding that it is a warm-up symptom, it cannot be helped.

    ''How many days or two days did the demons try to trap Serpens?''

    Moreover, it is natural to be worried about spreading innocence on a day when the external fence is fictional.

    I have no way to contact you first... I''m sorry.

    Then there''s nothing I can do about it. If you have a chance later, tell me.

    You], I''ll tell you first.

    Words are still being transmitted in real time. It just means that you have no intention of arranging a meeting.

    It is not uncommon to deceive Human Eyes with a disguise, but the problem is purple. Her senses are wild, close to instinct.

    Eventually you''ll find out.

    - Knock Knock Knock.

    While the conversation stopped, a knock sounded just in time.

    After a while, it was Xeon who opened the door and entered.

    Dinner is ready.

    It''s a reminder to come for lunch.

    I just sat there blankly, but the time has already passed like this.

    There is no such thing as a waste of time.

    If I had exercised during this time, I would have consumed 1,000 calories.

    ''If that was the case, it would have been okay to have a late-night snack today .''

    As I got up to head to the dining room, Serpens lightly tapped my shoulder. It means to look at yourself.

    Serpens made eye contact with me and shook his head from side to side.

    Did you catch the wind?''

    I guess I was salivating at the thought of a late-night snack.

    With a gloomy heart in my chest, I tumbled to the dining room.

    Eirich and Eugenes arrived first at the restaurant.

    ''Are you going to ask Winston to eat together from tomorrow? Are you trying to be a little embarrassed?''

    I''ll have to stop by his room for a moment and ask him before I go to bed.

    "Did you have a good conversation?"

    As everyone sat down, Eirich asked a question.

    It was a polite question, but on the other hand, it was a question filled with concern to Serpens, ''Didn''t that ignorant guy make strange noises?''

    Humanus smiled comfortably and replied yes, and Serpens smiled without saying a word.

    Ah, I''m planning to go abroad this week.

    At first, I was embarrassed to say, ''I feel foreign.''

    pretended to be right.

    At his words, Eilich''s gaze turned toward Humanus. Those eyes were beautiful even with empty words, and it was hard to say.

    Since it was Serpens himself, the time when he talked about it was funny. You must have misunderstood that Humanus brought you a job.

    It was early this morning that I came back after struggling in a dark place for two weeks. I don''t even give my nephew time to rest properly, and he goes on an overseas business trip right away.

    No matter how much the opponent is the master of the holy sword, dissatisfaction will inevitably come out.

    not in

    ''Should I tell you that the time I spent in bed was longer than the time I suffered in the dark? ?''

    If Serpens had gained some weight while living in the dark, if not as much as I did, Eilich would have been less worried.

    That''s really sad.

    "Are you going to buy a sword?

    As I explained the specific purpose, Eilich''s eyes softened just then.

    Humanus, who received a bitter glance, did not seem to notice what had happened.

    Because Huma''s eyes are Nus... , no, I''m glad that Humanus is blind.

    "Can I come with you?"

    Yes, of course.

    Eugene raised his hand slightly and said. Serpens gladly accepted it.

    And I''m thinking of joining Sir Winston. I''m a little... in the dark, I''m sorry.

    Good idea!

    Seeing Serpens speaking modestly, Euges smiled. Maybe my expression didn''t change much.

    If it wasn''t for the Holy Sword and the others in this place, I would have been stroking his head.

    What the hell happened to the dark side...?

    The summoned demon was trying to estrange between Serpens and Winston. He''s probably worshiped by the devil.], he''s very bad-mouthed and devoured!

    He was a guy I couldn''t get along with.

    I deliberately replied that it was no big deal, but the worry on Eilich''s face did not go away.

    Uh huh...? You said we were friends, did you just call your name?

    At that moment, Humanus suddenly raised a voice.

    I''ve heard of Serpense crying while investigating them, but I don''t think I''ve heard of squeaking him by name.

    Serpens glanced at me with a piercing gaze.

    I''ll correct it. I''ve been friends with Shion privately.

    That''s right?

    As soon as he turned his gaze away and looked at Serpens who was smiling brightly, Humanus answered with a bewildered answer.

    Shion, I, and Serpens are equal friends.

    Yes, as Euges said.

    It seems that Serpense''s answer satisfies Eugene''s heart. A satisfied smile appeared on her lips.

    Satisfied, she resumed eating.

    And, in the face of blatant discrimination, Humanus had a fork and a knife in both hands and blinked his eyes.

    " I''ve been thinking since the last time we met, aren''t you very close to Duke Nari, Humanus?"

    Well, you must be joking...

    That''s what you want to believe

    Whether Furor''s question was the final blow, he didn''t know how to open Humanus'' mouth until the meal was over.

    "The Volta Mountains are strictly managed by the denomination, but they are regularly maintained so that you can come back immediately if there is a problem.

    Please take care of it."

    *o Uh "

    -9 - O

    the moment of parting.

    Nodding his head at the clerical advice that could not even be considered Serpense''s greeting was all that Humanus could do.

    ''He must have been very shocked, are you okay?''

    I told Serpense to tee off, but I wonder if it''s too harsh. Sometimes I get very confused and want to calm down.

    What if things go wrong like this?

    I also thought about it, so I think it would be fine considering how Humanus looked in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Almost at the very last minute, I asked Serpens the ''why?'' question.

    Next time we meet, wouldn''t Humanus also come to his senses and try to talk?

 CH 254

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 254

    47. The Duke''s Advantage (1)

    As Serpens had planned, we had to leave the capital before the weekend came.

    "So, have you considered the advantages?"

    I got on the train and threw a question at Serpens.

    He coughed a little and looked into my eyes.

    Dodging it, a question appeared on the faces of Eugene and Winston.

    " Is there still time left?"

    "By the way, someone left the place of punishment even though the deadline was still left.

    Serpence talked about the deadline and avoided the answer, but I am not the one to fall for such a shallow number.

    Realizing that his plan had been exposed, the guy shamelessly aimed at me again

    saw.

    The more he did, the more the doubts on the faces of the party grew deeper.

    It''s an advantage, what do you mean all of a sudden?

    No, well! Is there anything this bastard can''t show off any of his strengths?

    Even one?

    Eugene''s eyes widened.

    Serpence, who faced Eugene''s eyes full of surprise, put on an embarrassed expression.

    I''m just embarrassed to say

    Could it not have been?"

    Eugenes, who had glanced at Serpence once, brought up a new family.

    I really wish it was like that.

    The conversation I had with him that day completely blocked that possibility.

    He''s a shy guy, but not this time.

    " What do you think of your master?"

    A timid, shy, and shy child at times, but when you get to know him, he is a warm and weak child.

    Considering the authority of the lord fence, I chose one word at most and used it. Winston was speechless and looked at Serpens.

    Rather, Serpens, who received the attention, gave a relieved expression. Maybe it''s because you know I''ve been very restrained.

    Could it be because of the expression connoting a bit of praise? There was a faint expression of satisfaction on his face.

    Anyway, tell me about the merits quickly.

    "Is there still four days left?"

    But, don''t you have a few things in mind? Come on, come on!

    Right now?

    Satisfaction disappeared from the boy''s face, and embarrassment loomed over him.

    I thought, ''If I go abroad anyway, I won''t be able to carry out the penalty.'' After going through the process of ''By the time I come back, Xion will also forget that there was such a penalty.'' ''You wouldn''t have come to that conclusion, did you?''''

    "O.Uh "

    --9 - ��

    Hey, my child would be so cruel! Isn''t that right? Believe it?

    Every time I said a word, he twitched and shook his body. Then, at the last word I believed, I burst into tears.

    If you don''t offer any of your strengths, you''ll end up as a traitor who broke your promise to me.

    ''Who came up with such a trick?''

    It''s all self-sufficient.

    Me, narcissism... Can''t you answer when there''s only the two of us?

    I don''t know Serpense-? After saying that, you''re not going to make a place for just the two of you, right?

    As if my words pierced the corner, Serpens''s gaze turned to his feet.

    Even if he thought about it, it was probably because he was embarrassed by the childish idea and couldn''t raise his head.

    It almost made me laugh a little at the cat''s behavior as if it was looking for a mouse hole, but I tried hard to maintain a strict expression.

    "Why did you play tricks like that?"

    ugh... .

    Otherwise, I would have asked you to write it down on a piece of paper on the last day. Oh, of course, you know we''ve crossed the water now, right? Why is there such a thing as a slander?"

    " O uh... I .

    Ji, come on. Please tell me quickly. It''s not like you haven''t been able to think of one, right? I''ve pointed out some things, so you need to answer at least three?

    Ugh...!

    what to do His reaction is so funny that I want to keep making fun of him.

    But it''s not good to drive too much. If you tease him more, the crybaby fence may appear.

    All things require quick control.

    It''s been tight for a while, now it''s time to release it.

    Instead, why not extend the deadline and say only one a day starting tomorrow? That''s how you fill in 10.

    Are you going to squeeze out 10 in the remaining four days, or are you going to say 3 today and earn 7 more days, one a day?

    The answer is no different than mine.

    Is that really okay?

    Serpens slowly made eye contact and spoke carefully. It''s a very poignant expression.

    When I see this, I can''t believe the deeds of the Corruption Fence I saw in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    He''s such a naive and simple guy, how did he come up with such a scheme?

    Okay! Today, I swear by the ''milfeuille'' sandwiched with mango cream prepared for Serpence''s share!

    If you even say that... Serpence, who recognized my sincerity, nodded.

    Winston looked a bit puzzled, but Serpens couldn''t see it because he was too busy squeezing out his strengths.

    The boy groaned and fell into trouble. "Did you really not think of anything?" Oh, no. thought I did... . Maybe nothing came to mind, or something embarrassing to say. Serpens hesitated.

    Anyway, you need to know that you''re timid.

    Don''t you know that the more you do that, the more you attract attention?

    Eugeus waited for him to open his mouth with dazzling eyes.

    Winston had a look on his face as if it was okay, but he couldn''t hide his curiosity.

    The guy, who had been hesitating in everyone''s expectations, had another thought that came to mind, so he suddenly raised his head and looked straight at me.

    "Then, can you tell me the 10 strengths?

    would you?"

    "Of course, why can''t you do that?"

    Then let''s try it.

    numbers are clearly visible. If I give you an advantage, I will consider it.

    ''A little bit, I gave it to you!''

    I read the example sentences written by others first before writing the self-introduction letter, and there is nothing wrong with having an example.

    Especially if I remember that he couldn''t even find the criteria for his strength.

    "Then, first of all, I am proud."

    Isn''t that shameless...?

    "Is it shameful to say it badly, or to be bold when it''s good? And secondly, I''m handsome."

    ...that''s so shameless.

    I have only said two things yet, but Serpens stuck out his tongue at my dignifiedness.

    I guess I''ll pay tribute to my wonderful side that I don''t have. Or say it.

    "Compared to Serpens, he can''t even follow his toes, but Serpens are of a post-human level, aren''t they?

    It''s just that he''s handsome. Right, Euges?

    ...I''m an elf, so I think it''s a little difficult to judge how good a human is. But it''s nice to see a confident figure.

    That''s weird. I can''t even find the �g'' character for ugly, but somehow I feel like I''ve been told that I''m ugly.

    Hahaha, by elf standards, any average human would look ugly. As it is a true race, it must have been impossible to lie.

    "How does Winston look?"

    " if I lose weight, I don''t think I''ll look good."

    It''s not that I haven''t seen him lose weight.

    Is it the same psychology as saying to an ugly child, ''You will become handsome when you grow up''?

    Maybe he''s a muscle devotee and can''t say he''s handsome with a fat face. Then there is nothing you can do

    However, understanding with the head did not relieve the cluttered mind.

    Wow, that''s a real shame! I grew up hearing my mom say I''m handsome every day since I was little?!

    Ҷ...

    All of a sudden, Serpence caught on.

    He must have recalled the possibility that Yoo Seon-woo''s face, which he had never actually seen before, was handsome.

    It would be nice to just accept it as a sign of having confidence.

    "Then what about the third?"

    Huh, are you proud?

    I stretch out my thumb and index finger under my chin

    said to

    No matter how arrogant I say, Serpence is an action taken on the basis that it cannot be denied.

    As expected, he nodded with a look of anger. It means accepting it as an advantage.

    Fourth, positive mind. Fifth, bright and energetic personality. 6th, caring for others һ. 7th, good counselling һ. 8th, excellent sociability. 9th, not picky eaters. 10th, handsome and scared of money I have a good friend!

    "Last said, that friend".

    Of course Serpens!

    Is that an advantage?

    If it were known that he was friends with him, only him would know how much people would envy him.

    How can I be so proud of my friend, but not the other way around?

    It''s not a big deal to have an advantage. Think easy, easy!

    Ummm...

    As if Serpens knew it, it was mysterious

    made a face

    When I throw a topic like this, thinking deeply and thinking about it is also one of his strengths.

    Acknowledging that the second merit is somewhat controversial, let me say one more thing in particular.

    "Can I still give you more?"

    Of course! I''m an absolute plus!

    Serpens nodded his head at the lightly thrown words.

    When I see those eyes that even show respect, my shoulders automatically shrug

    lost.

    Eleventh, I love myself!

    I finished the list of merits with a confident smile.

    Beyond the glasses of the guy who looked at me with a blank face as if possessed, my triumphant face was reflected in the green eyes.

    properly impressed.

    Ugh~, I was really cool! Isn''t it?

    If only I hadn''t added that word.

    Serpens straightened his expression and answered with a grunt for nothing.

    I envy myself who can confidently say that I love myself, and I thought that I wanted to be like him. Probably because I''m embarrassed to say it with my mouth.

    "Hey, you still look like you want to have me as your perfect older brother, don''t you?"

    You are mistaken.

    One of my strengths that I didn''t say is that I can read Serpense''s expressions well, right?

    You lost one advantage today.

    Don''t do that, call me hyung! If that''s difficult, hyung!

    Isn''t the difficulty level higher?

    "If you miss the original bandit, anything becomes more difficult."

    Realizing that the more he talked, the more he would put him at a disadvantage, Serpens kept his mouth shut. He has a stubborn expression as if he won''t open his mouth no matter what.

    However, unlike his expression, he opened his mouth before I could say anything.

    Instead of calling you like that, if I could cut the number of advantages in half, I would.

    I thought I heard wrong.

    Does it make sense to throw away your ego just to mention 5 strengths?

    He calmed his mind and looked around.

    Eugenes smirked, and Winston covered his face with the palm of his hand as if he couldn''t watch anymore.

    ''I heard you right, right.''

    It''s a very harsh proposal, but this kind of compromise is not right.

    Even if I give right education, I should refuse. I should... .

    Then I''ll give you just one.

    refuse.

    It seems that the calculation was not correct.

    There were signs of worry, but the guy eventually refused.

 CH 255

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 255

    47. The Duke''s Advantage (2)

    Then let''s talk about the good!

    " Why are you talking like a robber?"

    Uh-huh! Don''t turn around!

    If I had to tell you the shortcomings, I would constantly list them, so why is it so difficult to talk about the strengths?

    No matter how much I approve of him

    handl. And as long as he finds comfort in my words.

    In the end, the words that come out of other people''s mouths only end with that comfort.

    But if you think for yourself and say it with your own mouth. I will be able to acknowledge and accept it myself.

    ''You don''t even know my deep thoughts like this! what? burglar?''

    But it is also one of the characteristics of a child to get distracted by the main point and get distracted by something else.

    As an adult, I have to understand what should I do? When will my child become an adult?

    I don''t know if it will

    uh... , Advantages .

    "If you can''t think of it, can you tell me the two things I told you first?"

    Serpens pouted his lower lip.

    Even though he kept his mouth shut, complaints about whether he was doing this because it was difficult seem to ring in his ears.

    "How can you casually say that you are handsome?"

    Why can''t Serpence do that with that face?

    That''s it...

    Serpence muffled the end of her speech with a look of lack of self-confidence.

    Even though I used profanity and lacquered my face, it seems that I still lack certainty.

    After receiving such compliments, you might think, ''Am I that good-looking?'' But what''s wrong with him?

    "Is it the face that Shion told me about the strength of Serpence?"

    you]! Eugenes looks good too, right?"

    Sure.

    It''s a completely different reaction from when I mentioned my appearance.

    As if he didn''t need any modifiers, I felt a bit of bitterness at Euges'' simple and clear reaction.

    "Does Winston think so too?"

    exactly.

    "Is that the answer?"

    Your master is still handsome now, but he will always be handsome.

    It would be better to refrain from asking such questions to Winston in the future.

    Anyway, Serpence usually uses his face a lot, isn''t it because he knows he''s handsome?

    "I mean?"

    I''m making a sad expression with a slender face, or making an innocent expression that doesn''t know anything and tilting my head with an innocent face, or I''m mesmerizing people with an inexhaustible laugh!

    " just a sad man, an ignorant man,

    You''re just playing someone you''re happy with, aren''t you?

    It was all just method acting.

    I can''t believe it. I can''t even admit it

    "Then what was the thing that sparkled with Eugene at last year''s banquet?"

    Glitter?

    You were smiling brightly and spewing out, don''t come near me!

    Maybe he didn''t understand what I was saying right away, so he tilted his head left and right.

    Then, as if he remembered it too late, he let out a short exclamation, ''Ah!''

    Isn''t it usually difficult to intervene if you create a harmonious atmosphere? It was calculated that it would be difficult to know when the third person should stop talking if the conversation was constantly exchanged.

    I never dreamed that there would be such a backstory.

    Still, I expected one or two people to intervene, but I remember being a little surprised that everyone was more polite than I thought.

    Deep down, I was expecting that even though I knew I was handsome, I might be shy to take it out of my mouth.

    The guy really didn''t know.

    1 I thought this would be the most understandable, but why?''

    It''s hard to take the first step in anything.

    If you can confidently say at least one positive aspect of yourself, it is not difficult to expand that area.

    It''s a criterion for looking at looks, it''s subjective

    However, it is also the most intuitive.

    The first thing that catches your eye when you see a person is the exterior. What do people do to keep clean by shaving every day, despite the hassle?

    What do you spend a lot of money on to look good and dress up?

    No matter how much you criticize your appearance, the importance of appearance is not enough to say a hundred times.

    I''m not the type of person who is crazy about my face. It''s not for nothing that I picked the guy''s face as the first strength.

    Why . I have a bad personality, so in every way

    Even if you swear, if you have a nice face, you can''t swear by your looks, right? All I hear is that it''s a waste of a face at queek.''

    On the subject of innate perfect beauty, which I do not like for a long time, ''I don''t know if I''m handsome.'' Seeing him muttering makes me more angry than frustrated.

    Deception popular? This is deception.

    I''m calling this a deception, I''m not talking about looking at anything else.

    Let''s face it because we''ve been constantly told that armed forces must carry the continent on their backs, and that they must become stronger.

    In a few simple words, the advisory council

    Let''s say it''s the former duke''s fault for rewriting everything that came out.

    ''But why the face?! He wouldn''t have even thought that the peacock had an ugly face that looked like him!''

    The face in the mirror I see every morning while washing my face is heavenly.

    No, like someone I''ve never heard of handsome, why are you like this?!

    It''s the first time I''ve heard of you.

    No, take a good look at your memory again. For that reason, Solertia-san too.

    Serpence The first time you saw her bare face, you said you were handsome, right?"

    "I thought it would, but I was disappointed that it wasn''t?"

    "How could that situation be interpreted like that?!"

    A monster born of a sense of shame was right in front of me. I wrapped my head in agony and twisted my body.

    Serpense''s dazzling story caused Yuji and Winston to be knocked down altogether.

    At first, I wondered if I had a foreboding that Eugene, who wanted to get an opportunity to intervene, would be bothered, quietly told me.

    It was just a look of support.

    Winston didn''t even put it into power in the first place. He was completely blown away.

    One challenge per day.

    Will this guy ever be successful?

    "Have you not heard of people talking about their appearance?"

    I heard sounds like angels or sculptures.

    Serpens said sullenly.

    Why do you say it''s depressing?

    tongue can''t understand

    "I understood the word ''angel-like'' just to mean looking good.

    It looks like an inanimate object, so it''s creepy, doesn''t it mean that even if you stab it, you won''t get a drop of blood?

    " Serpens, would you like to start studying literature with me tomorrow?"

    It''s a disaster that happened because he''s too handsome, and words aren''t enough to say he''s handsome.

    What I thought was the easiest way must have been the end of the game!

    Don''t live life too easy

    learned a lesson to be I never wanted to learn a lesson like this for the rest of my life.

    "Did Serpens see a lot of other elves besides Eugene?"

    Not many, but I''ve seen a few people who came for diplomacy.

    "What did they look like? Are they good-looking compared to yourself?"

    uh... .

    right!

    Finally, the boy was speechless.

    "The elves, the race of beauty, are not considered beautiful, the spirit of Serpens.

    Now admit that the oysters are good!

    The elves are a race of truth, not a race of beauty. The race of beauty is a dwarf.

    Damn worldview!!

    I tried to make him understand as much as possible, but in the end, I couldn''t hold back my anger and started screaming.

    As Serpens said, the race called ''beauty race'' in this world is a Dwarf, not an Elf.

    This is not to say that Dwarves, unlike other fantasy novels, are handsome and beautiful with their arms and legs stretched out.

    [Master of the Holy Sword] Uh] Dwarves also have thick beards and a typical Dwarf image itself.

    It''s not because they look pretty. To pursue beauty, to love, and to bring it out.

    Dwarves are called the race of beauty.

    ''The self-congratulations were too much, so the readers of [Master of the Holy Sword] called it a tribe of jaduk.

    To that extent, ''the pride of a Dwarf as a race of beauty was great.

    But it doesn''t matter

    all. TMI is of no help in the current situation.

    Don''t get angry at the set-up just because things don''t go the way you want them to.

    It''s just covering up my speech mistakes, I don''t know why it''s so mean.

    It is possible that this child will slowly understand and move on to the second advantage, but it may be because it is cramped to keep refusing.

    At this point, is it that he really thinks his looks are bad, or that he just has an advantage?

    Is it because you want to deny it, or is it because you want to be told that you are handsome one more time? I can''t quite figure it out

    Serpence. It''s a good attitude to answer honestly and honestly about something you don''t think is. But before that, there''s one thing you need to know... No, there are two.

    "What should I know?"

    The deceitful fence asked, glimmering in his disgustingly dazzling eyes.

    "First. Whether or not he admits that Serpence is good-looking.

    It doesn''t diminish the number of benefits you need to achieve today. You have to fill in all three of them.

    what ?

    And second. Even if it''s not the Duchess, I''ll make Serpens take the punishment as soon as he doesn''t answer. For example, I couldn''t tell you three advantages today? Then there''s a regular train car in the back? You have to shout ''I got it!'' three times. Of course, with your face covered.

    Come on, wait a minute...

    The guy who told me not to be angry with the world

    Listening, I decided to vent my anger on Serpens.

    What do you do when you say you will endure all of me?

    I also didn''t want to use such a coercive method. But he wants Lee Da-ji too, and he has no choice but to do what he wants.

    Once per square. Do you like to go around three squares, or do you prefer to shout three times in one square?

    "Are you serious?"

    It''s more serious than Serpence thinks about meatballs.

    I seem to have realized that my words are not just words. The boy''s face hardened.

    Out of the blue, Euges pulls out his notebook and writes something down, or Winston mutters to himself about Meatballs with a bewildered expression on his face.

    He was acting strangely, but that doesn''t matter now.

    I glared at Serpens with the intention of punching a hole in his face.

    I, I... handsome..., won, lost...

    In the end, he digs his long eyelashes

    Trembling, he declared defeat.

    It was a really long journey.

    If it was written as a novel, it would be enough to pull out one episode. Then, the writer must have heard a lot of swear words about how he blew up one side of the story.

    Why did you suddenly become humble? Again!

    "I, I , I''m terrified . Handsome I lost?"

    Why is it questionable? Again!

    I''m..., heh! He''s... handsome...

    With confidence, again!

    I''m handsome !

    Facing the face of this guy soaked with shame and shame, somehow I feel like I''ve become a very bad guy.

    weird. I definitely wanted to give him confidence, but it seems he made only a black history.

    "Hey will you cry if I say it''s invalid because it doesn''t contain the truth?"

    Have you developed any interest in demon worship lately?

    This word is no different from saying that he will soon become evil.

    In other words, it means that Serpens cursed. It is also the continent''s worst swear word! To me! turn around!

    It was the first time I knew he had such a high level of twisting skills. Should this be viewed as an advantage?

    Moreover, the swearing of Serpens is heard in a different way because of the holy angelic face.

    I felt more strongly as if I was standing on the judging table than the feeling of being cursed.

    If you''re going to swear, call it another swear word.

    It''s muddy!

    crazy .

    Serpence granted my request right away. not thank you at all

 CH 256

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 256

    47. The Duke''s Advantage (3)

    No? Come to think of it, that''s a bit true! Why do I have to be insulted?

    "Are you the one who asked me to swear?"

    When I started arguing with Serpence, he countered with an absurd expression.

    I will accept it that way. If I had known this would be the case, I would ask for another curse.

    I didn''t mean to say that.

    More than that, didn''t I tell you to change the habit of cheating first when others compliment you?

    Isn''t it too rude to turn around just because you''re at a disadvantage?

    "So did you or didn''t you?"

    did it, did it

    I guess I am also a cowardly adult.

    I''m sorry to Serppens, who has a gloomy expression on his face, but I want to avoid that topic. If the words are long, the words ''that kind of taste'' come into his mouth.

    may be

    It was all due to Humanus instilling strange knowledge into Serpens. Serpens is right to blame Humanus, not me.

    But think about it. I''m not denying praise. I''m just answering your questions about my actions.

    "Uh ? It sounds like something I''ve heard?"

    When I agreed to it, his expression brightened slightly. He''s just a simple guy.

    "Then why is it so difficult to say that you are handsome?"

    Usually everyone has a hard time.

    Don''t rationalize it by saying that you''re not confident in yourself. Serpense''s face is not at the level of a normal person!

    ...Is that tidy?

    Finally, my infusion education started to shine.

    How many years have I lived in a country where all education is instilled?

    It''s a bit daunting, but I mean, it''s about coercing a child who is dying of suffocation... .

    "Shion, do you know that you''re making a very villainous expression right now?"

    Okay. You didn''t even help. I''m disappointed, Euges.

    "I believed that if it was Zion, he would do well without my help."

    Eugene smiled brightly.

    I had just told Serpense not to deny compliments, so it''s hard to argue with anything.

    I didn''t see it that way, but Eugenes is also a bit sarcastic.

    "Well , anyway. Serpense, don''t be shy about praising yourself. If you say you''re going to love yourself, why are you ashamed of that? It''s ugly in Serpense''s eyes when I say that I care and love you. Did you see it?

    Absolutely not.

    sure?

    HO oh... " --9 - ��

    Then how was it? Yes? Yes?

    When I begged him, he shrugged his neck like a tortoise and tried to have a conversation with his eyes.

    But I declined to receive it. I''ve given him a few compliments, but I can''t go on like this.

    I am also a person who deserves praise. And giving praise would also be a good education.

    "Do you really have to say that ?"

    There is no expression of communication as clear as language. It may be possible to some extent with eyes and gestures, but distortion can occur as much as subjective judgment is involved.

    There is only one. It also lacks specificity.

    I don''t think so...?

    Serpence tilted her head with an expression that she did not understand.

    No, it''s not what it is.

    What nonsense is that?

    "Isn''t that what you were going to say to me?"

    If you''re thinking of avoiding it with strange words, don''t even dream of it! Come on, praise me!

    Hey, shameless...

    He praised my dignity with a look of regret. Not the kind of compliment I was hoping for.

    It looked great until I added this bad word to the end.

    He should know that it was he who added strange words to the back, not me.

    I know that Serpence was just shy, but I have something to tell you after talking.

    "Serpence, don''t be too stingy with compliments. Whether that''s a compliment to others or a compliment to yourself.

    It is said that the recipient is happy, but in fact, it is more beneficial to the person who does it."

    "What do you mean?"

    It''s good to be liked, you don''t even need to explain it. The more you praise, the more it means that his ability to recognize strengths also improves.

    "Is this the calculation that the more you praise, the better you will praise, and the more people will like you?"

    Didn''t your intentions suddenly become impure?!

    that I suddenly scold myself

    Thinking about it, Serpense''s expression softened.

    But it''s a misunderstanding caused by the guy intervening before I even finished my words.

    "There are benefits to that, too, but that''s not what I meant to say."

    then?

    To put it in an easy-to-understand way for Serpens, it meant that you can develop a ''positive view''. This is very important. If you know your own strengths, you can love yourself. If you know the strengths of others, you can see and learn and develop.

    You can do it, and if you feel good in something, it becomes a hobby, and if you find good in things, it becomes a treasure of Serpence."

    ��

    This is so good, that is good. If you think that way, the world will automatically be filled with the things Serpens like. It will also fill you with happiness.

    yes... army.

    As always. Serpence slowly pondered my words with a serious expression.

    He is truly a good student to teach and a good child to raise.

    Okay then, second!

    Well?

    Tell me about the second advantage.

    Ah .

    I guess I was thinking too deeply. Serpens woke up a beat later and nodded.

    "Um , is it on the strong axis in Continental Certification?"

    Well, that''s fine. I don''t like the fact that there are limited conditions, but that''s enough for me.

    It''s not pretty. Well done.

    Serpense''s face brightened noticeably after receiving the praise.

    After all, I am a (twenty) six-year-old, so it is said that I really like being praised. Of course, I am also very happy to see you.

    There is nothing that pleases the person who compliments you more than seeing a face you like after receiving a compliment.

    If a compliment makes a whale dance, the opposite holds true. When a whale dances, it tastes like a compliment.

    Then third!

    "I objectively see myself "

    Ding! Ding Ding!

    What the hell is this kid talking about?

    Occasionally, there are people who criticize everything and say that they are objective and cold-hearted.

    So it''s easy to misunderstand, but in fact, he''s just a negative person in everything.

    I took a deep breath as I looked at Serpens who was bewildered.

    "The thing that Serpens can''t do the most is

    Is it that?"

    is not it?

    How can you put the word objective into a subject that has been criticized for being subjectively criticized until now?!

    " Then, how am I supposed to evaluate myself to be objective?"

    I have to go talk about how good I am!

    Specifically, how?

    I reflexively opened my mouth and tried to pour out his strengths one after another, then paused.

    Kneeling to gain momentum

    Said it was for This bastard said that, knowing that I was going to shout ''Ding!

    It was a sneaky trick to get a model answer.

    Serpens. Don''t use that fine hair for something like this..., oh shit!

    "Third, are you on the good side?"

    what anyone can see.

    Why does this guy only admit it as his strength after being confirmed by my mouth?

    "Okay, okay! I did say the good points though, so I''ll admit it. Instead, today is the fourth!"

    "Isn''t that a promise! How can you change your words while swearing by my Milfeeuil?"

    Is this bastard doing this because he''s worried that Milfeuille might be blown away, or is he doing this because he doesn''t have anything that comes to mind right now?

    As I looked at the face of the boy stained with a sense of betrayal, I became somewhat confused.

    Did you cheat? Cheating is bad.

    will. You even tried to elicit an answer from me! Even so, are you dissatisfied with the fact that I generously gave you a trio shop? Yes?

    With a timid, low voice, Serpens seized the boo boo.

    There is no objection to what I said, but it seems to be considered disrespectful nonetheless.

    How do you feel about your master''s behavior like that, Winston, a knight?

    Huh! Ni-, I mean?! That, that''s what it is .

    Do you think it would be better to fix it?

    You are a loyal knight of this era, and he speaks the right words without hesitation!

    You haven''t said anything yet !

    You were going to do it anyway? Why don''t I understand Winston''s heart? I understand.

    Are you always like this?

    Instead of talking to me, Winston turned to Eugenes and asked her a question. A very bad habit.

    Usually, it''s not like this, but Sion was a lot more red today. Oh, but in a way, it''s usually more...

    "Can you explain in detail?"

    I''ll give it to you.

    Winston shook his head with a look of exasperation.

    Seeing him like that, Euges smiled quietly. Whether it is late or early, this is probably because they know that they will have to get used to it after going on this trip.

    If you drink together, you''ll get used to it faster. Come to think of it, I heard that the sake of the Terra Room Kingdom is so famous .

    Okay, then, hurry up to the fourth.

    Wow! If I finish this quickly, won''t I be able to eat Milfeu Yuu or something?

    ...a lot of money?

    Uh] Rai, that''s what I said too!

    I picked up what I put into my strengths and ate it like a ghost.

    Still, it''s a shame that I didn''t clearly point this out because it''s his strength!

    So, why don''t you serve Milfeuille...? No snacks today...?

    Ugh...!

    Didn''t you say you''re handsome?

    Serpence, who began to gain confidence in his face, looked at me eagerly, with a brighter face than usual.

    If expressed numerically, the brightness is well over 1 million lux. Had there been a tool to measure this, it would have exploded with a pop.

    Well, then, just one more! Are you filling only five? Half is good, half!

    Isn''t this the intention to fill the 10s in this way?

    No! I''m really into this today.

    End! Can we just say one more thing and finish it?"

    With the heart of a parent begging to put the last spoonful of leftover baby food in their child''s mouth, I gently soothed Serpence.

    Gently swiping his back and chanting ''one more thing, the stubbornly hardened face loosened little by little.

    The fifth is to think about the merits.

    "Do you eat sweets well?"

    ''''Yes? Is that an advantage?"

    "The advantage isn''t it? If not, why did you praise it?"

    ..?

    We looked at each other and shook our heads.

    "No, um I praised him before feeding him meatballs but watching Serpens eating sweet things, I also looked at him with the eyes of ''That''s right, that''s right!''"

    Did you?

    Take advantage of the numerous advantages you have

    The first thing that came to mind after thinking about it for a long time was that the first good thing that came to mind was just to eat sweet things?!

    Serpence, you bastard, are you really okay with this? is this the best Are you sure?

    The advantage is... isn''t it?

    The boy''s eyes fluttered. Withered fence, which had grown pale, made an unconfident expression.

    Even though I doubted that I was just throwing it out because I wanted to eat Milfeuille, I thought of what it would be like if that was true.

    ''My child wants to eat! You want me to eat like this!''

    After all, eating spicy food is a good thing and proud, but what else can''t be good about eating sweet things?

    Serpens are really good at eating sweets.

    Put two marshmallows in Dadidan Hot Chocolate and drink it to the point of liking it.

    Okay, I take it as an advantage!

    I took the Mil-Feuille I had bought in advance from my pocket and placed it on the table.

    all.

    The wither fence became a fresh fence.

 CH 257

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 257

    47. The Duke''s Advantage (4)

    Serpence has been in trouble since morning.

    ''Am I thinking about the sixth advantage?''

    As Euges and I flirted and exchanged nutritious conversations, he was stunned.

    Even time to eat.

    I didn''t even stop Winston from taking my share of buttered potatoes topped with sour cream on the grounds that I shouldn''t gain more weight here.

    If Winston even ate it, I wouldn''t say it. You see, I''m very hungry.

    However, Winston returned my cute potato doll to the train attendant on the spot.

    He was also thorough in self-management.

    ''I thought it was a bodyguard, but it must have been a PT teacher!''

    After meal.

    When I realized the identity of Winston, which was revealed late, and I was mourning and remembering the Potato Doll who left my side.

    Serpence quietly spoke to me.

    Perhaps .

    Yes? Is there anything you want to ask?

    "That , um no, it''s nothing."

    What the hell is this going to do?

    I think that if I wait a little, I''ll talk to you again, and the guy''s next words

    waited for However, Serpens kept her mouth shut and fell into trouble again.

    "Is that really the case? The first way to make people angry by making them curious and frustrated?"

    "What do you mean all of a sudden?"

    Why, you know? The first is to stop talking, and the second is .

    second is?

    "So, what about the second?"

    What?

    Well?

    Serpense, who blinked a few times, realized later that he had been hurt and burst out laughing.

    There is no such thing as a slang term for nothing.

    Only after the same happened, Serpens, who reflected on his actions, opened his mouth again.

    "The advantage is , do you mean that you are superior to others?"

    It''s not something that should be talked about by attaching any chance to the head of the horse. Is it that he hasn''t reflected on it yet, or is he less prepared?

    The boy was still hesitating.

    I do, but I don''t have to.

    uh... .

    Don''t think too hard.

    On the subject of saying that eating sweets is one of his strengths. I don''t know what you''re worried about.

    "Am I acting in front of others?"

    Yes, it has been received!

    ...Well?

    "The sixth strength is that I am good at acting.

    Isn''t that what you were trying to say?

    "Is that really an advantage?"

    What the hell kind of serpent meow is this?

    I guess I''ll have to ask him for a more detailed explanation. If I stare blankly at his face, he will open his mouth.

    Aren''t you cheating on me?

    It is natural to wrap yourself up. Everyone wants to hide their weaknesses and shortcomings. Also, I want to be remembered as a good person by others.

    "But I it''s that bad.

    Eun?"

    I don''t think it''s that much of a difference?

    Not nice, not innocent, not naive, not humble, not kind, not kind, not unselfish.

    To put it bluntly, there is no limit.

    Of course, unlike the external fence, which is a mature adult, the internal fence is a foolish, young Ae Ji-min, not to the extent that it is unusual.

    People who act like grown-ups in front of others and release tension in front of close people are unexpectedly confused.

    "How do you think Euges looks? Is there a big difference?"

    "Well ? His real personality is a little . Yes, he''s a little timid, but that doesn''t mean he''s acting outwardly, isn''t it?"

    I could feel that she cared a lot in a small way.

    Tina was considerate, but Serpens knew well that she was timid, so she didn''t say much.

    It''s not that I''m using that acting skill for a bad place, so why is it a problem?

    "That''s right! And if it''s acting, it''s Euges.

    Did you drink too much?"

    . It''s a word choice that makes me feel like a criminal.

    Eugene looked at me with a confused expression and said.

    After listening to it, I see] everything. It is Be-i who reflects deeply in her heart.

    But it''s my fault that she acted like that.

    "I why are you two talking like I''ve committed a crime?"

    Serpens talking with a depressed expression

    Seeing this, Euges was perplexed.

    Moreover, no one was harmed by her acting... but I''m no different.

    "Anyone who suffered from Serpence''s acting, is there anything else other than the black barge''s boss and Akseung?"

    At my question, his gaze turned to Winston.

    Winston seems to be still unfamiliar with such timid fences. As soon as their eyes met, he was visibly nervous.

    To what extent, the human eye is coming

    As far as I can tell by looking at it.

    Because of the sudden force on the body, the pectoral muscles pump a lot, but the visual effect is no joke.

    If I learn sports from him, will I be able to be like that?

    I... mean?

    The first time Sir Winston wanted to follow me, it wasn''t me like this...

    I thought I had confided it in the last time we had a conversation, but I was really sorry

    it seems not

    The question is whether it''s okay to be under a fraudulent contract.

    I don''t think there''s one or two that bothers me, so why ask if this is an advantage?

    ''Smoke was a mask to deceive others, but it was also a shield to protect yourself Is that just my enlarged interpretation?''

    It would be great if you could come up with such a unique idea.

    Even more so, considering that the external fence setting was the means of survival for him.

    It is a wish not to deny that.

    No. It''s a little different from what I thought it is now... but it''s a different reason why I chose to follow the master.

    Winston said something in denial of Serpence''s words.

    The word ''a little'' cannot seem so thoughtful as today.

    "If not, for what reason?"

    "The rumored ''Duke Prasidus'' and the master I saw were different from the beginning."

    I heard it and it was

    Contrary to the setting of being generous and compassionate, Serpens had not been stinging with life since the first meeting with Winston.

    Oddly enough, did I worry about Kabung?

    "I wanted to follow him because he saw how he protected and believed in his people. There was no lie in his appearance."

    But in the end I did not trust Sir Winston.

    Because I hadn''t become a master''s person at that time.

    Winston, perhaps unfamiliar with such words, said humbly, stroking the nape of his neck with his palm.

    Serpens bowed his head with an apologetic expression and thanked him.

    There is a lot of ambiguity between the two.

    As if to do something, Serpens tapped my foot.

    Now that the snares are gone, let''s make the sixth advantage clear.

    ...you''ve always hated my acting, didn''t you?

    I didn''t want Serpens to suffer because he was crushed by that image. When I see him acting, I can''t help but admire him, right?

    "Is that ?"

    The boy''s eyes gleamed.

    Even if I pretended not to look like that, the words that I admired made me feel better.

    ''Is this the time to talk about the strengths of a serpence, time to make him acknowledge his strengths?''

    He''s a really hard-working kid from one to ten. Sometimes it''s annoying, but that''s what makes it even better.

    It''s only natural that Serpence''s true form is good, and the acting fence isn''t bad either. It''s nice to see you honestly.

    How can you be honest in your acting?

    For example, do you want to eat one more macaron, so you pretend to look for materials and pretend to be looking around, or do you intentionally put on a pitiful expression because you want to eat both puddings? You can see clearly.

    At the lightly thrown words, the boy''s face

    it heated up in an instant.

    If it''s just me and the two of us, I don''t know, he seems embarrassed in front of Eugene and Winston.

    I''m not very hungry today. I''ll hand over my share of snacks to Serpens.

    I don''t normally like desserts. Just give my share to the master.

    Eugene and Winston quarreled and asked me to deliver their share of snacks to Serpens.

    The more it happened, the more Serpence suffered.

    Come on, come on! So what''s the sixth advantage?

    Say it quickly, because I have something to brag about.

    Are you going to brag?

    I have a lot of curiosity, so I guess I''m curious about what I''m curious about in spite of the shameful delusion.

    I want to brag about the sacred stone I received from Serpens. Doesn''t the shape change when processed? So, you should watch it diligently now.

    Seriously no. It doesn''t look like you need to ask.

    Serpens put his forehead on his forehead and let out a small sigh.

    So will he, while I''m at work

    Because I saw Shin Sung-seok placed on the paper like a paperweight.

    At first, I was only going to see it in my room, but when the date for the Terra Room Kingdom was set, it was a waste and I had no choice but to do it.

    "Didn''t Serpens say that the crafting of the Holy Stone failed?"

    It''s about the sacred stone exclusive to the Prasidus Territory. The one I received is exclusive to me.

    "Oh my God is it true?"

    Made by Serpence Hearing that the Holy Stone does exist, Euges quickly saw

    He said he wanted to, and his eyes lit up.

    But everything has an order.

    So, Serpense, let''s move on quickly.

    ''''What? A face full of dissatisfaction that seems to want to take more time?"

    It''s your delusion.

    Serpence had a regretful expression on whether he gave it to me too soon.

    If I had known this would happen, I would finish processing and throw it away as if nothing.

    I think it might be something like that.

    If not, let''s do it right? The sixth advantage?

    I''m good at acting.

    A very useful advantage!

    He looked at me for a while with a face he didn''t know, then he turned his head and looked over the car window.

    Anyway, from now on, it''s time to brag about my sacred stone.

    After watching it while making it, it seems that he decided that it would be better to find the strengths of tomorrow when it was time to hang out with us.

    ''Is it that hard to find an advantage?''

    If I were a Serpence, I would have boasted about myself one day a day until the day I die, and it was not enough, so I would have boasted to Luxmea even after I died.

    I sighed inwardly, took out the Holy Stone and placed it on the table.

    So beautiful !

    I think so too. Besides, it''s not just pretty, it''s warm to the touch!

    "Can I touch you?"

    of course!

    With my permission, Eugese gently stroked the sacred stone.

    I''ve had a chance to see the sacred stone a few times, but it''s never been this clear and dazzling. It''s really warm, kind, and dazzling... It''s a gem that resembles a serpent.

    She pretended to be honest about her feelings and fluttered.

    Even Winston, who seemed not interested in jewelry, looked curiously at the sacred stone in her hand.

    I just shrugged my shoulders.

    I''m tidying this up, the producer is Serpen

    Su wondered what was going on, so he glanced at the man''s face reflected in the window.

    Even though he praised Shin Sung-seok, which he had made by the side, and took all of today''s snacks, his face looked dark.

    Serpens was deeply troubled, to the point of questioning whether the passing scenery could even catch his eye.

    There was even a feeling of pressure on his face.

    I don''t need anything so grandiose...

    It''s not a resume merit list, and nobody grades it or anything.

    It doesn''t matter if you just say anything.

    To put it bluntly, I think Serpens is ''Now he speaks half-talk.'' Even if they say the same thing, they are willing to recognize it as an advantage.

    Why are you worrying so much? After all, my strengths weren''t all that great, were I?

    No, that was great. I took comfort in all that you said, so-. Except for the second one.

    Serpens looked away from the window and looked at me and answered.

    I wonder if I should have taken it out

    At the same time .

    "Wait a minute, does that mean that I eat well without covering up?"

    After all, that was the beginning, wasn''t it?

    It reminded me of how I used to catch him for food.

    At that time, I was scolded for only doing one thing, small or big, but to come all the way here. Also the food is great.

    I think you can see why this guy chose to eat sweets as an advantage.

    "Good sleep.

    You can find the advantages of It may not seem like a big deal to Serpens, but it can be a big advantage for other people."

    Right.

    It was the opposite of eating sweets well.

    It was a big advantage for him, so if someone who doesn''t know hears it, what advantage should it have?

    If you don''t know Gingamin, it''s okay to ask like today, so don''t be too burdened!

    "The penalty is too burdensome."

    "You can take that burden."

    Serpens was weeping.

    However, as someone who has the advantage of eating sweets, I spread a lot of strawberry bean pot on white bread and it brightened up quickly.

    That''s a really great advantage.

    * * *

    next day.

    Serpens has been asking me a question.

    "Am I on the faithful side?"

    If the serpens are unfaithful, there will be no sincere people in this world.

    "So what about the seventh?"

    I am sincere.

    That''s how the seventh strength of the guy was decided. The way he talked about his strengths became more comfortable than before.

    I smiled contentedly, and he blinked slowly. How to proceed, now I know

    It looks like it was caught

    "Am I a believer?"

    Very good.

    That''s right. I''m cautious.

    The next day he asked another question, and I nodded lightly.

    As if he liked my answer, Serpence seized a small laugh. The eighth advantage.

    And then another day passed.

    I''m good at planning.

    Have you gained confidence? what''s the guy

    Instead of asking questions about work, I made an affirmation.

    It''s very unique. It''s not even snack time yet, but I think a little chocolate would be okay.

    That''s right! It''s the ninth with this? One more....

    And ten.

    Yes?

    He took out the almond chocolate stacked in golden wrapping paper from the subspace pocket, and the guy suddenly raised the number.

    That you are my friend.

    It seems that I have been thinking about being friends with Serpens ever since I picked them as my strengths.

    Good planning.

    "Did you deliberately save it for the last word?"

    ''''It''s a shame that he''s quite mean, but he''s still a good friend.

    Contrary to words, it is an expression that does not consider it a flaw. The boy was smiling happily.

    It''s probably not just because of the chocolate in his hand.

 CH 258

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 258

    48. A passing relationship with the Duke (1)

    It seems that the train of the Terrarum Kingdom can be called a subway. What kind of tunnel has so many tunnels?

    Of course, like the country of dwarves who worshiped beauty, they did not leave the dull tunnel unattended.

    The interior of the tunnel was decorated with colorful magic lanterns, so there was no boredom of repeating the same scenery.

    The long, dazzling light stretching out from the car window of a moving train is a picture of one width, and it is a spectacular sight.

    But I fell for that beauty only for a while

    As I kept watching the dazzling lights twinkle, I felt dizzy and my head was spinning.

    Serpens calmed him with divine power, but it could not be a fundamental solution.

    I used my divine power all day to tell Serpens to watch the lights twinkle.

    It''s humanly impossible to make them do it.

    This is a report from the Labor Office.

    '' Above all else, I think it''s really bad for my eyesight.

    In many ways, it was concluded that it would be better to close the curtain and look at the sacred stone.

    This does not mean, however, that all the time I spent on the train was spent looking at the sacred stone. We made friends by playing simple card games or playing Blue Marble games that I made with Yammae.

    I don''t do anything that stands out

    I tried, but I had no choice.

    It''s not that there aren''t any board games in this world, but most of them were of the brainy kind.

    ''I guess it''s the noble hobby of aristocrats.

    If it''s a head game, it''s like the winner is decided.

    There are also dice games that rely on luck, but it seems that they are only played in gambling houses.

    Although he couldn''t teach the growing Serpens a healthy play culture, he couldn''t teach gambling.

    That''s why I made the wild Blue Marble at the expense of the troubles and doubts.

    "Thanks to Shion, we had a lot of fun."

    As I approached my destination, Euges smiled brightly and said to me who was putting away the game board.

    Of course, what I was most concerned about was Eugene''s suspicion, which would have taken out Blue Marble. But fortunately she didn''t suspect anything.

    Is it because I usually do a lot of strange things?

    Or raise your serpenes correctly

    Did you know that I want to tell you?

    Maybe it''s because it''s made too wild, and there are sloppy parts here and there.

    In fact, we played the game by adding a golden key card or adjusting the toll balance.

    For those reasons, Euges seems to have thought that I had devised a game that even Serpense could enjoy comfortably.

    ''Serpence warned me not to do anything strange, but... .''

    From that moment on, he was the most active in calculating money.

    There was not even that common bet, and I used fake money that was only a piece of paper, but I had a lot of fun.

    ''If I get hit with this composition, only me will die.

    Swallowing bitterness inside, he finished tidying up and rolled the curtains.

    The train came out of the tunnel and was running under the sky instead of on the ground.

    Even though it had been a long time since I had seen the sky, it was foggy and difficult to see.

    ''Is it because it''s a basin?''

    The knowledge of geography learned in school flashed through my mind.

    It was a pity that the sky could not be seen due to the fog, but this is not bad as it is elegant as it is.

    The moving train seemed to slow down gradually and came to a halt.

    We have finally arrived at our destination, Calyps City.

    The dwarves formed a city according to their interests, and the city of Calyps, where we arrived, is mainly a place where weapon makers gather.

    "Serpens, have you thought about which craftsman to entrust to you?"

    When I got up from my seat and asked Serpense a question, I frowned, putting the pamphlet he was looking at into my arms.

    Ummm... I guess I''ll have to look at the weapons I''ve made and decide for myself.

    The pamphlet was purchased from the train attendant, and was filled with self-introduction under the guise of a Dwarf craftsman.

    Everyone wrote that they were good

    It didn''t seem to help much.

    If it hadn''t been for the attached map showing the locations of the blacksmiths, I would have just thrown away the money.

    Serpence put on a hoodie, kicking his tongue a little.

    The frown of the man''s brow disappeared under the black hood. When the magic reagent was used again, he carefully tucked his brown hair into the hood.

    "My field of vision is already narrowed due to the fog, so what''s the stuffy hood?"

    It doesn''t matter if you close your eyes unless you have combat symptoms.

    Are you even impressed by reading a pamphlet full of bragging rights? Who can craft a weapon with their eyes closed?

    How well do you walk around with your eyes covered? I suddenly thought of putting on an eye patch. But the time is not right.

    Let''s do that in narcissism, later. When I open my eyes, I look at the weapon and choose a craftsman.

    The words that I said in the sense of not being boring

    I didn''t mean to close my eyes.

    Of course you would.

    I took off the Serpence''s hood, and he put it back on. The same action was repeated three or four times, saying that the hood was moved over and covered.

    As I tried to remove the hood again, Serpens grabbed the hood with both hands.

    "It''s okay to play, but why not get down and do it?"

    Ouch!

    As Euges said, first on the train

    I''d like to get off

    After getting off the train, I dragged Serpent into a secluded alley. Eugenes and Winston followed suitably.

    Come on, then, why don''t you take off the hood?

    Wait! Stop there!

    Eh?

    As I was about to take off the Serpence''s hood, someone ran into the alley and shouted.

    Ultramarine hair fluttered in the wind that just blew, fluttering beneath it.

    Her bright eyes shone as blue as the autumn sky.

    It is somehow like an apostle of justice.

    "A group of people trying to intimidate the powerless!"

    If any of us are powerless, of course, he''s talking about me.

    I looked around the faces of the group. Serpence squeezed the hood even tighter, and Eugene and Winston looked more embarrassed than me.

    I don''t know what that person was looking at and misunderstood, but

    is the priority

    Are you scared? You misunderstood something.

    I put my left arm over Serpens'' shoulder to show off my friendship.

    It wasn''t the height that couldn''t be worn on the shoulder, but it was inconvenient because it was high. When I tapped Serpens on the shoulder, he figured it out and bowed his head.

    We''re really close, aren''t we?

    Yes, it is.

    Did you hear that? So don''t worry about it and go your way.

    I waved and waved my hands in the sense of going away, but the extra, who was engrossed in the role of an apostle of justice, did not know how to leave.

    Rather, he looked at Serpens with a more suspicious expression. It felt as if the end of that line of sight was somehow towards me, but that must have been my misunderstanding.

    Maybe it''s because I''m too attached to Serpens.

    "You''re really close right?"

    Oh, that''s right! You''re right!

    It''s good for people to be just, but

    You should be able to separate them well. If you make a mistake, you can''t get away with it.

    Shaking his head, he tapped Serpens on the shoulder a few more times. This time, he just patted me without meaning, but he lowered his posture.

    How the hell are you underestimating my height?

    When you say something nice, get rid of it right now!

    hand?''''

    You must have been at least 20 years old? A young man who still has a youthful look on his face

    Luke shouted.

    I looked down and checked the position of Serpense''s hand. He was still holding his hood.

    ''Did that person follow you because you wanted to see Serpence''s face?''

    With his right hand, he pulled Serpens'' hood all the way, but the hood didn''t even move. When my clothes were torn, they were torn, I don''t think I can do anything on my own.

    It''s very expensive!

    please....

    That guy shuts his mouth a little bit behind the scenes

    swallowed He''s covering his face anyway, so it''s okay to talk comfortably.

    Stop it, you scoundrel!

    The young man shouted again.

    '' Yes? Do you think that rude person is talking about me?''

    I reflected in my mind what had happened since I entered the alley.

    There seems to be some room for misunderstanding. And Serpens said, ''Please, if you''re saying the same thing, I can''t help but misunderstand you.

    ''Serpence, you bastard! Did you do that on purpose?!''

    Did Humanus, who was in a situation of force majeure, feel this way?

    It was natural to think that my gaze on Serpence became sharp.

    Thinking I was threatening him, the young man suddenly lowered his posture. Upon closer inspection, he saw his hand resting on the handle of the sword tied to his waist.

    If it is, it would mean that even the use of force is immortal.

    Reflexively, I saw Winston gripping his sword. Eugene held the bow with a look of disapproval,

    I put it on and it wobbled.

    ''There is also Euges who is an elf, why is there such a nonsensical misunderstanding , Ah!''

    Now that I see her, her position is a bit vague. From the angle, it seems that Eugess cannot be seen from outside the alley because it is hidden by Winston''s big body.

    It''s fine now. I''ll save you, so don''t worry.

    The young man said with a serious face.

    It''s a pity for him, and it''s not even funny. No one here can threaten Serpens.

    Be a serpence, save yourself

    It seems like everyone is trying to protect me from unknown people. I straightened my back and stepped forward about half a step.

    Naturally, I became in a position to hold Serpence''s shoulder.

    He shrugged his shoulders to mean that he should say something without stepping forward.

    There seems to be some misunderstanding. The people here are my party. I''m fine, so don''t worry about it.

    It''s like controlling an avatar somehow.

    Servata was amazingly aware of what I wanted and said.

    "Really? Are you being threatened or "

    Even when Serpens said it was okay, the young man glanced at me with a nervous expression. I doubt that I am pointing a weapon at Serpens''s back.

    This is a great misunderstanding.

    It''s fine. Nothing to worry about.

    Well, then

    Perhaps it was thanks to Serpens''s voice, which was calm and weak without a single tremor, the young man secretly took his hand from the weapon.

    It would have been better to have Serpence come forward sooner. I was confused because of what a powerless person said. This is why prejudice is so scary.

    If you ever need help, just tell me.

    It''s fine. Please, just pass by.

    very just and wide

    seems to be a person

    I don''t know what he is doing, but he felt the innate nature of Hogu. Although they misunderstood me as a strange person, it was a good thing.

    ''I don''t know where I''m going to be scammed... ?''

    The good-natured young man hesitated over and over whether he was worried about Serpens, so what would he do when he said he was okay?

    In the end, the young man went his own way with a look of disappointment at Serpence''s constant persuasion.

    Hearing our voices, we were worried that a passer-by might come again, so we asked Eugenes for a soundproofing screen.

    Bewildered, Eugene immediately summoned the spirit of the wind, and a curtain of air surrounded us immediately.

    If I had shown my face like that from the beginning, this wouldn''t have happened.

    If you hadn''t said anything strange, there would have been less misunderstandings.

    I also said it strangely, but no matter how I think about it, today''s MVP was not me, but Serpense.

    Why the hell are you trying to hide your face? We didn''t even come here secretly, so what if we get caught?

    Isn''t it set to stay here for a while? If it is known which craftsman is entrusted with which goods and where he is staying, there will surely be people who want to visit.

    If you can''t see it from the beginning, it''s because you''re in disguise and you can''t find it, but if you''ve seen it and suddenly disappear, it means you''re suspicious.

    It is said that the accommodation can be changed, but you can change the craftsman in the midst of making weapons.

    because there is no

    "You still dyed it, didn''t you?"

    Isn''t it just a change in hair color? Anyone who knows my face will recognize it right away.

    It''s not an empire, and if you recognize it from a foreign country, how much can you recognize it... Isn''t it enough to wear thick horn-rimmed glasses like last time?

    "For that "

    Serpens frowned and looked somewhere. His gaze reached the entrance of the alley through which the young man Oji-rayap had passed.

    Uh, did you know someone?

    During His Majesty''s fiftieth birthday banquet, he came as an envoy.

    How many years ago was that?"

    "From now , about five years ago?"

    When you say it like that, it means that you''ve only seen it once.

    If you have a Serpence-like face, I think it will remain strong in your memory, and if you say no after disguising yourself, it might be okay.

    it''s really ambiguous

 CH 259

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 259

    48. The past relationship with the Duke (2)

    So, who is that person? I''m kind of familiar with it too...

    Eugene raised his hand and asked Serpens a question.

    He is the second prince of the Bastul Kingdom.

    Oh, so you''re familiar! The eyes seem a little more lively, but they look a lot like King Bastul''s youth.

    Euges nodded his head as if he understood Serpense''s answer and said.

    It''s something I can''t empathize with because I''ve never seen King Bastul''s present, let alone his youth.

    Still, through [Master of the Holy Sword], I know roughly what kind of person King Bastul is.

    He''s a cowardly and ignorant person who can''t even say he''s a hater.

    It is a great blessing to have such a person that, although similar in appearance, has different personalities.

    Even the character of the king of Bastul was taken out

    Unlike the 1st Prince, the 2nd Prince''s Veil Barstul was also portrayed with justice in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''Even though I fell for the scheme of the Corruption Fence and made the mistake of truly believing in the minions of the evil forces... .''

    It''s not Bale''s fault. It was a rebellion that could not have been successful without their help in the first place.

    If this was an era of peace, or if I had not played in the hands of evil spirits and had doubted my surroundings.

    Veil could have been a saint enough.

    But from the beginning, through the process, to the end. All were engulfed in misfortune.

    By the cup of poison handed to him by the person he trusted the most, the person who helped him the most to become a king, and who he personally appointed as prime minister.

    He ended his life.

    ''It''s a bit bittersweet even thinking about it now.''

    a little then. Really, really, really thin! I cursed Tar Rockpence, but I''ll keep it a secret from Serpence.

    If he finds out about this, he will definitely be in the sea of clouds.

    All of my thoughts have been put together, and now is the time to think about it.

    "Is he the one who came and went?!"

    Serpens nodded calmly at my question.

    Eugene and Winston looked at each other, wondering what the problem was. The two don''t know the [Master of the Holy Sword], so it''s natural for them to react like that.

    So, Serpens shouldn''t be like that.

    If it''s the 2nd Prince of Barstul, it''s him!

    Serpens, who easily inferred what the person I was talking about, nodded again. It''s not that I didn''t eat it, it means that I just sent it knowingly.

    I can''t understand.

    ''If you happen to meet the main character of the original story on the road, isn''t it common sense that you should make a relationship and become close?''

    At the same time, I came to you alone with my feet saying, ''Catch me.

    "I revealed that the serpenes are serpenses, and I said that I would go to the kingdom of Prune to save people, and I asked him to go with me.

    Was it good?"

    Isn''t it possible for a prince of a country to wander around alone in a foreign country? There was a sign that trained knights were approaching him. Perhaps his escort.

    I don''t know if Bale was alone. It means that he felt that someone was coming and pretended not to know.

    Then, we just had to make a relationship first and make a promise for the next one. Come visit us later, or we''ll find you. It would have been nice if we had created an opportunity to meet naturally...

    He doesn''t know, but the people around him believe

    can''t.

    "So, it would have been nice to warn you about that, right?"

    "On what basis?"

    Uh...

    I was speechless. Serpens was right.

    If you followed him to save a gnawed person, he was the Duke of the Empire and his party, and he was told to be careful of those around him.

    Who the hell would believe that?

    "Did another revelation come down?"

    Yes? Oh, yes. What is it?

    I nodded in response to Eugene''s words.

    I closed my eyes for a moment, but Serpence opened his mouth again, as if he didn''t finish what he had to say.

    Moreover, the situation is different now. The future you see is what will happen when the empire is destroyed.''

    Yeah?! Empire is going to fall?

    Eugene couldn''t help but shout in shock. Winston looked confused.

    all.

    As Serpens said, his remarks really caused confusion.

    "The Empire is in danger, so can we go abroad?!"

    Even though it wasn''t his country''s business, Eugese asked, terrified.

    That means that the Holy Lumen Empire has a great influence on the survival of the continent.

    According to Zion''s vision of the future, the greatest cause of the ruin of the empire lies within.

    As a result, the balance was broken, and small and medium aristocrats, who had not been able to raise their spirits, intervened in the place where the great nobles were missing.

    It means it''s fine now.

    The Duke of Argento is currently guarded by members of the imperial family. The Duke of Argento has a history, so he will be more vigilant of demon worshipers than anyone else to avoid suspicion.

    It is no surprise that the Duke of Argento was under surveillance. That was cheap enough.

    Also, as long as the Crown Prince is the master of the Holy Sword, the Imperial Family will not abandon the continent.

    Apart from the fact that Humanus is the master of the Holy Sword, I think we should focus on the ''Holy Empire''.

    Anyway, since the imperial family and the duke''s family are maintaining their authority, the nobles under their control will not be able to do anything stupid.

    The Prasidus family will be protected by Eilich. No problem.

    ''After all, is this why I have to make peace at home before working outside?''

    However, it is questionable why we have to talk like this in a back alley.

    This is all because of the intrusion of Veil.

    I''m glad that''s the case. But what exactly was the future Zion saw?

    When the empire fell, King Bastul rejected the master of the holy sword, and the 2nd prince who supported the master of the holy sword succeeded in rebellion.

    It was about ascending to the throne and dying at the hands of a servant who worships the devil.

    At Serpence''s key summary, Eugenes was at a loss for words.

    Winston frowned and looked uncomfortable, probably because of the words ''You will die at the hands of a servant'' at the end.

    He now has enemies in the Holy Lumen Empire, but he was originally a knight from the Kingdom of Bastul. I''ll just have to worry about it anyway.

    As Zion said, it''s good to warn you in advance, but I don''t think you''ll believe that your family will betray the continent and those you trust will betray you.

    Saying now is not the time

    Whether the demon has contacted the servant or not yet. Even that is unclear. Although King Bastul''s shoots are yellow, he hasn''t caused any problems yet.

    As the Empire is in good health, there is a possibility that they will not turn their backs on them.

    Still, I wouldn''t know if we hadn''t met at all.

    Uh-huh... Okay, if you have time later, can''t you just stop by the Bastul Kingdom?

    "Really? When?"

    "What if the Volta Mountains matter?"

    It meant that I had no plans to stop during this trip.

    "Is the story about the second prince of Bastul over now?"

    Yes? What, for now?

    "Then I ask you, why did you drag me into this alley?"

    I forgot the matter for a moment because of the identity of the ultramarine-haired young man.

    Thanks to Serpens'' words, I was able to recall my original purpose.

    I have an amazing way to deal with Serpence''s worries! This way, no one will even notice if Serpence is free to show his face!

    "Is there such a way?"

    How can you be anxious?

    Unlike Eugene, who showed interest, Serpence showed a blunt reaction. But if he hears my brilliant idea, he will change his mind.

    I''m digging through my subspace pockets, Soleil

    He took out a special order for Serpence Scroll from Letia.

    You can use this.

    "What kind of scroll is that?"

    Try it first. You''ll find out if you use it.

    Serpence could not erase his doubts, and he opened the scroll I handed him and began to examine the contents carefully.

    He said he was not suspicious of such a serpent! Winston doesn''t seem to know how to see people.

    I grabbed Serpens'' both hands and tore the scroll. on scroll

    A blue light bursts out from there and stays in Serpence''s ear before disappearing.

    While he groped his ears, I pulled out a mirror.

    It''s a illusion magic that lasts for a week without any interference! It would have been nice to be able to change the shape itself, but if it works inside the body, it would be intrusive to the operation of divine power, so I replaced it with a illusion magic.

    "Isn''t that a good way to have long ears like an elf?"

    Serpens looking in the mirror is absurd

    As if to do, he burst out laughing.

    "I was a little worried because we met five years ago, but if it were this, you wouldn''t be able to recognize it. Anyone who sees Serpens''s face would think he''s an elf?"

    I''ve reconsidered several times, but this will work. it goes unconditionally

    What the hell are you...

    It doesn''t matter if the 2nd Prince remembers Serpens''s face. It''s a Manryu-gwi servant, isn''t it supposed to be unified into one when anything reaches its peak? It''s just the perfect golden ratio.

    I''ll go ahead and think that it looks similar!

    It''s not like that, is it?

    Serpens looked at me with crazy eyes. To some extent, self-awareness that he is handsome has begun to arise, but it seems that he is still lacking.

    I looked at him with a sad expression on his face.

    No, really?!

    dog sound.

    I guess he doesn''t believe me.

    What do you do if you get sick? Elf

    If you think it''s because you don''t want to attract attention, you''d think it''s the other way around. They''d think it was a scammer trying to take advantage of the fact that elves don''t lie.

    Now, all you have to do is change your hair color to green like an elf. No one will know.

    Were you listening to me?"

    Serpens rubbed his forehead and sighed.

    If he keeps appearing like this, he has no choice but to cancel his advantage number 1 and have him carry out the penalty. the guy

    Why don''t you know?

    What if I don''t find out?"

    "Isn''t it natural to be caught?"

    Okay, I bet! If no one notices or suspects that Serpence is a fake elf today, you''re going to call me bro until I go back to the duke''s manor?

    Why do I have to accept such a bet?

    Instead, Serpense can do something for me too!

    Perhaps it was an appealing story, and he had a hesitant expression on his face.

    It''s like taking advantage of his low self-esteem, but this isn''t cowardly. It is an education to increase self-esteem.

    After today, Serpens will come to realize that his face and that of the elf that everyone admires are on the same line.

    "If I tell you to be quiet".

    Shut up until you say it''s okay to say it again? Well, that''s fine. The deadline is the same until we get back to the duke''s house, right?

    Serpens smiled satisfied

    nodded.

    Foolishly, he had to accept a match he was sure to lose.

    I''ll win anyway, but it''s not bad to let me dream for a while.

    Serpens used the divine power to remove the effect of the existing dyeing reagent and dyed the hair a fresh mint color.

    Serpence looks better with this bright color than the dull color.

    I don''t know if I''m good at it now.

    Serpens with a hood rolled up in mint color

    He muttered while flicking his dyed hair.

    It seems like he doesn''t like it, but seeing that he has accepted my qi, it seems he wanted to shut my mouth.

    ''''It''s fine, I won''t get caught.

    Seeing Eugenes talking lively, Serpens had an expression on his face as if saying, ''That''s not okay as it is.''

    Winston, tell me something.

    Uh, um... Master, you get along well.

    Did you hear Serpence? Winston is empty.

    I can''t speak like that. You know?.

    The bet hadn''t even started yet, but Serpence was already looking at me with a face that wanted to shut my mouth.

    then . In the eyes of Sir Winston, what do you think of Sion''s actions in purchasing such an expensive scroll with the duke''s money?"

    I think it''s embezzlement.

    Winston answered without any hesitation.

    Serpens looked like he was asking, ''Did you hear me too?'' I feel like I gave it back and got it back with words.

    Why don''t you buy a scroll for Serpence with Serpence''s money?! Why is this embezzlement? It''s a proxy purchase. Isn''t it?

    You didn''t have my permission.

    Whenever there is a scroll you need, you can buy it as much as you want!

    I didn''t say that.

    However, as if he had no intention of charging the scroll price, he quickly turned around and ran out of the alley.

    There is no time to be like this to find a craftsman you like. Let''s stop chatting now, let''s tour the forge

    mean to do

 CH 260

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 260

    49. Duke and Dwarf Artisan (1)

    I was worried that the veil wouldn''t go away and I was wandering around, but even when I came out to the main road, I couldn''t see him.

    It seems that he understood Serpense''s words well. If it had been a human eye, it would have been impossible.

    ''but. If it wasn''t for the humanus class, I wouldn''t have resigned.''

    The big hurdle has been crossed.

    Serpense also seemed a little relieved. Even if he was dressed as an elf, he probably didn''t want the prince of another country to find out.

    With a brisk pace that was close to half running, he slipped into the visible smithy.

    * * *

    Serpens, who was carefully examining the sword hung inside the forge, looked up.

    tilted at

    uh... .

    "Why don''t you like it?"

    The Dwarf, with his beard neatly trimmed, asked a question in a friendly voice.

    I''ve been to several blacksmiths, and they all showed such kindness.

    There is no way that Dwarves, who have strong kinky kinky tendencies, have a really loose personality, and it''s even more unlikely that they, who are proud of their work, will have a sales smile to accept orders.

    It''s not like that. It''s great.

    Then why?

    The craftsmen of Calyps City are all excellent, so I want to see more of other people''s work...

    Serpens made a shy expression and timidly blurted out the end of his words. The Dwarf looked at it and drew a satisfied smile.

    Yes.

    Like a Dwarf who worships beauty, he became kind because of Serpens'' beauty. Dwarf inspired by the face of a serpent

    As if to get him, he looked closely at him.

    One Serpense face, one Euges face.

    After looking at each other''s faces for about ten or so times, he glanced at Winston''s muscles.

    All the while, he didn''t give me a single glance.

    ''What about this member? .''

    Just looking at the faces of Serpens and Eugenes is not enough time.

    Win Stone''s muscles, which sometimes stole that gaze, are amazing. for this reason

    A person must have at least one thing that stands out.

    But I wasn''t envious or easy at all.

    Firstly, the Dwarf''s gaze was too burdensome, and secondly, because I know that my greatest charm lies on the inside, not the outside.

    ''It''s not really my face in the first place.''

    I leisurely looked at the weapons hung in the smithy.

    To be honest, I don''t know.

    At first admire the sharply forged blades and the splendid and delicate decorations

    I spit it out, but when I looked around in several places, they all seemed to be there.

    As Serpens said, all of them are excellent craftsmen, so there is no fault there.

    Wherever you order, you''ll get the perfect weapon.

    I''ll look around a bit more and come back.

    Serpens said, making up a sorry expression for nothing.

    Somehow, a strange feeling came over me.

    I think I heard the same thing when I went to the department store with my sister, because I was addicted to the idea of buying something delicious.

    No, I definitely heard it.

    There is no other craftsman as good as me... Why don''t you take a tour of my warehouse?

    The Dwarf craftsman was very saddened by Serpence''s decision to leave.

    That''s what I''ve heard from other blacksmiths I''ve been to. Surprisingly, everyone said something like that.

    Is it like the basic form of seeing off guests in the city of Calypse?

    "If you ever visit Nazung again, please do so at that time."

    �[�� means never coming again.

    Yeah, if you look around, you''ll find this place anyway. Oh, you''re not interested in nude models...

    Leaving behind the words of the dwarf craftsman, Serpens fled... No, he ran away.

    As soon as he got out of the way, Serpence took out a map and a pen. Curious about what he was trying to do, he pulled his neck out and looked at his behavior.

    He drew a large X several times on the location of the forge that had just come out.

    there was.

    He didn''t intend to come again, but it was an expression of his strong will that he would not even come close to it from now on.

    I think I''ve looked around all the open places, what should I do?

    Ummm...

    "If you don''t find a place you like, why don''t you go back tomorrow?"

    Eugenes asked Serpence, who sighed as he looked at the map.

    Most of the places where the Dwarf craftsmen were so engrossed in their work were they couldn''t even set foot in it.

    There may be some dwarves who want to finish their work tomorrow and receive guests, so why not look around again tomorrow?

    For example, at the blacksmith I just stopped by, a few hours ago, ''there was a sign hanging on the job.

    "Just a little , I want to look back a little more."

    Serpence answered in an earnest voice.

    There''s only one reason why he reacts like that. It''s because the elf makeup hasn''t been discovered yet.

    With a Dwarf''s eye, he was wandering around aimlessly, hoping that he wouldn''t notice that he wasn''t an elf.

    At first, he was nervous about what he would do if he was found out, but now he is anxious about what he will do if he is not found out.

    Every time he looked back at the smithy and came out, his face grew annoyed.

    ''Did you really think he was going to win?''

    In the end, he couldn''t make it because of his earnest wish

    After all, we got back on the wagon.

    I didn''t buy it, I rented it a day ago, but the driver was a human, not a Dwarf.

    There are a lot of people coming from abroad to buy dwarven goods in the Terrarum Kingdom, so it is a kind of new tourism business that attacked this.

    Inside the carriage, the name of the dwarf who made the carriage was engraved in a stylish handwriting. Combined with other decorations, even the signature felt like a piece of art.

    But no matter how cool it is, someone else''s name

    I don''t want to buy that big wagon written in such a big way. When you see your name, you''ll feel like you''re getting someone else''s MIDI

    Usually, even if you put your signature, it is written in a small corner in the corner, but it is not written in such a big way.

    Still, there is little reason for the signature to be written in a conspicuous location on our carriage.

    ''In exchange for indirect publicity, I signed a long-term contract and bought a wagon at a lower price or something.''

    Users ride a dwarf carriage

    You can enjoy luxury, earn money from a wagon rental company, and a dwarf who made a wagon can easily boast of his work.

    I don''t know who came up with the idea in the first place, but it worked really well once. He must have made a lot of money too.

    Why don''t you just give up now?

    "Let''s visit one more place."

    I guess I''ll have to find a place to stay now...

    Serpence ignores me, and the spear

    I looked outside carefully.

    Now I''m just going to come and do that.

    Master, over there...!

    When Winston, who was looking in the opposite direction of Serpens''s direction, shouted, the coachman who was driving the wagon noticed the horses and stopped them.

    In the direction Winston was pointing, a dwarf was ''was clearing the sign while working.

    Seeing that, Eugese clicked his tongue slightly.

    ''Euges also wanted to hear Serpence say he''s the older brother... !''

    I thought it was Jeung-Ri, but she was my comrade.

    One side of my heart was relieved.

    Shion, come down.

    You''re doing it in vain now.

    gibberish.

    Victory is almost certain.

    No one could see through the truth that he wasn''t an elf, and no one even doubted it.

    It will be the same this time.

    All I need to do is watch the guy''s last move with happy eyes.

    all.

    Let''s carry our backs on our feet and take a leisurely pace, Serpens pouting his lips and entering the smithy first.

    The guy whose instep is on fire may be cheating. I unpacked my back and hurriedly followed him in.

    Ugh? A strange guest has arrived.

    As if he had even taken a bath after finishing work, the Dwarf patted his moist beard with a towel and said.

    The dwarf''s beard looks softer than my hair, so it''s somehow defeated

    I felt like It even smelled good, even with perfume.

    ''Dwarves in this world are a bit strange... !''

    He managed to swallow the dissatisfaction he could not express anywhere else.

    "What do you mean, special?"

    Serpens asked in a voice full of anticipation.

    I was expecting that or how disappointed I was.

    This dwarf said, ''How can two such beautiful guests come at once! What a special and special thing this is!'' to shout

    It is clear that the plate was laid.

    You''re the one. I''ve lived here for hundreds of years, but I''m not even an elf in my life, but it''s the first time I''ve seen a guest with elf ears.

    "Ah, are you looking for me ?"

    Ugh?! Wasn''t that what he was doing because he liked it?

    The impossible happened. This cannot be.

    It was supposed to be a serpent, not me, to taste defeat and fall into a blitz!

    Serpens'' face brightened.

    As much as that, my mind darkened.

    Uh, how did you find out? You''re a perfect elf by anyone!

    Is it possible that the others didn''t recognize it? Hahahahaha! Everyone''s eyes are rotten!

    It wasn''t the other dwarves whose eyes were rotten, it was the dwarf in front of them. It can''t be like this.

    Even if I dropped my nose on the cooked rice, the oily water and Goji were right in front of me!

    "Didn''t Serpens give you a hint?"

    I didn''t say anything

    all.

    He looked back at me and made up an expression that said he was hurt, as if he could ever doubt him.

    But the eyes were clearly smiling. How happy I am, it seems that I can''t even act properly.

    The smile on his face, with his brows narrowed, looks like he''s despising me, and it''s absurd.

    Are you doing this on purpose?

    Where in the world is an elf that doesn''t sound like an elf goo! Uh-huh, uh-huh !

    The dwarves, who were laughing all over, said as if mocking the dwarves who were not present.

    I can''t believe that there could be a Dwarf with such a poor eye for the world.

    There''s no way my kid can''t have elf ears! If elf ears don''t suit Serpens, who the hell are elf ears for?!

    It must be for the elves.

    "No, I have nothing to say about it, but .

    Still can''t admit it

    Serpence was not an honorary elf recognized even by Yujis, the first beauty in the elf certification.

    Is this why amateurs who don''t know anything can''t do it? Do you think that just because you''re beautiful, you''ll always look good with elf ears?

    "Then what do you mean?"

    wing.

    Hearing my movements, Serpens, who was also drunk with a sense of victory, widened his eyes at the Dwarf''s remarks.

    Noble, soft, splendid, noble

    One! These are divine pure white wings!

    Ugh!!

    To say that you have no discernment is completely unacceptable.

    It''s a shame that I don''t know someone with such a high level of insight.

    This sublime aura you can feel from your whole body! A pitiful yet splendid beauty without shadows! This is in the form of an angel, not an elf! This beauty is not from the earth, but from heaven!!

    Serpens, I found it! I count it right now! Here''s a real craftsman!!

    Even though I lost the bet, it''s a pity

    It wasn''t really worth it. Instead, I was able to find a great craftsman.

    The best weapon craftsman in Terram Kingdom is this Dwarf right in front of him. can be predicted

 CH 261

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 261

    49. Duke and Dwarf Artisan (2)

    Come on, let me show you what I saw!

    What do you do? The best artisan says it?

    As if Serpens was embarrassed, he hid his face with both hands.

    Why are you hiding that precious thing?!

    "Is that what I mean!

    After drying it, I compromised with elf ears.

    You''re far behind me, but you also have great aesthetics!

    I''m kinda like that!

    It''s really reliable. This craftsman seems to be able to create the best masterpieces.

    There is not enough to entrust my sacred stone.

    ''By the way, isn''t this dwarf a weapon craftsman?''

    I just thought that I had to process the Holy Stone, but I don''t know what to make with the Holy Stone.

    did not take into account

    Wasn''t there something Serpens had in mind while making the Holy Stone?

    I''ll ask later.

    Come on, stop pretending to be an elf and spread your wings!

    Even while I was thinking about something else, the dwarf continued to look at Serpens with anticipation.

    I dragged him to the chair and stood on it to make eye contact, but it was very burdensome to see from the side.

    Serpense hesitated and put on a perplexed expression.

    Sorry, but I don''t have wings.

    He''s an angel who lost his wings... Kya~, that''s good too!

    With a face that didn''t know what the hell he liked, Serpens let out a small sigh.

    Maybe it''s because of the thought that I don''t have to do elf cosplay anymore? Serpens generated divine power and forcibly destroyed the illusion magic.

    - Crisp.

    With the sound of something crumbling, the illusion was shattered, and fragments of magical power were scattered.

    A small wind blew up with a stone of magical power and divine power, and his hair fluttered lightly. A round ear appeared between them.

    Much better!

    The Dwarf didn''t say anything special, as if it was natural for Serpens to use divine power.

    Just looking at Serpens'' round auricles and moderately plump, thick earlobes, I admired that it was a perfect shape.

    did.

    But it''s still a little out of synch... I think it could be perfect with just a little bit more.... It''s very strange...?

    There are absolutely no ghosts.

    I poked Serpens in the side, and he shook his head. If his trademark blue silver hair is revealed, it must be due to the concern that his identity may be revealed.

    How about it? We''re going to shoot weapons here.

    "What does that have to do with

    are you?

    This is a question about the correlation between matching weapons and showing one''s hair color.

    Hearing our conversation, the Dwarf sensed that there was something more, clasped his hands together in front of his chest, and lit up his long, lantern-like eyes.

    You have to show your true form to get a sword that fits the image of Serpens!

    It''s important that the weapon fits in the hand, not the design.

    That''s Serpence''s idea, my life.

    The angle is different. Design is also part of function!

    The dwarf nodded eagerly to my opinion, and what does a human friend know!'' he added.

    If you match your weapon here, this Dwarf will unconditionally demand that you reveal the true form of the Serpence.

    I want to check my skills first.

    If the skill level is similar to that of other Dwarves, it is said that he is thinking of going somewhere else with an appropriate excuse.

    Dwarf''s unique high self-esteem

    In retrospect, if someone else had said something like that, they would have been furious about what you were to judge yourself for.

    However, the celestial beauty of the Serpens even gave them the qualifications to evaluate the skills of the Dwarves.

    As soon as his words fell, the dwarf jumped off the chair.

    Then he ran to his short legs, dragged the ladder in the corner, and lowered the sword hanging from the wall.

    Isn''t this the same model I''ve seen in other places?

    count. If you are interested, I can also show you the works in my warehouse]. I just want you to know that making a sword like this doesn''t make me even able to exercise after a meal.

    The Dwarf handed the sword to Serpens and chattered every now and then.

    In any case, imitation means a basic foundation, not a product of chance that can be made by chance.

    It can''t be compared with a masterpiece that has been put so much effort into, so it''s more reliable.

    Rather confidently lift from the warehouse

    If he had shown a high-quality weapon, his credibility would have been severely compromised.

    Ummm...:''

    Serpens closed one eye and checked the balance of the blade, so he looked around and looked around meticulously.

    As if each movement felt like a work of art, the Dwarf exclaimed with admiration over and over.

    How are you? Are you okay?

    The guy glared at me.

    Wasn''t it the first time you met that dwarf today, why are you doing this, at least you have to pretend to look at the pets in order to say something like that.

    A complex planting was read in his eyes.

    Great.

    "I knew it would. There is no way that the skill of a craftsman with such a great eye would be diminished!

    uh... , what .

    The guy with a shaky smile

    nodded.

    It was half skipped over, but it seems that he has really superior skills than the other Dwarves.

    Then come on and spread your wings!

    without wings.

    At the dwarf''s constant request for missing wings, Serpens made a perplexed expression and pushed away the effect of the magic reagent in his hair.

    Perfect! It''s like a dog sprouting invisible wings behind my back!

    - Clap clap clap!

    When Serpence''s hair regained its original color, the Dwarves clapped with excitement.

    There were no wings that existed physically, but it seems that they found wings that are visible through the eyes of the mind.

    ''Is this why cat owners are posting pictures of cats every day?''

    I sympathized with the heart of a person who bought something at a shopping mall and suddenly boasted about his cat as a review.

    As the praises poured down on Serpence, a shoulder dance bursts out of her heart. It''s not just me, Eugene is also smiling happily.

    Even Winston nodded slightly.

    Perhaps he thought that Winston would be different, and Serpens looked at him with the eyes that he had been betrayed.

    Noticing the gaze, Winston sighed and turned his head.

    My name is Creato Faberra.

    My name is Serpens A. Prasidus.

    The Dwarf, who had been appreciating Serpence''s beauty for a while, has now introduced himself.

    Taking Creato''s outstretched hand and shaking hands, Serpens also said his name.

    Even though it was a famous name as the nominee for the master of the holy sword, Creato did not show any reaction. To him, the face of Serpens must be more important than the blasphemy of the Holy Sword.

    A light of relief flashed across Serpens'' face.

    "Aren''t you interested in modeling?"

    Serpens was terrified at Creato''s question, which came in while he was careless. The guy threw Creato''s hand away and backed off.

    I mainly make weapons, but an inspiration suddenly came to me. With an angel statue modeled on you, it is certain that the best masterpiece that will go down in the history of this continent will be born!

    Serpens hid behind my back. He felt his hand resting on his shoulder.

    To hide behind me, who is smaller than myself, crouching as I am, over my shoulder

    A picture of him with his eyes wide open was pictured in his mind.

    It must have been an instinctive act because he was psychologically dependent on me, but if we think rationally, it is wrong.

    If you wanted to hide yourself, you had to hide behind Winston, not mine.

    At Serpence''s actions, Creato gave an expression of ignorance of English.

    Why are you doing that?

    "The blacksmith I visited earlier recommended nude models."

    "Uh-huh~, I know who it is. The blacksmith over there, right?"

    Yes that''s right!

    Don''t compare me to such a vile bastard!

    Creato clicked her tongue and said.

    As if relieved by those words, Serpens''s fingers holding my shoulder relaxed.

    He seems to be invisible, but he doesn''t know the charm of the silhouette that is revealed through the thin fabric. Don''t worry.

    A dwarf who knows something. The word ''learning person'' came up to my throat.

    I will decline.

    If you want to take it off like that

    "I didn''t mean that, I meant that I didn''t want to be a model."

    There was a sense of vigilance in Serpence''s voice.

    How could he reveal his true nature to such an extent in front of people he is seeing for the first time? Creato was slightly respected.

    If you model me, I''m willing to make a weapon for free for the rest of my life.

    Yes!

    That''s a lot of money.

    Huh...

    Creato''s shoulders slumped down.

    Looking at his face full of disappointment, it was almost pitiful, but Serpens did not change his words.

    "I don''t like it, but I have no intention of forcing it, so please stop."

    Serpens was shaking his head, and the back of his neck tickled because of his hair.

    "With that said, you don''t mean to steal your face and make a statue without Serpense''s consent, right?"

    Beautiful beings should be respected, yes. No dwarves do anything that ignores them.

    Creato frowned and spoke firmly, as if he had heard even a severe insult.

    More than I thought, the dwarves were a race crazy about beauty.

    Did you hear me? Come on. Come quickly. I''ll have to get you a weapon quote.

    I''d rather order a weapon quickly and

    Did you decide to leave the place?

    Serpens put my shoulder on my shoulder and quietly stood next to my money. The look in the guy''s eyes looking at Creato was that of a pervert.

    Wait a minute.

    Creato said, ''I went out with a work permit sign and came back empty-handed.

    Then he left a message to follow and headed for a separate space inside.

    Since there is no fire pit, the workshop is

    it seems not Instead, it was full of weapons of various sizes, lengths, and shapes.

    So, what kind of weapon did you come for?"

    I need three swords for me and the two of us here.

    Serpens answered me, pointing at me and Winston.

    Winston''s eyes widened as if he hadn''t said anything to Winston. It seems that they just followed without thinking about the idea of going together.

    thank you, my lord.

    Dwarven weapons are weapons that can be used

    It''s everyone''s dream

    Winston seemed hesitant about whether to decline or be grateful for the exorbitant gift of his master, but in the end he chose the latter.

    Rather .

    "Didn''t I even hear that you can live up to my sword?"

    Aren''t you going to ask me to ask you anyway?

    "No? I don''t have any skills, but what do you do with a good sword?"

    "If you don''t have the skills, shouldn''t you be fine with a sword?"

    The guy suddenly hit a bone.

    It''s a lousy skill, so it means that you shouldn''t have to get it even if it''s a tool tooth.

    I''m not even ready to kill someone yet...

    Don''t worry. You can''t harm anyone with your skills.

    Serpens smiled softly, as if reassured, and patted my shoulder.

    What are you talking about today?

    "Wow, did I still improve my skills a lot?

    2nd place in the family!

    "Are you proud to lose to a baby less than a year old?"

    Serpens tilted his head, making an expression that he was asking because he didn''t really know.

    If I had said it sarcasticly, I would have been arguing about what Talent Knows.

    Heh... I don''t usually make weapons for people with no skills, but I''ll definitely make yours. Living in this harsh world, I need to have at least a means to protect myself.

    Creato, who did not know that the baboon was born with divine power, and that the soul within it was a grown-up saint, looked at me with sympathy and said:

    Damn, really hard work can''t beat talent!

    As I let out a sigh, Serpens pricked me in the stomach.

    It is a sarcastic act of arguing that this fat is the product of hard work.

 CH 262

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 262

    49. Duke and Dwarf Artisan (3)

    "Can Eugene not buy a new weapon?"

    I grabbed Serpenth''s finger as he stabbed me in the belly and stopped him, and asked Eugenes a question.

    She seemed to have noticed my intention to turn, but she smiled, pretending not to know.

    You 1, I''m fine. bought here

    It''s not, but the bow I''m using now is also made of dwarves. I lost it last time and got a new one, so it''s still good.

    I guess I got it right after losing it when I was kidnapped before.

    "First, take out the weapon you are currently using and look at it."

    I dragged the sword that was tied around my waist with its scabbard and put it on the workbench.

    Originally, I was going to put it in my Aspace pocket, but after hearing Serpence nagging me, I wore it around my waist right away.

    It is said that humans are creatures of adaptation.

    You''ll get used to it after wearing it.

    Winston also unleashed the sword he was holding on his back and placed it on the workbench. Looking at the sword longer than my height, I felt a sense of intimidation.

    My sword next to me looks like a toy.

    In addition to the three swords that Serpens was carrying around his waist, he took out a long sword from the subspace pocket and put it together.

    "Oh, yes. Were you the chosen master of your holy sword?"

    An awkward beauty that seems to make Serpence uncomfortable at Creato''s thrown words.

    made a cow

    Creato glanced at Serpens up and down with an unconcerned glance. Then he nodded to himself as if he knew.

    Hmm... it''s going to be a long talk, so let''s sit down.

    He said, pointing to the chair next to the workbench.

    Unlike the low workbench that was tailored to the height of the Dwarf, the chair was high enough for Winston to sit on, whether it was for guests or not.

    Rather than caring for customers,

    It must have been prepared for himself, who has to look up at the face of a customer at one height.

    Instead of sitting on the chair, Creato stood up and held the two Serpens swords on the workbench.

    "You must have been using this sword longer, so you must be very familiar with cutting? Is this shape more comfortable?"

    Like a mountain spirit asking which is yours, a gold ax or a silver ax, Creato raised and lowered two swords.

    Yes, it is.

    Okay, then with both slash and stab in mind.

    Creato muttered to herself, what''s the length of the sword, what''s the width of the blade like this, how about the gripping method?

    As I, who learned swordsmanship by scratching the surface of a watermelon, said things that I could not understand.

    Serpence continued the conversation by nodding his head or adding comments to the continued question.

    Wait a minute and see.

    Guess I got a rough idea, I put down the swords Creato was holding and turned around.

    it went

    He picked up one of the swords that lined his back, and had a blade slightly wider than the Serpens'' three swords.

    It wasn''t much of a difference.

    However, for that subtle difference, I''d probably buy a custom-made product rather than a ready-made one.

    Even if you wear clothes, custom clothes and ready-made clothes are different. But what about weapons?

    As it is a life-and-death battle, it is necessary to tailor it more precisely.

    Even if it''s the best sword in the world, if it doesn''t suit you, it''s a way to cut down on your skills.

    I thought I''d ask Serpens to swing the sword I brought, but Creato put it down for a while and took out a thick cloth.

    What are you trying to do?''

    Creato suddenly covered the blade with a cloth and started turning the handle. Then the blade and handle were simply separated.

    Putting the detached handle aside, a new handle was pulled out of the drawer.

    Only after changing the weight on its back, Creato reassembled the sword.

    ''There is no way that a sword used for actual combat could have been prefabricated .

    It was a sword in which the blade and the handle were separated by a screw method, which I had never heard of.

    It''s probably just a sword specially crafted for personal customization.

    If you use something like that in real life, you won''t be able to withstand the shock caused by the swords collide.

    Let''s swing it once.

    Serpens who took the sword stood up.

    After he did some slicing and stabbing, Creato replaced the blade part this time.

    It''s a guess, so I''m not sure, but the length seems to have gotten a little longer. The weights were also replaced accordingly.

    After Serpens swung the sword again, the two of them exchanged opinions. The blade was replaced several times like that.

    I thought it was over, but as if laughing at my thoughts, Creato raised his sword again.

    separated

    Guard''s older brother ER71 H] The shape of the weight was flattened and then rounded and then back and forth.

    It''s like watching Serpence''s sword evolve into the final version, the final final version, and the real real final version through the revision in real time.

    This is not because Serpence is difficult, but it is proof that he has been using a sword that does not fit him badly for a long time.

    Did you notice it, or the craftsmanship, or just admire the beauty?

    Is it just increasing?

    I don''t know the exact reason, but Createau carefully selected the accessories without showing any signs of annoyance.

    Rather, Serpens looked more mentally exhausted.

    "How about now?"

    uh... .

    Serpens swung his sword lightly with a long and brooding face. Perhaps something was different this time, his expression suddenly changed.

    I looked down at the sword in my hand as if possessed by something, and assembled it for the first time.

    Like when he was handed the sword, he performed several movements.

    I think this should be enough.

    Like a child who had been playing with the dirt every day and received a toy for the first time in his life, Serpence had a happy but bewildered expression on his face.

    It was somewhat sad to be a laugh, and too pale to be a cry.

    Yes, yes. I will make you my very gorgeous and stylish sword!

    It seems that even with Creato''s eyes, he couldn''t find any discomfort in Serpens''s sword-wielding action. he is satisfied

    He smiled and returned the sword from Serpens.

    Hey, you don''t have to be flashy.

    I wonder if I''m going to put a cumbersome decoration without practicality?

    Serpens wanted an inconspicuous design, but unfortunately that opinion is unlikely to be reflected.

    "Okay then, the next "."

    Creato took up Winston''s sword this time.

    Even when he lifts a gigantic sword that looks twice as long as his height, he doesn''t even stumble.

    Strength is also muscular strength, but thanks to the Dwarf''s unique body structure.

    Contrary to the light and light elf bones, whose composition is unknown, the dwarf bones were very heavy and thick.

    As an added bonus, thanks to the small height, the weight is perfect.

    Therefore, no matter how heavy the sword, it is impossible for a Dwarf to be swayed by its weight.

    Creato looked around Winston''s sword.

    Raising and lowering the arm holding the sword as if to measure the weight, he carefully looked at the handle with a magnifying glass.

    A craftsman like me can understand the degree of force applied only by the finger marks left on the hilt, and know what needs to be improved.

    No one asked, but Createau dared to elaborate on his actions.

    It was just self-pride.

    Oh, that''s amazing! It''s really a terra room.

    The best artisan in the kingdom!

    With gratitude for the meticulous care of the Serpens sword. And at the level of Abu to make a good sword, he did his best to fight back.

    Creato''s shoulders shrugged as the seals clapped and exclaimed in exclamation.

    Creato returned Winston''s sword and made him swing it a few times before fiddling with the build-up sword.

    ruler.

    I told Serpence to give it a try with a kind voice, and

    At times, only ''self is the end.

    Then, during my turn, I didn''t say a word.

    Winston took the assembled sword in the form of a protruding bayonet and swung it in the air.

    A loud, threatening sound was heard.

    I think it''s better than the sword I''m using now.

    Winston spoke politely and returned the sword. The corners of Creato''s lips are almost deafening.

    Anyway, of course it is!

    Let''s compare things!

    Of course, the words that came out of his mouth were a response to being plastic.

    I wish Serpens could imitate that endless confidence and high self-esteem.

    Okay then, next!

    It took a long time to find a sword that suited Serpens, but Winston''s sword was finished so quickly that it was useless.

    He had bad habits because he had been using the deformed sword for a long time in the arena, but Serpens took care of the training and gave it to his wife.

    Winston also worked hard to fix it.

    Thanks to that, the shape of the sword I am using now seems to be well established in my body.

    Let''s see... huh?

    Creatto, who drew my sword from its sheath, looked at the sword and me with an absurd look.

    I don''t mean to scold you for mismanaging your sword.

    ''Because Serpens was doing his own thing and he always did mine too!''

    It is the result of jokingly answering what Serpens said when he saw me who didn''t manage the sword at all, ''If I carry a rusty sword, my enemies will avoid it because I am afraid of tetanus?''

    Hearing my answer, he said, ''I''d rather poison... .''

    Tetanus can take time to heal himself, but he must have thought of the possibility that he would accidentally cut me and die instantly by using a strong poison for nothing.

    Why? What''s the matter?

    Anyway, I have nothing to fuss about,

    I decided to act boldly.

    Really... that''s amazing. I have no habit!

    I''m surprised too.

    Could it be that there is a swordsmanship talent hidden within me that I am not aware of?

    Anticipation gently lifted his head at the unexpected positive response.

    "Aren''t you training in swordsmanship at all?"

    " Yes?

    "No, even if it is, it is very rare, isn''t it?"

    Uh, uh...

    "I drank for a while, what kind of habit would I have?"

    It wasn''t positive at all.

    "That''s if you say that, I think Serpens, who taught me swordsmanship, will be sad "

    You must be sad because you didn''t train!

    He tried to sell the name of Serpens, but failed.

    Abominably, Serpence was next to me and said, ''I''m always worried about that.''

    He let out a sigh and sighed with a wet face.

    Ah, no... Actually, my main job is just rummaging through papers...

    Is the baby who defeated you just fighting?

    This is because Creato doesn''t know much about babies.

    Babies are always engaged in a struggle.

    A natural warrior who instinctively jumps into the fight against himself to turn over, with a toy in his right hand and a toy in his left.

    A commander who enjoys fighting with all his toys, and a tyrant at mealtime.

    "Anyway, let''s try something "

    It means swing your sword... would it be?

    I already neglected my swordsmanship training, but lately I can''t remember because I haven''t done much training for various excuses lately.

    As soon as he swung his sword as much as he could remember, Creato put on a sad expression on his face.

    "Uh how are you?"

    "How do you feel?"

    There is no place to fall, so I think the only thing left to do is to go up.

    Creato''s gaze turned to Serpens, my swordsman master. The boy''s face flushed with embarrassment.

    It''s fine. Not everyone can have it. A face is so perfect, it''s just a talent for teaching someone.

    It''s not, I know because I''ve learned the sword from the master. You also have excellent leadership skills.

    Creato comforted Serpence, and Winston supported Serpence. I''m not alone

    Then what''s the matter?

    "As someone who has seen the master teach the seniors First of all, the seniors do not have the enthusiasm to become strong, and secondly, the master accepts the seniors'' grievances too much. I can''t tell if it''s a game or a game.

    weird. I only remember being rolled hard every time I trained.

    Winston''s every word hit me painfully. Serpens also suffered a lot at his loyal words.

    An ominous feeling began to develop.

    Serpense''s eyes looking at me are not unusual. In the future, it seems that it will be rolled in an incomparable way to the past.

    Futsu *'' د د

    Creato, who had been standing all the time, pulled a chair and sat down.

    "Uh , can''t I assemble a sword?"

    I''ll make that sword as a standard, so you''ll learn it. You don''t have the basics to handle a unique sword. Simple things are easy to learn....

    As if there was not enough time to explain in detail, Creato finished her speech in a hurry.

    Fortunately, it wasn''t that I wasn''t going to make it.

    You did a good job matching the d��cor.

 CH 263

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 263

    49. Duke and Dwarf Artisan (4)

    "Then it''s about materials and costs You said you had a lot of money, didn''t you?"

    It doesn''t matter how much it costs you, so I hope you can make the best weapon with the best materials.

    It doesn''t matter how much it costs!

    Serpens doesn''t mind the lines that can be said by a chaebol male protagonist in a drama.

    I put it in my mouth.

    A satisfied smile appeared on Creato''s lips, wondering if he liked his answer.

    Ugh hahaha! Of course it should be. Now that I see it, it''s not just the facial features that are cool'', the usage is also cool!

    A remark that seems flattering, not flattering, flattering.

    If an ordinary human blacksmith had said the same thing in a situation like this, he would have thought he would saba saba to the customer to earn even a penny more.

    ''The spending of money and the appearance of features

    What does it have to do with it?''

    But Creato really thought so, and it came out of his mouth unintentionally. No one here was unaware of that fact.

    As if not knowing how to react at this time, Serpens looked at me with a smile on the outside without a word.

    Rescue signal D.

    That''s right. Serpence was very refreshing.

    Refuse to receive

    Serpense''s expression looking at me is beautiful

    it cooled down sharply.

    It''s like asking yourself, ''Why did I trust him?'' There was regret in the boy''s eyes.

    Serpens, who had expected from me, looked at Eugenes this time. From that action, he could see the ranking of the people Serpens depended on and trusted.

    ''The first is you and the second is Eugenes.''

    It was an action made unconsciously, so it could not be called a rational judgment.

    In this regard, Eugenes

    ''Cause you were on my side

    The cool appearance that is only seen when dealing with the bad guys is also quite attractive.

    Euges smiled softly and said nonchalantly.

    When we first met, she, who was shy and said only distant voices, no longer existed.

    It took Seo Dang Gae three years to recite the bountiful moon, but it didn''t take that long for Eugene to learn how to handle the serpenes.

    You have to be honest about your feelings for someone with low self-esteem like Serpens.

    that Once upon a time she realized

    ''right! Good job, good job!''

    Tears of emotion were almost oozing out at the growth of the son-in-law.

    So while I was descending Eugenes in my mind. Serpense mob was bewildered. I haven''t figured out the situation yet.

    Oh oh oh! It reminds me of an angel judging the demons!

    An exclamation burst out of Creato''s mouth, and Serpens'' expression changed from bewilderment to bewilderment.

    Evil people have evolved into demons, but that''s good.

    If the opponent is the devil, the Serpence is no longer merciful, so it is not wrong.

    More importantly, Creato''s words aren''t over yet.

    You''re making a cold, contemptible expression with that gentle face...! I''m sure I miss you!!

    Supporting the anti-war charm of Serpens, ''The spirit of the Shinhong Euges sect is a foreign land. In the terrarum kingdom, it was also splendidly eaten.

    But how... .

    It sounds like you want to see that expression from a first-person point of view instead of a third-person point of view?''

    Is this what localization is all about?

    It looks like something has changed, but let''s keep it alive.

    It is a moment when you realize that the world is wide and tastes are truly diverse.

    Faced with the ''emerging Eugenes faction (Dwarf patch ver.)'' that changed radically without any mental preparation, Serpens'' external expression began to waver.

    He was smiling awkwardly as if he was embarrassed, but the muscles around his mouth trembled thinly.

    Deep in the eyes of the guy looking at Creato. There was a sense of humiliation that Creato wanted to see.

    But.

    Unfortunately, he didn''t know him well enough to read Serpence''s eyes.

    ''Did being crazy about letting your imagination play a part?''

    Like a character in a masterpiece based on Greek mythology.

    I guess he is imagining that Serpens dressed in a cloth wrapped around his body, with wings on his back, defeating demons with a cold expression.

    If you stay like this, do you think you''ve sensed that you''re being praised?

    After sending Eugez a glance that even you didn''t know, Serpence looked at Winston, the last bastion.]

    Winston''s eyes gleamed as he received the gaze.

    Obviously, the materials and

    I think I was just starting a story about grades. No, that''s how it started.

    Suddenly, Creato revealed a distorted taste in wanting to be looked down on by Serpens.

    As for what to say in this situation, Winston was confused.

    That, that...

    I thought I should say something, but nothing came to mind, so the words of embarrassment acted as a handshake.

    It had the same effect as floating luck to attract attention.

    The result 1, everyone''s eyes turned to Winston.

    How much pressure and pressure Winston will feel right now is so far-fetched that I cannot even dare to imagine.

    Lord, lord...

    Winston''s mouth stuttered and began to say something, and Serpens felt something was wrong.

    Serpence''s wish is to change the subject.

    In other words, the moment the word lord came out of Winston''s mouth, he had already eaten it.

    "When I see you swinging your sword, you are thrilled. And the previous subjugation belt] and the way you commanded the knights was also full of dignity] . .

    After thinking about what the master wants from him, Winston seems to have decided to follow the trend in the end.

    ''but. When you don''t know the way, it''s safest to follow others!''

    Even if the end of the road is not the destination he intended to go.

    At least alone in the empty field

    Because I can avoid being abandoned.

    Ah! When the swords collide directly, the sharpness of the sword cools your spine even though you know it''s a match.

    Winston added hastily.

    As such, it perfectly matched today''s topic, ''Praise Serpence with words related to coolness''.

    When everyone wraps up serpens with positive words, they use negative expressions such as ''cool down your spine'' to praise serpens!

    It''s the last order, so I feel a lot of pressure

    It wouldn''t have been the same, but he threw a great change ball.

    ''This novel sensation! Very commendable!!''

    I rubbed the bottom of my nose with my index finger, feeling the tip of my nose tingling.

    And Serpens, who became the subject of today''s 100 Days, quietly closed his eyes. The act of ignoring this situation and trying to deny it is D.

    If this is a dream, you would want to wake up, but this place is reality. No more waking up, nowhere to run from.

    ''So you should have asked me for help!''

    I know that accepting a sincere compliment without political calculations is still unfamiliar and unfamiliar to him.

    But it was something that could be finished with a single word of thanks.

    This is how the situation has progressed. Who gave the excuse to be like that? This is Serpence himself, no one else.

    If I say '' , will he try to kill me?''

    I''m not the kind of person who likes Creato, so I''ll be quiet.

    closed

    "Whoa

    Serpens took a deep breath.

    Although he borrowed the power of divine power, he is a man who has mastered the control of his emotions.

    Contrary to the feelings that tormented him for a long time, even though it was somewhat strange, it did no harm to him.

    It wasn''t aggressive, and it didn''t give the feeling of being dragged down into the deep abyss... .

    ''Do you want to?

    I do not know.

    Creato''s remarks were too numerous to pass up.

    Fortunately, he had regained his composure, and Serpence slowly opened his eyes. And he quietly opened his mouth.

    "Is there anyone who wants to save money by entrusting a weapon that is like life to a master craftsman?"

    Serpens spoke as if he had erased the praise relay time from his mind.

    It would have been just right if you came right after the saying that spending is cool.

    It''s a question.

    Oh, look at my mind! Were you talking about that?

    It seems that I completely forgot about it.

    Creato slapped her forehead with the palm of her hand, summoning her own spirit that had flown far and far in the waves of imagination.

    "Do you think it makes sense to look for cheap ingredients to save money while entrusting orders to the best artisans like me?"

    It''s really incomprehensible.

    It is directly related to one''s own life, how could that be... .

    Serpens made a sad expression on his face and said with a sigh.

    It is an attitude of welcome to any topic as long as it is not related to oneself.

    "Sometimes, there are bastards who provoke me, saying that if you are a really good craftsman, can''t you make an excellent weapon with even the smallest of materials ! Huh, um. Such people are the stupidest! I am a blacksmith, what kind of alchemy Do you know how to become a drinker?"

    Seems like they don''t like Creato

    He licked his tongue. Serpens nodded, pretending to agree with him.

    Anyway. I will carefully select my best materials and make supreme swords, so please look forward to it.

    If you don''t mind, Zion.... So, I hope you use the Holy Stone for the sword that my aide here will use.

    Huh?

    Of course, I will provide the sacred stone.

    Creato''s eyes lit up at the word Sacred Stone .

    At least I''ll make some accessories

    I thought, too, and looked at him blankly.

    ''It''s not a pearl necklace around a pig''s neck, but a diamond necklace?''

    Maybe I''m doing this because I''m not good with swords?

    Did you not think that if you put a beautiful Shinseong-seok in it, you would carry it around your body and take care of it?

    If I use the power of the Holy Stone, I wonder if Shion will be able to respond to magic and auras to some extent...

    It wasn''t.

    Serpens just prepare for emergencies

    Yes, I wanted to have the ability to survive on my own.

    But this time I can be sure.

    The sword with the sacred stone will be reduced to an accessory that adorns my waist.

    ''It''s not that I''m just going to play, or that I won''t practice. Is it true?''

    Serpens are overprotective of me.

    But I use magic or aurora

    would you let them hold their swords against them? I don''t think so.

    I don''t know if it was the past year or so when my dependence on me was low.

    But why do you say that so confidently?

    "As you know, this is the first Shinseongseok that I succeeded in making. It contains a will to protect you, but it is unknown whether this will work properly..."

    Roughly speaking, it means that it is doubtful whether it is a defective product that only appears to be plausible.

    I''ve tried countless times to make sacred stones, and I''ve only seen them break and break every time. Losing confidence is unavoidable.

    It is amazing that he overcame such anxiety and created such a beautiful sacred stone.

    I misunderstood that I was making fun of my mouth and putting myself in danger, so I thought, ''Oh, he can''t do that!''

    I don''t think I''ve raised my concentration by swearing at me inside.

    ''I''m just worried about my well-being

    It must be a feat accomplished with one heart!''

    Surely it will be.

    Serpence says that my opinion is the correct answer... I''m worried about what to do to avoid damage.

 CH 264

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 264

    49. Duke and Dwarf Artisan (5)

    - Bang!

    Suddenly, Creato clenched both fists and slammed the workbench.

    When I heard the sound, it seemed like it had been struck quite hard, but the workbench only vibrated a little, and there was no shaking.

    This is the workbench used by the dwarves.

    Also, it must be a dwarf. For that reason, the durability was excellent.

    Still, the fact that hitting the workbench on which the sword is mounted is a dangerous action remains the same.

    I secretly retrieved my sword and alerted Serpens and Winston to put them away.

    It''s not that important now!

    Creato said, ''That kind of problem isn''t the sword on the workbench, it''s the conversation between me and Serpence.

    I can''t find out why he''s angry

    was able to notice that

    First, show me the sacred stone! Then let me chatter while I appreciate the sacred stone.

    As I expected.

    I heard that a dwarf who is obsessed with beauty has a divine stone, but it is only natural that he is anxious to see him.

    For example, as soon as I go to work, I tell Serpens, ''Today, sprinkle sweet sugar powder on fluffy souffl�� pancakes, then pour sweet acacia honey and serve with soft whipped cream.

    will be Oh, of course not now.''

    It should be expected at first].

    Looking forward to the pancakes coming into my mouth quickly, I''ll just glance at the clock all day.

    At first, the expectation was fun, but gradually the desire to eat pancakes took over the guy''s head. When things get to the point where things get out of hand, then I get angry.

    It''s not something you can eat right away, so why do you talk so early and make people wait?

    After that, it is a natural order to make a fuss to eat pancakes right now.

    I just thought I''d give it a go... . I didn''t know you''d want to eat so much!''

    It burst right before lunch, so I had a hard time trying to appease it with a little chocolate.

    I reflected deeply in my heart and brushed away thoughts of the past.

    hurry !

    Creato said earnestly, and held out a palm toward Serpens.

    Although sacred stones were rare, the number of Dwarves was large enough to form a nation.

    Even if only the dwarves were able to craft sacred stones, the opportunity could not come to all dwarves equally.

    So, Creato''s fussing like that can''t be helped.

    Although I found the wrong number.

    Why don''t you show me...?

    Shin Sung-seok does not exist for me.

    "Isn''t that what you made?"

    I made it, but Zion''s

    Isn''t it natural for you to be in Zion?"

    Ah, ah! You mean the second-class friend in the family?

    He was preoccupied with the story of Shin Sung-seok, and he seemed to have stopped listening to other stories.

    Creato turned and looked at me with her arms outstretched. Naturally, his hard palms with calluses came in front of me.

    The dazzling eyes are so burdensome.

    Take out the holy stone from the subspace pocket

    I put it on A Creato''s palm, and he exclaimed, Oh!

    "If I had known this would happen, I would have been painting rather than sculpting as a hobby!"

    His words implied that the sacred stone made by Serpence was beautiful enough to leave it as it is now, even as a painting.

    "Ah no. It''s impossible to put this dazzling brilliance on paper! No other paint in the world can embody this clear and colorful light! select left

    You will definitely enjoy the temple!!

    Creato, who was holding the sacred stone, let out a sigh.

    His body trembled from how thrilled he was. In the meantime, the hand holding the sacred stone was fixed in the air without even moving, and it looked strange like a character with a bug in the game.

    ''Is that possible? I''m dead and I can''t seem to wake up? Is the dwarf body structure different?''

    I do not know. Anyway, I know very well that the sacred stone is enshrined in a very sacred way.

    Uh, um... I understand Serpence''s intentions. But if it''s just to block enemy attacks, isn''t a shield better than a sword?

    Yes? There''s no way Shion can block the enemy''s attack, right?

    Serpence kept making an innocent face and pounding me with facts.

    I didn''t usually He says a lot of questionable words about whether acting today has any meaning.

    ''I hope... . I''m flirting with Creato, don''t take sides

    You''re not upset because you gave it to me, right?''

    Without hiding any doubts, I looked into the boy''s eyes.

    Serpens tilted his head as he acted that he didn''t know why I was looking at him like this.

    Huh...!

    I looked up to see what was going on with the sudden breathing noise, and Creato was clutching my heart with her left hand.

    If there was one peculiarity, the right hand holding the sacred stone was held high. And judging by the fact that it was facing Serpence... .

    ''I thought you were in love with Shin Seong-seok, but were you watching it with Serpens''s face?''

    When you add good things to good things, something better comes out.

    The same goes for beautiful things.

    Even if not, I am enjoying the dazzling beauty through synergy, but Serpens made a pure expression and even frowned.

    At the end of the day, the best craftsman who will make our weapons almost died of a heart attack.

    calming a beating heart

    For that reason, Serpens looked down at the back of Creato, who had bowed his head for a moment, with a cold expression.

    The founder of the emerging Eugenes faction, Yujisu Wilydia, looked at Serpens''s expression and smiled with satisfaction.

    Today, she obtained something more valuable than a weapon.

    ''Winston... .''

    I thought it would be a lot of surprise, but it''s an unexpectedly dull face.

    Are you okay? Anywhere you feel uncomfortable? Unless you are too meddling.

    May I use my divine power?

    Just in time for Creato to raise his head, Serpens showed a performance of concern.

    No matter how many times he sees this change in his expression, admiration comes out.

    Excessive meddling! It''s not like that, yes. But... can you make me feel this afterglow a little more?

    Serpens managed to keep his expression on his face and succeeded in turning his head.

    "There seems to have been some misunderstanding.

    The words were not intended to demean you.

    When our eyes met, he calmly opened his mouth as if he had never seen Creato''s breathing difficulties.

    It''s not a good habit to keep pretending that there are no situations you don''t like. But it was just hard for me to accept.

    Admit good ignorance.

    "Then what did you mean?"

    If anyone here swings a weapon at you, you can''t stop it.

    Will there be?"

    It wasn''t rain. Serpens made a confirmed kill.

    I see. It wasn''t meant to belittle me, it was meant to crush me mentally.

    It doesn''t mean that, either, so please stop making that expression.

    What am I?

    "Whoa I just wanted to say that Shion is a normal person. You are not born with great muscle strength, and you don''t even have the ability to strengthen your muscles.

    If you block the enemy''s attack with your shield, you crush the whole shield... . No, uh... .

    Having already said everything he had to say, and pretending to be careful.

    It means that if I lifted the shield, I would just be hit by the shield and die. From what I''ve heard, it makes sense.

    This was also a pack width, so it was used to make me understand.

    Since I was an adult who could accept bitterness, I erased the dissatisfaction from my face.

    "But if you put a sacred stone into a tool, does that power only extend to the tool?

    peel? Something like a holy barrier that protects the territory?"

    If it''s an attack you can''t stop, I think the Holy Stone will protect you...

    But, what?

    It''s a matter of efficiency.

    "Efficiency?"

    Serpens nodded at my question.

    "The holy stone used in the territory only ''maintains the existing holy barrier.'' Maintaining the barrier and opening a new one depends on the amount of holy power consumed.

    Pick up. To reduce that waste, it takes the form of a tool, but what use is it if the person who uses the tool lacks the ability to defend it only with the power of the Holy Stone?"

    Is this the pity of the powerless?

    I didn''t do anything wrong, but somehow I was getting scolded. This is all Luxmea''s fault.

    ''Hey, I''ll put you in the body of some competent person!''

    I didn''t even prepare a plausible body for calling people from another world.

    you.

    From the basic attitude of calling guests, I was terrified.

    If you just hold out while the barrier is unfolding...

    You have to withstand external shocks, so your holy power will be consumed quickly.

    This means that as soon as the divine power drops, you will be attacked by the enemy.

    The end of the shield route seems to be only the death ending.

    Then what''s different when I pick up a sword? It''s not like I''m getting stronger just by holding a sword, so in the end, it''ll be the same to defend with the power of the Holy Stone?

    Can you do a black bell?

    "Are you going to cut someone like that?!"

    flying magic.

    Ah.

    It seems that the saying that it can respond to auras and magic meant that.

    "Above all, have you never held a shield before?"

    Can''t we just stop it?

    No. It pushes and bounces attacks in time, sometimes it uses the shield side to let it flow, sometimes it attacks using the edge, etc. A shield is a tool that requires quite a bit of skill.

    In addition, everything was possible with the support of muscular strength except for the attraction.

    I don''t know if it''s used as a secondary weapon, but it''s not suitable for me to use as a main weapon. It is also said to be a skillful sword or to use it diligently.

    Also, there is an advantage when you hold a sword. Anyway, the sword attack

    It is a tool for The opponent can also take damage, so it will show a movement to contain it moderately, and if you aim for that gap, there is a possibility of escaping... I don''t know. It will definitely help you pass the time.

    If you say that there is such a possibility, even with just words, it seems like it will go away.

    Now that we''ve learned to dodge the enemy''s attacks, let''s focus on capturing attacks from now on.

    I was speaking in a solicitation type, but I am well aware that my opinions are not reflected. In the meantime, I started training by asking for my opinion, but now

    will be forced to roll.

    In fact, the training so far was only an experience period.

    It was a free trial that started lightly, but when I woke up, I was registered as a lifetime member.

    "Once you get used to it to a certain extent, you will learn to distinguish between an attack that should be avoided and an attack that should flow."

    It would be a separate training practice. There''s no way it''s going to end with just nine.

    If possible, it would be good to learn simple attacks as well.

    that you want to teach me.

    Serpence was burning with enthusiasm for education. Was it that shocking to hear that Winston was playing?

    After that, there was nowhere to escape. With a feeling of giving up, he slowly raised his hand.

    Yes, ask a question.

    How can I use the power of the Holy Stone?

    The ARMY will automatically appear.

    It''s good news while listening.

    Reminds me of Humanus being swung by the Holy Sword, so I''m feeling the same way

    I was worried it wasn''t.

    ''You just need to swing it and you''ll figure it out!''

    As convenient as driving an automatic car.

    Of course, the fault is that I have to do the driving itself. It would have been better if it was as convenient as a self-driving car.

    If I look like Serpence, he''ll protect me too.

    It should be done if you do not risk yourself in the first place.

    Ah, anyway! If you think that way, it''s better than controlling yourself.

    can you?"

    I wonder if there was any truth to what I said, and he nodded, saying that too.

    I was hoping you would deny it. Was it too windy?

 CH 265

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 265

    49. Duke and Dwarf Artisan (6)

    Let''s work even harder with me in the future.

    Serpens smiled brightly and said.

    It''s just a talk about spurring swordsmanship training, but somehow the fallen fence that appeared in a dream of the past seemed to overlap with him telling us to fall together.

    If Creato hadn''t caught his breath again, sighing, he would have pinched Serpens'' cheek, wondering if it was a dream.

    ''Oh, it must be very tight... .''

    Suddenly, a swordsmanship class curriculum was devised.

    It must have come to buy a sword, but before I knew it, I was sitting at the swordsmanship academy.

    Are we all over talking now?

    Yeah. I''m sorry, I suddenly took your time by talking about something unrelated...

    Not at all! It was an inspirational, precious time!

    Creato waved an empty hand, not holding the Holy Stone.

    Serpens didn''t answer him.

    "How much can I give you in advance?"

    Serpence, who wanted to leave this place quickly, brought up the topic.

    I know it''s not like that, but somehow it sounded like something to eat and fall.

    Leaving the Shin Seong-seok

    None. Just join in with full payment."

    If there is any material that is difficult to obtain, please contact the imperial Prasidus family, and we will do our best to obtain it.

    Ugh? You guys aren''t planning on staying here? You''re not going to see how this beautiful Divine Holy Stone changes and the process?!

    Creato, who felt strange at Serpens''s words, spoke as if desperate.

    There must be a desire to appreciate the beauty together. Serpens is gone.

    Lee must have a bigger feeling of regret.

    I''ve got work to do for a while, so there''s a place I need to go...

    where?!

    Before Serpense could even finish speaking, Creato asked a quick question.

    facial expression, speech, and voice. There is nothing that is not urgent.

    Putu...

    Pruna Kingdom! Isn''t that too far away! If you go back and forth, you''ll come back only when the sword is almost finished...

    Although the words were interrupted, there were no complaints about the speed of the conversation and Serpense''s expression on his face.

    I''ve never seen him so reluctant to love anyone since Humanus.

    It seems that Creato was very burdensome.

    ''A person, like me, should know the degree!''

    But he wanted to be despised by Serpens. If it was done with that in mind, it could be said that it was very successful.

    I barely salivated what almost applauded the amazing planning.

    "I am very sorry that I missed the opportunity to see the skills of the outstanding craftsmen up close, but there is nothing I can do about it."

    It is truly admirable to see an expression that seems to be overflowing with regret on a topic that is not at all sad.

    Yeah, but why...

    It''s about saving people.

    "Oh, is it urgent?"

    In fact, it is not, but Serpens

    He nodded with a heavy expression on his face.

    If it was really urgent, I would not have been able to visit the Terram Kingdom.

    Then you won''t hear it after you''ve been there...

    Creato frowned.

    It was not difficult to infer that the words ''Tender 1 '' that would have been able to see Serpens'' face periodically during the completion of the sword had been omitted after those words.

    It shouldn''t be revealed that we''re heading there.

    This is the sound of opening the door to fraud.

    Serpence used the explanation he had given to Anima the other day as an excuse. That''s what the devil''s bucket operation is all about.

    "Huh , if that''s the case, I can''t help it."

    What if it''s for a cause?

    Creato accepted the sad reality with a disappointed expression. I think I''ve lost my motivation too much, I don''t know if it''ll be okay.

    ''It shouldn''t be a problem to make a sword... .''

    The beautiful brilliance of the sacred stone

    I just want you to comfort me.

    "Are you sure you''re coming to find the finished sword yourself?"

    Yes. I will definitely stop by again on the way back.

    Concealing that he did not want to come again, Serpens answered.

    Then we''ll get up and see.

    Bur, are you leaving already?!

    It''s late. Excuse me for staying longer...

    Excuse me, that''s not fair! Oh, that

    they say! How about pretending to stay at my house altogether? Upstairs right here! There''s even a guest room!

    Those words were in line with the saying of staying here today.

    Apparently, he didn''t want to send Serpence away quickly.

    If someone comes to visit you, can''t I just kick you out because you''re interrupting your work?

    Huh?! Is that okay?

    From what I heard, I was just saying yes because the conditions were quite tempting, but Serpens gave me a look to shut up.

    all.

    Heh] But the words have already left my mouth.

    It is impossible to catch a sound that has no form.

    No. No matter how much I think about it, it seems to cause too much trouble.

    Isn''t it only for today?

    However .

    Uh-huh, a favor is not a refusal.

    I couldn''t bear to say that it seemed like it was self-interest, not favors, and I couldn''t stand the external fence.

    Serpence, defeated by the setting he had made, had no choice but to accept his proposal by nodding his head.

    And before leaving tomorrow, let''s go look at the warehouse.

    Thank you for the kindness, but the road is a bit rushed...

    I''m not asking you to brag about me. Jiseo I, are you planning on carrying a sword like that when you say you''re going to fight a demon worshiper?

    Yes ?

    "I will lend you. It may not fit your hand, but the sword you showed me is different.

    There''s no comparison.

    Serpens blinked, as if he couldn''t understand what Creato was saying.

    I doubt what the hell is the benefit of lending out the collection in a private warehouse.

    Oh, how much is the rental fee...

    I can''t afford to lend money to my small children, can I?

    I know that means you don''t want to put a value on your collection, but it''s okay to lend it out for free.

    I can''t help but have a question.

    It''s just a favor. So don''t feel pressured and come back safely.

    It felt as if the calculation had been laid on the fact that if Serpence was not hurt and was safe, he would be able to see his face one more time.

    And maybe that''s true.

    Whatever the reason, it is true that his kindness helps us.

    I don''t have any bad intentions, and I don''t intend to use it as an excuse to harm us.

    In particular, lending weapons means that our safety is guaranteed to the same extent. An offer that is difficult to refuse

    . thank you.

    Serpens, who seemed to be in conflict, eventually accepted his favor.

    Clearly, the person who found a place to stay today, and the person who borrowed a sword to use for a while, were also Serpens Gunmin-. The corners of Creato''s mouth that served them caught on.

    It''s late today, so work will start tomorrow.

    Worked until we stopped by

    He should rest too.

    I guess so, we nodded our heads.

    Come on, let''s go up. Guys, do you have any drinks? There''s a drink I prepared for you to drink after work. This is a relationship, wouldn''t you like to join us?

    It seems like a masterpiece trying to increase the time with Serpence somehow.

    In response to a sudden question, I raised my hand.

    Ugh? Is there something you want to say?

    Um! Ummm! Eupeup!

    I didn''t say anything and just chattered, and Creato looked at me with crazy eyes.

    It is unfair. Even if it''s just performing the penalty of the bet.

    ''Don''t say shut up until you say it''s okay, I''ll say shut up for 10 seconds!''

    With deep regret, he tapped the serpent with one hand and pointed at my mouth with the other.

    Serpens looked at me like this with the eyes of great satisfaction.

    all.

    No, don''t look, just... !

    "Why is he doing that?"

    I don''t know either.

    When he sent his eyes to me to shut up, Serpens had an expression on his face that he did not understand the English language.

    In times like these, the only thing you can trust is Euges.

    I looked at Eugenes asking for help.

    I made a bet to see if anyone could guess that Serpens wasn''t an elf.

    I hear it.

    Ahh, did you look like that?

    you]. Serpens was betting that he would be caught, and Sion was betting that he would not be found. If Sion wins, Serpens calls Sion his brother... .

    Didn''t I introduce you as an aide earlier?

    When Serpens said he would put a holy stone on my sword, he did.

    It was just a passing story, but I remember it well. Creato looks at me with a strange look

    I saw it, and I shrugged to mean what it was.

    His gaze on me became even more strange.

    Yeah, what...

    As if he didn''t know what to say, Eugene also smiled and kept quiet.

    Anyway, the bet is that the Duke of Angels won?

    You 1, that''s why Zion decided to crack down... . Ah! Shion usually talks a little... It makes it tough.

    Thanks for explaining instead, don''t

    The last word is a rumor.

    Even if I make my words harsh, how harsh are they?

    If you ask my boss to call you hyung, it''s obvious even if you don''t listen.

    This time, I had nothing to say, so I kept my mouth shut.

    Jimin had no choice but to shut up anyway, but if you show an attitude of acceptance and reflection, Serpens will allow you to open your mouth.

    More than that, I''m worried about safety. Sion is a little bit...better fighting here and there...

    Eugene said with a troubled expression on his face.

    This is nonsense. There are a lot of things to say against.

    However, the reason I remain silent about her is because of my fairness in accepting the results of my bets.

    Ji-min solved an unsolved math problem, because the subway came in. And because of the lack of space. I wonder if this is the pity of those who did not record it.

    it''s just sad

    "Now, what were you trying to say, so you voluntarily shut your mouth?"

    "If Serpens tells you to be quiet, the condition is until he says you can talk. Why are you closing it now?"

    Creato and Eugene''s eyes turned to me. Euges probably didn''t see Serpens telling me to shut up.

    With an unhappy heart, I pointed my finger at Serpens''s eyes.

    It seems like your hand habits are too harsh.

    far.

    I quietly lowered my hand.

    It''s because it''s bad behavior to point at people, not because they''re stabbed.

    I don''t know why, but you can tell me.

    As if he couldn''t keep me shutting me down while Creato, a stranger, was watching, he allowed me to speak.

    It''s very difficult to say a word.

    Did Serpence tell me to shut up with his eyes?

    I... mean?

    Seeing the guy blinking his eyes with the expression "Geum Shi-joomun", I thought that if I listened more and listened more, I would be the only one hurt.

    You''d think I''m just catching a living person.

    As for Serpens with a face like that, the fight that I have no choice but to lose is actually a foul with that face.

    Yeah, yeah. I must have misunderstood, well. I''m sorry.

    "If you regret it, I will forgive you."

    The boy replied with a gentle and generous smile.

    Serpense must have known that it wasn''t an attitude of reflection. In other words, his words were nothing more than words he put on to make fun of me.

    I really hate it, so I want to pinch that soft cheek slap.

    "So what were you talking about earlier?"

    As I was grinding my teeth while looking at Serpens, Creato asked me a question.

    Eugez here is also handsome.

    But, it seems like you''ve only been watching Serpence ever since. The other dwarves looked at them equally."

    "Oh, you mean that?"

    Some may think that it is a difference in taste, but if you put their beauty in front of them, taste will not matter.

    So it won''t be a difference in taste.

    When I was young, I saw an angel.

    Are you a real angel?!

    Yeah, it was only from the back... She was so beautiful. I can''t forget that figure with her pure white wings draped in dazzling brilliance, even after hundreds of years.

    None.

    Creato looked faintly into the air and spoke of her memories.

    I''ve imagined it countless times. The front of that angel. The back is so beautiful, but what a beautiful face...!

    Indeed, it is an idea of a race that is crazy about beauty. I saw an angel, and the only thing I''m curious about is the face.

    "Then I met him. Someone who has more angelic beauty than the angelic face I imagined! Who can understand this emotion?

    peel!

    At Creato''s exasperated cry, Serpens looked at me. Now it''s like asking if you''re feeling a little cooler.

    It seems very disappointing

 CH 266

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 266

    50. Visit the Duke''s Horse Tower (1)

    I got on the train early in the morning and recalled the drinking party that happened last night.

    Serpens expressed his refusal to do so, but when he flirted with him by saying that it was to increase the morale of Creato, who would make our sword, he reluctantly fell over.

    The drink that Creato prepared was amazing.

    But what''s better than that

    It was Leato''s culinary skills.

    ''The snacks were very artistic! Kya~, is this what beautiful taste is all about?''

    It was truly inspiring.

    In a cartoon I watched as a child, it was understandable that people who ate the main character''s dish sang the blues in tears.

    Even Serpens, who was reluctant to open up the alcohol table that suddenly opened, had his face widened, so he was done.

    And the dwarves who give generously, Creato

    Sun. Strictly speaking, he got up early in the morning and packed a lunch box for two days after chasing Serpens, who used to eat his own dishes.

    The taste kept lingering, and I already wanted to eat lunch.

    "Did you just have breakfast?"

    Yes? What did I do?

    I glanced at the inner pocket with the subspace pocket with an expression of wanting to eat my lunch right now.

    Like a quick-witted kid.

    I glared at Serpens full of dissatisfaction. He''s just like me

    It was just a light snort.

    You must have liked the lunch box you got from selling me.

    "What do you say when you eat the serpents as well?"

    "If you want to pout your mouth, can you pout the sword you put next to me?"

    The guy who popped out for a moment went into his mouth.

    Serpens gently put the sword borrowed from Creato under his feet.

    But you were too harsh last night.

    What else am I?

    Together with that dwarf craftsman, the two of us are so . uh... , you made it embarrassing.

    Serpense''s face brightened with excitement, whether he felt embarrassed just thinking about it.

    However, there are many things that are embarrassing and embarrassing.

    If anyone hears it, they''ll think I gave him a plane ride in front of Creato.

    Of course, I can''t even do that.

    He can''t thank me a hundred times for my weakness.

    Sir, it''s a little bit... depending on what you just said...

    ''.

    Serpens tilted his head at Winston''s sudden interruption.

    You don''t know how wrong what you said is wrong.

    Can not help it. I have no choice but to step forward and correct Serpense''s words.

    By the way. I] is a Serpen

    Did you treat her like a baby or a cat? There was nothing wrong with that!

    "It''s not that kind of problem No, that''s another problem, but "

    Winston grabbed his head as if in pain.

    Am I missing something?

    Perhaps Eugez looked at her, thinking that he might know. But she also shook her head with an expression that she did not understand English.

    Seeing that, Winston was to his left. So, on the door in the hallway

    hit the horse

    ''Are you weird?''

    Maybe it''s because I''m less drunk, so my mind goes back and forth.

    So I wish I could have received divine power care from Serpens like me. It happens because he overconfidence in his liver function and builds self-esteem.

    Winston Redford, who is thirty-two years old. It''s time to take care of your health.

    Although he is still young and bubbly, he is also at a good age to get hooked while blindly believing in it.

    My older sister said that the age at which youth solves everything is up to the age of 20.

    ''Even though I have just turned 30, what I feel is different or something... .''

    I cast a pitiful look at Winston for three seconds, and I turned my attention away from him so he could rest in peace.

    Anyway, last night I was just stating the facts as they are. But Serpens was ashamed of himself.

    "Isn''t the truth of what you said the only thing that I like to eat sweets?"

    Isn''t it my fault that Mr. Creato said, ''You like sweets! Sweet things on the face as well as the taste are the angels themselves!''

    "But you said that, and you were right, right?"

    Where was it that I was the only one? Why are you only telling me what Eugess agreed?

    Serpens glanced at Eugenes.

    Eugene, who received the gaze, pretended to be looking out the window for nothing, and Serpense''s poem

    neglected the line.

    Seeing that, Serpens sighed.

    Anyway, there is no scientific evidence that angels like sweets. Before that, I am not an angel.

    "There were even official Dwarves, a race of beauty, are you still denying your beauty?"

    "Well, that''s that doesn''t mean that the real race is changing ."

    Perhaps he could not find any logical reason to refute it, so he finally raised the white flag.

    Look at that form of answering with no confidence!

    I opened my mouth to deliver the final blow to Serpens.

    But don''t you know the word baby angel? Children like sweets, so of course baby angels like sweets. Also, baby fences like sweets very much. Baby Fence Ecole Loves sweets. That is, Baby Angel Ecole Baby Fence! How about my miracle syllogism!

    It must be a bizarre syllogism.

    Huh? Is this the guy who knows how to play with horses?

    Serpens took a deep breath as he touched his forehead as if in pain.

    "Shion, the formula seems a bit strange to me, isn''t it?"

    Yujis, who had been clumsy, slowly raised his hand and objected to my formula.

    If she, who can be said to be on my side in this case, questioned it, it really means that there is a problem with my logic.

    It''s unbelievable.

    "Yes? Where are you talking about?"

    There is the same value of ''baby'' on both sides.

    Ahh! You have to share it to get organized!

    If you divide both sides by the baby, you get ''Angel = Fence.

    ''00 Pence, not just a form of pence, is no longer a synonym for Serpence. just a fence

    An idea that flashes in an instant is in my mind

    passed through the stream.

    "Wait! Then, what if we could replace the Serpence fence with an angel?"

    If you''re going to keep saying such nonsense, don''t you think it''s better to keep your mouth shut?

    "Isn''t it?"

    But shut up.

    No one will notice, Serpense immediately gave me the command to hide.

    Last night, I just wanted you to take notice, so I just knew that I must have gotten drunk.

    Ignoring it, it seems that complaints have piled up.

    ''I wish I could return to the peacock''s house soon... .''

    no. When I return to the peacock''s house, I have to train like crazy. Serpence won''t look after me anymore and will roll me over.

    Also, if he sticks to one thing, he has a tendency to become quite aggressive.

    I''m obsessed with the meatball tomato risotto I ate for the first time, so I still like meatball dishes the most.

    The holy water in my subspace pocket is polluted

    When it was done, it was like putting off all the work and stamping the number.

    ''If I go back to the duke''s house, I''m sure that I will be able to do my job in the morning and train myself all afternoon !''

    If so, I think it would be better now to keep your mouth shut and sit quietly.

    It is right to enjoy the present moment, which is not bothersome or difficult even if it is frustrating. Thinking about it that way made me feel lighter.

    ''I''m glad I couldn''t find a special room... .''

    I sighed in relief and leaned back on the backrest.

    Even if the ticket we got is for a first class bed, there is very little space to move around. You can''t even do bare body squats here.

    If this had been a spacious private room, I would have already been rolling.

    ''The day will come when you will feel gratitude for living and living in a cramped space!''

    * * *

    There was a time when I was admiring '' .''

    Until now, only bitter laughter

    comes out

    I inadvertently rubbed my stomach with my hands. The bulging belly fat had disappeared everywhere.

    However, the painful muscle pain reminded me that there was fat in this place.

    On the subject of Serpence, who took the lead in wasting divine power more than anyone else. It is the result of treatment, saying that if you overuse your divine power, your natural recovery will decrease.

    It has been restored only to the extent that there are no problems in daily life.

    ''The inside of the train was a limited space, but

    I should have realized sooner that time was not limited!''

    I forgot that the first-class cabin was a cramped space where you couldn''t even squat, but the hallways aren''t.

    In addition.

    I overlooked that sit-ups could be done in bed, and I couldn''t even imagine that Winston would carry dumbbells in Agon''s pocket.

    It was a very terrible time to imprint the truth that strength training also becomes aerobic exercise if the number of repetitions is increased.

    In addition, the food was thoroughly managed by Winston, and even the pleasure of eating was cut in half.

    ''Sometimes, when I got off the train and got a dorm, I really .''

    It just happened yesterday.

    It was yesterday evening, not today, that we arrived at the Verita estate of Prune Kingdom where the tower is located.

    As soon as Serpens arrived at the inn, he rented a backyard and entered the swordsmanship map.

    The map of this guy, which started at the end of the evening, when the sky darkens,

    It continued until the moon came up.

    When I think of the harsh training, I am tired and my body is trembling.

    Now I really won''t steam again.

    Are you still cold wearing that?

    With Serpence''s voice, something slid over his shoulder. It was the robe he was wearing.

    Serpens with brown-dyed hair and thick black horn-rimmed glasses, I feel sorry for trembling.

    All eyes were looking at him.

    I''m already dressed in brushed underwear, thick travel clothes, a coat, and a cloak over it.

    There was no sudden rise in body temperature when a robe, which was not very thick, was placed on top of it.

    Still, thank you so much... .

    '' Creeper horns!''

    What made me tremble was not the bitter cold of Prune Kingdom, but Serpens right in front of me.

    It''s not about giving me a bottle or giving me medicine.

    what is it

    not thank you at all

    "Why are you staring at me like that?"

    The fats I''ve accumulated were stockpiled for survival at this moment. In other words, the reason I''m getting cold right now is because all three , Percent made me go on a diet!

    Don''t make nonsense.

    It''s a pseudonym I''ve called several times, but he stared at me with eyes that I still haven''t gotten used to.

    Unlike serpents like silverfish, I don''t care about little things like that.

    It''s a big man who doesn''t I decided to generously pass on the guy''s fault.

    No! It''s scientifically proven that fat protects us from the cold!

    Serpens stared at me with a look that didn''t bother me to answer. Do I have to match the beat of this nonsense, the face feeling skeptical?

    If we were to dig deeper into his thoughts and make an analogy, ''I worked hard for your health, but the treatment you get back is only this.

    Are you going?!'' he was lamenting.

    "Then you took out a blanket and put it on?"

    The boy pouted his mouth and smirked.

    If it was really cold, I would have done what he said, but it wasn''t really that cold.

    ''It wasn''t that I was trembling because it was cold in the first place.

    The kingdom of Prune is a cold and chilly country all year round, but the coldest period has already passed.

    It is now midwinter in terms of empire.

    level of temperature. I don''t feel like the clothes I''m wearing right now aren''t enough.

    ''Even if you catch a cold anyway, Serpence will treat you.''

    Moderate chilliness makes the mood clear again.

    I took a deep breath, filled my lungs with cold air, and exhaled the warm breath inside my body. Breath as white as the pure white snow on the roof disturbed my eyes.

    The breath cleared, and a huge tower came into view.

    Our destination, the ''Matoap Tower,'' is also called the Tower of Knowledge accumulated by wizards.

 CH 267

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 267

    50. Visit the Duke''s Horse Tower (2)

    Where I lived, there were many buildings taller than the tower.

    As a person who has lived in modern times, it was not great enough, but by the standards of the Canaan continent, it was far too high.

    The gray-white tower soaring high in the sky is the pride of wizards and a symbol of arrogance.

    Due to the small buildings surrounding it, the horse tower seen from a distance looked much higher than its actual height.

    ''That must be the annex of the tower that Solertia was talking about.''

    Was it because I heard Solertia saying that she couldn''t climb the tower due to her poor mana sensitivity?

    The tower, which stood tall among the waters, which was only two stories tall at most, resembled the arrogance of a giant who looked down on small people rather than being lofty.

    It''s ironic that an anima with superior abilities in such a subject was rejected.

    all.

    Anima said something like he was ignoring other wizards.

    It was only because she was young and did not know the difference between herself and others.

    I can''t accept the difference. It is the rain that keeps her from growing by ostracizing her.

    You don''t look good.

    Unknowingly, I looked at the tower and frowned.

    Anytime you''re sarcastic, Serpens

    He spoke as if he was concerned.

    It just doesn''t look good. Your tower is... uh, how many floors is that? One, two, three .

    It''s on the 61st floor.

    As I stopped walking and raised my fingers to count one floor at a time, Serpens came up with the answer. It is truly a moving encyclopedia.

    Then, in his heart, he gave him a new nickname called Prefence.

    "It doesn''t look very good that the tower they live in has 61 floors, and the surrounding buildings are only two stories tall.

    yes.

    It''s just as Zion said. In this area, they say that if you raise a building more than three stories high, you will be subject to sanctions.

    Eugene explained with a bitter smile.

    Somehow, it''s full of buildings that are too low, so they do everything.

    I know it wasn''t like this from the beginning. However, after the rule was created, it was not changed and remained as an evil.

    As if they had been oppressing those who were inferior to them in order to establish their authority.

    heard

    Didn''t anyone try to fix it?

    Well...? I''ve heard a few times that the rule is being withdrawn, but I guess it''s a failure because it''s still like this?

    Eugene''s ears drooped down.

    I don''t know when the tower was built, but it looks like it''s completely stagnant.

    Well...there''s nothing to change just because the society is talking like this here, so let''s get into it!

    So is it.

    In order to reverse the gloomy atmosphere, he purposely spoke vigorously and resumed the step he had paused for a while.

    Eugene, who recognized my heart, answered with a bitter smile.

    Walk carefully.

    Serpence said worriedly, probably because I was nervous as I walked with my arms and legs waving widely.

    I''m not a child of one or two years old, and I worry about everything.

    "I have three people to hold me if I fall, how about you?"

    At my carefree reply, Serpens took a deep breath.

    It''s not an icy road, it''s not like you have to fall down on a snowy road to get that kind of reaction. Totally overprotective.

    "Things like that keep putting you in danger."

    He pursed his lips and increased his pace.

    With every step he took, he heard a popping sound. The appearance of a little child wearing squeaky shoes

    This came to mind, and I laughed out loud.

    "Are you laughing now?"

    Come on! Now I have to enter the tower, is it okay if I keep making that face?

    As if when Serpens had a prickly expression on his face, he had a soft smile on his face.

    Such a sudden change of expression is now familiar.

    "How did you get here?"

    As I went to the entrance of the tower, I heard a man''s voice from somewhere very unmotivated.

    I looked around and looked around, but I couldn''t see anyone.

    "Shion, you can hear it from this side."

    Eugenes pointed to the side of the tightly closed door.

    There was something like a speaker with holes in it. It seems he spoke to us through that.

    ''I didn''t even ring the doorbell and the intercom was immediately connected, what kind of cutting-edge technology is this? detection sensor No, is there some sort of detection magic installed?''

    In my heart, the world I lived in and this place

    I was a teacher and had a science flair, but I was a little bit discouraged.

    I''m looking for a man named Edna Benevolen.

    "What about your promise?"

    When Serpens spoke on our behalf into the speaker, the answer came right back.

    You can''t find sincerity in words, even if you wash your eyes. Not suitable for service jobs.

    It is presumed that he is a wizard standing on the watch rather than someone hired by the tower.

    "It didn''t work out, but Pruito-san.

    I came here at the request of you.

    First, I''ll tell you the words.

    Perhaps the connection was broken, and after those words, there was no noise from the speaker.

    And maybe ten minutes have passed?

    The heavy iron door that was doubtful whether it could be opened with the weak arms of the wizard slid open. When I asked why it looked heavy, it must have been an automatic door.

    I''ve seen automatic doors countless times, but I didn''t think I''d ever see them in this world.

    abandoned

    "Are you very excited?"

    The woman who appeared through the door smiled softly afterward.

    As Anima said, he is a gentle-looking person with dark brown hair and purple eyes.

    I''m sorry for coming out late. I got the call a month ago and it said that I was coming out right away, but it took a while.

    You seem to have come out too quickly for living in such a tall tower, don''t you?

    "The tower has an automatic elevator.

    yo. This.

    If I wasn''t misunderstood, I was saying that elevators exist.

    If you think about it, it''s normal.

    Magic is the science that pursues convenience. There is no way those who learn such magic can use the stairs.

    Before that, it was impossible for wizards, a chronic lack of exercise, to climb up and down the 61-story high-rise tower.

    "I was going to talk outside , would you like me to take a look?"

    As Anima said. Edna was really sweet, even kind.

    There was no reason to decline her offer, so I nodded enthusiastically.

    Edna chuckled at my reaction and stepped back. It means to come inside.

    As we entered the building, the door closed automatically just as it did when it opened.

    "Do we really need to check whether we are the people who have been asked by Mr. Pruito?"

    You], I got a call from Anima in advance. I have guests coming to visit me.

    it might be Each person''s hair color is different, but other than that, it''s the same as it was written on the letter, so it was easy to recognize.

    Edna smiled kindly and answered Serpense''s question.

    You seem like a really nice person.

    Euges groaned and said to me. There was a lot of anticipation in her voice.

    In fact, me and Serpens had planned to visit Edna''s home nursery first, take care of it, and then meet her.

    But I changed my plan and went far to the tower

    I came here because Eugese insisted on doing so.

    ''You want to scout Edna?''

    It was a proposal from the person in charge of the Illuminati who scouted even the head and aides.

    For that reason, Gudy decided to check her skills and character while solving the orphanage work with Edna.

    ''Let''s say it''s a test... .''

    He did not explain to Eugene and Winston how the Anima had been in the tower.

    It was the pain of Anima, and it was also a part of the memories built up between Anima and Edna.

    Serpense somehow misunderstood and had no choice but to explain it in detail, but it is not something I can talk about casually.

    Despite not hearing that, Eugenes half-concluded that Edna was a good person.

    Although Eugenes met the anima only a few times, just those few encounters show how much the anima trusts, relies on, and loves Edna.

    because it was

    Eugene''s theory was that there is no such thing as a bad person who comforts someone''s heart just by thinking about it.

    ''And that''s the answer.''

    Edna''s character has already been proven through [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Also, she was not as genius as the Anima, but Jimin was a capable person who would have been adopted as a companion of the Holy Sword without the Anima.

    So rather than testing Edna this time, we''re fighting the demons for continental peace.

    It was more like a show to show that everything is.

    ''Otherwise, the reason that there is no guarantee that the devil will leave Edna alone, just because the orphanage business is resolved, also played a part.

    However, it is virtually impossible to ask her to stay confined to the Demon Tower until the buds of the evil victors are plucked out of the continent.

    Not only that, but because he might become a hostage, it was too precious to corrupt his abilities.

    ''Of course, check Edna''s opinion.

    yea but... .''

    If possible, I wish she would be with us.

    In any case, Eugenes actively advocated for Edna for several reasons.

    Of course I welcomed it, and Winston responded that he would abide by our decision. Even Serpens, who is very shy, agreed with Eugene''s opinion.

    ''Is it because of what I said about Edna last time?''

    Whatever the reason, it was the first time he had lowered his vigilance before even meeting someone, so I was happy inside.

    In fact, I was relieved to see Edna as a very kind and nice person.

    This is the automatic elevator I was talking about earlier.

    She, who was one step ahead of us, stopped and looked back at us and said,

    There was nothing in the direction she was pointing.

    There was only a circular line drawn in a conspicuous color on the floor, and a blue gem was embedded in the core.

    The circle drawn on the hatred of the building

    It wasn''t the elevator I was used to seeing.

    With some uncertainty, I looked up. The ceiling is open all the way to the top of the building like a donut.

    Exactly the size of the circle in front of us.

    ... Isn''t this supposed to be? Elevators?''

    He looked at Edna with bewilderment. She said that from now on, something strange would appear, and with a happy smile, she got up on the disc and stepped on the blue jewel with her foot.

    A magic circle in a circle with a booming sound

    this was painted And the round disk that pretended to be the floor floated up about 1cm.

    Now get up here...

    Kick.

    Edna''s words were cut off at the sound of ridicule from somewhere.

    Edna''s expression, who had always had a friendly smile on her face, suddenly turned cold.

    As I followed her gaze, I could see a male wizard who appeared to be in his 40s and half sitting on the table with his feet up.

    "Why are you laughing?"

    It''s not enough to take care of the kid, and now the way he looks after the people he sent is so... Is it because he''s a heavenly maid?

    Nothing funny, but the man giggled to himself.

    The eyebrows were frowned upon.

    ''Come to think of it . Anima was treated like that, so there''s no way Edna got along well with the other wizards, right?''

    Anima even got the title of Granddaughter of Ma Thapju, Edna a little bit

    He was from an orphan.

    Since she took the side of the anima like that, there is no way that the gaze on her will be sad.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], she only appeared to unravel the story of Anima. It was not mentioned how she was treated.

    It seems that he was suddenly hit in the back of the head.

    Buried in loneliness, I had no choice but to run to one person. And I was just saddened by the story of a girl who lost her sense of humor and burned with a burning desire for revenge.

    Her savior, Edna, who was not even mentioned by name, had no idea what kind of life he had.

    Mouth is bitter and astringent. It was as if a heavy stone was placed on my heart.

    I thought I was conscious that this place was real.

    Could it be that my subconscious still regards this place as the world in the novel?

    Guilt flooded in, perhaps because I thought that the unreadable part did not exist.

    I can raise my head in regret.

    What about a maid? A maid is also a human being. How dare you make fun of a person for the subject of a baby bug that can only be attached to the tower if she works as a gatekeeper? is not it?

    Yes?

    I lifted my head, which had been lowered without realizing it, at the terrific rhetoric.

 CH 268

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 268

    50. Visit the Duke''s Horse Tower (3)

    perplexed and confused

    Obviously, I said that Anima is a kind and gentle person. In [Master of the Holy Sword] that I read, he appeared as such a person.

    ''What did Edna just say ?''

    But you don''t have to go back to your memory to confirm it.

    "Bar, what did you just say?!"

    There was someone who had the same curiosity as me.

    How the heck can you forget what you just heard? You didn''t put in any effort, so you thought you were that good, but you were just stupid? Did I do it . Oh my God, I''m so sorry!"

    Edna''s remarks without hesitation were real-time.

    She pretended to wipe away the tears that didn''t even come out with a clearly sarcastic look

    all.

    dry it... one?''

    It was the male mage who started to argue first. Edna just responded back to back.

    If she had been quietly holding on or being pushed back, I would have stepped in and stopped her, but now the situation is a bit ambiguous.

    Contrary to the laid-back Edna, the male wizard''s face seemed to be busy with red and green.

    If it were dried up now, only that male wizard would be inferior.

    I cling to the granddaughter of the master ma''am,

    Do you think that the skills you developed with the support you received are purely yours?"

    Because my skills are supported, I received support from Mato. Unlike some other bugs that did not receive any benefits from Mato because of my lack of skills, only the backbone of my family was omitted.

    no more

    Let''s just listen, it''s too bad for our emotional education.

    ''Let''s close the ears of Serpens!''

    I covered his ears, his good hearing is useless

    Ji.

    With my eyes, I gave the operation order to Eugenes, and turned the Serpense, who had the ability to read the book, back and forth.

    The quick-witted Yujis did before on the stairs leading to a basement. He blocked Serpens'' ears by mobilizing his spirit power.

    It is perfect. Now, I think I''ll just have to relax and enjoy watching the fight.

    What''s wrong with this orphan bastard?!

    I''ll have to cancel. I can''t seem to enjoy it

    all. It''s a pad lip, so it''s overdone.

    The moment I was about to open my mouth to dry out.

    Apologize to your parents right now!

    Kick , the orphaned subject who was abandoned by his parents E. Do you think you can''t stand swearing at your parents?

    Apologize to Mr. Budren''s parents, not my parents!

    A snarky insect... "No," said Edna in anger at Budren''s words.

    In response to Edna''s words of defending her parents on her behalf, Budren

    He put on a puzzled look.

    "While growing up with such support from my parents, I reflected on my skills that were inferior to those of a much younger orphan! Blaming myself for being lazy, negligent, and stupid! I have to apologize for making you into garbage! That''s the way you became a child, right?"

    He was a kind and gentle person.

    These days, the kind and gentle people pretend to be concerned and blow up the flame-like pad lip. It''s not so warm, it''s so hot that it feels like it''s going to burn.

    No, the filthy mage was burnt and sizzling.

    Like this X...!

    The disobedient wizard refused Edna''s invitation, and slandered his mouth.

    Edna also responded with a double humour.

    It was difficult to filter, so there was a lot of swearing at the level that it would be better to read the whole sentence.

    I''m glad I blocked Serpence''s ears in advance.

    For a child without discernment to hear

    Not desirable.

    At first, Eugene, who only covered Serpence''s ears, has now spread the soundproofing screen to protect his own ears.

    Jimin invited me to come inside too, but I declined.

    Someone has to watch Edna''s struggle. I never watch fights.

    A long battle ensued, and the winner was decided by a wizard named Bud Meng, who could not overcome his rivalry, and burst into tears.

    ''As the saying goes, ''The filial piety will cry.

    Then shall we go up?

    Edna looked at us and said in a cheerful voice.

    The sweet brown hair that Anima had praised brushed Edna''s shoulder and swayed lightly.

    Recognizing that the situation was over, Eugese sent his spirit friend back to his hometown.

    Come up this way.

    With what spirit did you ride on the disc?

    I do not know.

    At Edna''s instructions, half-enchanted, we climbed onto the disc that looked like there was no such thing as a safety device.

    Edna said ''the 48th floor'' and took her foot off the blue jewel that looked like a magic stone the disc slowly floated upward with a hum.

    The original plate floated stably without shaking, but in that sense, the gyro drop is also stable when it goes up.

    I grabbed Eusis, who could summon the wind spirit to make him float.

    I''m sorry. I didn''t know Mr. Budren would come out like this in front of the guests.

    After the original went up a bit, Edna apologized to us with an embarrassed look.

    My opinion is a little different from hers.

    The filthy wizard was in front of the guests, so Edna thought he would refrain from talking, so it was obvious that he had an argument].

    "You and that person you don''t seem to get along very well?"

    Not just Mr. Budren, but everyone.

    "Do you have any corrections?"

    Ed Naga smiled bitterly at Eugene''s cautious question.

    I don''t really want to talk about that.

    With an expression that anyone could see a story, Edna cut it off and refused to ask any more questions.

    Eugenes was not the type of person to forcefully ask what he didn''t want to say, so he nodded saying he understood.

    Is Anima doing well?

    I thought there would be silence, Ed

    I immediately threw up a new topic. It must be a question I''ve been wanting to ask since the day we met.

    I looked back on the memories of meeting the anima.

    At first glance, it looks like he''s just sitting there blankly all the time:

    Thinking about always sitting between Liena and Puror, or voluntarily hiding behind them, a trusting relationship seemed to have been established.

    Just like what I read in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    She seems to get along well with her co-workers. The group also respects her.

    Really? I''m glad . I''m a sweet and kind child, but I was a little worried because I got a lot of misunderstandings.

    Edna was relieved to hear my answer.

    And about the anima, kind, gentle, caring, blah blah blah blah blah. As someone who had read [Master of the Holy Sword], I poured out compliments that I couldn''t agree with.

    Flame-like pad lip and harsh profanity

    It was unbelievable that he was the person who spit it out, and he was so kind.

    The disc, which had been rising with a hum, came to a smooth stop.

    It seems that we have reached our destination, the 48th floor.

    For safety''s sake, rather than slowing down, you should have built a wall to keep people from falling.

    ''After all, they are wizards, so it''s okay to stumble, isn''t it?''

    You can''t do this unless it''s for inviting outsiders you don''t like and pushing your back.

    Inwardly, he came down from the plate, cursing the behavior of the wizards who had no consideration for their guests.

    Whether it was equipped with a weight recognition function, the empty disc that no one had loaded slowly descended.

    What about going down? do you jump

    If you enchant this magical energy, you can bring it back.

    Edna explained as if she had noticed my thoughts. When she looked in the direction she was pointing, a transparent magic stone caught her eye.

    In the middle of the disk we rode on earlier,

    Unlike the magic stone that was overflowing with energy, it was empty inside.

    There seems to be no other way for someone without magical power to get out of here than by jumping.

    Isn''t it a bit unkind? Because wizards are originally from a tribe that lives in their own good taste... Especially the magicians belonging to the tower are even worse, so most of them have to express their superiority even by demeaning others.

    Edna said with a frown, as if she didn''t like it.

    I am also a magician belonging to the tower.

    I wonder if I can say something like that.

    Oh, is it a bit strange for me to say something like that to Mr. Budren?

    I was curious about something else, but let''s just put it that way.

    Because it definitely felt weird.

    I''m not ignoring people who don''t have skills. I pull people ahead of me and knock them down. I hate people who try to trample on people who have been hurt like that and put them under their feet.

    Being intolerant is being ignored by people who thought you were less than you. That''s all I did.

    It''s a bit radical, but it seems that Edna''s way of protecting the anima and herself.

    Jimin''s eyebrows frowned bitterly, and only his purple eyes were shining proudly.

    It would have been better if the other wizards in the tower were even half innocent of that child...

    Edna sighed and said.

    The child she was talking about would undoubtedly refer to an anima.

    If you look at it that way, even Anima is talking nonsense. That must have been a weakened version of Edna.

    After all, it seems that children are mirrors that reflect adults.

    "Ah, if you ever have an argument with wizards, try touching your pride. They have a strong sense of pride, so they rarely admit that they are lacking. I lose it. Reason and rice field

    A wizard who has lost Lee is nothing more than a scarecrow.

    Suddenly, I got a tip to win a fight with a wizard.

    I don''t know what to answer. I just smiled and nodded, replying I''ll take note, and Serpens looked at me.

    The absence of force means not to flirt in front of the wizard, and if there is a conflict, shut up quietly and save your life.

    ''What did I say!''

    Edna took us to his lab.

    He guided me and explained the various facilities of the tower.

    To be honest, there was nothing as great as Edna''s swear words.

    In the first place, the reason I enthusiastically agreed to see the tower was to see the elevators of this world in person.

    And the ultimate goal was to preach the convenience to Serpens and insist on installing one in the duke''s house.

    However, seeing the elevator in person was disappointing. There is no safety device, and if there is no horsepower, the elevator can be operated.

    can''t even

    If you''re going to ride something like this, it''s better to just ride the Serpence.

    But why did you come to see me?

    Edna arrived at the lab, offered us a seat, and asked a question as we got into the car.

    It is unacceptable to have sweets in your car.

    I secretly took out the ''Chocolate Earl Gray Mosaic Cookies from my subspace pocket and placed it on a spot that was slightly skewed towards Serpence from the center of the table.

    While Edna was pouring hot water into the cup to heat it up, Serpens quickly grabbed the cookie and ate it.

    That''s actually:

    Serpens'' mouth was busy mushing cookies, so I, his aide, explained the sequence.

    I''m not saying that there is a vague danger that I told Anima, but 1, the story about an orphanage was taken.

    It was set as additional information received from the Illuminati members who met around the Kingdom of Prune.

    ''It''s not like joining the Illuminati.

    It''s hard to tell, but what... . That''s when we say we''ve investigated.''

    Or did you say that you used the Lux Mea ARS chance as a messenger of the gods privilege?

    What matters now is not the source of information. The question is whether or not to accept new members for the Illuminati.

    We have come to a situation where we have to confirm Edna''s personality, not in a formal way, but in reality.

 CH 269

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 269

    50. Visit the Duke''s Horse Tower (4)

    When I finished my explanation, Edna closed her eyes tightly and let out a deep breath.

    She was holding back the anger that seemed to pour out at any moment.

    Thank you, it''s something I should have paid more attention to...

    There must have been a lot of things that he wanted to ask, but Edna politely greeted him first.

    She tried to give her words of consolation, but suddenly a small bell rang.

    The timer D that Edna set after adding the tea leaves.

    Perhaps it was because of the fact that the story was conveyed by condensing only the important content, and the story ended while the tea was brewing.

    I''ll just do it. You two can talk.

    Eugenes stopped Edna from getting up. Then, he opened the lid of the teapot, pulled out the tea net, and discarded the water in the teacup.

    Edna''s gaze was aimed at Eugenes, and Serpens put the cookie into his mouth again.

    I don''t know why you are planning an espionage operation by yourself. Then I would be even more embarrassed.

    Uh... Anyway, don''t blame yourself too much. It''s not Edna''s fault, is it?

    But I must have been to the orphanage just last month. Still, I didn''t know that the director had such a plan...

    You''ve known each other longer than the first time I met you

    I wondered what would happen if I took the side of Director Eul, but fortunately, Edna obeyed.

    Was the director always on the cheap side?

    "Originally, evil spirits, no, demon worshipers do a lot of bad things that others don''t know about, don''t they? They''re perfectly good at that, but if you can tell after seeing them a few times, why would there be a heretic inquisitor in the world?"

    "It would be great if you could tell what kind of person a person is just by looking at their outward appearance."

    Edna took the teacup that Euges gave her and said lamentably. I didn''t forget to express my gratitude to Eugene.

    Holding the teacup with both hands, Edna sighed, pretending to blow a breath to cool the hot tea.

    "So, when are the demon worshipers going to summon demons?"

    Actually, I don''t know for sure. It could be this month, it could be next month... The Illuminati haven''t been able to investigate until then.

    Still, make me a vessel for the devil

    When you say you want to do it, you mean that there is no problem tomorrow, right?"

    Yeah, well. So that society could have come here first.

    If it was really a time battle, there was no time to stop by the tower.

    Edna understood the meaning of my words and nodded with a look of relief.

    Then what can I do to help? Do you need information about the nursery and the director? Or do you need my strength?

    ''''Both.''''

    Okay. I''ll be back in my room for a while, so would you mind waiting for me with a cup of tea?

    "It doesn''t matter did you suddenly think of something urgent?"

    Yes, I have to pack.

    ''''Yes?

    Didn''t I just say that I had plenty of time, and Edna nodded that she knew too? I''m sure it was?

    I don''t know why the decision was suddenly made to pack up right away.

    We need to save the children as soon as possible. I don''t want to keep them within the sphere of demon worshipers for long.

    Edna said so and went out.

    The teacup in front of her seat was still steaming. Will she come back before the car cools down?

    It''s a little bit... he''s very rough, but I think he''s a good person.

    Looking in the direction where Edna disappeared, Yu-Jis said with a soft smile.

    Our Human Resources Officer, Edna

    It seems to have been rated well. I am also the same

    How do you feel about Serpens?

    uh... .

    Uh-huh! Answer my question before cookies.

    Pretending to be troubled, I slapped the back of the guy''s hand as he secretly reached out over the cookie plate.

    On a subject he hadn''t avoided, Serpens looked at me and pursed his lips. If you look at it that way, you must have thought that I would allow you to eat cookies.

    It is enough to just eat confidently in front of others. I don''t know when I''ll be able to fix that guy''s mine.

    It wouldn''t matter if it was publicly known that I liked sweets.

    ''Isn''t it more like a childish person to hide like that?''

    Seen from that perspective, it''s like talking to a (twenty) six-year-old, not a child. It''s just my nightlife.

    Let''s not be too harsh.

    I''ll give it to Edna again later, so stop eating cookies.

    Um, yes.

    Serpens pretended to be a grown-up and took a sip of the tea, washing away the sweetness left in his mouth.

    The sorcerer of the Holy Swords party and the children of the orphanage all seemed to care and care sincerely.

    It''s not just about showing, it''s about being real.

    So, I guess I''m going to hurry up and bring my luggage.

    Whether it was an experiment you were doing or your personal training. Edna must have had a schedule too, but I''m going to put all of that aside.

    The road is to worry about them.

    I nodded and asked Serpens to:

    And I don''t know if it''s hard to say...

    You don''t know?!

    It was not a place to evaluate the level of Edna''s profanity, but it was hard to overlook what Serpens had just said.

    Is my child''s language habit okay as it is?

    Euges did cover his ears, but he said he was a worm or a litter.

    You heard it.

    Didn''t you also use the word cub?

    Are the Demon King and Bugs on the same level?!

    There are dogs too.

    Besides, if you were to pick the worst bastard among them, isn''t it definitely a demon king cub?

    Hey, let''s stop talking about it now...

    Winston began to look at me with a bewildered gaze.

    I''m afraid to even guess what he''s thinking.

    And whether it''s a bug or a litter, doesn''t it mean that you''re weak and need to be protected?

    Used when demeaning someone to be insignificant. It''s an obvious insult.

    To interpret the word bug baby as meaning ''I want to protect you when you are weak.'' Beyond novelty, it came to be terrifying.

    However, there was a corner to explain why he had such a way of thinking, so only the wrong parts were lightly corrected.

    it was decided

    "Then, is your mouth tougher than yours?"

    It can''t even be compared. If Serpens had heard of how badly he had been hurt before..., huh. By now, Serpens must have been completely out of breath?

    ''Worse than Zola?

    In response to Serpence''s question, not only Winston but also Eugenes looked at me with a scornful look.

    If it wasn''t for Edna''s lab, he would be sentenced to ''kneel and raise hands''.

    it was obvious

    Let''s stop talking profanity. Let''s look at people, people!

    Because you seem to be troubled by that curse.

    You should ask him to refrain from being in front of a Serpense as much as possible.

    Is it because of me...?

    Serpens asked, pointing at himself with his index finger. Just looking at that innocent face, I already feel anxiety.

    If you hand Edna over to the Holy Swords party, you''ll have a happy time with Anima. your child''s language

    Should we put her in our party until we end up threatening the habit?

    The power of the wizard will be of great help in the future.

    As if he had noticed my conflict, Serpence spoke like a ghost.

    It''s not that I don''t know that either. It will be of great help if you follow only half of Anima''s performance in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Magic scrolls can only use certain magic. Even if you buy scrolls at random, it is impossible to respond to all situations.

    Where is that? You can''t even control the power, let alone transform it depending on the situation.

    However.

    ''Serpens is Edna''s... , if you learn a horrendous and terrifying swear word... !''

    The voice of Serpens, who used to follow the footsteps I was talking about, kept ringing in my ears, and my eyes went dark.

    Serpens.

    Tell me.

    Edna''s bad words seem funny, and it''s the first word

    Even if it''s strange. You should never follow it. Did you know?

    "How old are you treating me?"

    (Twenty) Six-year-old Aegipence frowned and expressed dissatisfaction.

    How old do you treat me? I''m just looking at Serpence as my age.

    Don''t lie. Look at least 20 years old...

    Serpens stopped talking, sipping the lukewarm tea. There is only one reason why he suddenly enters the foreign mode.

    Preparation is over. Let''s go.''''

    Unsurprisingly, Edna opened the door and came back.

    As if packing her luggage to a minimum, she was carrying a bag the size of which would be full with four or five clothes.

    "Did you leave your luggage at the dorm?"

    Oh right!

    It was only after hearing Edna''s question that the existence of the subspace pocket came to mind later.

    Come to think of it, Serpens had one more subspace pocket that didn''t have an owner yet.

    Duke, give me that!

    When he reached out his palm to Serpence, he placed a subspace pocket on his hand.

    I passed it on to Edna.

    Ah...! This is a subspace pocket, isn''t it?!

    After swiping around the handed object and putting her hand in it, Edna had a surprised expression on her face as if she recognized its identity.

    The way she looked at the subspace pockets changed. It is the expression of wanting to disassemble it immediately.

    Please don''t do that.

    Go back, just in case you don''t know, with the bed...

    A bed?

    Yeah. And clothes... Just put a lot of space in the closet.

    "A bed and a wardrobe ?"

    Edna''s eyes fluttered as if she had heard an unbelievable story.

    Did I say something I couldn''t?

    I''ll tell you the details after I get on the train. Come on, come on! Hurry up!

    I pushed her back out of the lab .

    Perhaps it was because there was no sorting work this time, Edna came back after less than half of the time before.

    Did you bring everything you need? Can I leave out the lab tools here?

    I, somehow, I''m starting to feel like I''m preparing to leave the tower forever...

    Demon worshipers. I mean, dealing with demons is only for a day or two.

    It''s not something you can end up with. You have to be fully prepared."

    There is no lie in my words.

    The continent is wide and there are many demons. A day or two is not enough to clear them all.

    For some reason it seemed like Winston was looking at me like a swindler, but that must have been just my misunderstanding.

    It seems very difficult to read Winston''s expression.

    Is that so...?

    "Yes! Have you ever fought a demon? Have you not?

    It''s best to follow.

    With an uneasy expression on Edna''s face, she swept the unknown grass and jewel crystals into the subspace pocket.

    I''m not kidnapped right now, am I?

    "Who takes the victim''s luggage during kidnapping?"

    Something''s a little strange...

    Don''t worry, Edna-san, if you wish, I''ll send you back to the horse tower in honor of our Duke.

    Why isn''t it your honor?

    The Duke''s honor is more reliable than mine, right?

    As if asking if my words were agreed upon, Edna looked at Serpens.

    Serpens smiled softly at him and nodded his head.

    Yes. I promise you with Shion''s salary.

    However, the words that came out of his mouth were not at all mild.

    No, why is my salary hanging up?!

    You casually risk the honor of others.

    long... . It''s a promise that will surely be kept, didn''t it mean that it doesn''t matter what you stake?

    no .

    Isn''t that right? Are you risking my honor for a promise you won''t keep?

    Serpens had a shocked expression on his face.

    Faced with a sad face that looks like tears are about to fall from my eyes at any moment, I feel like garbage.

    I know that expression is acting. Eugenes noticed, too, Winston

    You''re probably half guessing too.

    Edna I saw for the first time today was not like that.

    Oh, I will protect you! I will protect you!

    I''ll have to convince Edna well so I don''t want to come back to the tower.

 CH 270

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 270

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (1)

    So, what on earth did you plan to bring to bed?

    Edna asked a question as soon as she got on the train.

    He is a very quick-tempered sarim. I knew it from the moment we packed our bags and left.

    "Are you uncomfortable when you suddenly change your bed?"

    Yes?

    I''ll go and get some lodging, but there''s no guarantee that the beds there will be good.

    It''s not an excuse, it''s a sincere statement.

    ''If not, why would I have to bring the bed? It''s not like there''s no bed in the peacock''s mansion

    The Algor estate we want to go to is an area far from tourism. There is no such thing as a luxury inn for nobles.

    Even if it was, it would have been ruined sooner.

    " Shion-san, is that why you carry a bed with you?"

    By the way?

    "Are other people ?"

    As if she couldn''t believe what I was saying, Ed Naga looked at them with swaying eyes.

    Serpens smiled awkwardly as if embarrassed, Euges looked out the window and muttered, and Winston coughed heavily-.

    What is this reaction?

    As if they did not want

    It is a reaction as if they were forced to carry a bed by the military family.

    Let''s just ignore the bed problem. That''s not what''s important right now, is it?

    It is.

    Edna nodded and agreed with me.

    Jimin still had an awkward expression on his face, what would he do?

    Our goal is to defeat the evil and save the children. Not to mention the benefits of carrying a bed.

    ''We also recruited Edna as a member of the team.''

    I still haven''t decided what to say.

    The easiest way is to suggest the demerit of Edna remaining in the tower.

    If the demons say that they can trick the people around them again to lure Edna in.

    Edna will leave this place and join us so they don''t get caught up.

    h] But the method is ".

    ''Isn''t that just garbage?''

    I can''t tell if it''s me who is holding hostages and threatening them.

    I''ll leave this method as a last resort, and try other means.

    "To get to the point . It seems that you have a special attachment to the nursery school when you see them regularly visiting the orphanage. Do you believe that the director is a demon?"

    "Are you asking that now?"

    You went to pack your things without leaking water.

    As if Jeonggok was stabbed, Edna had a shy expression on her face without saying a word.

    The image of myself smiling triumphantly reflected in the car window I looked at unintentionally. To be honest, I looked unlucky.

    It was entirely due to Zion''s face. maybe

    "First of all, I thought I could trust the anima if it was enough to trust me and send it to me."

    Because she believed in the anima, it meant that she believed us too.

    that she won''t harm herself. and she sleeps

    that they wish for God''s safety more than anyone else.

    Edna knows.

    However, the precondition that the Anima believed us and sent it to Edna was just wrong.

    It hurts me to say how suspicious she was of the Illuminati. They don''t seem to trust us that much.

    It''s just that things don''t work out. ''Cause we''re better than the devil

    It was just that.

    "Priority is another reason.

    are you?"

    As always, Eugene raised his hand and asked a question.

    Edna glanced at Eugene''s hand, as if wondering why he was raising his hand.

    Recently, the director has changed.

    Edna''s answer was simple and clear. All so absurd.

    Naturally, a question appeared on Eugene''s face, and she opened her mouth again and asked another question.

    "If recently, when are you talking about?"

    It''s the next month after Anima left, so it''s been about a year...

    Perhaps looking back on her memories, Edna answered by tilting her head slightly and placing her hand under her chin.

    The standard for counting dates is somewhat strange.

    "Why did the director suddenly change?"

    Eloween Orphanage is a private orphanage that is not affiliated with a denomination or state. However, the upper level that established the nursery school was in trouble with financial problems.... Another upper level took over, and the

    We went from the township to the orphanage together."

    Elowin is probably the name of the nursery school, and it seems that the existing ledger was cut off as the investor changed.

    But does that change even the head teacher?

    Edna laughed bitterly at Eugene''s naive question.

    "The new sponsor wanted to be an investor, not a sponsor."

    You tried to use the nursery to make a profit.

    That''s right. A circle with a different ideology

    The blind man bumped into them several times, and in the end the director was kicked out.

    Edna sighed deeply.

    Seeing that, Euges couldn''t open his mouth in silence.

    "Right now, instead of sending their children for adoption to parents who can take care of them, it seems like they are selling them to someone who gives them more money. Besides, they are giving away huge debts to children who are gifted in a particular field and stressing their education. Even that makes sense. It''s education, but in reality, all they do is miscellaneous chores "

    Who could she have said this to?

    As if there were not one or two complaints accumulated over the years, all kinds of complaints poured out of Edna''s mouth like an explosion.

    When I heard the story, they said that it is an opportunity for children to earn money and learn skills, and only those who want cheap labor are paid an introduction fee from the teacher to connect them. It seems that the author, Teacher, gives children only the level of instruction necessary for chores, and makes them work only to die.

    Edna went to ask, and she

    It is said that although it was clearly taught, it was the child''s fault that he did not learn properly.

    ''Then, did you kick her out saying no, no outsiders?''

    Edna was able to meet a proper teacher with pure purpose ''sponsorship.

    Therefore, he was able to work hard, and it is said that it was also possible to receive various benefits from Magic Tower by being recognized for his abilities.

    However, today''s kindergarteners do not develop their talents, but rather

    are losing nutrients.

    She was sorry for that, and was tormented by the fact that she had no power.

    Forcelessness would be enough, but if you hit everything with magic because you don''t like it, you''ll just be expelled from the tower.

    No matter how much Edna is said to be the hope of the tower, compared to the genius of anima, it is a candle in front of the sun.

    In the first place, the benefits provided to Edna in the tower did not satisfy her wealth.

    to develop her skills

    She supports her to help her, but she doesn''t even care about the nursery school where she came from.

    "I understand the situation, so please calm down."

    Thinking it was going too far, Serpens intervened and calmed her down.

    Not only with words, but with divine power.

    Serpens put a finger on Edna''s forehead and thrust in the divine power, and the meaning of the action was quite obvious.

    Serpentine scan has been activated for a long time.

    ''Why didn''t I do that one!''

    As if no abnormalities were found in the scan results, Serpens looked at Edna and smiled softly.

    It''s very sad, but that''s why it''s like saying you have to be cool. The external fence made the moist eyes twinkle and made a strong expression.

    "Ah I''m sorry. Was I too red?"

    Edna, who regained her composure, looked embarrassed, and with her index finger, her brown hair.

    He said, twisting the knife.

    Serpence''s reaction to follow was obvious.

    With a gentle smile and a soothing tone, I''ll ask you to give me useful information.

    It''s okay. It''s so sad to hear that... It is natural that Mr. Benevolen, who has been watching the children for a long time, is angry.

    How could it work as expected?

    This is enough to write a Serpence Ecology Report.

    The current director is my classmate at the orphanage. Unlike other friends, he stayed at the orphanage even after he became an adult. So, I think there is a sense of ambiguity in saying that he is new.

    Yes?!

    Unbeknownst to the unexpected story, I questioned Edna''s words.

    I''m not the only one surprised. Eugenes breathed in the air and covered his mouth with his hand, and Winston widened his eyes.

    Serpens combined the two reactions and opened his eyes wide to celebrate.

    ''Of course, I thought it was the person who took over the orphanage and prepared it?''

    According to her, the current director was ruining the place he had entrusted with for a long time with his own hands.

    ''''Is it possible that people recently changed and became violent? Anyway, what was it?"

    "Well ? If it''s the other way around, I don''t know."

    I asked if I might have been brainwashed

    , and a strange answer came back.

    Are you against it?

    Yeah. Austin, she''s a bit open-minded... The director picked up a job she couldn''t find anywhere and left her next to her to help her with orphanage work. About two years ago? Done.

    It was really the opposite.

    The director said he liked that Austin finally became a human...

    He must have believed in him and simply resigned from his seat."

    Where is the manager?

    He went down to his hometown because he was banned from going to the nursery, so he wanted to see the children when he was nearby. He doesn''t know the current situation at the nursery.

    Edna said with a dark expression as if she had no face.

    Her judgment was right.

    I gave my seat to someone close to me.

    However, whatever was kicked out was kicked out. How can a retired person who cannot even go to daycare to help children?

    You will only be concerned about it and you will only get a disease of the mind.

    ''''If it''s okay with you, could you give me the address of where he is now? perhaps .

    Maybe Serpens had become a habit, too, and just like Eugenes did before, he raised his hand slightly and intervened.

    The guy''s hair was blurry, but even the meaning became unclear.

    is not

    Edna hardened her face and scribbled the address down on a piece of paper. Looking at the letters written one letter at a time, it is in the opposite direction to the Aldar Territory we are heading to.

    It''s here.

    Edna handed the paper to Serpens, who handed it to Winston.

    Our poor knight was bewildered and handed it over with the expression that he would receive it because the master gave it to him.

    Sir Winston, please.

    It was said to go alone.

    If it were me, I would have shed a few tears in sadness. But Winston seems to like Serpens trusting him and entrusting him with the job.

    I take orders!

    Winston answered very dignifiedly.

    Serpence can''t thank Winston a hundred times. On the way back, how about setting Winston''s armor made of Dwarf?

 CH 271

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 271

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (2)

    Fortunately, there was only a short distance to the next stop, so there was no accident where Winston had to jump off the train.

    Even by yourself, eat your meals on time, and safety first. Second safety.

    I wake up to Winston

    repeatedly asked.

    I''m sorry for Edna, but it''s unavoidable. The retired director may be precious to her, but to me, she is a stranger.

    I have no choice but to put Winston''s safety first.

    Maybe it''s because he knows that, or because he''s in a situation where he can''t get help. Edna showed no regrets.

    Rather, the problem is with Winston.

    I see,

    Winston nodded humbly.

    and answered. I don''t know if you really know

    The knights consider it a romance to risk their lives on the orders of their masters, so they are very anxious.

    I stabbed him in the side as a way to ask Serpens to help me.

    Shion, don''t worry too much. Sir Winston isn''t you, and you''re not going to put yourself in danger.

    The guy suddenly dissed me.

    What''s even more unfortunate is that Serpense''s absurd words worked.

    There was a little tension on Winston''s face, who had been dazed. Like I was worried that if I got hurt anywhere, I might become a worse person than myself.

    "I believe you will get there safely."

    Go and be careful.

    While I was stunned, Winston got off the train with Serpens and Eugenes seeing them off.

    I''m really, really stupid, so I can''t say anything.

    "Now, can you tell me about the top?"

    As if nothing had happened, Serpens opened his mouth with a calm expression.

    A suspicion appeared on Edna''s face when she was asked the question.

    I don''t mind telling you...the Illuminati don''t know anything about the orphanage''s beneficial owners, as the Illuminati found out that demon worshipers were even trying to summon demons to sacrifice the children of the orphanage?

    It would be nice to just skip this a bit. I don''t know why everyone is so obsessive about it.

    When a person investigates, by mistake

    I might be missing out on a bit. It seems like life is too hard.

    ''The first question was raised by Serpensni; he''ll take care of it.''

    Furthermore, it is not the setting of Serpens that is directly connected to the Illuminati.

    Right now, I''m just Serpence''s assistant.

    Therefore, my view of Serpens in response to Edna''s question is not an evasion of responsibility. It''s just that I faithfully transferred to my role.

    Throwing limited information like this

    Giving is not the first time.

    "Have you always been here?"

    Yes. It''s just a guess, but I think it''s testing my abilities.

    Serpence, who took on the role of a lamb who is constantly being tested, created a bitter smile.

    Looking at that pitiful face, for some reason, the Illuminati leader felt like a bad guy. Of course, the bad guy is me.

    Such an ungrateful child. Without knowing the grace you raised me, you are painting my face

    all.

    It doesn''t seem like a very good group.

    Edna frowned as if she didn''t like it.

    If I leave it as it is, a bad image will be embedded, and difficulties will arise when I am revealed to be the Illuminati head in narcissism.

    If it turns out that Serpense''s words are false, misunderstandings will be resolved, but it''s better to not have a bad image from the beginning.

    It''s only Ser..., the Duke''s conjecture.

    You can just call me by your name as usual.

    It''s possible.

    " what''s going on?"

    You''re not here as a Duke of the Empire, but as a member of the Illuminati, aren''t you?

    Serpens smiled friendly and spoke in a gentle voice.

    It is the appearance of a hybrid fence that exists somewhere between the external fence and the internal fence.

    Somehow, you keep calling out ''��''. I thought it was a work certificate, so it was unfair to call me the duke.

    Edna looked at me strangely, but I''m not the one to succumb to that gaze.

    I decided to push my beliefs regardless of the harsh gaze of the world.

    Anyway! It''s just Serpence''s guess, and he said so too.

    guy ?

    Edna''s gaze on me became even more strange.

    It is common for someone to come to this world and see me with those eyes. what

    let''s pretend

    "This is only my hypothesis, but isn''t the head of the Illuminati actually receiving a revelation from God?"

    "Is there a divine revelation?"

    you]. Is it true? We''re not sure where we''re getting the information from, and we don''t know what we need to know in the process of finding out that information. Even so, if you dig up this and that, you really catch a devil, right? and .

    A long time ago, I heard a little bit of evidence that Euges had suspected that I was a messenger of the gods.

    colored and laid out.

    Edna listened attentively to my words.

    "Besides, I believe that the Illuminati group consists of a small number of people, contrary to what is known to the public. If the members are really spread out across the continent, there is no way to send Serpens to this distant kingdom of Prune, right?"

    well ?

    Although Euges''s setting was thoroughly explained based on facts, Edna''s reaction was skeptical.

    I do not know the reason.

    "The last comment was interesting, but to receive a revelation from God . Isn''t that too pretentious?"

    Yes? Are you vain?

    "If you are receiving a revelation from God, you would be a high-ranking priest, so why do you need to leave the personnel within the denomination and create an organization outside the denomination? It''s easy to get cooperation.

    Receiving a revelation from God is a high-ranking priest

    I mean. It''s a narrow-minded way of thinking. You cannot explore magic with such stereotyped thinking.

    She needs to have a wider field of view.

    That assumption is wrong. Why do people who receive revelations from God have to be priests? It''s called a prejudice! Anyone who lives on this continent can become a messenger of God! It doesn''t matter if you have or not!

    Why are you so excited? Anyone who sees you would think you''re talking about Mr. Sion himself.

    Edna may have just thrown it out, but to me, it was a key word.

    Without realizing it, my mouth was closed and my shoulders shook.

    "...what was the reaction?"

    Yes?

    You just flinched.

    I am?

    Yes. It''s Shion.

    Edna-san was mistaken.

    Me and Edna talk, take it

    Seeing what you were doing, Serpens looked at me. The gaze is whether you are doing this on purpose.

    His thoughts arose out of a misunderstanding.

    In case Edna joins the Illuminati, I have only explained some of the settings in advance so that she can quickly adapt.

    "No matter where the Illuminati are, we must meet the challenges they face. We cannot ignore the information they give us just because they are dubious.

    all.

    As I was thinking about whether I should just reveal everything coolly, Serpens intervened and threw it away.

    I had in mind when I couldn''t sign Edna.

    I can''t think of trying to convince you anyway, thinking first of all in case things go wrong. Anyway, he''s a negative guy.

    Serpens spoke righteous words with his mouth and pretended to be a noble saint, and sat next to me under the table, slurping his knees from side to side.

    tapped the

    it means shut up

    Actually, that''s right. Duke..., no. As Serpens-san said...

    Yes?

    Serpens was startled by Edna''s words and actions, who suddenly called out her name, and asked her questions.

    Edna, who was interrupted by him, gave a look as if she did not understand why Serpens was doing that.

    You said you didn''t come here as a duke of the Empire, so I called you by name... Is something wrong?

    Oh no, I was just a little embarrassed because I didn''t know that Mr. Benevolen would call me by my first name today.

    I couldn''t be more honest, saying, ''Didn''t you say that to Zion, not you?'', Serpence changed the meaning of calling him by his surname instead of his first name.

    Oh, I''m sorry! Shion-san called me by my first name so recklessly, so I thought that was normal in the Empire.

    Serpens quietly turned his head and looked at me.

    Anyone who sees it will know that I am the only one who is at fault.

    You told me to call me by my first name ''as usual'', so I thought the Empire was free from formality.... I thought the Duke respected the culture of the Four Kingdoms and called me by my last name. So what? I thought I should respect the differences "

    It''s okay�[��, when I heard it, it was only misunderstood. I decided to be friends with Zion privately, so I guess I''ve caused confusion because I got used to it. I''m sorry.

    Then I''ll call you Mr. Prasidus.

    Can I... ?

    Yes. And now, I''m using the pseudonym ''Percent La Cedars, so please be careful when you go out.

    All I see is awkward What is this atmosphere like?

    As long as it''s done like this, I just have to keep my name clean, but I can''t quite understand what they''re correcting.

    ''What exists to be called is a name, so why do you consider it a measure of intimacy?''

    Maybe it has something to do with giving your baptismal name only to people close to you.

    A person who does not have a baptismal name has given another value to a name that refers to himself, not his family, in order to give him a similar feeling?

    If that is the case, it means that it has become difficult to be called by a name that only refers to itself.

    It''s not a cowardice, and it runs to the end of stupidity.

    Anyway, to break the awkward atmosphere, Edna goes back to the main point.

    Awa released information about the top.

    According to her explanation, the name of Sangdan is Rossio Sangsan, and it has been only two years since it was founded.

    ''Another two years?''

    It is doubtful that the upper-level side had already contacted the current director, with the intention of occupying the Elloween Orphanage from the beginning.

    If so, before the day of choice. In other words, it means that before Anima was chosen as a companion of the Holy Sword.

    ''Is the demon king intervening?''

    There is a possibility.

    Perhaps there was no contact with the upper side in [Master of the Holy Sword], and then, the current director killed the former director and took over the authority.

    If you''re a person who wants to summon demons by sacrificing children, that''s enough.

    I thought I would be able to afford it, but if I had been preparing for it two years ago, it would be like a time bomb that might explode.

    As soon as you defeat the demon in the dark area,

    good luck coming to

    "It was created only two years ago, but you have acquired a large enough group to support an orphanage? Would the business be quite large even if the finances were wobbly?"

    Actually, the Rossio top didn''t see much light just last year. Not that much, but it was so messed up that it wouldn''t be strange if it went bankrupt. Then, around January of last year, it suddenly started to grow. Just like knowing what to do in advance, everyone they touch started to succeed."

    Edna answered Eugene''s question very well.

    ''Isn''t it just a matter of being lucky?''

    If not, it''s a top that is suspected to be related to the monkey. If a business was called as if it knew the future, it might have been successful because it really knew the future.

    No, it was just supposed to be like that.

    ''Demon lord, what is this bastard, using a method that seems like a regression main artificial raising capital?!''

    I don''t know why the Demon King knew this in the first place.

    At this point, it is doubtful that the incompetent Mea was bragging about it before turning back time.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], as the empire collapsed, the continent''s economy was destroyed and a wartime system was established, but now that the empire is strong, the market landscape will be completely different.

    Much of the information the Demon King knows will no longer be usable.

    Still, a lot of the money may have already flowed into the evil forces.

    Thinking about it, I tremble at Luxmea''s incompetence.

    "Are you familiar with the details?"

    While pondering Edna''s words, Eugenes asked if he had any doubts.

    This is a question I wanted to ask, but I couldn''t ask it because Serpens had ordered me to shut up.

    Because I did a background check.

    Eugenes smiled satisfactorily at Edna''s answer, which was optimized for the Illuminati.

 CH 272

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 272

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (3)

    This is the material.

    Edna took some papers from the subspace pocket and handed it to Serpens.

    Curious, I hung my head and looked around, and Serpens put the papers on the table. The content of the documents caught my eye.

    I made money by doing something illegal.

    If it were ramen, I would have been able to report it... .

    Edna, who was obviously behind the investigation in an illegal way, said with a sigh, as if it were a pity.

    Eugenes sympathized with her shameless behavior and sighed as if it was a pity, and Serpens pretended not to hear it as he concentrated on the paperwork.

    I, who was forced to be shut up by Serpence, quietly read the documents together.

    Reading papers with him

    Memories of reading textbooks with him came to mind.

    ''That''s why you should have left everything in a locker like me.''

    Inwardly admiring my cleverness, I again focused on the contents of the document.

    In the document, what kind of business Rosio had grown in size was organized by month.

    As Edna said, last year''s profit went back and forth between the red and the black, and the profit, which barely seemed to sustain itself, showed a rapid growth starting in January of last year.

    And now it''s down a little bit

    I was drawing three.

    Q_... tko

    Serpence, who had looked through the last chapter, drooled lightly.

    I had some doubts that there was a demon king behind the growth of the top, but now I am completely convinced.

    As the faces of me and Serpence grew serious, Eugene, who was sitting across from me, shook my head to read the upside-down papers, wondering if they were also curious.

    Seeing this, Serpens handed over the documents he had read to Euges.

    I''ll have to check the top side as well.

    NS.

    Did you find out anything?

    It''s strange that last year, while investing aggressively and making a profit, this year, it''s coming out very defensively.

    "Now that I''ve earned enough money, isn''t it that I want to keep it stable?"

    At Edna''s question, Serpens shook his head.

    Although Rossio''s upper rank has grown rapidly, it is not at the level of making a name for himself across the continent. see through the future

    If you have such a good eye for the market that it is doubtful what you are seeing, there is no way to stop at this level. Also, it is strange that the purpose is to seek stability. Just because you don''t invest doesn''t mean you won''t pay. Maintaining the top always incurs costs, and you have to keep investing and making money to make up for it."

    Serpence gave various explanations. It doesn''t matter if you hear it with one ear and be captivated by it.

    Since he''s been babbling hard about it, it''s just laying the groundwork for that justification.

    In the end, the money they earned last year seems to be flowing into the evil forces. So, I''ll have to infiltrate myself and check if there are no demons in the top.''

    For that reason, I guess you''ll have to hide inside the top and make sure you don''t have a connection with the demon worshipers]-''''

    see this I thought it would be like this I am the continent''s best serpent activist

    it''s sad

    If there is Goku on the palm of the Buddha, there is Serpens on the palm of mine.

    The problem is that we have to check with the nursery as well...

    If the top problem was solved first, it would be wary of the possibility that the demons would take the children hostage.

    Serpens muttered like that and glanced at me.

    Which one should you be in charge of? And I''m thinking about where to put it, etc.

    I''ll put the top down.

    Noticing what he was worried about, Yu Jis raised his hand and volunteered.

    Are you okay?

    sure.

    If there are demon worshipers there...

    I''ll ask Ayre to see you in dangerous places, so don''t worry about it. And since Ayre can move through small crevices, it will be easy to enter and exit secret places without a trace.

    Seeing Serpence''s worried expression, Eugese smiled roundly and said as if to be relieved.

    Serpens'' expression softened slightly when he said that he would send the spirit of the wind without going in directly.

    Suddenly, Winston became pitiful.

    ''Didn''t you care so much when you sent Winston away?''

    Discrimination based on the level of closeness is enormous.

    To see a guy so biased and say that he loves everyone in the world equally.

    It is the sound of the demon king falling down laughing in the demon realm.

    I see. If you find a place that has been magically treated during the investigation, please do not touch it and remember the location.

    At the top, whether he had decided to send Eugenes, Serpens delivered a warning to Eugenes.

    If the guard magic was broken, it would inevitably be discovered that there was an intruder, so he was wary of that.

    "Then shall I go with you?"

    Edna came forward and said,

    all.

    If the guard magic is annoying, it means that it would be better for the magician himself to go with him.

    No. �[ If there are demon worshipers there, I have to go there myself. For now, it is enough to specify where they are hiding. And I would like to entrust Mr. Benevolen with other work.

    "Anything else?"

    Yes. I would like you to meet the head of the orphanage. It is good to meet and talk about anything, so I would like to have a conversation.

    all.

    A conversation?

    It seems that the manager didn''t like it at all.

    Edna''s eyes frowned when asked to talk to him.

    "So you mean to lure me out of the nursery?"

    No. I''m not going to have to look inside the nursery, so it''s hard to get out of here. I hope you don''t forget that their ultimate goal is not their children, but themselves.

    To interpret Serpence''s words,

    It means that you don''t want to mess around with things because you''re kidnapped by the demons.

    By adding warning words with a sad expression on it, he changed it to mean ''I''m more worried about those who care about their children before their own well-being.''

    In the Empire, demons have already been summoned once. The conditions for summoning demons have been met, and there are... offerings...and vessels ready for it. Still, having nothing to do yet, obviously, has a different purpose. It means there is.

    As if it was difficult for him to speak in front of him, he took a breath in the middle and then continued.

    Wait for a kite where the details are alive whenever you look at it.

    "What is that, purpose, to get the horse out of him?"

    Yes, yes. Surely he must have something he wants from Mr. Benevolen.

    Okay. I''ll give it a try.

    Edna nodded happily.

    "And one more thing, take Zion there.

    Get a job at... .

    Eh?! Wait! Serpens, what do you mean all of a sudden?! I''m fired?!

    I quietly shut my mouth and listen to the operation explanation, but there is no lightning in the dry sky.

    I was so startled that I even forgot that I shouldn''t speak now and asked him.

    You know better than anyone that it can''t be? Please calm down first.

    He said calmly, tapping my hand that was holding his neck.

    Why are my hands here? It''s amazing, isn''t it?

    " if you realize it now, why don''t you let it go?"

    After I let go of the guy''s collar, I rubbed it with the palm of my hand to unfold the folds in his clothes.

    I tried to straighten it up and down, left and right, but I did not know how to straighten the wrinkled clothes because my hand was not an iron.

    It doesn''t matter if your clothes are wrinkled, so please focus on the story first.

    I''m thinking of spraying some water.

    After all, he took a deep breath and took my hand and gently placed it on the table.

    Edna looked at our behavior with a very bizarre gaze.

    On the other hand, Eugenes maintained an attitude that seemed to say, ''Mountain is mountain, water is water, and Zion is Zion.''

    Anyway, what if it''s not cut off?

    It''s just undercover. I want you to know what kind of person the director is while playing with the children.

    all.

    Isn''t serpens a perfect fit for your level?''

    It seems like he was trying to sarcastic me, but it doesn''t matter if the Serpens, who are being cared for by me, look at me like that.

    * * *

    The headquarters of the upper part of Rossio was in the Perol Territory, adjacent to the Algor Territory, where the nursery was located.

    Anyway, since the trains do not pass directly through the Algor region, we got off the train with Yujisu.

    Eugenes headed to the top of Rossio, and Edna and I rented a wagon and headed to Perol. Serpens said he''d follow me secretly, so I''m sure he''ll be following along.

    Just ride it together and get off near the nursery first. When I won the award, I thought of what to do and suffered.

    It''s not that easy to take care of children... are you okay?

    As I approached the orphanage, Edna asked me if I was worried.

    How many times have I been to an orphanage with Serpence? I''m not worried about anything.

    Compared to Serpens and Edna, I may be inferior to the orphanage service jjambab, but I am a child welfare student.

    In terms of depth of professional knowledge, I am better.

    Serpence also volunteers at the orphanage regularly? Each time, I also went there, so you can hold on to those worries.

    You''re doing a lot of really good work.

    I''m actually kind of nice.

    No, not Shion, but Mr. Prasidus.

    It''s me to have children ripped their heads off, and to become horses while crawling on the floor on all fours.

    On a subject that can''t even tell a realistic storytelling, a serpent who only reads a book by trusting only her gentle voice is so great.

    ''Serpense''s child would never understand the contents of a children''s book.''

    I took a sneak peek, and there was no other way to read Korean books. It was just reading down the typeface.

    He must be ignorant of the fun of reading children''s books.

    I was trying to show off my realistic old interlocking skills in a frustrated heart and to show a demonstration. The children, fascinated by Serpense''s voice, refused to hand over the children''s book to me.

    As I recalled that time, I burst into tears.

    I didn''t mean anything harsh, what are you crying about?

    Edna said softly.

    Tears welled up in my eyes when I remembered her harsh horse parade I heard in the tower.

    Oh, I''m sure you''ll sleep in the nursery while you''re here, so don''t take out your bed even if it''s uncomfortable. Children feel a sense of separation.

    "I know that, too."

    Despite my answer, Edna still looks unsure.

    How the hell is she looking at me?

    The carriage, which was running in an uncomfortable atmosphere, stopped.

    The nursery school belonging to the Order of the Prasidus Spirit was filled with the laughter of children chirping even if they went nearby.

    "It''s quiet it seems."

    Even when I got off the carriage, I couldn''t hear the children talking.

    There was so much snow outside, and no one made a snowman or had a snowball fight.

    No matter how often it snows in the Kingdom of Prune, it is nonetheless. It''s strange that there aren''t any snowmen in the yard

    all.

    ''Isn''t it? As Edna said, if children are being exploited... . Is this normal?''

    The confusion has already set in.

    "But the day I came, the children greeted me first "

    Edna couldn''t hide her complicated feelings and looked bitterly at the empty yard.

 CH 273

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 273

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (4)

    He carefully opened the door and entered the building.

    The first thing I saw was a 12-year-old girl feeding her baby from a bottle. The figure of an adult who was supposed to take care of the children was nowhere to be seen.

    The little girl''s expression was full of fatigue, and ringworm appeared on the baby''s face.

    " uh?

    A child, puzzled by the cold wind that came with us, looked towards us.

    Starting with that child, everyone''s eyes turned to me and Edna standing in front of the door.

    Sister-! See and try hard!

    A child jumped up and jumped into Edna''s arms, followed by the other children running to her side.

    As the children began to babble all at once, the nursery roared as if it had ever been quiet.

    The only child who didn''t run into Edna was the girl who gave the baby a bottle.

    The girl also seemed to want to leave her seat immediately and get up, but she couldn''t get up and started crying because she was holding the baby.

    ''Is that child the eldest in this testimony? ?''

    There were not many children.

    There are only eight, including the baby from the bottle. Compared to the nursery schools in the Prasidus Territory, the number is very small.

    sleep.

    No, you don''t have to have someone to look after the kids!''

    In addition to Priest Amelia, who is in charge of the director, it was compared in many ways to the nursery school belonging to the denomination where several priests took turns taking care of the children.

    "Noona, noona! What about a present?"

    The little boy who had been walking around us asked, pulling on the hem of Edna''s robe.

    He kept hovering around me, so I wondered if he was looking for me the first time I saw him. Looks like he was just looking for a present

    am.

    Edna had an apologetic expression on the kid''s question.

    "Gift , are you up for it? I promised to buy you a present the next time I come "

    Somehow he wasn''t interested in me. I guess it was because I had a bigger interest.

    The clothes the children were wearing all looked old, the toys scattered here and there were old and worn out, and the children''s books were frayed and torn.

    Hands only on the day Edna comes

    When I remembered the children who would have waited and waited for a gift, I felt sad.

    I''m sorry, my sister was in a hurry to come today, so I forgot.

    At Edna''s words, the children, including the little one, cried. Seeing the pale faces of the children, even me loses energy.

    I can''t do it like this. to take special measures.

    Hey, Edna! You''re so playful! The kids are going to cry.

    Yes?

    I deliberately exaggerated, but Edna asked with a puzzled expression on her face.

    Why are you talking like that even though you clearly know that you haven''t had time to pack your children''s presents, or are you thinking something like that?

    I ignored her gaze and squatted down, making eye contact with the first kid who was looking for a gift.

    Wait a minute, Boy 1, I''ll bring you a bunch of snacks. I''ve been hiding in front of you because Edna was joking around.

    ''''Really?!

    then~!

    When I answered with a confident grin, the children''s faces widened.

    Edna''s face was relieved of worry as the word snack reminded me of myself naturally taking out cookies from the tower.

    I got up from my seat, the two who lightly tapped the little boy''s head.

    Oh, it''s cold outside, so don''t follow me. I''m waiting here with Edna noona. Everyone can do it.

    Joe?

    Yes!

    Blocking the children from rushing out, they quickly came out and hid between the building and the wall.

    He took out a thin blanket from his pocket and poured all kinds of snacks on it, then gathered the four corners of the blanket and tied them together like a bundle.

    ''I''m sorry Serpense... .''

    It''s a snack for him to eat, I''ll buy a new one after work.

    After all, there is no time to have a leisurely tea time while infiltrating.

    I went back into the nursery with a blanket full of candies, chocolates, cookies, etc. This makes me feel like Santa.

    Voila-!

    When I pulled the blankets in front of the children and showed them the contents, everyone''s eyes lit up.

    Even as they swallowed the saliva that tickled the tip of their noses, the children did not run away immediately and looked at Edna and me.

    Everyone, don''t be too greedy, just take one. Eat the rest tomorrow.

    As soon as Edna finished speaking, the children took up snacks one by one with bright expressions on their faces.

    Edna, who saw it, gave me a thank-you look and bowed lightly.

    "But who is this man?"

    It wasn''t until after holding the small cookie bag in hand that I could see myself, and the kid who was looking for a gift showed me a belated interest.

    Second to being pushed by the gift, why is Edna, who is older than me, the older sister and I am the uncle?

    From an objective point of view, Zion is presbyopia

    this is not It''s a face that looks just like my age. That''s not to say that Edna wasn''t exceptional.

    Maybe it''s instinctive to keep a distance from strangers.

    When I think of it that way, bitterness precedes regret.

    I''m just a cousin of someone I know well...

    Edna?

    Edna was about to explain me. A door with a nameplate on it was opened, and a man who appeared to be in his 30s came out.

    It looks like that guy is the ledger bastard in question.

    What are you doing here? Isn''t today supposed to be a day?

    "Austin, you ! What the hell were you doing without seeing the kids?"

    What did I play? It was all because of the work, because of the kids! And I''m the director, so I shouldn''t show that attitude in front of the kids. You keep saying that, so the kids don''t follow you more than me?

    Judging by the magpie''s head, it''s clear that the manager came out of bed, Edna

    shouted again at

    Let''s go in and talk.

    "More than that, what the hell is that guy?"

    Perhaps he couldn''t even swear in front of the children, Edna suggested moving to the director''s office.

    But the manager didn''t seem to want to, and ignored her words and looked me up and down.

    I can feel the naughty gaze, Jindi.

    What... are you going to be my lover?

    It''s not like that. It''s Matop''s relative''s nephew, but he said he hasn''t got a job yet. There''s not much he can do, but he likes to see children. Take it, and I''ve brought it.

    Edna answered, suppressing her irritation.

    At her words, the manager looked at me again.

    "Are you planning on spying on me now?"

    what?

    "The person who is close to you

    Who else but the unlucky kid?"

    Don''t talk like that about the anima

    Anyway, I''m trying to plant someone I know here to meddle in whether I''m good at watching kids or not.

    I think the thief''s numbness in my feet was referring to this.

    The reason I suddenly pretended to be kind since last year was just to take over the position of director with ease. Now, it seems that the colors we saw are revealed again.

    As soon as he came out, the children quietly

    started watching.

    I don''t know how much they paid, but if you have the money, you can donate it to our orphanage, huh? And what are these? Aren''t these very expensive?

    Don''t touch the kids snacks.

    You mean you''ve spent so much money on snacks for the kids? Wow, you''re so...

    I don''t even know what the hell is too much.

    Before he got greedy, I gathered the snacks and wrapped them in a blanket again and pulled them towards me.

    "How on earth can I trust you and give you money?"

    I''m so sorry. How hard I work for the kids! I don''t know what you don''t know, but I''m balancing well in the middle, so I''m going to keep this. I''m still tired, but let''s not do this to you, huh?

    Does the guy who leaves the kids alone and goes to sleep really do their best for them?

    If you were really tired and fell asleep while working hard for the children.

    Instead of yelling at the snacks brought for the kids because they were too much, the first thing that came out was thank you for taking care of them.

    Anyway. Hiring and nothing like that. It''s really a request, but I recently received an expensive magic reagent for an experiment from him, so it''s a bit difficult to turn it down.

    He gave me some magic reagent, you''re just asking me for a favor without giving you anything?

    I don''t think anyone will look after them anyway, so just use it.

    You see, here''s the employee''s salaries

    Do you have any money to give?"

    To be honest, there seems to be.

    Contrary to the shabby behavior of the children, the material of Won Jang''s clothes was quite luxurious.

    There were no fancy decorations that made me feel uncomfortable. Jimin: I could tell because I had seen a lot of expensive clothes while working as an aide in the duke''s family.

    It is clear that I bought it at a level that only those who knew it could recognize.

    I have a lot of money at home, so I just need a job to introduce to others, so I don''t have to give it a lot.

    "Ah, because of marriage?"

    I guess so.

    It''s very good to sell. You''ll hear that a rich guy has a good heart if he meets his parents well and shows goodwill, and just pretends to go to an orphanage. On the other hand, I...!

    Jealousy and jealousy stood in the eyes of the man who looked at me.

    The guy who had been staring at me for a while with his eyes full of inferiority spit on the floor, spit, and rubbed it like crazy with his slippery feet.

    And then without a word, go into the director''s room

    abandoned

    "Oh, really I''m sorry."

    It''s not Edna''s fault, there''s no need to apologize.

    "I''ll come talk to you for a moment, so can you take a look at the kids here?"

    Yes, you can go safely.

    Edna took a deep breath and followed him into the director''s room.

    I don''t think there''s anything good about getting a job here...

    Mija! Be..., Bur], what did you say? Anyway, there''s no such thing.

    I''m talking about vision.

    The children looked at me with sad eyes and said a word to each other. In such an environment, it would be nice to welcome and welcome someone to take care of me, but it is so heartbreaking that this situation seems to encourage me to run away quickly.

    "So my older sister and older brothers were singing to me saying they wanted to get out of here quickly."

    Sister and bro? Who else here besides you guys?

    The kid who left the ''education'' that Edna spoke of

    will take

    I can guess, but I pretended not to know and asked the kid who had just talked about my sister and brother.

    The child nodded and held out one hand.

    Five people. They don''t go out of work right now. Everyone will learn hard and become great adults like Edna and me.

    Isn''t it? Shion oppa has grown up to be a bigger person than Edna''s, so he bought the nursery school!

    Another child refuted the boy''s words.

    However .

    Zion?

    Oooh! Shion-oppa works at the Kijuk Workshop! It''s fourteen rooms!

    That''s right. My name is Zion! It''s amazing, isn''t it?

    Isn''t it? The baker''s name over there is Shion!

    " Si, it''s amazing."

    It seems that the name Zion is really common.

    Anyway, there are people who have already occupied the titles of Shion-oppa and Shion-hyung.

    Hey, it seems like I''m tired of listening to hyung or oppa.

 CH 274

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 274

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (5)

    By the way, what are our friends'' names?

    I''m Lina, this is Darren!

    A girl named Lina answered.

    When I first entered the orphanage, the only thing that was quiet was that the director was sleeping and was careful, but it seems that he has a lively personality.

    Perhaps it''s not just a child named Lina, but most of them.

    At the age when I was most likely to like to talk about this and that, I thought that I was holding my breath while noticing the adults, and I got angry.

    But it is impossible to show it in front of children.

    I drew a smile that calmed my stomach and seemed as friendly as possible.

    That''s right. I''m Zion, and I''ll be staying here from now on. Of course, I''ll have to get the director''s permission, Min-. Please take good care of me.

    " you see?"

    He answered the other questions lively, but to the words of kindness, a dull answer came back.

    Even the kid named Darren doesn''t answer yes at all. The boy''s attention shifted completely from me to the cookie in my hand.

    Darren and the other children seemed to have lost interest in me, so they all scattered.

    From the beginning the children of the nursery school in the Prasidus Territory were playing and clinging to me.

    Compared to what I''ve done, it''s not cold and it''s ruthless.

    The children here are for you. To be more precise, they seem to have no expectations of adults.

    ''The only reason he showed interest in me, even for a moment, was that I came with Edna and gave them snacks.''

    As a child named Darren started eating cookies next to me, Lina slowly began to stare at me.

    The rustling of the chocolate wrapper in my hand quickly ends the conversation with me.

    I want to pay and eat chocolate.

    If it were a normal child, I would have talked while eating without noticing this.

    There was only a sigh of regret, but I had no choice but to swallow a sigh.

    Thank you. You can go play now.

    It wasn''t until my horse ran out that the two kids took their seats away from me.

    The two children, who looked the same age, exchanged snacks for each other in half, and started chewing from the corner.

    If I eat like that, I would like to send a message to the liver, but the director is a child.

    It doesn''t look like they''ve even provided food.

    You''re probably doing it to save money.

    Heh, ke, ke hueng-.

    Suddenly, there was a mix of baby whining and cackling sounds.

    Worried about what had happened, I ran in front of the baby after a month or so. The baby was lying on the floor and vomiting.

    He''s been like this every day.

    I quickly turned the baby on its side so that the vomit would not flow into the airway, but the girl who was taking care of the baby''s self-talk reached her ears.

    Does your baby vomit often?

    Ugh. I always vomit after feeding formula. I''m talking to the head teacher, so it''s like this, right?

    I asked the question carefully so as not to sound like I was arguing as much as possible, and the girl answered in a plain voice.

    Her face hardened at the girl''s words.

    ''How can a person called the director be so irresponsible!''

    It is true that babies vomit easily, but no baby vomits every day for no reason.

    ''Maybe there was no exaggeration in the word ''everyday'', the girl was accustomed to taking out gauze and wiping the baby''s face and vomit on the floor.

    " Did you burp by any chance?"

    "Trim?

    Yeah, that.

    As if the girl knew nothing, her innocent eyes blinked.

    It wasn''t a big problem, it was a very simple, basic problem. It is a very big problem that the basic problem was repeated every day.

    Children may not know, but the director must have known. If you''ve been growing up here since you were little, you can''t know.

    First of all, I''ll change my clothes, and then I''ll have to feed the formula again.

    I''ll bring it.

    thanks.

    ...why?

    Without trying to get up from her seat, the girl suddenly expressed her doubts.

    I can''t understand the meaning, so I asked, ''Huh?''

    shook

    "Ah, wait. I want to wash up first, but where is the bathroom?"

    At the end of the hallway...

    The girl beckoned me to not explain, just follow me. I carefully grabbed the baby and followed him.

    The girl who was walking in the lead pointed at the bathroom door with her finger, then opened a door next to the hallway and entered, saying that she was going to get some clothes.

    I opened the bathroom door and went inside and looked inside.

    There was a small window for ventilation.

    I don''t even have a jaw for people to go in and out.

    Reluctantly, he opened the door secretly, pulled his neck out and looked around to make sure that no one was there before opening his mouth.

    "Three , Ador."

    It was a very small sound, close to a murmur in his mouth, but it was enough to call him.

    Suddenly, Serpens fell from the ceiling, covered my mouth, entered the bathroom and locked the door.

    I don''t know where or how he was hiding.

    Why did you call me all of a sudden? That''s also the name of the third.

    He asked, removing the hand that had covered my mouth.

    He looked slightly nauseous as if he was upset that he gave his snacks to the children.

    If I call out Ador''s name and anyone hears it, it''s a big deal.

    If you''re worried about who''s listening, why don''t you just call?

    But I''m worried about the baby...

    We found the cause of the upset stomach, but maybe there is another problem. Also, if I vomited every time, the esophagus would have been very bad.

    Serpens glanced down at the baby who was constantly whining in my arms, and poured divine power into the baby.

    It is very sacred and noble to see the eyes looking down and emitting a divine light.

    By the time his hand fell, the baby had already stopped whining.

    "Of course you left it?"

    Yes?

    Cookies. You were supposed to take Benevolen-san secretly.

    Serpens proudly held out his hand and said.

    The gentle saint I had just seen was gone, and only a child remained, asking me for a snack.

    Uh...

    "Did you blink?"

    No, that''s, so...

    "As promised, how could you do this to me?"

    Serpense put on a sad expression

    It was.

    The images of the children who were disappointed by Ed Na''s words that he had forgotten a gift before, overlapped.

    Seeing the withered appearance, the words, ''If you want to eat like that, you can buy and eat it yourself.''

    ''It is said that children who grew up eating poorly will have more food cravings when they grow up... . Serpense is like that too?''

    If it is the expression of compensation for not being cared for and restricted from eating since childhood, this

    It is also quite understandable.

    I can take care of Ador at any time, but that''s not the case with the kids here. So, for the time being, let''s put up with the candy I gave you. Yes? I buy you a bunch of sweet desserts as soon as you finish work... Oh! No, but the famous dessert on the way home. Why don''t we go to the store together and choose what Ador wants to eat? I only ate what I picked out every day.

    uh... .

    Perhaps it was a very tempting story, and the sadness faded from the guy''s face.

    At the subject that raised the corners of his lips as if he was going to die, he was laughing hard, and he drooled as if he was worried.

    As I looked at it, a shrill smirk leaked out.

    - Click, click

    The doorknob vibrated as if someone was trying to open the bathroom door. Suddenly, Serpence jumped high and hung on the edge of the ceiling.

    I beckoned him to unlock the lock because he was fine.

    I was worried that I might get caught, but once

    I opened the door as he told me to.

    I brought baby clothes.

    Yes, thank you.

    You haven''t washed yet?

    "Uh , huh? Ah! To adjust the water temperature?

    Serpens grabbed the upper part of the doorframe and gave it a recoil, fluttering her body over the girl''s head, landing silently behind her back, and then performing a quick vanishing stunt.

    I was taken in by that mysterious movement, and I almost missed the timing to respond to the girl''s words.

    Isn''t there hot water here?

    A girl who had no idea what had happened over her head and behind her back spoke bluntly.

    Oh, that''s right! Somehow, he said it was strange that only cold water came out.

    I hesitated a bit and asked the girl to lead me to a place where I could heat the water.

    The girl led me to the kitchen, where I could only wash the baby after heating the water.

    In the meantime, I asked a few questions. As a result, what was the girl''s name?

    I could tell he was D. and he was 13.

    "Is it your duty to look after the baby?"

    My older sisters and older brothers and all the kids my age went to school, but I''m rambling, making a lot of mistakes, and no one wants to teach me because I''m stupid. That''s why the head teacher said I was watching the baby.

    When I put the bottle on the baby and asked a question, Wendy answered gloomy.

    It''s a story you can''t believe even if you hear it with your ears.

    What the hell did that sage bastard say to this little boy?

    Are you messing around? I don''t know? Does anyone take care of the baby? How meticulously you have to take care of it! You can''t even leave it to a really bubbly child. I''m sure I said that, but Wendy is a kind child who takes care of others, so I asked for it.

    really?

    So! Besides, at a young age, you weren''t afraid of fire, and you boiled water every time you made baby formula, didn''t you? He''s delicate and kind, and he''s even brave!

    Hehehe...

    As if the compliment had worked, Wendy let out a shy smile.

    "But what about the burp?"

    As the director said, babies vomit easily, but burping can prevent it to some extent.

    If there''s someone who says something like, ''You didn''t burp, your baby vomited.''

    No matter how ignorant they may be, children tend to blame themselves, not adults for not telling them.

    all.

    A child with low self-esteem will be even more so when they hear people say that they are stupid.

    Words are different even if they say the same thing. If the same meaning can be expressed euphemistically, it is right to do so.

    really?

    Yeah. That''s why I asked.

    Then he doesn''t vomit anymore, is he?

    "Perhaps it is?"

    I''m glad...! You seem to be in pain every day.

    I was worried!"

    Even if you hear the director say that babies are like that, it''s strange if you don''t worry about the baby constantly vomiting.

    Wendy''s face widened after hearing that it would be all right.

    Wow, but it''s very strange. When I washed it, no matter how many times I washed it, my skin kept waking up, but now it''s really clean, right?

    Wendy asked, gently stroking the baby''s skin, which had had ringworm, with her fingertips.

    That''s a very sharp question.

    In my mind, I wanted to give a kind reply while praising her wit, so there is no way I can say that Serpens fixed it with divine power.

    Thanks to the skilled technology and know-how that has been honed over the years!

    "Hey , didn''t you ask Edna unnie for help because you couldn''t get a job?"

    "We also have a baby at home."

    There is a large baby fence in the peacock mansion, and there is a baboon who has an adult mind but a baby body in the lord of Rivelon Castle.

    They''re both half-baked, but it''s not wrong to add up to one baby and one adult.

    But is that true? Are you really going to get a job here?

    " I wish I did?"

    ''''Yes!

    It was difficult to say for sure, as it was only undercover, so when I asked around, a bright smile and light affirmations came out.

    I started to feel sorry for nothing.

    In order to ask questions comfortably, you have to be friendly, but you have to be quick.

    I was worried about whether it would be okay.

    ''Besides, if you take Edna too...,

    I can''t even imagine how much heartache it would cause.

    You can''t be very close and you can''t just keep your distance. I have to keep the proper distance, but I don''t know how much.

    A child closes the door of his heart to the one he is wary of and tries not to answer, but once he opens his heart, he gives everything.

    A coffin for such a child

    Maintaining a system is more difficult than making friends.

    Did you bring a snack earlier?''''

    I can''t keep my mouth shut, so I pretended to think of it and asked a question.

    If you''ve grown your hair a bit, you''ll notice I''ve been trying to be outspoken, but the young girl focused on the question just before her.

    Yes. Edin brought it to me.

    I don''t know who Edin is, but it was certain that he was a really good kid.

    After that, I chatted with Wendy.

    And pretending to be playful in between conversations, or burping a baby like this. I was captivated by information about what to do when laying down and how good the temperature of milk powder is.

    This way, even after I''m gone, I won''t have any major problems taking care of the baby.

    However, this method had a huge side effect... .

    Wow, that''s right. Sir Sion is amazing!

    Wendy said ''Let''s put the knowledge we learned at school

    It is said that he started acting like a parent who praises a child who is raging.

    As I watched the young children applauding me and thinking of me strangely, I was filled with a sense of shame.

 CH 275

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 275

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (6)

    When it was time for dinner, Edna came out of the director''s office.

    She went straight to the kitchen to prepare the meal.

    The manager left the director''s office saying he had some work left to do, but it''s clear that he''s just playing around because he doesn''t want to prepare a meal.

    Anyway, what were you two talking about?

    I wondered if it was, but it turned out better.

    I left the baby with Wendy and followed Edna.

    "Is the conversation going well?"

    "For now, I think I''ll hire Shion-san."

    first?

    ,, yes, but... . Do you know how to cook?"

    Seeing me proudly holding the kitchen knife in my hand, Edna asked as if worried.

    Hearing her words, I fell silent.

    I''m sure], it''s a little strange that Shion, an aristocrat and an assistant to the duke, knows how to cook.

    The butler, Zeon, would know how to cook one or two simple dishes, but he had never heard of a cooking assistant.

    Instead, I learned some swords.

    Edna''s expression grew more serious at my answer.

    She looked at me with eyes that looked like she was looking at something dangerous, beyond anxiety.

    I''m still an adult, so it''s safer than giving a knife to a child. Isn''t it?

    Doesn''t it look like that?

    Edna spoke firmly and took the kitchen knife from my hand.

    Suddenly, empty-handed, I was churning out soup in a large pot.

    "But what is a one-time thing?"

    Instead of answering my question right away, she unwound a long thread of magical power.

    It entangled in the air at high speed, drawing a complex magic circle, and soon became a translucent blue film that enveloped it.

    ''Perhaps soundproofing magic?''

    Unlike when using a scroll, the film formed by magic did not stick to the wall, but formed a rectangular parallelepiped.

    Instead of ''''I put conditions.

    Conditions?

    Edna nodded at my question.

    Her expression is very disturbing

    see. What the hell did the director put on such an expression?

    I want you to terrorize the top of Rossio.

    Yes?!''''

    It''s a completely unexpected request.

    Of course, I thought it was going to be a match with the top side, but it wasn''t. Or is this also a trick of the Demon King?

    Perhaps the director is trying to betray him in order to monopolize the profits earned through the orphanage.

    Then, the director did not know that Rossio was connected with the evil forces.

    is it done?

    All sorts of assumptions flashed through my mind, tangled in a mess, and aggravating the chaos.

    "So that''s why you said that?"

    "No, I asked for time to think."

    "Is it okay to do that?"

    Recent research didn''t go well, so I made excuses that I came here to cool off and stay for a few days. I was going to give you an answer while I was here, so I got it.

    Uh, um... well done.''''

    I don''t know what the manager was thinking when he made such a request, but it would never be a good idea.

    There is a saying that the enemy of my enemy is an ally, but if both are my enemies, neither can be an ally.

    There is no need to follow, and even more so now that the purpose is unclear.

    ''''Why did you say that? Edna, do you have any guesses?"

    They say it''s to protect the children...

    Don''t believe it. He''s a ''nursing'' who cares for and nurtures the children here.

    They see them as ''orphans (��)'' not objects. There''s no way a guy like that can go out for the kids, right?

    "Yeah, I don''t believe it either."

    Edna said with a cleaver and a soft smile.

    I think I understand now why she looked at me anxiously when I was holding a knife.

    "Shion, did you find out anything?"

    I don''t know if it would seem strange if I asked about the all-inclusive ledger. I haven''t asked anything yet.

    so be it

    As if understanding, Edna nodded.

    "Mr. Prasidus, you must be somewhere in the nursery, right?"

    Yeah. I called him earlier, so he popped out right away... Oh, that''s right! I need to prepare dinner for him!

    Why are you looking at me like that?

    "It''s nothing. It''s just . Mr. Pracidus seems to have a big heart."

    I got confused with the names of me and serpens

    it wouldn''t be

    I said I''d take care of Serpence''s meal, but I don''t know why he''s getting compliments.

    He comes out when you call, so if you come and pick it up for a while... Oh, why don''t you eat this kind of food from him?

    Edna said bitterly as she looked down with the dry multigrain bread in her hand.

    It would be great if he ate well and grew up so that he could worry about that.

    Serpence eats everything except spicy, so you don''t have to worry about that.

    I scooped out a large ladle of the soup I had been stirring hard and placed it in a concave bowl.

    Then, Edna''s handful of multi-grain bread and her mash potato salad were placed on a plate and placed on a tray.

    There is not much difference from the diet Serpens ate before I corrected it.

    The bread and soup are the same, only the fruit is changed to a potato salad every hour.

    Of course, the one Serpens ate was a bit softer, but from a nutritional point of view, it was a multigrain bread rather than a white wheat bread.

    This is much better for the body.

    In addition, the mash potato salad was mixed with chopped purple onions and orange carrots, giving it a beautiful color and good nutritional value.

    '' How come it looks so much better than what he ate?''

    In addition, these foods were well seasoned. Not only will it be nutritious, but it will also taste better.

    "Can I just go through this?"

    It''s possible, but if you don''t have anything else to say, I''ll just take it.

    I have to go.

    When I questioned the magical wall that crossed the air, Edna released it.

    I opened the window to the kitchen with the tray in one hand.

    Ҷ...

    I looked back after a few days trying to call my christening name, Ador. I caught my eye as Edna was pouring the soup into a bowl.

    If I recklessly reveal my baptismal name in front of other people, I''m sure he''ll get angry.

    I put the tray on the window sill and pondered for a moment.

    What are some titles that a guy can understand that I''m calling him, and won''t be suspicious of anyone who hears it?

    The consideration was brief, and the implementation was immediate.

    Meow, let''s eat mamma.

    "Are you crazy?!"

    Edna''s reaction was faster than Serpence showed up.

    "It''s just like a passphrase.

    Wouldn''t it be a big deal if you called and the director heard it and told someone?"

    I turned to Edna and spoke in a low voice.

    I''ve come up with the excuse of password protection now, but I think it''s a good idea.

    Calling a cat rather than calling a person''s name is probably less suspicious when someone finds out.

    "It''s it is."

    She also thought that there was some truth to what I said, and nodded her head in agreement.

    "But why isn''t he , huh?"

    In a moment when I turned my head, the entire tray was gone.

    I looked out because I wanted to go for anything that had fallen down, but all I could see was pure white snow.

    That said, Serpens must have taken it.

    No matter what the heck, there were no footprints on the outside of the window.

    Let''s go eat quickly too.

    I took out a new tray and placed Edna''s soup on top of it.

    The number of bowls with soup is 10 bells. Seven of them were small enough for children, and three were of normal size.

    "Aren''t the kids from work coming?"

    I''m coming, but the return time is not set... so I set it aside for now.

    It''s not enough to make minors work, so they have to work overtime. There is no such thing as a completely evil company.

    Obviously, they won''t even provide you with overtime pay.

    In addition, the children''s share was set aside.

    Judging from Edna''s words, it seems they don''t even serve dinner.

    It''s morally unbearable and horrible.

    I suppressed the boiling inside and carried food and utensils with Edna.

    Meals were served in the dining room separate from the kitchen.

    I thought I could eat with the table open, but unlike the shabby children''s clothes and toys, the facilities and structure of the building itself doesn''t seem bad.

    It wasn''t Rossio who prepared the Hagiya building and facilities, but the other top who established the nursery school.

    ...But why isn''t hot water coming out?

    Yes?

    It seems that I shed a word to myself without knowing it.

    Edna put on an expression that was just beginning.

    It broke a few months ago!

    As if there was an opportunity not to be missed, Lina quickly flashed her hand.

    lifted up and said

    At Lina''s words, Edna''s gaze turned to the director.

    just , I didn''t say anything to avoid bothering you. Because there is no hot water on the first floor... . Do you have a bathroom on the second floor?"

    In spite of Edna''s jealous eyes, the head of the department answered shamelessly.

    The whole first floor? Then what about washing the dishes?

    There''s a fire right next to it, so what about it? You can boil it and use it. I don''t have to eat oily food in the first place...

    The director muttered to himself and poured out his dissatisfaction.

    This guy was twisted very tightly no matter where it was twisted.

    It''s not that the water itself doesn''t come out, so maybe the magic circle is wrong. I''ll check it later.

    No matter how disliked the director, the facilities that children should use are �[��.

    Edna said with a look close to half giving up.

    "Wow! Then we can wash with warm water again now , ah! Why are you suddenly pinching yourself?"

    Shhh! No! If you say that, the headmaster will scold you!

    Lina pinched Darren''s side as she spoke with a smirk in excitement, and Edna''s gaze turned to the director again.

    If anyone sees it, it''s like a compote that intentionally waters the director.

    The only thing I didn''t tell you was that there was no hot water on the first floor! They were kids, so it was annoying to go up to the second floor, so I guess I just washed on the first floor.

    in this cold weather.

    It''s annoying to just go up the stairs

    How many people wash in cold water just because they don''t?

    Rather, it is more credible that the director monopolized the bathroom on the second floor.

    No matter how much the children followed Edna, it was the director who stayed together at the orphanage.

    Are you worried that you might get scolded by Edna after he gets home after talking for nothing?

    The children shut their mouths and resumed eating quietly.

    Is there anything else you can fix other than the water?

    I''ll fix it in a few days, so just tell me now.

    Nothing other than that.

    really?

    I can''t think of anything right now... I''ll tell you later when I think of it, so please don''t look at me like that!

    At Edna''s suspicious gaze, the director got angry and got up from his seat.

    The way he walked out of the restaurant with a spirit of spirit, seemed too immature for an adult''s behavior.

    Edna''s bewildered face

    I looked into the oyster.

    Sister, sister! Do you live with us?

    When we arrived, the first girl who had been hugging Edna asked a question with twinkling eyes.

    "It''s not like I''m completely pressed on, just a few days?"

    Hey, it''s exciting!

    When the child giggled and laughed, the front teeth fell out, revealing the flat teeth.

    Edna smiled softly at her cute and innocent look and stroked the girl''s hair.

 CH 276

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 276

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (7)

    The sky began to darken.

    Perhaps it was a pity to spend so much time with Edna, the children nodded and asked to play more.

    She managed to calm the children who were clinging to her and put them on the bed.

    Wendy was the only child who went to bed first on her own feet.

    Wendy couldn''t sleep properly while taking care of the baby, so she left the baby to me and went on a trip to the dreamland faster than anyone else.

    The children who had gone out of education came back after all the children who remained in the orphanage fell asleep.

    They were wary of seeing me holding a baby for the first time, but they showed no interest or curiosity.

    Edna introduced me as a new teacher. He didn''t even look at me, let alone ask a question.

    Just like people who eat to live, the children who finished their meal got up leaving only a greeting to Ed Na saying they ate well.

    I didn''t do that when the head teacher was there...

    Looking towards the door the children had left, Edna muttered as if she felt sorry for him.

    "Are you a good person?"

    Yeah. You don''t know how much effort you''ve put in sending me to the horse tower after you found out I had magical powers.

    Edna recalled the past, smiling softly.

    The reason that smile looks somewhat sad is probably because the current situation has changed a lot from the past.

    "The head teacher, so that I can learn under a good teacher, Lord Sang Sang .. Oh, not at the top of Rossio. Anyway, he asked Lord Sang Sang to receive support, and he did not spare any support by doing a side job."

    You are a person who truly cares for the future of children.

    That''s right. Then, Dexter''s top

    The Lord was also a very good person... .

    She muttered and shook her head.

    I can''t even dare to ask for the end of Sangju-ju, who lost all power of the top.

    Why do such good people have to suffer so much? Why do innocent children suffer so much?

    No words of consolation come to mind.

    All I can do is snuggle up to the tossing and whining baby in my arms and listening to her quietly.

    it was all

    I''ll stop waking up now. I''ll do the dishes, so Mr. Shion, take a break. Did you show us the room earlier? And the baby...

    I''ll take it.

    Thank you. Actually, I was worried about whether Mr. Shion would really be able to take care of the children... but thanks to him, I lived.

    You''re welcome.

    I left Edna behind and got up.

    I stopped by the playroom for a while, dragged the baby cot on wheels, and headed to my assigned room.

    went in

    I lay the baby on my bed for a while, and put the crib close to it. And only after fixing the wheels firmly so that they do not move, I was able to lay the baby there.

    - Clap, clap.

    I lit a fire in the fireplace and was lying in bed when suddenly a sound came from the window.

    The moonlight coming through the window was obscured by someone''s shadow.

    But with the light of the fireplace burning in the corner of the room, I dug a crack in the window.

    Gordon thin wire could be seen raising the catch.

    There is a very high probability that the intruder will be a serpent.

    Before I even got up and unlocked the lock, he opened the door on his own and entered.

    "Is it a thief cat?"

    I am not a thief.

    Serpens answered, locking the window again.

    There is no mention of whether or not he has given up even refuting the frequent handling of cats, or that he is called a cat.

    If I had just knocked, I would have opened it.

    I was going to see how I would react if someone tried to sneak in. The result was , as expected.

    Instead of pulling out his sword and guarding against intruders, the guy clicked his tongue slightly as he saw me digging comfortably into the bed.

    "Isn''t this because Ador came in and out of the window every day? Yes~ Do you know how wary I was when Ador came in through the window on the train before?"

    Still, this isn''t a safe place.

    all. Be as careful and vigilant as possible. Always lock the windows.

    If it''s a car, you can open the window yourself and come in like today, so don''t worry and be good at locking the door.

    you I, yes All right, come here and lie down.

    ,,...what?

    "Even if you take out the bed, there is no place to put it, so there''s nothing I can do about it."

    I must have misunderstood something now, but I didn''t come here to sleep.

    Isn''t it?

    no.

    To my question, he answered again firmly.

    There are many places that have not yet been confirmed, including the director''s office. When everyone is deeply asleep, we will go around and look around properly.

    So, you don''t want to sleep?

    uh... .

    I guess it was really meant to be. He avoided my gaze and drooled.

    Even to monitor the manager,

    I guess I''ll have to stay here until Eugez has finished investigating Rossio''s top.

    No matter how serpents are, it is impossible to stay awake for several days and several nights.

    I''ll wake you up in an hour, so close your eyes for now.

    " You?"

    "Anyway, I had time to feed the baby formula, and it was difficult to fall asleep, so I thought I would stay awake."

    Wait a little bit, feed the bottle, watch them eat, then burp and put them back to sleep.

    go soon

    In the meantime, there''s nothing wrong with having a big baby sleeping next to you.

    "I have to feed every two hours, so if you get sleepy not just today, but in the future, don''t put up with it and just come here."

    "Then do I have to wake up every two hours?"

    of course.

    You must be tired.

    "I don''t know what the person who didn''t think well was talking about?"

    I was being sarcastic for saying I was being sarcastic. Thinking it was a light joke, he smiled and sat down on the bed.

    Thanks for the kindness, but as I said before, I''m not here to sleep now.

    There must have been more to say besides warning you to pay attention to safety.

    The flickering lights of the fireplace lit up Serpens'' face.

    A warm, warm light filled the room, but there was a chill on his face. It was as cold and cold as the moonlight reflected in the snow outside the window.

    In a very serious atmosphere, I sat up with my upper body up.

    "Did you find something?"

    I haven''t found any proof yet, but I think I know what their purpose is.

    Serpens spoke carefully, in a very low voice, knowing that no one was listening but me.

    I swallowed my saliva and waited for his lips to open again.

    What they want is perhaps... the corruption of ''Edna Benevolen''.

    Serpense''s lips parted open, and the words that leaked through them were truly shocking.

    There are two main types of people who worship the devil. Those who use the power of the devil to defeat their rivals in order to gain greater power and power than they are now. Those who want this to be overturned.

    Considering that the latter is the person he hates more than anyone else, you can see how contradictory the evil forces are.

    Even if they enter the forces of evil, the latter are only used and sacrificed by those who have them.

    "Do you think Edna will be the latter?"

    It doesn''t matter who he is.

    sure?

    Do that], it doesn''t matter that the demon worshipers are doing their thing.

    The guy looked straight at me and said.

    "Ha Ji-min , Edna-san is a good person. He''s not worthy of working with demons."

    Yeah. He''s a good guy who really cares about the children here. But.

    Serpens paused for a moment.

    Then, as if talking about a taboo secret that should not be leaked anywhere in the world. I put my face close to my ear and opened my mouth.

    That''s why you should be aware that you can be exposed to and be tainted with evil more easily than others.

    How careful he was, his voice was so small that even the sound of the firewood pounding in the fireplace was drowned out.

    What he said sounded like a warning to me, rather than Edna''s current situation.

    The children here are suffering. And Edna Benevolen suffers from seeing children suffering. The situation is only going to get worse.

    that .

    The method is very simple. As an easy example, what would have happened if the hot water problem had been neglected for a long time?

    Is it the same?"

    Of course I''m going to catch a cold , ah, damn it!

    I don''t think the director will take care of the children just because he has a cold.

    Children''s immune systems are very weak, so even a mild illness such as a cold can kill them.

    ''In addition to that, if your body is in a state of weakness due to accumulated fatigue due to sleep disturbance .''

    In an instant, my mind went dizzy.

    "The environment around children will gradually deteriorate, and the more you cherish them, the more

    She''ll be pushed into a corner.

    "The options available are limited, and what can be done is to eliminate the culprit that caused the children to suffer. It is only a matter of time before making such a judgment."

    As I listened silently to what Serpens had to say, all of a sudden, Edna''s words while preparing dinner flashed through my mind.

    Manager, that bastard... !''

    The future has already changed significantly. Even if the demon king has already earned all the money he can earn by using the top

    free of charge

    The demand to terrorize the top of Rossio was to push Edna into the mud.

    By baiting the useless top, he makes her commit a crime, gnawing at her sense of ethics and blunting it .

    "Nevertheless, the environment in which the children are placed will not change significantly."

    The guy who seemed to be waiting for me to think suddenly opened his mouth.

    Those words strangely connected with my thoughts

    Feeling like I was losing, I shrugged my shoulders without realizing it.

    If it turns out that she has committed a crime, the children here will be even more ostracized.

    "Yeah I guess."

    For most people, it doesn''t matter who did poorly first.

    It''s only important that Edna is from the Elloween Orphanage, and that the children in the orphanage are socially underprivileged.

    If children are oppressed by ''ordinary people'' and kicked out of this place. Even if someone dies in the process.

    if. It is a natural order to become desperate for a reality that cannot be changed no matter how hard we try and to hate the world."

    And it will be a delicious prey for the evil forces.

    A way of pushing people into an unbearably large abyss of despair, pretending to be a helping hand, and stimulating a sense of revenge.

    somehow got used to it.

    Isn''t it a bit similar to the technique the monkey was trying to use against Winston?

    At my words, Serpens nodded in response.

    In the silence that fell for a while, I heard a baby crying.

    Ah, I guess it''s time for formula feeding.

    I took out the milk powder that I had already filled and stored in my pocket. Still, he didn''t lose his warmth.

    Serpens sat sullenly until he returned to bed with the baby bottle fed and cradled.

    It seems that this child who has only grown up is not thinking well today.

    By the way, the Anima is the companion of the Holy Sword. It is true that Edna cares for the children here, but the person she loves the most is Anima, who spent a long time together at the Magic Tower. It is true that the Anima depends on Edna. If you think of the treatment that Edna would have received in the movie, Edna must have taken a lot of comfort from her.

    therefore?

    "[The same is true of what I saw in The Master of the Holy Sword and Edna I saw in reality. She is attached to an anima.

    uh Even the Demon King must have known that... .

    "What kind of shit is that?"

    Serpens cut off my words. In fact, I just ignored it.

    If she truly believes that the world is wrong, then of course she will encourage her loved ones to join her.

    Ah .

    "Seonwoo, do you think that the Holy Sword''s fellow mage can resist her invitation?"

    If I had moved into Edna''s situation,

    Serpence was transferred from the situation of the anima.

    The difference led to a different conclusion, and I had a gut feeling. that the guy was right

    Anima may be Edna''s favorite person, but the anima isn''t her everything.

    It reminded me of her heartbreaking thoughts about the suffering of good people and the suffering of innocent children.

    If she considers the world to be ''me'', who tries to harm loved ones, put the person she loves the most first.

    will try to escape

    And that refuge will naturally become a demonic force.

    You crazy.

 CH 277

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 277

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (8)

    Because of the bomb that Serpens threw in the middle of the night. And taking care of the baby, I don''t know how I slept.

    Before dawn, Serpens will stop by for a while to restore stamina with divine power, and then go away.

    If it wasn''t for that, today''s schedule would have been disrupted.

    Your expression is dark.

    As I was stirring breakfast soup with the baby on my back, Edna, a cooking expert, hurled at me.

    It seems that the tension was relieved without me knowing that there were no children in front of me.

    Don''t worry too much about what I said last night, because there''s no one around to talk to, so I''m just complaining without realizing it.

    Edna laughed bitterly.

    Before I met her in person, I had a strong image of ''Anima''s protector'', so I only knew that she was a strong and courageous person.

    it was

    But in reality, she was a very lonely person.

    The only people she could depend on were Anima and the former head teacher, but they are not with her now.

    You must have been suffering alone all along.

    The piled-up must have exploded in front of me, an unfamiliar stranger.

    ''If we hadn''t come here, it would have really happened as Serpens said.''

    Chi trembles at the demon king''s vile scheme.

    If Edna is harmed, the Anima will awaken just like in [Master of the Sacred Sword], so it must have been such a move.

    You come up with the damn idea of destroying Edna''s mind and making her go down the path of corruption, convincing her to even anima.

    Who is not the king of demons? He does not hesitate to commit cruel acts.

    It''s me, Edna.

    Yes?

    There are people in the world who are mean to innocent people for their own gain, but on the contrary, they do not wish for gain.

    There are people who try to help others. Just like the former head teacher helped Edna, who was a powerless child. Just like Edna takes care of the children here. The world isn''t just that tough.

    "Are you really worried about it?"

    Edna rolled her eyes and asked, wondering if I would have thought of saying these words all of a sudden.

    I was embarrassed by that look, so I laughed haha and transferred the thickened soup to a bowl.

    I can see one good person that Zion mentioned right now in my eyes.

    Wow... Since you said that right away, it seems like I said I was hoping for a compliment.

    "Did you do that? Did you want to be praised by your sister?"

    It''s not like that, Jimin-I don''t stop compliments from coming!

    Edna smirked at my dignified attitude.

    This is the first time she''s burst into laughter.

    You know what? Shion-san has the power to put your mind at ease.

    you], I know It''s one of my myriad strengths.

    Humility is a little lacking.

    Edna laughed again and said jokingly.

    A slightly higher tone than usual, a voice mixed with laughter, softly curved eyebrows and curled up corners of the mouth. And the slightly exposed white teeth.

    All those factors make her rain me

    I''m not trying to, I''m sending a signal that I''m joking around with a nonsense:

    That''s also one of my strengths, �[��. It''s a demonstration of my deep consideration to not make others feel uncomfortable by denying compliments.

    Yes, yes. Then, considerate Ms. Sion, can you show your consideration and wake up the children and tell them to come to the restaurant?

    Preload!

    I left the kitchen with a more relaxed mind.

    I was going to comfort Edna, but somehow my mind felt refreshed as if I had been encouraged.

    The children who have to be singled out because of the labor pretending to be education have already got up, washed and sat in the dining room, so I only have seven children to wake up with.

    When I woke them up by shaking them lightly, the children were startled by the stranger''s face in a hazy nightmare.

    Thanks to that, I guess my sleep escaped, so it was easy to wake up with a good jump. Work has become easier, but children are wary

    It hurts my heart to see you stand tall.

    ''Did the director bastard hit you by any chance?''

    If that''s the case, it''s understandable to be surprised to see me as an adult male.

    I''ll quietly ask later.

    The only child not surprised was Wendy. Perhaps thanks to how close we became after seeing the baby together yesterday, Wendy digs into my arms instead of being surprised.

    With the baby on my back and holding Wendy in my arms, I headed to the restaurant.

    Only after Wendy was seated in the chair

    Booth woke up and rubbed his eyes.

    Huh? Wasn''t that a dream?

    Wendy, who was watching me untie the baby carrier, muttered in a locked voice.

    Wendy smiled as she sat next to Wendy while holding the baby who still couldn''t control her neck.

    ''Will I be remembered as a good memory for Wendy? Or will I be remembered as a traitor who left with a heart?''

    Seeing a child happy with a new meeting, the reality of having to worry about a breakup is ironic.

    As soon as the meal was finished, the teenagers, except for Wendy, hurried to get ready to go out. Another ''education'' would be lira.

    Guys, bring snacks! Snacks!

    Snacks... huh?

    The five children looked like they were saying, ''Did we have snacks at our nursery school?''

    All of them led the children with bewildered faces, and triumphantly showed them the snacks in the blankets.

    It''s Edna''s gift.

    "Why do you say that like an uncle brags?"

    Was this the way Hong Gil-dong, who could not call his father his father, felt like this?

    I couldn''t say that I bought the snacks I bought, so I suddenly became a person who looked down on other people''s snacks.

    The children left the orphanage, each holding a snack in their hand and thanking Edna.

    Edna, who has become a person who is condescending to the snacks that other people have bought with the opposite meaning to me, smiles mischievously and looks into my eyes.

    thanked him.

    Yes, Sir Zion.

    Huh?

    Wendy''s voice could be heard from below, with the hem of her pants being pulled.

    Looking down, Wendy made eye contact and waved her hand up and down as if to lower her posture.

    Why? Do you have anything to say to the teacher?

    Yes, please listen to me for a second.

    I squatted down and asked a question, and now I don''t know if I''m going to tell you some secret.

    I ask you to put your ears on it.

    First, as Wendy instructed, she closed her hand and put it to her ear.

    "These cookies were not bought by Edna, but by the teacher?"

    Huh?!

    Surprised by the whispered whispers, I unknowingly opened my eyes and looked at Wendy.

    The little child in front of me laughed as if my expression was funny.

    "How did you know that?"

    Edna sister buys a present, but

    I buy things that can be used for a long time, such as top clothes and toys. Also, the head teacher said yesterday. These snacks are expensive. And you say your house has a lot of money?"

    Uh...

    When I tried it, it was really delicious. I had never eaten such delicious chocolate even when the headmaster was there before. How can chocolate be so chewy?

    As I looked back at the taste of the chocolate I ate yesterday and watched the mouth-watering innocence, a question suddenly came to mind.

    "Yesterday, you showed me to the bathroom knowing that there was no hot water, was that on purpose?"

    "Hehehe At that time, Edna unnie didn''t know how to stay."

    Wendy smiled shyly and twisted her body.

    It''s just about guessing what I bought for snacks, so even a small question can tell you right away.

    But how about inducing people to naturally question the fact that hot water does not come out even though there is a thermostat?

    ''Even though I was distracted from talking to Serpence and found the thermostat only when it was time to wash before bed... .''

    It''s like an unexpected accident.

    When I was thirteen, by the world I lived in, I was in 6th grade... .

    ''Isn''t it? Here. You count from age, so you''re a first-year high school student?

    At that age, I am capable of deep thinking, but the wit to come up with ideas and put them into action is innate.

    Why did you talk to such a child that the director is an idiot?

    can not understand.

    "Wendy, are you a genius?"

    Oh, no! I''m not physically strong, I don''t have dexterity, and I don''t have magical talent like Edna''s sister, um, and again...

    At my heartfelt sentiments, Wendy clapped her hands and murmured sadly.

    This is typical of gaslighting victims.

    "Director bird did the teacher say so?"

    Suppress the boiling inside

    He calmed his mind and asked the question in a tone that was as soft as possible.

    Even though I tried to manage my facial expressions as much as possible. My face reflected in the girl''s eyes was hardened.

    Wendy suddenly nodded her head with an expression that she didn''t know why I was doing this, and answered, ''Yes.''

    From now on, that bird will say something like that, no, just ignore the tweet.

    Yes?

    "If the head teacher says something that doesn''t sound like that, just let it go out of one ear.

    Burg everything, too! you are a genius! Awesome! Smart!

    really?

    As if she couldn''t believe it, Wendy asked tremblingly.

    Now, come on. Think carefully 1. You''re the only one who noticed that I was the one who bought snacks here, right?

    Other older sisters and older brothers haven''t heard of teachers growing wealthy. Because I''m the oldest among the children left here...

    "Is that what the head teacher said too?"

    Yes .

    I know roughly.

    Why did the headmaster leave only Wendy here?

    ''Are you jealous?''

    According to Edna, he couldn''t find a job, so the former headmaster hired him here.

    Ha Ji-min said that personality was the problem, and I haven''t seen a guy whose personality is a beggar and blocked his way to get a job and who reflects on his personality.

    ''Besides, the manager is with Edna.

    Did you?

    At the same age, he entered the orphanage at the same time, and Edna was recognized for his magical talent and became a great wizard.

    In the process, the head teacher at the time ran to and fro to boost Edna''s talent.

    On the other hand, the director couldn''t find a decent job, so he was left at the orphanage.

    ''Maybe that''s why you''re showing your anger to the kids right now?!''

    Wen left here to take care of the baby

    If there is one thing in common between Dee and the children who have gone out of school, it is that their talents don''t blossom properly and they are trampled and withered.

    If children are being exploited in the labor force under the pretext of education, is it really a means of earning money for Rosio?

    If not.

    ''Is it the director''s choice, who fell for the word that it allows children''s talents to be put at their feet and used? ?''

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], with the cooperation of the nursery school director, children can summon demons.

    When I read that it was sacrificed and Edna became a vessel.

    Either I was just trying to secure a place in the evil force, or there was something I wanted to achieve by borrowing the power of the devil.

    Either way, it''s to satisfy his greed. I guessed so.

    But maybe.

    I wondered if what he really wanted was the downfall of Edna.

    It''s fun to watch her talent become poison and prey for the devil.

    might have been

 CH 278

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 278

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (9)

    Who is the head teacher?

    "Just , uh "

    Was my question too vague?

    Wendy giggled as if she didn''t know what to say or how to start.

    How about treating you? Are you kind?

    "Before I became a head teacher, I was kind.

    You said But these days, they talk about what the top is and what about education introduction, and they say they are busy and don''t have time to take care of us.

    When asked again with a different question, Wen Dee answered melancholy.

    That sad expression seemed to say, ''It was good back then.''

    But Sion-oppa says it''s all a masterpiece. So, except for Mr. Sion...

    "You mean that friend who works at a leather workshop? Was he 14?"

    Wendy nodded in affirmation to my words.

    The name Sion is also a name, but it was especially memorable because I heard that he had an ambition to earn a lot of money and buy an orphanage.

    "I came here around October of last year, and before I came, the head teacher was a very, very bad guy.

    "Then, of course not."

    "Anyway, I was "

    "You want to believe no?"

    Yes .

    He''s a very kind kid.

    Watching Wendy nodding her head with a sullen expression, I suddenly thought of this.

    ''Isn''t the director showing no affection while taking care of the children?''

    If the director is bad enough, I want to think positively, too, but when I think about it in many ways, the possibility of being a good person according to Wendy''s wishes was slim.

    Such a person would not have said things that undermined Wendy''s self-esteem.

    It''s true, he was very nice when I first came here. It''s just that he''s busy right now and doesn''t pay attention to us.... He sometimes yells and gets angry, but he doesn''t hit or bully.

    Wendy''s standards for being a good adult were extremely low.

    Violence is not only physically inflicted, but also mentally inflicted.

    Children tend to feel threatened even if an adult raises their voice a little. room

    Screaming and yelling is also an extension of abuse.

    ''I thought it was because I was living in an orphanage because I was so short and light weight compared to my peers... .''

    If it was last year that Wendy entered the orphanage, what kind of life did she lead and bring here?

    I wanted to ask, but I couldn''t.

    ''I don''t know if I can watch Wendy''s growth until the end... .''

    I cannot take responsibility for this child.

    So, you shouldn''t dig deeper.

    Perhaps I would have asked her before I met Serpence. And I would have comforted her.

    But now I know. that it shouldn''t.

    ''If I had known this would be the case, I would have come here as an education trainee, not as a fake job .''

    I hadn''t thought of that.

    Knowing the coming parting, we had to keep a reasonable distance.

    The moment you cross that line. It''s going to be bad for me and for this kid.

    I dug deep into Serpence''s heart to open it.

    I was in too much of a hurry because I was afraid of being killed by him at any time or for any reason.

    No, I was too clumsy.

    It was in a way the right answer to stimulate his deepest wound from the beginning, but it was an obvious mistake.

    As a result, I succeeded in opening his heart, but Serpens was overly dependent on me and even showed symptoms of separation anxiety.

    It is entirely the caregiver''s fault for the child to feel anxious.

    ''I will approach you more calmly.''

    If Serpens knew that I was still thinking like this, he would be sad.

    Even knowing that fact, I have no choice but to raise my head like this from time to time.

    ''Oh, yes. It''s my fault, and I should be held accountable.''

    I''ll keep an eye on him until he can stand on his own.

    Anyway, I can''t stay here because I already have a child to take responsibility for.

    What a child needs is not a good adult who passes by for a while, but a responsible adult who will continue to watch over them.

    Wendy..., um... If someone speaks badly about the head teacher, don''t you?

    I don''t know. Just because I''m a good person doesn''t mean I''m a good person for everyone.

    right.

    I like the director, but Sion

    Does your brother like you too? Shion oppa is not someone who curses anyone without reason. If Shion-oppa said that, the head teacher must have done something wrong. At that time, I, who did not know what to do, could not take the side of the head teacher.

    "Is Wendy a very thoughtful kid?"

    As I stroked Wendy''s hair, the girl, who was not used to compliments, shyly covered her cheeks with both hands.

    "How was the former head teacher other than the current head teacher?"

    He was kind and nice. All the other kids miss him.

    What''s the best way to bring the former director back?

    Winston is gone, so he''ll take care of himself.

    The real question is how to deal with the upper part of the rosio, and where else do you get the operating expenses of the nursery after the upper part is processed.

    ''If the orphanage issue isn''t resolved, Edna won''t be able to leave this place comfortably... .''

    If you include children who have gone to education, L

    The number of children at Roween Nursery School is thirteen.

    The nursery school in the Prasidus Territory is not owned by Serpens, but is clearly owned by the denomination.

    If there are only one or two children, I will try to do anything, but it is virtually impossible to bring more than ten children.

    That doesn''t mean that some people take it and some don''t.

    The children left behind will think they are abandoned, and the children they bring

    will live with regret for the rest of her life.

    ''It''s a little strange that Serpens, an imperial nobleman, sponsors a specific orphanage in a distant country... , right?''

    If you have the money for that, it is obvious that you will be told to take care of yourself first in Korea.

    If it goes through the mouth of someone who likes to gossip, money laundering for slush funds may turn into a story about what to do.

    ''Oh, my head hurts. Let''s think about this later.''

    After dealing with the problem in front of you right away, the problem after that is slow. shave your head

    We should all think about it together.

    If I thought about it for a hundred days alone, only my head hurts.

    "Then why are you asking this?"

    Uh, huh? About the job I''m going to go to] 1 Is it strange to be curious?

    No... it''s just... I''m afraid that Mr. Sion will eat those dumplings...

    It must be because the head teacher is having a hard time right now, and when I have more time, I will definitely come back to my old days! So, if Sion-sensei helps.... Then..., isn''t it?

    Wendy looked into my eyes and asked.

    I couldn''t help but smile bitterly at the girl''s question.

    * * *

    We played with the children outside in the snow, read children''s books, and played together. It was always nice to see children smiling like children.

    While taking lunch for the children, Meow did not forget to bring rice as well.

    The manager had no intention of taking care of it

    He knew it and crawled out.

    What the heck was he doing, except during mealtimes, he was stuck in the director''s office and couldn''t even see his nose.

    The second day at the Eloween Orphanage seemed to pass somehow.

    If one of the children who went to school hadn''t come back suddenly.

    While I was preparing dinner in the kitchen, the children came and grabbed Edna''s hem.

    In such a hurry, Edna couldn''t put down the kitchen knife she was holding in her hand.

    ''Obviously he... , was it Zion?''

    The return itself was good, but the problem was that the child who returned was a mess.

    His orange hair, reminiscent of carrots, was messed up, and his freckled face was stained with blue bruises.

    There must have been more severe bruising inside the clothes with clear shoe marks.

    Edna was surprised to see Shion''s exhausted appearance and almost lost the cleaver she was holding in her hand.

    I took the cleaver from her hand

    And Edna, who was empty-handed, held the child who had returned from the scars in her arms and read it extensively.

    What the hell happened?!

    The child, who had been holding back her tears while coming, burst into tears as soon as she was held in Edna''s arms.

    At first I was carrying it. The baby, who has not yet had a name, cried after him, and started to cry one by one without a second thought, and the nursery school soon turned into a sea of crying.

    Wendy, who always maintained her dignity

    also cried a lot.

    Everyone wept sadly, to the point that I wondered if they were pouring out the tears they had been holding back.

    Even Edna shed tears because she felt sorry for such children.

    At least I almost cried.

    ''First, get rid of the kitchen knife.''

    I went to the kitchen and gently laid the knife on the cutting board.

    While I was leaving, I grabbed an ice pack and headed back to the playroom connected to the front door.

    I''m going to die of frustration!! Don''t cry and say something quickly!

    I wonder when it came out, the director was forcibly pulling Zion away from Edna and threatening him.

    If that''s the case, staying in the director''s office like a dead mouse is the way to help.

    Hey there, headmaster. Calm down first...

    what else are you Go and comfort the kids!

    If you shout out loud in front of children, even children who don''t cry will cry, �[��. Once an adult calms down

    You have to be able to calm down."

    "Everyone is crying, but who doesn''t cry?!"

    If I had to look for it, I could answer that he was a Serpens hiding somewhere, but his existence is a secret.

    Before arguing about it, I was offended by the point.

    There is no one to talk to.

    It was right to comfort the children first, so I started to comfort the other children as I grew up with the crying baby.

    The useless manager who only screams whale whales, Edna pushed back into the director''s office

    Thanks to that, I was able to calm the children down just overnight.

    Ha, really. I don''t know who the director is.

    The crying stopped, the director crawled out of the director''s room with an empty stomach.

    Didn''t the head teacher teach you not to yell at children?

    So you didn''t learn not to criticize in front of children, did you?

    And it seems that you keep forgetting it, now the director here is you. know?

    If you are a director, you should take good care of the children like a director.

    You''re always pathetic and dissatisfied with me, huh?

    "What the hell are you talking about?! When did I say I ignored you?"

    Okay, what am I going to talk to you about?

    The director let out a deep sigh, passed Edna, and approached Shion, who was still smirking.

    Edna seems absurd, Director.

    He put it on the back of his head and grunted without a sound, then just shut his mouth.

    "Hey, what the hell is that?"

    I thought he was worried, but it was as if he had decided to make the child cry again.

    The way he spoke while holding the tattered hem of Shion''s robe with his thumb and forefinger seemed as if he was touching something dirty.

    Yeah, you''re not talking, are you?

    That you have to push the hiccuping child like that.

    peel?

    I was about to dry it, but I missed the timing as the baby in my arms was whining.

    Let''s go in and talk.

    "You said you would go in every day and talk?"

    Children listen.

    They should all listen. When the ashes grow up, they''ll all be like this.

    Is it like this...?

    In response to Edna''s question, the tip of the head of the manager''s chin turned towards Zion.

    My bruised face was still crying, so it swelled up even more, making me more pitiful than before.

    I carefully brought the ice pack I was holding in my hand to Shion''s face.

    Shion reflexively tried to slap my hand, but he said he would take care of it and took the ice bag.

    Isn''t it obvious? It''s only a day or two for an orphan without parents to be ignored while working? That''s why he was beaten up, like a rant.

    Keep your mouth shut!

    What are you hiding? Are you also being ignored in the tower? But how are they going to be?

    Edna, who was speechless at the director''s words, bit her lip tightly.

    The children began to tremble at the sight.

 CH 279

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 279

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (10)

    In the Kingdom of Prune, the status of wizards was elevated as much as the tower was located.

    Although it is said that magic tower was the beginning that magicians gathered to discuss magic purely, they are a group of armed forces.

    Wizards can perform many miracles, and among them, disasters

    It also includes loading.

    For that reason, even in the royal family of the Prune Kingdom, there was a lot of talk about going in after folding the request of the tower.

    What about the tower that soared without knowing it was high in the sky?

    In this world where there are no buildings that exceed 15 stories, the huge tower that reaches as many as 61 stories leaves the viewer in awe.

    In the magic tower where such great wizards gather, Edna is a talented person called a nerd.

    so that.

    Edna became the hope and idol of the children of Elowyn Orphanage.

    It has become a guideline to show the way forward and a goal to be reached.

    It''s ignored like this now, but someday.

    Edna''s very existence alone instilled such hope in the children.

    It made me dream and gave me the courage to move forward.

    And the manager was not able to trample on that hope and crushed it.

    The bondage of birth will not let you go, and your efforts will be ridiculed and frustrated by your clear limits. It''s just an eternal weakness.

    That''s what I said.

    The children''s eyes turned to Edna.

    I was telling you to deny it, please.

    Anima unnie..., Edna unnie was great, hib, she said...

    Although Lina hung her tears in her eyes and raised her voice with courage.

    I''m just saying it''s because we''re close. A low-key orphan comes from somewhere and acts as a maid while farting, can''t you give me that much lip service?

    The director immediately denied Lina''s words.

    "I, the headmaster. Such words are too much.

    "What do you know about you, who grew up wealthy because you met your parents well? It looks like you didn''t go through any hardships."

    I opened my mouth to intervene, but the manager looked at my hand and snorted.

    hit

    As the director said, my hand was smooth, without a single callus, as if I had never even held a pen.

    After playing in the snow outside

    As I was washing the children''s clothes with cheap laundry soap, that''s why Serpens came and treated my hands.

    Thanks to this, my hands have been so tight that I can tell you to go away from any noble lady.

    I couldn''t hide my hands because I was holding her forward to comfort the baby.

    Had it been hidden, it wouldn''t have changed much.

    A sense of distance that cannot be narrowed has already been established between me and the children.

    The intimacy that I had drawn out through play disappeared in an instant. The children looked down on their rough hands and felt deprived.

    After all, whatever I say, it just feels like deception-.

    ''I can''t say anything because he thought of me and treated me, really... .''

    Even if it''s not a hand anyway, the manager is making other excuses and putting me in the conversation

    would have been excluded.

    He wants to make me a public enemy.

    I quietly smiled bitterly.

    Edna, aren''t you resentful of this world? Don''t you get angry when people with less skill than you mock and ignore you? It''s nothing wrong with innocent children running around like this!

    The children, who had barely been comforted by the cry of the director, burst out crying again.

    Edna looked confused.

    He bit his lips so hard that blood came out.

    It''s really the worst.

    You have a talent for magic, so you''ve got a spot, but a child like me who doesn''t know how to do anything is the bottom line forever.

    Austin, please... Please, stop...

    Stop? Are you satisfied with your current life? Yes, it is. You may be ignored in the tower, but if you go outside, you can live with a mage. It''s really good. I''m really envious.

    Edna ejaculated, the manager

    He continued to slander without regard for it.

    "But know this one thing. How many kids here are as talented as you . Isn''t it strange to say, ''How much is it?"

    "Even if orphans like us have worked hard for a hundred days, nothing is getting better."

    The director trampled the children''s hopes and spread despair.

    You think you''re there because you''ve worked hard?

    was lucky Luckily, you had great talent, and there was a head teacher who would run around for you, and there was a senior who properly supported the orphanage. But, was it really just luck?"

    " What the hell are you talking about?"

    Does she know what the director is talking about?

    Edna''s eyes fluttered anxiously. As a result, a mischievous smile appeared on the corner of the director''s lips.

    "At that time, he entered our orphanage.

    All donations went to you, and the head teacher who had to take care of ''us'' ran around because of you. You are an election at the expense of other children, including me.

    that .

    You really didn''t know that? You knew it. You want to relieve the debt, so you''re still paying attention to the orphanage! Out of all the children you were with at that time, you were the only one who came to this place. Why are you like that?

    Because I''m sick of this place. This orphan

    You are the only one who has memories of the circle, and you are the only one who has benefited from it!

    You... you''re the only one who never tells me anything Don''t deserve it.

    In the pouring resentment, Edna did not answer anything.

    I''m the one who''s really struggling, but the kids follow you more than I do. Isn''t it funny? Everyone''s really stupid. No matter how hard they try, it''s me who can be you, not you.

    I was ignored by you and sacrificed for you! They need to know that this is their future!

    do not say that !

    You''ve got to stop it. Because you keep showing me silly dreams, don''t the kids get it wrong?

    Dreams and ideals collapsed helplessly in the face of brutal reality.

    Edna covered her face and sat down on the floor.

    Worried, I approached her and held out her hand, but she cried and shook my hand.

    A shudder, a sharp friction sounded.

    Obviously, my hands collided with each other, but for some reason, deep inside my heart tingled.

    Mr. Edna...

    I called her name with a sad heart, but the only answer that came back was sobbing.

    In this narrow, isolated world of a nursery school.

    I was completely a foreigner.

    Edney. Just once, just once.

    come on Do you know how much debt the children owe to the top of Rossio now for referrals for education? This person is better than the money that the children now receive from hard work under the name of a teacher. It''s money you can''t pay back even if you roll like a dog for the rest of your life.

    Wenjing, who had been driving Edna with rage for a while, begged her this time with a timid tone.

    Well, that''s it...?

    Yeah, you didn''t know. Because I didn''t show you the ledger.

    Edna shook her head as if possessed

    I looked up at the director, and the director raised one corner of his mouth while looking down at her tear-stained face.

    As I looked at it, an unfamiliar horror ran across my spine.

    If only that Rossio top disappears, the debt will disappear along with it. And if we take away the goods stored by the top, the children won''t have to suffer as much as they do now. Under a really good teacher, I can make them learn what they want to learn.

    Ha, but...

    What are you hesitating about?! You have the strength to do that!

    Hey! But why don''t you help us? Are you sure you really care about these children?"

    When Edna appeared hesitant, the director pushed her away again, threatening her.

    Right now this moment.

    She became a staunch underdog.

    "I, I , sincerely "

    Don''t lie! It''s just self-satisfaction to ease the burden on your heart! Just pretending to come and play with you!

    "It''s not it''s not "

    "If not, please help!"

    The cries of children from all directions. A voice mixed with resentment that stimulates a sense of debt.

    Despair is so contagious that it penetrates people''s hearts so easily that they sink into the depths of the abyss.

    If it stays like this, what will my mind be like?

    Even though I, who is a stranger, is like this, Edna, who is the party involved, would be terrified.

    Wait a minute. Both the head teacher and Edna-san were too red.

    What are you doing?

    Your child is hurt! We need to start treatment first!

    As if belatedly awakened by my words, Edna said, ''Ah!'' and let out a short sigh.

    Wiping her tears and looking at her waking up, the manager said, ''He chuckled and kicked his tongue.

    Edna, blinded by debt and sympathy, couldn''t see it.

    ''The obvious craftsmanship is clearly visible in my eyes .''

    The director deliberately provoked her in front of the children.

    If you truly care about your children, you can''t.

    If Edna refuses the headmaster''s words, the children will resent Edna, and if she follows him, the children will live in guilt for the rest of their lives.

    He just took the children hostage and threatened Edna.

    There is no cause for the action, and there is no sympathy for children.

    He was full of only self-pity.

    The fortunate thing is that the director doesn''t seem to want to push Edna any more.

    If you push the injured child to the point of leaving her alone, she must have judged that she might retaliate.

    Edney-, think carefully. What is the path for children.

    Still, it was a pity that he quietly stepped down, and the manager muttered a voice that didn''t even end there.

    The man shed a satisfied smile as he entered the director''s room.

    You must have thought that this was enough for today.

    I was very angry at the act of driving Edna with the children in front.

    But more than that, I was even more angry with myself for standing still and not saying anything.

    Why couldn''t I say anything stupidly?''

    I regretted it, but on the other hand, a cowardly thought crossed my mind that whatever I said would have been of no use.

    So I got even more angry.

    thank you.

    Yes Yes?!

    I was swallowing up my anger at my pathetic me, when Edna suddenly said thank you.

    I''m dumbfounded

    I was just thinking about myself, so I didn''t really care about the injured child. Thank you for taking care of me instead, and thank you for stopping the conversation.

    With her swollen eyes, she blinked at the ice pack in Shion''s hand.

    The young boy, who was only thirteen years old, was crying, thinking that all these four months were because of him.

    And the one I put out my hand earlier...

    It''s fine. Rather than that, Edna-san should go and get some rest...

    No, no. I''m fine.

    I will very much

    As if reading the thoughts on my face, Edna smiled bitterly.

    It doesn''t make sense.

    Shion, I will treat you, Edna, don''t worry and go in.

    Ah, I have to feed the kids dinner too...

    I''ll take care of that too.

    " are you okay?"

    Edna''s gaze was not directed to me.

    She looked around and followed her gaze to find the faces of children against me.

    If I want to eat, everyone goes to my room

    are about to go in.

    I think Edna should take care of the children''s meals.

    Edna nodded slightly.

 CH 280

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 280

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (11)

    After Edna took the children to the restaurant. Only me and Shion were left in the playroom.

    As if a war had begun, a cold silence settled in the space filled with shouts and weeping.

    I did something wrong.

    The young boy''s voice cut through the gap in the silence and echoed softly.

    I lightly tapped Zion''s narrow shoulder.

    Let''s heal the wound first.

    I wanted to ask how he came back from being so injured, but decided to delay it a little longer.

    I moved to my room with the first aid kit on one side of the playroom.

    I wiped off the dirt with a towel soaked in water, then scraped up the ointment that barely exposed the floor and placed it on the injured boy''s wounded area.

    Even though it must have been a sting, Zion moved a little.

    He only poked, suppressing the groan that leaked out and endured it.

    ''Uh-huh, it''s better to cry and waste.''

    It is even sadder to see a child endure pain.

    ''If Serpens treats you, you''ll get better right away... .''

    So it''s more of a problem.

    If these wounds healed overnight, everyone would be suspicious. For the same reason, Serpens will refuse to treat you.

    Had I known this would happen

    Buying lots of drugs.

    As I was traveling with Serpens who abused their divine powers, I didn''t even think of taking medicine for wounds.

    "Would you like to drink something hot?"

    It''s fine.

    "Do you like hot chocolate?"

    That''s Okay.

    It''s because I''m obsessed with drinking alone.

    The fireplace in the room is an exposed type, not a buried type, so to boil water, you simply place the kettle on the stove.

    did it

    Lighting a fire in the fireplace, pouring water into a kettle, and putting it on top of the fireplace.

    Shion, a boy who was silently watching the series of actions, suddenly opened his mouth.

    Uncle, do you really have a lot of money?

    Huh?

    It''s a very nonsensical question.

    The look on the boy''s face in bewilderment was so serious that I had a strong feeling that he should avoid answering.

    The owner of this body, Zion Ribelon, is the count''s second son.

    Even if they say that they are a rare family, the nobles are nobles. They are wealthy enough compared to the common people.

    The only hardship that Sion had in her life was coming to the capital, living on her own, and wandering around looking for a job.

    And ''me too. Jimin was not born with a gold spoon, he managed to reach the level of the increased production.

    There was no student loan, and the pocket money was spent by the parents.

    If you don''t have enough pocket money, ask your sister.

    went and made love. Then my sister said that her eyes would rot, and threw a few bills in my face.

    Thanks to that, I didn''t even think of having a part-time job.

    '' Did I really not suffer too?''

    After coming to this world and becoming Serpence''s assistant, he enjoyed a lot more than that.

    I wore only good things and ate only good things.

    Denying no to the boy''s question would only lead to deception.

    If yes, I am worried that I will feel deprived.

    That''s are you on your side?

    After hesitating for a while, the words that finally came out of my mouth were a vague, unmistakable answer.

    Then can we buy the nursery as well?

    Uh, well...?

    Anyway, most of the money I spend was treated as an expense, so I barely touched my salary except for the money I sent to the Rivelon family.

    money is enough

    Even if it''s not enough, you can borrow it from Serpens.

    However, nursery schools are not something you can get right away if you just give them money.

    When you buy a building, you just have to report it to the state, which is a childcare facility. Many difficulties arise from the document review.

    "Isn''t that enough?"

    Yes .

    "You said your name was Sion, didn''t you?"

    Last night and this morning,

    without giving a single shim.

    Suddenly, I started to ask what kind of wind was blowing.

    You know what? The baker''s name behind our orphanage is Zion?

    Yeah, I heard.

    "I, I have always envied that man. He would always eat a lot of soft and delicious bread. I had a rough and hard bread in my hand. We had the same name, Zion, but there was nothing the same except for the name .

    Beep-, the kettle cried unnoticed.

    Shion looked at me quietly, as if he was going to wait. I got up from my seat and quickly drank two cups of hot chocolate and handed a cup to the boy.

    I have marshmallows...

    .

    I was asking if I could put one in, and I was like, ''There is, but what do you mean? Are you proud of it?'' The eyes returned.

    I put a marshmallow in his mug.

    That''s it.

    Shion, a boy who took a sip of the marshmallow melted hot chocolate, gave a brief impression.

    Actually, I knew. How absurd it was to live in a nursery while serving as a sidekick in a leather workshop. Still, I couldn''t stand it without saying that.

    Like Wendy, the children here have grown up too quickly.

    Not even a perfect adult, but an unstable adult.

    I said the words of the headmaster

    I understand to some extent what this means.

    Perhaps the director is also unstable, and that''s why he''s one of those crooked adults.

    I hate him, and I think he''s terrible, but apart from that, I sympathize with him.

    The chief''s cry was a means to drive Edna''s spirit, so there was definitely a sincerity in it.

    ''I have sympathy, I have no intention of forgiving, but .''

    It''s dangerous to empathize with someone who helps the evil forces plan. The more you feel sad, the more you need to be alert.

    First of all, I am not in a position to forgive and sleep in the first place.

    ...Hey, don''t you ask?

    What?

    I told you earlier that I was wrong.

    When adults fight, when a child says it''s his fault with a face full of guilt, it''s the adults'' fault.

    It''s not that kid.

    Perhaps he didn''t like the name Ira , the boy Shion retorted with a vociferous voice.

    In the midst of this, ''If you can see that he is dissatisfied with the word ''a child'', he is indeed a child. He is a child who wants to become an adult quickly and has no choice but to become an adult.

    To call a young man in his twenties uncle is childish, right?

    Did you keep it?

    The boy frowned when he shrugged his shoulders as a sign of free thought.

    "Anyway, uncle , what you said is wrong. I am not a child, and I have to take responsibility for my mistakes."

    I changed the name that Zion calls me. I guess I just wanted to be treated like an adult.

    I felt like a chimney to ask what happened anyway.

    Instead of arguing with the boy over trivial matters, I decided to listen to him.

    Today, a customer came to the workshop to retrieve the porridge. I''ve got something to write in a hurry, but I haven''t skinned it yet.

    It''s over... . However, Master had been away for a while, so I was the only one in the studio."

    The conversation started a bit haphazardly.

    When he recalled the situation at the time, the pain he felt when he was hit has also revived, and the boy, who had calmed down to some extent, touched the mug anxiously.

    "When I asked how much time I had left, I said that I only had to stretch the leather and smoke it, so I could do that much, but it would take quite some time anyway.

    It was urgent, so I had to get it at least an hour earlier. And if I do it even a little, it won''t end early, so... .

    Yeah, so?

    After hearing that, I think it''s true... I got greedy. I can''t just do chores forever, right? I thought it was an opportunity.

    Seeing him blurring the end of his words with a depressed expression, I can understand roughly what the English language is.

    It may seem easy to see, but

    It needs alcohol. It is impossible to get a proper result with skills that have not been properly educated and have been peeped over the shoulder.

    But, it''s extremely expensive leather..., hmmm...! The contract was canceled because the leather was damaged..., and they told me to compensate for that...

    Shion said it was her fault, but there must have been a feeling of injustice.

    The last choice was the right one made by Shion, but it was the customer who pushed the boy who refused.

    The master taught me the technique properly

    Ramen himself would not have made a mistake, and why did the customer come to him when he was alone?

    I would have been very frustrated.

    ''No, what is it? It''s the adult''s fault.''

    Complexity weighed heavily on my heart.

    But Master said that I don''t need a selfish assistant, so I won''t go to the workshop again. And, I''ll tell everyone about what happened today... If rumors spread, I won''t be able to find a job anywhere... What should I do now?

    Children don''t worry about money problems.

    "Isn''t that a little kid?"

    Yes, yes. Anyway, the teacher will take care of it, so calm down for now.

    "Are you going to lend me the money I might not be able to pay it back?"

    Of course, I thought the voice asking for a loan would come out first.

    I don''t know who taught it, but one economic concept is firmly entrenched.

    I can''t buy a nursery school, I have that much money.

    You don''t even know how much?

    You don''t even know how much I have.

    Ah?

    I just returned it the same way, but Shion kept her mouth shut like a clam in dissatisfaction.

    Anyway... I can''t go to the workshop, how do I get money?

    They said that they had a visitor to the nursery tomorrow.

    Okay, okay. Don''t worry about money, go back to your room... no, ah

    NS. Go and ask Edna for dinner.

    I''m not very hungry.

    it sounds like a big deal

    You eat rice to be strong, not because you are hungry.

    At times like this, you need to eat more. When your stomach is strong, you gain strength, and your brain works.

    "How about you?"

    Huh?

    "Aren''t you eating?"

    I''m doing it first. Teacher wait a minute..., can you see meow?

    Maybe because of what Serpence said last night, something keeps bothering me.

    ''Are what happened today just a coincidence?''

    Guess I''ll have to ask him what he thinks.

    I need to be certain to some extent before I can explain it to Edna. She''s too tired to give me consolation for my alone guess.

    A cat? A stray cat? Haven''t you seen anything like that around here?

    "It''s a cat as white as snow, so you probably couldn''t see it because it was buried in the snow. Did I feed you yesterday?"

    Heh... that''s pretty.

    Of course! Who''s new?

    At least I don''t think it''s the teacher''s cub...

    It is an image of a foolish sentient being caught up in stereotypes.

    I wanted to help the boy wake up by showing Serpence, but the time is not yet.

    I''m shy, so I''m still introducing myself

    I can''t give it to you, but I''ll definitely show you later.

    I don''t want to see you that much...

    It''s because I want to brag.

    Before I leave, I''m going to do a health checkup for the kids.

    I don''t have the ability to do that, but it doesn''t matter since Serpens has the ability.

    According to the founding myth of the Illuminati, the leader and his aide were in a relationship that filled each other''s gaps.

    In other words, his ability is no different than mine.

    If it doesn''t work, you can use the filial piety.

    Ahh! Until then, talking about cats is a secret from other kids? He''s a timid guy, so he might run away.

    "The teacher came yesterday, how do you know that?"

    Just by looking into your eyes.

    How come you don''t believe it?

    Why?

 CH 281

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 281

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (12)

    After the boy Shion left the room.

    I opened the window and took three steps back.

    "Aren''t you treating me like a cat while introducing myself as a cat?"

    I''ve been listening since when, Serpens said bluntly as he landed softly like a cat.

    After hearing the words ''Meow, let''s eat mamma,'' the guy who took the mamma was also dissatisfied.

    many.

    It''s just a code name. It''s an absolutely essential element in spy stuff.

    Seeing you talking nonsense, I guess you''re feeling refreshed.

    said the boy with a bitter smile.

    It must have been that he was hiding and watching from the time the manager started talking uncontrollably.

    Seeing that I think it''s easier to explain than the discomfort of being watched, I think I''ve gotten used to this guy a lot.

    "Because my mind is healthy, my recovery is quick.

    will. Adordo, follow me.

    Serpens ignored me and locked the window.

    So what do you think, Ador?

    Even so, I was going to come over at night with a related problem, but I can tell you now.

    Even to the endless questions, he answered them plainly, as if he understood everything.

    It seems that there is even a corner for straw.

    I was very curious, but listen to him

    Before I go any further, there is one thing I need to point out.

    I''m here to talk now, so you don''t think that you don''t have to come at night, do you?

    Conversation leaks sideways again.

    Ador keeps avoiding answers, so the conversation is getting longer, aren''t you?

    Yeah, yeah. Got it. I''ll definitely come to bed tonight.

    I don''t know why you''re saying it twice as you only need to paste it once.

    It wasn''t like this before. cut like that

    I don''t know where I learned the habit of talking in the street.

    I wasn''t sincere in answering, but I''ll keep as long as I tell him about his personality.

    Okay. Then you can talk now.

    " Why did I become like ejaculation?"

    Ah, let''s talk quickly. That way I can eat too, Meow feeds me, and I can talk with Edna-san.

    If anyone hears it, they''ll know that there are other cats to take care of besides me.

    No, no...

    Involuntarily waving his hand to answer, something is strange.

    As soon as I stopped talking, Serpence tilted her head as if puzzled.

    There was no sense of a problem anywhere in the sight of the guy who blinked his eyes haphazardly.

    Why are you looking at me like that?

    Uh, um... I''m sorry. I didn''t do well. I''ll be careful in the future.

    "What do you mean?"

    "No, just . It''s okay if you don''t know Yes, that''s it.

    From now on, even in order to maintain Serpence''s self-identity, I''ll have to stop treating him as a cat in front of him.

    "Anyway, do what you want to say quickly."

    Ummm..., yes.

    He still had a look of embarrassment, so he nodded reluctantly at my continued urging.

    The director was exchanging letters using the upper side of Rossio and Jeonseo-gu.

    ''''Is it Jeon Seo? He, the rain that delivers the letter

    Two?"

    okay.

    Serpence answered my question with a pout.

    I was pissed off because of my behavior for turning the topic around without even explaining what I was sorry about.

    ''If I let it go, it will be fine.''

    Rather, the director was stuck in the director''s room all day, so what did he do? I think he was waiting for Jeon Seo-gu.

    "By the way, how did you know that the pen pal was from the top of Rossio?"

    "The word pen pal is a bit no,

    That became the problem.

    "Ji said it and it became Ji."

    In the morning, a pigeon flew into the principal''s room, and the director wrote a letter stating that Mr. Benevolen had to stay at the orphanage for a while and tied it to the pigeon''s leg.

    Despite my murmuring, Serpens didn''t care and said what he had to say. It is her own timid revenge.

    Although the explanation was omitted, it was said that Serpens hijacked the pigeon and stole the letter and read it.

    So?

    About lunchtime, I got a reply that said, ''I''ll make the plan ahead of time, get ready.''

    The plan is...

    Instead of talking long, Serpens nodded briefly.

    That alone was enough to answer.

    ''Somehow, the manager was talking non-stop... .''

    It must have been prepared for a long time.

    Anger paralyzes reason and hardens the tongue.

    After accumulating resentment for a long time,

    If it exploded without knowing it due to an opportunity.

    I have so much to say. Because I don''t know which words to start with. I should have stuttered at least once.

    But the director seems to have been waiting only for this day. A little bit prepared in advance. It''s like someone who has been drawing the same situation over and over again in his head.

    He picked out only the words that provoked Edna and arranged them in a row like a clearing stream.

    ''And tomorrow. Even if the guests come to the nursery and play poker for the price of the leather and harm the children.

    if. And if Edna sees it... .''

    People will hate it, and the world will become resentful.

    The vicious thing about this plan is that even if Seungyi Ak didn''t manipulate it, it would have been quite possible.

    The reason I was able to calmly judge the situation and doubt it was because it wasn''t the hardships that had come to me.

    ''If I were Edna... .''

    I couldn''t turn away from the present of suffering children and the future of children who would only be left with pain, and I would have been completely swayed

    it will

    Even if I realize later that I have been attacked by the demons.

    The situation has gone uncontrollably, and my hands are already dirty to the point of being dirty.

    He rationalized himself by saying that the future that would have come anyway has only been advanced. Wouldn''t it have been so corrupted?

    "That , heh heh. What next?"

    My throat was locked in dark thoughts, so I coughed once, and then my voice came out properly.

    Seeing me like that, Serpens worried

    put on a sullen look.

    He hesitated, saying what to say to me, as he opened and closed his lips a few times with a worried face.

    Whew...

    The guy''s lips, which had been clenched several times, eventually spewed out only a transparent breath that had no concreteness.

    After the director sent the pigeon back, he burned the letter in the fireplace.

    As if he had made up his mind, Serpens came back to the point and answered my question.

    Is that the end? The director''s reply

    Don''t you?

    "The letters exchanged are all copies of those two."

    Where did Rossio''s story come from in that letter? It doesn''t seem like he wrote down the sender and the receiver faithfully?

    My question The baptized guy calmly pulled out a small piece of paper from his pocket.

    When I received it and looked closely, there was a small tangerine in one corner . To be precise, the yuzu was drawn.

    The source of this note is clearly Euges.

    ''The shape of five citrons lined up in a row is very cute and cute... .''

    It was the same as the last time that only one citron was particularly large, but there was one more than the last time.

    They are not gathered together like the last time, but are lined up, so I can clearly understand what the number of citrons means.

    Usually, if you want to draw one of the five large ones, you have to draw them in the front or the center, but the fourth citron pictured by Euges was the big one.

    '' Is this Winston?''

    Yes.

    The number of Yuja meant the number of Illuminati members.

    When the reply came, it was tied together.

    As I stood still without even opening the note because it was ridiculous, Serpens added an explanation.

    After reading the letter tied to Jeonseo-gu''s bridge, Eugene, who intercepted Jeon-seo-gu in the middle, finds out that she has been sent from an orphanage.

    Similarly, in anticipation of Serpence intercepting Jeon Seo-gu in the middle,

    It means that he has spread his news through Jeonseo-gu.

    . Did Ador also reply?

    Serpens nodded as if it was natural.

    Have you ever seen such bold people?

    What did Ador draw? Five cats?

    I''m going to open it anyway, but there''s no need to mark it on the outside. Shouldn''t I be asking what was written?

    Moon Hyun Woo is the answer.

    First of all, I decided to read Eugene''s note first before asking for Serpence''s reply.

    When I opened the note, I caught my eye with a round, round handwriting like a yuja grain.

    [Check the discoloration of the badge''. Discovering a place believed to be their hiding place. What''s next? ]

    Just like the last time I received it, only the purpose was written briefly.

    ''Badge is a commemorative badge with a black magic detection function given to you by the Luxmea Church, and, needless to say, they must be referring to a demon.

    Black magic has been found, and it seems that there is a demon hiding somewhere at the top.

    It seems that Euges was immersed in espionage play.

    What did Ador reply?

    The letter in the letter said, ''Before the plan is clear, you have to wait in the vicinity for now.

    Is it Eugenes sending Jeon Seo-gu or someone at the top of Rossio? It''s an incomprehensible statement.

    "Should I say I''m glad that I have a way to keep in touch on a regular basis ?"

    Is there any problem?

    "No, I don''t it''s a good thing "

    It''s not enough to secretly read a letter from someone else''s Jeonseo-gu, and even deliver your own letter.

    Do you usually come up with this idea?

    Anyway, that''s over. Can I tell Mr. Edna about the letter?

    Ummm..., yes.

    The answer is not at all cool.

    There''s nothing to be bothered about, so if you hit the top right away, that''s it.

    Because it''s lame.

    Serpens said with a frown on his forehead, as if he had a headache.

    Why? It''s been said that some magic has been detected, can''t we just attack?

    Shh. Say that with a low voice. What would you do if someone heard you outside?

    While you are aware of all the signs around you, let''s sell our worries.

    If it bothers you that much, it''s all in a whisper.

    Inducing the top to terrorize,

    Isn''t it strange that there are demon worshipers inside the top?

    As if he had even read my thoughts, Serpence immediately shared his opinion in a whisper.

    It''s definitely strange to hear.

    "You think it''s bait?"

    She only said that the badges were discolored and that she found a place that was supposed to be their hiding place. She didn''t directly mention that she had found ''them''.

    Serpens nodded lightly.

    The guy clearly speaks a complete sentence

    I did, but as I said, the explanation is not enough.

    After asking the question in detail once more, do you want me to praise your agility?

    So?

    Probably there will be no one there. When attacked from outside, it is doubtful that a device to disguise as if it had been subjected to black magic was prepared.

    I''ll tell you about it first.

    Hearing my answer, Serpens nodded once more. When he''s done, he''s thinking of going out the window again.

    Gee, it clicked and released the latch.

    I quickly put my hand on his head before the window opened.

    Aww, our Ador. You''re smart too!

    ... What are you doing?"

    "Didn''t you just ask for a compliment?"

    I didn''t...but it''s not bad.

    I guess I misunderstood because he is like a child who always wants praise.

    but how about

    As a result, he was satisfied, so it''s all right.

 CH 282

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 282

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (13)

    After having a late dinner, I went to see Ed Na, who had finished eating first and rested in the room.

    Even though the children were still awake, she was alone in her room.

    "What are you doing?"

    As soon as I knocked, Edna asked a question from beyond without even opening the door.

    I''m here to tell you something.

    "Today, I have a lot to think about, so I want to rest "

    The door is still firmly closed.

    There was a slight cry in his voice.

    I know it''s hard, but I have to do it now.

    Then please wait a moment.

    Not long after, the door opened, revealing Edna with red eyes.

    Even when I was playing with the children during the day, my life came back. In just a few hours, my face was pale.

    Come on in.

    The room allotted to me was on the wide side, and Edna''s room was narrower than that.

    After she suggested me a small auxiliary chair, she sat down on the bed.

    What''s going on?

    Well, maybe today''s work is evil...

    Wait.

    Edna cut me off], of magical power

    I spun a long thread and created ice-cream magic.

    Can I keep using soundproofing magic? Even though there is a soundproofing magic scroll, you don''t use serpenes and you just say quietly and quietly?

    Since Serpens couldn''t have forgotten the existence of the soundproof scroll, there must be some reason.

    "Isn''t that because of the baby?"

    Edna replied as she looked at the baby glued to my chest.

    Do you know if you''re talking about yourself?

    -!, and roared. It gives me so much strength that I doubt whether I''m seeing a big deal.

    Seeing that my butt wasn''t hot, I guess I just didn''t like it when I was sitting still.

    As soon as he got up from his seat and shook his head lightly, the baby''s face immediately became more comfortable.

    The sound that was close to howling was ''Oh, uh-, uh .'' It turned into a small whimper.

    Maybe it''s a reaction that hasn''t been properly managed, or it''s a great show of presence.

    Not a moment is silent

    I continued to carry such a baby, and the sound of your baby''s cry felt like a bgm.

    Isn''t it something like that, if the baby is quiet for too long, I''d be suspicious? I''m a wizard, so there''s nothing strange about using soundproof magic, Min-, I''m not Shion-san. It''s strange to use that expensive soundproofing magic scroll when I''m alone.

    Since I''m rich, wouldn''t it be okay to just use a few scrolls?

    No matter how expensive it is, no one abuses the scroll for trivial things.

    A certain duke of the Holy Empire abused it, but there seems to be no such person in the Kingdom of Prune.

    Is it a difference in GDP?

    "I , so what are you going to say ?"

    Ouch, look at my mind.

    I looked at the baby and then stopped blinking.

    I mean, Zion came today after being beaten.

    maybe.

    You call the demon worshipers so friendly.

    It''s annoying to call them demon worshipers. When I call them demons, I feel like, ''Oh my, that''s sublime!''

    Ah yes.

    Edna cursed me with a look on her face and answered with a tremble.

    It seems I''m the only one who feels that way.

    ''Am I the only one in this world who calls demons evil!''

    For some reason, I feel like a comedian who pushes the buzzwords that no one follows.

    "Still it seems insignificant."

    I guess I made a sad tea without knowing it, and Edna responded reluctantly.

    That made me even more miserable.

    "So, is it true that this evil Sungi''s scheme is real?"

    Edna asked the question in an adult-like tone, as if she had been crippled because she did not properly call the name she gave to the doll.

    it feels so weird It''s a strange feeling that can''t be put into words.

    Did Serpence, who was treated like a child, feel this way?

    I''m not 100% sure, but it''s pretty much true. Serpens says, I think the chief of staff informed the person at the top of Rossio that Mr. Edna was going to be staying here for a while.

    That Austin bastard...! He asked me to knock down the top, what the hell was he thinking .

    Ah! That''s it, from Euges.

    I got a call, but it seems that black magic has been detected inside the upper part. A commemorative badge of the Luxmea Church No! It''s confirmed with the badge of honor, so this information is certain.

    Edna''s expression changed strangely after hearing my explanation.

    Excuse me, Mr. Sion. Do you know that the words you are talking about are playing separately? Sion is..., no. Not Mr. Sion, but... Ah, I''m confused.

    "I understand everything, just tell me."

    you]. Anyway, the story of Shion''s injury

    Hardy and Austin are communicating with the top of Rossio, doesn''t it mean that some kind of magical power has been sensed from the top of Rossio? .

    Edna complained of a headache from information overload.

    Maybe I skipped the explanation too much.

    When the director sent a letter to Jeonseo-gu, they replied that the plan was to be moved forward.

    Shion-san, do you mean to say that the plan was to hurt Shion?

    To be precise, Edna-san ran out of control.

    The plan is to make them attack the top of Rossio.

    In other words, he lured me to the main altar at the top of Rossio, and the evil... Sungyi who was hiding there counterattacked...

    This time, whether the information given was insufficient, Edna gave the wrong answer.

    No! No, the purpose is to make Edna look like a magician by leaving traces of black magic . said Serpens.

    I hope... to summon the demons as sacrificial children and put them on me.

    Are you planning on?!

    Edna screamed in surprise.

    I was also surprised by her words. Oh, too, in surprise, he muttered, ''Wow-, uh-!''

    I fixed the baby, hugged him, patted his back to calm him down, and calmed my startled heart.

    No, no. Doing that would make Mr. Edna have a grudge against the evil forces, right?

    Yes?

    Yes?

    Seeing Edna reacting as if she couldn''t understand what I was saying, I had no choice but to ask her the same question as I didn''t understand her.

    "Just using children as sacrifices to summon demons, I can''t help but hold a grudge against them, right?"

    So, why do you demons do such a thing?

    After saying that, shouldn''t it be okay if you ask me that way?

    Oh right.

    The devil''s plan is in demon possession

    I should have told you that I changed to Scout first.

    Somehow, he understood the words strangely, but the underlying prerequisites were wrong.

    The ultimate goal of these bastards is to recruit Mr. Edna.

    "Didn''t you say that their purpose is to destroy the spirit of the anima by summoning demons as sacrificial children and turning me into a vessel for demons?"

    I guess the plan has just changed, huh?

    "The original plan is always changing.

    is that right? If a better idea comes up during a meeting and is adopted, it can change!

    She quietly kept her mouth shut, but it seems that her double bathing from the tower is heard in three-dimensional surround.

    Such a terrifying expression.

    "Now , whoops are you kidding me?"

    She picked and picked her words, followed the standard language rules, and asked me with honest and gentle words.

    Perhaps I was conscious of the baby I was holding. Even if you can''t understand the words, negative and aggressive swearing is not good for your baby''s emotions.

    So what are you telling me to do? Seeing children suffer, are you just going to be patient? You know how much I care for the children here, Mr. Xion.

    I don''t mean that...

    I''m sorry. I know this isn''t Shion-san''s fault... But, by the way... I don''t know. I''m so confused right now.

    Saying so, Edna crouched down, grabbing her head.

    It seems that the manager had shaken Edna''s mind properly.

    She tried to look as good as possible, but she was almost at her limit.

    I have only believed and followed Mr. Sion''s words, but if you suddenly change your words like this.... The credibility will only decrease. I want clear and reliable information.

    Looking down at her in pain, I made up my mind.

    If Mr. Edna becomes the devil''s vessel, Mr. Anima will be angry. But that doesn''t mean Mr. Edna is freed from the devil.

    Mr. Edna, do you want Ms. Anima to be frustrated and crumble as she is?

    Now... what are you talking about?

    It can''t be, huh? And Animi knows that too. She''s the one who knows Edna best.

    "...Sion-san?"

    I ignored all of Edna''s objections.

    It will be easier for her to understand if you just keep talking on your own, rather than giving each one an answer and then the conversation gets messed up.

    If Mr. Edna becomes the devil''s vessel, Mr. Anima will kill the demon in Mr. Edna''s disguise so that Mr. Edna will not be mistreated by the devil any longer. And he will become stronger for revenge.

    Wait

    Eating the power of the Holy Swords party

    That''s their purpose, but that''s a wake-up call to increase power... . Are you so stupid?"

    Shion-san, what you said earlier...

    If Corruption had tampered with this plan, it might have had a different outcome.

    ''Did you plan to corrupt Edna like you are now?

    The bastards of the evil faction used to subtly evade the Corruption Fence on the subject they were scouted for.

    Because of that, the Corruption fence is the Book of the Demon King.

    There were several schemes that excluded him even though he was serving as a servant, and Ednaga''s becoming a devil''s vessel is one of them.

    ''It was fortunate from the point of view of the Continents.''

    It was only the Demon King who saved the Corruption Fence, but considering that the Corruption Fence slashed the back of the Demon King''s head... .

    That demon king of that demon. very dumb dumb

    "Sion-san?!"

    Ah! I''m sorry. I was thinking about something else for a while...

    [Master of the Holy Sword] I must have been absorbed in the recollection of the contents for too long.

    It was only after hearing Edna''s call that I was able to break free from my thoughts.

    "Anyway, the problem is that even the Demon Lord knows that fact. So, the plan must have been changed. So that Edna-san chooses the evil faction at her own will."

    Even if I ask a question, I don''t answer, so I guess I changed my mind to just quietly waiting for my words to end.

    Edna still looks confused

    by. But with deep, still eyes. looked at me and listened to me

    The plan to drive Edna into a warlock is probably part of that. If you''re a criminal enough just to terrorize the Rossio top, if you even use the name of a warlock. Even the children of the nursery school will be treated as heresy. The situation is there. If it goes all the way, Edna-san has only one path to choose from, right?"

    Ҷ...

    Edna sighed a little. She realized another thing.

    If you find a ghost of black magic at the top of Rossio, you''ll realize that everything is a devil''s trick.

    It is true that it is difficult for the powerless to live in this world.

    That''s as long as people exist. As long as people feel various needs, it is an unchangeable reality.

    Akseung just shook the glass full of water.

    What is overflowing is the reality she has personally experienced.

    And if Mr. Edna voluntarily takes the side of the evil spirits, then Anima-san will also join the evil forces.

    yes... I guess.

    She nodded her head with a gloomy expression.

    I understand what you are saying, Mr. Shion. But I want to ask you one thing...

    I know what Edna is wondering, because I said it like I knew the future?

    That''s right, it sounds like you''re talking about the past.

    As for the answer to that question, I''ve already told Mr. Edna.

    "Yes ? When?"

    As if she couldn''t remember, Edna had a puzzled expression on her face.

    When I talked about the messenger of the gods, he snorted, saying it was vain. The shape I erased from my brain as it is

    "Do you remember well?"

    "Um well, I don''t know."

    "Do you remember when I said I was the head of the Illuminati?"

    .. Yes?!

    Talking about it in advance definitely helped.

    Edna jumped up and made eye contact with me standing there.

    "Ah , somehow. It sounds suspicious."

    It''s not the prime minister, it''s the chief.

    "Anyway now everything makes sense."

    As if the strength in her legs had loosened, Edna slumped back on the bed and murmured.

    Let me formally greet you again. Zion, the head of the secret society Illuminati.

    It''s called Rivelon.

    If you hold the baby in your arms and wiggle your ass to set the mood, you don''t seem serious at all.

    "Are you going to pretend you don''t know that?"

    I want to do that too, but I''ve been so concerned about you since before...

    No, is that my fault? If you stand still, the child keeps whining!

    There is a limit to shaking only with your arms.

    The baby was so heavy that I couldn''t help it.

 CH 283

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 283

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (14)

    The morning of the third day of life at the Eloween Orphanage was bright.

    After crying all night long, the children and Edna''s eyes were swollen with the children sitting around the table.

    In fact, the goddamn manager who created this saddle was either sleeping or not waking up.

    ''I haven''t looked at the face of the person I hate in the morning

    One thing is good!''

    Korak Sunny, who is enjoying oversleeping comfortably after turning inside out on others, was very upset, but I liked the fact that I didn''t have to eat with uncomfortable people.

    I''m sure I''m going to pretend that I was shy with the manager in my current mood.

    The meal took place in silence.

    I was chewing on cheap bread soaked in soup and soft and chewing on the inside, but I heard a strange noise from the playroom.

    ''What is this sound ?''

    When I listened closely, it was a human voice.

    I was thinking of pretending not to know if the manager would get up and flirt alone, so even if I tried to ignore it, the infrequent voices seemed to be having a conversation.

    I''ll see you.

    Edna also got up from her seat and said that she was worried about the sound of her words.

    As she reflexively turned her gaze, more than half of the bread and mulgan soup in front of her came into view.

    It''s only because the person who cried for a long time last night ate poorly. You will not have enough energy to survive the day.

    I''ll come to see you, Edna-san, let''s go eat.

    I motioned for Edna to sit down, took a bite of the bread I had almost eaten, drank the soup, and got up.

    You don''t have to...

    You can''t vomit what you''ve already eaten. All right, just sit down.

    I don''t have any appetite anyway, so I''ll stop eating.

    I was thinking.

    What a big deal! Edna, then the kids will see it and imitate it.

    Without looking far, even though they are not in the mood to eat right away, there are not one or two children sitting in their seats.

    The children stopped eating and looked at me and Edna.

    ''If Edna goes out of the restaurant, then she will get up from her seat.''

    When children stop eating because they are not feeling well, out of control happens.

    If you skip breakfast because you are not in the mood to eat breakfast, you will be hungry before lunch, and then you will be looking for snacks.

    and then?

    There is a sweet aftertaste characteristic of snack food in the mouth, but there is no such thing as a plain lunch.

    If I skip lunch, I get hungry again before dinner time, so I eat a lot of snacks.

    Then you skip dinner because you''re full, and eat late at night because you''re hungry. When the next morning comes, my stomach hurts

    It makes you look bloated and skips meals again.

    Even if you don''t have any snacks to eat.

    If you skip one meal, you will feel hungry and overeat at the next meal.

    Overeating causes indigestion, skipping the next meal because you are hungry, and then overeating because you are hungry again.

    An obvious vicious cycle.

    Adults can take care of their own health and take care of themselves, but children are different.

    I''m in the mood for when I should be growing up

    If you repeat eating and not eating as it is, growth will be hindered.

    Absolutely not!''

    Edna probably had a similar idea, so she quietly sat down and resumed eating.

    I''m not in the mood to eat, so it''s a bit annoying, but it''s important that I''m eating anyway.

    After checking the appearance, I headed to the playroom.

    They don''t even touch dogs when they eat.

    What kind of child less than a dog has come since morning, we have to wait for the table

    I will

    The more I walked, the more the voice that had been humming became clearer and clearer.

    Shall I break it?

    Unless I heard it wrong, it certainly sounded like a crusher.

    I didn''t even know what the hell it was to break, but whatever it is, it''s not good to break it.

    I strengthened my legs and added speed to my steps.

    "Wait, wait!!"

    As I hurriedly ran into the playroom, I saw people I was seeing for the first time.

    The three men stood with their shoes on the mats where the children were rolling and playing.

    Even the snow on the shoes at the entrance ticket gate seems to have just come in without wiping it off. The black and sticky snow melted everywhere in the shape of footprints.

    "I just came out , who are you?"

    From the fact that he broke in without even taking off his shoes.

    As a matter of fact, it is semi-soft from the very beginning.

    ''What else is it that you come and leave and ask who you are?''

    As if he knew in advance who was going to come out.

    Come to think of it, Serpens will talk about the contents of the letter that Wonjin sent], but there was no mention of me.

    Perhaps the director, who thought it was not a very important matter, just omitted it.

    I''m a daycare teacher who started working here a few days ago. That''s you.

    Who are you?"

    "Did you not hear anything from that kid?"

    After hearing my introduction, the man in the fur coat smirked, as if he thought it was nothing special.

    The other two were just wearing woolen coats, but considering their size, they look like a fur coat man''s escort.

    "If it''s that little boy , that !"

    It must have been the customer who had handed over the leather care to the boy Shion and made a riot to compensate for the damage.

    A fraudulent act of deliberately extorting money from an injury is enough to call it self-harm blackmail.

    However, he was speechless, not knowing what to call a person who deliberately caused material damage and then extorted money.

    "Is that the one who hit our kid?"

    Hit me? I? I''m not that savage

    The fur coat man wisely replied. The gigantic rings on his fingers gleamed like knuckles.

    Three corns in one punch are enough

    it looks like it''s going to go away

    ''It doesn''t look very savage.''

    Or it may mean that you don''t have to because the hunks standing next to you do the savage for you.

    "I think you just heard about breaking it?"

    That''s what my faithful employees said.

    The latter prediction was correct.

    Anyway, the guest . No, it looks like he was right.

    Not Edna, but me.

    good luck I have to give the public money before the children who have finished their meal come out and drive them out quickly.

    "So how much is it?"

    35 million Ash.

    ...Yes?!

    It sounds like you heard a ridiculous amount.

    Calmly, calming his mind, he picked his ears and asked the question again.

    "What did you say?"

    35 million Asgo.

    Only one piece of leather?!

    Reshin?"

    The monthly maintenance cost I receive from the Imperial Family is 3 million ass. 35 million is more than ten times that number.

    Even if there is a penalty for canceling the contract, even if it is expensive, it is too expensive.

    "Yeah what do people who aren''t with you know?"

    said the fur coat man sarcastically.

    ''If you''re going to say that, come in wearing a coat that looks more expensive.''

    The shiny thing is pretty high quality

    It looked good, but it was nothing compared to the coat I had in my subspace pocket.

    For me, who suffers from the cold, the coats that Serpence bought me were not shiny, but booties and gauties.

    The price of leather is 7 million, the clothes that were contracted to sell are 23 million. And the penalty is 5 million Asda, that''s it.

    Mouth was wide open.

    ''What kind of leather made it so expensive? And what kind of clothes have over 20 million Ashu?!''

    It''s not a famous clothing store in the capital, but at a clothing store in a small estate, such a price is

    I didn''t know it would come out.

    I just didn''t know because I never bought clothes with my own money when I came to this world. Looks like the original clothes are expensive here.

    Come to think of it, he must be too, there was no such thing as a sewing machine in this world.

    I thought that it was worth the price as it was made by sewing one stitch at a time with craftsmanship.

    "It''s an amount that a poor commoner like you can''t even touch in their lifetime.

    Contrary to what he expected, not really

    is not

    Even if I add up the price of the magic scroll in my subspace pocket, the sound of billions comes out of it.

    Even if it''s not that, if you think of the goods swept from the pawnshop in the dark district or the legacy of Ladrava, it''s like, ''About 35 million ah .''

    As he regained his composure, he felt a sense of incongruity in his words.

    "Wait a minute. Is there something wrong with the calculation?"

    It''s weird, what''s weird?

    You don''t really feel weird? They sell clothes. From what they did, it looks like you''re running a store. Would you be okay with that kind of money?

    What, what?!

    Just asking a question, the fur coat man''s face frowned.

    No, think carefully. The price of leather was 7 million, and the price of clothes was 23 million? But isn''t the price of leather, which is the material, included in the price of clothes? So, it is correct to subtract the duplicate 7 million ass once.

    fur coat... . In short, Monam shuddered and shrugged. That reaction meant that he made that calculation knowingly.

    When I saw him being stabbed with a lever, I couldn''t help but laugh out loud.

    If you did that on purpose, it''s an outright fraud, and if you did it without knowing it... it''s not a sin to be stupid, so I''ll forgive you this time.

    As I said with a snort, Monam''s face flushed red.

    Not only that, but a part of the 16 million ass is the price of other subsidiary materials,

    recipe. Did you use those subsidiary materials? Haven''t you written it yet? Did you say that sub-materials would rot if left alone like food? Isn''t that too? So that price has to be excluded.

    "But I don''t know if I will use those materials in the future or not "

    Then bring those subsidiary materials. Then you will pay for it. Where are you planning to steal money?

    I intercepted Monam before he made excuses.

    "And the remaining amount is the cost of labor and time of the craftsman who makes the clothes.

    but... . I didn''t make it, so it doesn''t matter.

    I didn''t receive my order in an hour to make the original clothes, so the cost for that .

    Then you should have charged it, not the price of clothes you didn''t make.

    This is a very funny jjamppong.

    "So how long is that period?"

    Hey, one month.

    "Hey, not even Gura. It''s so short, that he gave a young boy who was not a professional craftsman a piece of leather worth 7 million Asuna.

    Haven''t you entrusted it? If I had to wait an hour or so. In a month, if I didn''t sleep for just two minutes a day, I would fill an hour!

    This time, as if there was no room for excuses, Monam did not say anything and dyed her face red and purple.

    "The price of leather is 7 million, and the penalty is 5 million. If you add it up, it''s 12 million, but considering the amount of time wasted, let''s settle for 15 million, right?"

    "Do you have the money for that?"

    Monam asked in a confused voice.

    all.

    I thought I was going to ejaculate while holding my pants crotch because I didn''t have the money, but when I said confidently, I was embarrassed.

    "Before that, we''ll start with the compensation that that side should give to Zion."

    What?! I lost money, so why do I have to pay him?

    Yeah?! You beat someone and have them cut off at work, and you were just going to move on?!

    Originally, I was going to just give the money and kick him out quickly, but I was too worried.

    The tone has changed.

    ''If you''re going to hit the price, you should hit it moderately.

    The reason I felt that way in the first place was because of the children and Edna.

    I was planning on secretly handing the money before they could see it, but it was already too late.

    While pointing out Monam''s calculation error, everyone was after eating and snooping in the hallway between the dining room and the playroom.

    I glanced around and saw Edna''s determined face and the nervous boy Shion''s face.

 CH 284

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 284

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (15)

    "What else do I say why is that my fault?"

    Mo-nam-i shamelessly denied his mistake.

    "I heard that you asked me to wait for Master to come, but that''s okay, so you asked Shion to take care of the leather?"

    From what I have seen, the duke of the Holy Empire

    It''s my 3rd year as an assistant.

    As a matter of fact, in three years of Seodang-gae, he sings a good month, but in three years as a duke''s assistant, he does not go anywhere and is not deceived.

    Now, when they collide with Slertia, they are confident that they will cut the amount of compensation in half, using the negligence of both parties as an excuse.

    At the time, she was embarrassed that she was not a scammer, and lost her mind because of the expensive scroll price.

    ''If it was Serpens, you would have noticed, but... .''

    In retrospect, this guy told me

    It seems that he deliberately pretended not to know to fill the leash of ''a huge debt''.

    To gain more dominance in my relationship with myself. And it was a ploy to prevent me from escaping after giving out my resignation letter.

    When I think back to the past when I was terrified of being fired because of that guy''s debt, it must have been.

    This is conjecture, not conjecture.

    It was in the past anyway, and I paid off everything thanks to Ladrava''s legacy, but the overwhelming feeling I felt when I was in a huge debt was dizzying whenever I remembered it.

    all.

    All of a sudden, the guy turned ugly.

    Next month, I think I''ll have to put a cinnamon candy in the guy''s candy bottle to get the hang of it.

    ''anyway! I''m not the sloppy me of the old days who didn''t drink social water anymore, this is it!''

    I squinted one eye at Shion, who was nervous, and Edna, who took out the magic staff.

    I''ll take care of everything, so just trust me and wait.

    "What are you going to do with me now?"

    The reaction to the wink came out of nowhere, from Monam''s side.

    He shuddered as if he saw something he couldn''t see and took a step back.

    Whatever you do, I can''t cut it anymore.

    ''''Hey, are you talking so strangely? What the hell do you think you cut? I''m just pointing out that he miscalculated! You acknowledged that, didn''t you?

    Even the demons spit, if you''re going to do something, you''ll have to do it to someone with a bit of a brain.

    Unknowingly, my tongue twitched at the pathetic look.

    Anyway... if he insisted on not doing it to the end, how would I have entrusted him with it? The little kid, the trickster... I guess he didn''t say that he could do it.

    As if he couldn''t find any words to refute my words, Monam turned around.

    He babbles alone and babbles, but there is no other kinky person who talks like a child because he is a cunning child.

    But why did you say half-talk from a while ago?

    Are you Jill? Judging by your age, you look very similar to me.

    "It''s stupid . The guy who works at such a poor orphanage and me, who has a decent store in town, are in the same grade as me?"

    Where did you come from living alone in a capitalist society?

    It is really surprising to see people judging their grades with money in a class-based society.

    Yeah, even though I''m not a noble...

    ''''I mean, I''m also a maker of nobles'' clothes!

    I don''t know what to do with it

    I will

    Monam makes clothes for noblemen, but I am a nobleman who wears them.

    I didn''t have any money, so it was obvious that I was trying to solve it with words, so I patiently listened to it with wide generosity...!

    If you had calculated it correctly from the beginning, we wouldn''t have wasted time with each other. You can''t buy intelligence with that sloppy money, do you?

    Monam''s face turned red as if he had been stabbed by Jeonggok.

    Maybe he didn''t manage his blood pressure properly, so he grabbed the back of his neck.

    ''''This child... !

    One of the two escorts standing as if in the background rolled up his arms and took a step forward.

    Another supported Monam as she was about to step back a bit.

    It looked cool to have escorts on both sides, so I thought they were bringing two people, but surprisingly, the roles were well divided.

    "Is he the one who hit our child? He came here in a very bad condition. How much would it cost to receive treatment at the church ."

    Now that I see this, you are a complete self-harm blackmailer! Meet the new official with just a little bruise?!

    Monam, pretending to be pitiful, shouted while being supported by the escort.

    The loading dock is also oily resin. That''s not what the one who committed the blackmail scam would say.

    What?! That little kid was beaten by that size, and he only got bruises? It''s because he''s so proud that he doesn''t pay attention because he''s worried about money.

    When I asked Serpence, who came to me last night, he replied that he would have to facilitate the details.

    First of all, I said that it looked like it was just bruises, but these guys aren''t experts in that field anyway. It doesn''t matter if you don''t know

    You have to give me 500,000 ass for treatment. The denomination measures the cost of treatment differently depending on the income, so that''s about it.

    no no! Wait a minute! You said I didn''t hit you!

    Yes, yes. The faithful escort over there must have beaten him.

    So no!

    Yes?

    Mo-nam said while beating my chest as if it was unfair to him.

    The person who got hit is right next to you, and you lied like that. it''s really fucking stupid

    I snorted at him and looked at Shion, who was watching from the corner.

    "I, there Sir, the one who hit me was

    It''s not that guest, it''s my teacher... ?

    ...Huh?

    Look! I said no!

    At Zion''s words, Monami shouted with a sense of urgency.

    I''m not a self-proclaimed savage person. It seems to be a caution that deceives but not children.

    "Then, did you get that 500,000 ass from the master of the leather workshop . No, why do you confuse people by carrying two of those sizes with you?"

    What''s with all these brazen bastards?!

    Monam said as if it was absurd.

    Let''s just ignore it.

    "By the way, did you go with the escorts when you visited the leather workshop?"

    "Did you?"

    He barely pulled the corners of his lips that were about to go up.

    I threw the bait, and he bit it.

    That''s it! You''re pecking a child like that with a bunch of big guys like that.

    I was afraid of the kid, so I did what he told me to do! He threatens me and makes me take care of the leather, and if I can''t, I blame all the faults on the kid. Aren''t you embarrassed as an adult?

    What?

    Come to think of it, it''s not just one or two strange things...? Why did you entrust the precious leather care to the little girl who was only serving as a sidekick? Wasn''t this done with the intention of extorting money in the first place?

    It''s really expensive right? Does that contract exist?"

    As I approached the horse and fired, Mo Nami was visibly embarrassed.

    As you can see, there are not one or two weak points.

    ''This child... , is it the devil right?''

    The first demon I ever met was a bit rude, but he had a cruel disposition to torture his colleagues without hesitation.

    Akseungi, who served as Count Ferrarius''s aide, was engulfed in complete madness.

    The self-proclaimed Prophet of Tenebrio approached Zeon and plotted to arouse his suspicions.

    The demon that kidnapped the duke''s retired servants knew how to shake people''s minds properly.

    ''By the way, this guy is a "monam".

    I thought there was going to be an all-out forceful demonstration], and they are quietly talking to me.

    He said he didn''t even hit a child.

    So, this guy is either an idiot used by a demon, or a scammer hired for money. one of those two

    maybe it''s

    This bastard! Who do you think is a scammer...! Bring me the contract and show me?!

    How do you believe that? Who knows where the fake contracts are coming from?

    I don''t have money, so I keep trying to say things like this, but if I keep saying things like that... .

    "Are you coming out?"

    I can make 15 million ass come out of that favorite treatment!

    In a nutshell, if you don''t have money, you have to fill it with your body.

    Let''s make 15 million ass by beating me. I guess I was just being mean.

    Ah, that''s a bit difficult.

    If you''re in trouble, you''d better stop talking nonsense.

    It''s not me that''s the one who gets really in trouble, though. Monam had a smirk on his face.

    If I get hurt anywhere, I don''t know what the Serpens hiding here somewhere will do to him.

    "It is common for each other to have no evidence of ding-jang.

    Also, it is the fault of both parties to damage the leather, so let''s bear it half and half. Yes? Then 7.5 million asgo, and 500,000 asgo for treatment... . Are you going to take it to the owner of the leather workshop? Because of the shock that the child was hit by the master of the workshop, he said that if he looked at the master''s face, it would seem like a match would happen. Let''s just accept that.

    "What? Uh no, why am I "

    Why? It''s all because of you! Besides, my child didn''t get severance pay and was kicked out of the workshop, and it became difficult to find a job because of rumors about this...

    Blocking the path of a clumsy child, and taking off the shichimi! There''s no one else to worship the devil!

    Ah, demon worship! How can you curse so harshly!!

    I thought about it once, just in case, and Monam was zealous and angry.

    Judging from that reaction, it seems that he is not a demon.

    "Hey, where did you say that you were evil and a demon worshiper? They said that if you pretend you don''t know, you are like demon worshipers.

    As each, a total of 4 million ass. how is it?

    He who doesn''t have money, he''s only talking about...!

    You keep saying that you don''t have money, so what kind of tax office employee is that person? I have money too? So how much money do you have left now?

    If you can give it, give it anywhere!

    Monam said with full support. He seems to be convinced that I don''t have money.

    Haha, it looks like that because you''ve been slashing money so hard.

    If I give you 3 million Asman, will you go quietly?

    "Are you telling me to eat only 3 million Asuna and leave?"

    In the first place, how can you receive even 3 million Asus from such a poor orphanage? You must be smart.

    ''''Wow, this guy... .

    "Because this guy works here, you can get 3 million ass. What kind of person is the director here, do you think he will pay off the children''s debts by taking out the operating expenses of the nursery school?

    Hey! It would be nice if they didn''t get kicked out at all!

    Can I curse the director like that?

    What about it. Even in this chaos, he''s someone who doesn''t see me.

    As I shrugged my shoulders, Monam made an absurd expression on her face.

    Then I took the ruby brooch out of the subspace pocket and threw it to him.

    This?

    That''s a real ruby. If you sell well, you can get up to 400, but let''s just assume the remaining money is just a commission.

    "Really ?"

    That''s right. I have a lot of money. Working here, he, what... It''s like volunteer work. Yes.

    Monam, who was looking around with a brooch, put it in his arms.

    He also made noble clothes. He must have put quite a few jewels on his clothes and noticed that they were real jewels.

    "If you have a lot of money, why the hell did you cut it so hard?"

    Mo-nam, who had everything to take care of, asked as if he was sad about it belatedly.

    "Of course, I thought it would be a burden on the child. I thought I did not have to pay it back, but wouldn''t the child think differently? How does it feel to have a debt of 35 million ass and 3 million ass?"

    ''''I don''t know what kind of wretched feelings they have for children at daycare centers, so I don''t know why they do this, but don''t torment the powerless for nothing and live a good life. If you live like that, one day you will be mistaken for a demon worshiper, and the heretical inquisitors will

    They may be caught.

    Wow, what a terrible thing to say...!

    "That''s why I say use it in a good way."

    He stared at me silently for a while, then turned around and headed towards the door.

    Are you just going like this?

    The calculation is over, so let''s go.

    But I''ll set the girl a Jailbreak .

    Okay. I think I''m living poorly enough anyway, so what are you going to do?

    As Monam had a meaningful conversation with his escort, he glanced at Edna with puffy eyes.

    His complicated gaze turned to Edna.

    Edna met her gaze and made a faint expression on her face, then let out a short exclamation as if she had remembered something.

    Seeing this, Monam hurriedly ran out of the orphanage, as if running away.

 CH 285

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 285

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (16)

    "Edna, are you acquainted with Monam?"

    "Are you mean? Are you referring to the person who just left?"

    Yeah..., what...

    To call a sloppy person ugly.

    Even though I was a person who came to play chess, I did not wield violence once and went out quietly.

    too much

    Edna, the master of double lust, can''t even be called an ''ugly'' abusive language, but how would children view a guardian who demeans other people''s appearance without hesitation?

    "By the way, Shion, if you make comments that demean the appearance of someone you''ve seen for the first time Wouldn''t it be better to refrain from speaking in front of children?"

    Yes?

    She was not guilty. It was just that it was dark.

    The word "monam" is unfamiliar, so it seems to have been replaced with a similar ugliness among the words I know.

    "Did I say that I''m not ugly, I''m handsome?"

    Ah! I''m sorry. I must have misunderstood. So... you mean someone with an angular heart?

    Even after correcting the words properly, she was still too.

    No, it''s an abbreviation for a man in a fur coat?

    Why are you shortening it so much?

    It''s long.

    Ah .

    Edna with an absurd look on her face

    exhaled.

    Was it such a shock to shorten the fur coat man to monam while even demon worshipers were abbreviated as demons?

    What''s important now isn''t an abbreviation, is it?

    Ah, ahhh. Did you?

    So what''s your relationship with Monam?

    Derek... I''d rather wash the dishes first.

    I think Monami''s real name was Derek.

    Edna explains about Monamy

    As he was about to say it, he felt the children''s gaze on him and changed his words in a hurry.

    Rather than washing the dishes urgently, it means talking in a place where there are no children.

    ''''I need to go get an education right away too!

    Ah! It''s late!

    Monam and I were having a conversation in the middle of the playroom, and the children, who could not pass by, hurriedly headed to the front door.

    The problem now isn''t just tardiness.

    They are worried too.

    I wanted to keep them from leaving, but even if the education they are receiving now is unfair, it is the only line of action for the children toward the future.

    If you hold on to it, you will only have a backlash.

    If a strange person comes up to you, don''t deal with it, and come back to the nursery right away!

    Did you hear or not hear my cry? The children glanced at me and then just walked out.

    I hope the monkey doesn''t touch the children any more.

    Leaving my worries behind, I and Edna took the dishes from the dining room and headed to the kitchen.

    After confirming that there were no children following, Edna performed another soundproofing magic.

    Derek, like Austin, is a kid who lived at the same time as me at Elowyn Orphanage.

    I thought that the devil had caught a slick guy and hired him, but that wasn''t the case.

    It''s not even an orphanage group meeting. I don''t know what this is going to do.

    "I heard that you were adopted, but I feel relieved that you seem to be living well."

    It doesn''t seem like you''re living that far when you come to see me like this. You didn''t know?

    Yes. I was adopted when I just entered the tower and was busy adapting, so I didn''t hear the news properly. If you were the headmaster, you would know...

    Either the adoptive parents did not like the child''s continued contact with the person at the orphanage, or the former director''s concern for the child to adjust to the new environment. roughly like that

    According to Edna''s subsequent explanation, the mother. In other words, Derek is said to be one year younger than Edna and were once very close friends.

    Then, when it was revealed that Edna had a talent for magic, they seemed to have separated from each other because they were going to learn magic.

    Even so, the director, the fact that even the younger brother he was close with once was resenting himself.

    Edna couldn''t hide her complexity.

    The sound of the clattering of dishes is like her heart is scattered here and there.

    sounded like

    "Derek did that kid also become a demon worshiper? Is it because of me?"

    Well? Thinking about the reaction I saw earlier, it seemed like they were helping without knowing...

    I wish it were like that.

    Even if I do feel resentful. Edna was worried about him.

    By the way. Don''t you think the mother-in-law is living a very good life?"

    Yes, I''m very happy.

    Aren''t you jealous? You''ve got some reputation for making noble clothes.

    And, would you make good money?"

    "Is that something that would make you jealous?"

    She blessed Derek''s success not only verbally, but sincerely.

    Even though he hates him for harming the boy Shion, and it''s sad that it''s because of him.

    It was fortunate that he was eating well and living well.

    "Mr. Edna spares the materials necessary for magic experiments and uses the money she saved for the children. But, Monam was lucky to be adopted into a well-to-do family, so she wears good clothes all by herself.

    While I was growing up, I didn''t make a single piece of clothing for the children at the nursery school. Isn''t it silly?

    Even if I had met my adoptive parents well, I would not have been able to rise to that position if I didn''t have the skills. The reason that the child did well is because she worked hard. It cannot be defined in terms of luck. And what I do for my children is, It''s because I want to. I can''t force that responsibility just because I''m from an orphanage.

    Perhaps my question was offended, Edna''s voice sharpened.

    The more you scratch the inside, the more profanity will come out.

    momentum I''ll just have to end it here.

    "Shion-san, I didn''t see it like that, but how can someone ."

    That''s right. People I''ve been close to say that they live happily ever after. Even though they can''t be happy together, the one who hates them is the weakest.''''

    ..Yes?

    As they chattered and suddenly changed their words, Edna looked at me with one eye as if it was ridiculous.

    The hands that were washing the dishes stopped for a moment. Instead of the rustling of the moon, I could only hear the sound of running water.

    Edna is right, and I think so too. Well, being human, you can be jealous. But isn''t it that celebration and joy take precedence over that between people?

    I took the plate in her hand and wiped it clean with a dry cloth.

    "Are you testing me now?"

    No? I thought you would answer like that, but what about the test?

    Then why...

    I did, but I think Edna doesn''t know.

    "What does that mean?"

    Edna took another dish out of the dishwasher and rinsed the detergent in question.

    Why do good people show so much generosity to others and be so harsh on themselves?

    Monam''s resentment against Edna is because he has a bad heart, and it''s not Edna''s fault. It''s the same as what the manager said yesterday.

    Edna didn''t do anything wrong, so you don''t have to suffer or blame yourself.

    You don''t have to.

    She didn''t open her mouth any more until the dishes were finished.

    It looked like she was thinking deeply about something, so I didn''t even talk to her.

    thank you.

    She handed me the last bowl, along with a thank you note.

    Seeing her smile with a lighter face made me feel lighter as well.

    Spit, by the way, the ruby brooch cost... I will pay it back in narcissism.

    Ah, that''s fine. It''s as good as buying it for 150,000 Ars anyway.

    Yeah? It was 4 million ass before...

    "To be precise, I borrowed 150,000 ass and got it as collateral, but it''s okay.

    There were three witnesses, so I was proud.

    "What if I come back later to ask for it?"

    I don''t even know who I am, how can he find me?

    Edna''s gaze on me became subtle.

    A moment ago, he had looked at me with warm eyes, but suddenly he turned cold.

    You reduced the alimony of 35 million ass to 3 million, and you are buying a 40-year-old brooch for 150,000 ass.... Mr. Sion is really , that''s great.

    Edna''s words are somewhat sarcastic.

    sounded like

    If anyone hears it, they''ll think I''m a very bad guy.

    Bad guy.

    Serpence, who always came to me tonight, looked at me and murmured.

    Why are you arguing?

    That''s what I want to ask. You know what kind of guy he is, and you''re arguing all the time?

    The person he refers to must mean Darren.

    I later found out that I had paid the money back, and I asked why the manager did such a thing, but I''m sure it wasn''t me who was arguing.

    Above all else, the manager is not threatening.

    You introduced yourself in the first place? I''m not a savage person...

    gibberish.

    admit it As I said, bullshit is right.

    You wouldn''t know how frantic I was watching you.

    Uh, um... I''m sorry.

    "I knew it would be difficult for me to act right away, but in front of my eyes did I have to say such a dangerous thing?"

    Rather than doing it in a place you can''t see... , no, no �[h I was wrong. Hey! Shion, you bastard!

    I pretended to punch my head in my fists, and Serpens said, ''Isn''t that your real name?''

    looked at me with her eyes.

    I decided to pretend I didn''t know that look.

    Whoa... So, what did you talk about with Mr. Benevolen earlier?

    Serpens sighed and asked me a question. I must have been unable to hear Edna''s conversation with me because of the soundproofing magic.

    That mother-in-law is from this orphanage. My name is Derek, did you hear that?"

    I handed the baby to Serpens who nodded and sat down on the bed.

    He stared at me, but as I grabbed the opposite shoulder with one hand and turned my arm around, he quickly removed the impure gaze.

    ,It''s not unusual.''

    When he handed a bottle of milk powder, Serpence accepted it without hesitation.

    Like the guy who ate jjambab sesame seeds at the nursery school, Serpens stably held the baby and fed the bottle.

    Is that all? It seems like we''ve been talking for quite some time...

    When it comes to important things, I said vaguely

    if.

    Let''s see if I might have missed it.] One, Serpens secretly floated his luck.

    When I was young, I was quite close with my mother-in-law, but did Edna become estranged from learning magic?

    Hmm, that''s right.

    Didn''t Ador find out anything?

    When I finished my question, Serpens opened his axe again and looked at me.

    No, why again?

    Let the director tell you about

    sent to.

    Eh?!

    "I was thinking of secretly changing the content but the one who came in the morning will be enchanted by the story, so I left it as it is."

    Thinking that he had assisted my danger, he closed his sharp eyes and avoided my gaze with a guilty expression.

    Are you sorry for that? You did well. If you hadn''t talked about me anyway, you would have been more suspicious.

    Know.

    but. No, I guess I''ll just leave it alone.

    "Anyway, what is it?"

    "I wrote everything from the fact that you solved the problem this morning, and that it was Mr. Benevolen who introduced you."

    It''s like you''re such a scoundrel.

    Other than that: Sir Winston is said to have arrived in the Ferrol Territory with his former chieftain.

    In the case of Ferrol, it is the territory we got off the train. At the same time, it was also a manor with the main altar at the top of Rossio.

    I heard that the director sent a letter earlier, so Jeon Seo-gu must have flown first. At that time, he must have read the letter that Euges slipped in.

    "Did nothing happen?"

    It is said that there were a few people near the former director''s house, who seemed to be monitoring the surroundings.

    Then we''ll find out soon. No, you''ve already been caught?

    "It would be better to assume that and move on."

    It''s been less than a week since I got a fake job at an orphanage.

    The end has already begun to appear.

 CH 286

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 286

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (17)

    Serpens spoke as if he had to act immediately, but nothing changed immediately.

    Even when I woke up the next day, I prepared the same morning and played with the children.

    One thing that has changed is that the director, who was always alone in the director''s room,

    That Edna was called into the director''s office.

    ''The conversation is obvious... .''

    They''re probably trying to entice Edna to attack Rossio.

    Fortunately, Edna seems to have let go of the guilt she felt toward the orphanage classmates, and she shed the words of the director in one ear and released the words she wanted to say.

    I didn''t hear the conversation that went to Edna directly, but my guess would be correct given the circumstances.

    I''m going to call Edna into the director''s office first.

    At some point, the manager ran out as if he was running away first. And Edna with a cool expression on her face followed her leisurely.

    It is clear that he poured out a bunch of cursing so that the mind of the director was ripped off.

    Perhaps to clear his confused mind, the director took a break in the corner of the playroom for a while and then went back to the director''s room alone.

    ''Eugese and Winston want to do well... ?''

    If the order sent by Serpence through the Jeonseo-gu of others arrived properly,

    Jess is Derek... . In other words, they must be investigating the author who was the teacher of Monam and Shion.

    Winston is said to be hiding in a lodging near the nursery with the former director. If tracking is attached, you can come to the nursery immediately.

    Teacher! Me too!

    No, it''s my turn! Lina, you''ve been on it before!

    As Lina pulled Darren down and snuggled up on my back, she grabbed the back of my collar like a bridle and said:

    The children at the nursery school in Prasidus Island also seem to have fun riding the horses. Or that the ride comfort of this body is just as awesome as the Serpence.

    ''Am I being punished for saying that I usually ride a serpent?''

    It''s a bit bittersweet, but it''s good to see the kids brightened up.

    I was worried that the children would feel a sense of distance because of throwing an expensive ruby brooch at Monam yesterday, but it turned out to be an opportunity to get closer.

    With the exception of Wendy and Shion, the remaining children at the orphanage are less than ten years old.

    Whether it is 35 million or 3 million, there is only a vague concept of public big money. I don''t know what the wages are, and the prices.

    Only the results that I chased away the scary adults would have caught my eye.

    Guys, sir, you''re too hard on Sion.

    Edna, who was looking at the baby instead, said softly while I was giving the children a ride.

    Thanks to this, I was able to get out of quadrupedal walking and be able to go bipedal again.

    I stretched out to the fullest, feeling grateful to have my feet flat on the ground and my back straight.

    "Shion, are you okay?"

    Since then, I''ve been training quite a bit, so it''s okay.

    I''m glad you did.

    Edna replied with a smile.

    In fact, the fortunate thing is that I was slowly wanting to go to the bathroom.

    it is

    I thanked her inwardly and quickly headed to the bathroom. The director is in the director''s room, and the rest are playing in the playroom.

    Of course the bathroom will be empty. Without hesitation, he turned the doorknob and opened the door.

    However, there was a passenger in the bathroom that was supposed to be empty.

    Uh-, uh...!

    The scream that was about to come out reflexively was stopped by the passengers.

    Serpence covered my mouth and I

    pulled into the bathroom. Then he closed and locked the door.

    Very criminal-like appearance.

    I blinked and signaled to him what he was doing here.

    Shion? What''s wrong?!

    Edna''s worried voice could be heard from afar.

    Serpens carefully removed the hand that had covered my mouth. It means to say something to get you off your nerves.

    Oh, no! No big deal! I almost slipped and fell!

    I think Edna said something, but it''s too small to hear.

    Are you talking to yourself instead of answering my questions?

    I didn''t hear it, but I looked at him thinking that Serpense would have heard it.

    Mr. Benevolen said that you should clean the toilet.

    Did you increase your job for nothing?

    I don''t know why Serpence came, but I finished cleaning all the way and left.

    I have to

    Then, even if the conversation is long, you will have your own excuses.

    "By the way, why did you appear this way?"

    I have something to tell you urgently.

    Yours. So you must have come.

    " why are you being so aggressive? Were you surprised that I suddenly appeared?"

    Just as Ador has a matter to urgently tell me, so I have a matter to finish here urgently.

    I also wondered what it would be like to be with the same men, but if you think that someone is watching you work... .

    it''s kinda like that too

    Anyway, please tell me quickly.

    It is said that someone is coming from the upper side of Rossio.

    Judging from the way he speaks, it is clear that the director couldn''t stand it and exchanged letters with the top Rossio, and Serpens stole it again and read it.

    "Are you here for me?"

    I will.

    Serpens answered briefly and nodded.

    The manager was talking about me, so of course he should have looked into it. You must have heard the news about the visitors to the tower.

    ''And the fact that the visitors came through the introduction of the anima".

    very short time.

    I thought I should have waited for Edna to come to the nursery by hiding around here without stopping by the tower, but I quickly erased it.

    In that case, the children would have been neglected for a longer period of time.

    Edna would have collapsed while standing alone with no place to lean on.

    "Are you here to warn me?"

    Serpens, who knew what I was going to say, shook his head left and right.

    I''m here to warn you to keep your mouth shut.

    "I must have guessed it anyway "

    I mean don''t provoke.

    It seems that I usually have a lot of complaints about my mouth.

    But should I take comfort in not telling you to shut up at all?

    "But knowing that Serpence is here, you sent Jeon Seo-gu well, didn''t you?"

    It seems like you don''t know.

    ,,Eh?!,,

    Think about it -La. Sir Winston first got off the train to pick up the former chief, and Eugesie and I acted separately from the Ferolean Territory.

    Serpens continue to be together..., ah...

    As he said, Edna and I were the only ones who rode a carriage to the orphanage from the Peroles. Serpence secretly followed without being noticed by anyone.

    Besides, a letter from the head of the department containing information about me arrived safely.

    Serpense could be misunderstood that he was running all over the place to investigate, just like Eugenes.

    It has become an unintentional bait operation.

    .. Isn''t that really your intention?

    Not really this time.

    Well, okay. I''ll trust you this time.

    He pouted his lips as if he was dissatisfied with my words.

    Yours. I always believe in you, so hide well, and when it gets in danger, please rescue me right away.

    Yeah, I got it.

    As if he was satisfied now, Serpens relaxed his expression and opened the bathroom door. And it disappeared as soon as I left.

    If you look at him, your divine power

    I wonder if there is even a stealth function.

    Of course, I knew that there was no such function, but the guy''s movements were secret that much.

    With a curious mind, I pulled my head out the door and looked around, and Ed and my eyes met.

    Did you hear the door open and come to clean the bathroom?

    It''s an emergency. I haven''t gotten the job done yet.

    Wait! I''m going to clean the bathroom, so go and play with the kids.

    please.

    No, I''m so sorry that I made Shion even like that...

    What do you mean? It''s me who got a job here, and Edna-san is just staying here for a while, right?

    Let''s talk about my current settings, but Edna is like that... '' he murmured.

    Taking advantage of her hesitation, she tries to close the bathroom door again... .

    Sion-sensei, I guess you did!

    A child''s voice pierced my ear.

    "Ah that''s right. If you look at the back of the toilet, you can see through it, you can use it."

    Serpence caused an absurd misunderstanding.

    I felt my face light up and slammed the door shut.

    You don''t have to be shy! The water pressure here is a bit weak...

    Edna''s surrogate excuse heard through the door made me even more ashamed.

    It has been postponed for a while due to the appearance of Serpence.

    After finishing their work], with anger, they rubbed and washed the mold in the bathroom slowly.

    I returned to the playroom after changing wet clothes in the room.

    As they slumped down with an ego-go sound, the children started chasing and playing pranks on them.

    ''By the way, I''ve never played with Serpence... ?''

    No matter how much I consider Serpent to be (twenty) six years old, the fact that he is a strong man in his 20s does not change.

    Moreover, unlike his appearance, he has a strong and muscular body, so if I ride him on a horse, my back will be sore.

    Although teaching swordsmanship is Serpence''s hobby, it''s hard to say that it''s fun. On the day of a snowball fight, he might be killed by a ball of snow thrown by him.

    ...Let''s give this up;

    Fortunately, Serpens is an adult even though he has a body.

    Play for the development of the large muscles of a child full of divine power like Serpens.

    To that end, ordinary people will die.

    ''The Counts of Rivelon and I want to be okay... ?''

    Vivi''s hand that was ripping my hair hard is still clear.

    He''s a guy who knows how to think about his family, so I''ll play while recovering him in moderation.

    While I was dealing with the children in a leisurely way with various thoughts in my head, a cold wind blew in from somewhere.

    ''I should put some paper on the door, I can''t do this.''

    An old man with a cane and a large figure stronger than the escort that Monam Lee had brought yesterday stood at the front door.

    If the escort that Monamy brought was ''2/3 winstone, that size was a whopping 3/14 winstone''.

    Of course, it is an expression that refers to body size or muscle mass, not height.

    I remembered Serpence''s words that I had forgotten for a while while cleaning the bathroom.

    I removed the children and got up quietly from my seat.

    Who are you ?

    Even though she had not been able to convey Serpense''s words to Edna, she raised her vigilance and asked a question.

    Judging by the fact that he even hides the children behind his back, he seems to have felt an unusual energy from the unfamiliar visitor.

    I don''t know what the wizard is going to do with the vanguard.

    But the way he was trying to protect the children was very reliable.

    "Does this place welcome guests like this?"

    I''m sorry, something bad happened a while ago.

    I have some But what is your business?"

    Despite the self-proclaimed guest''s point of view, Edna did not lower her vigilance and asked again.

    Contrary to the dissatisfaction with the reception of guests, the self-proclaimed guest smiled and looked around the playroom.

    A creepy look swept the children''s faces.

    That gaze was brief, but when it passed me by, I got goosebumps for some reason. Instinctively, I felt a sense of reluctance.

    I''m here to find out about adoption.

    Was it really just a guest?

    It doesn''t feel too good for that.

    No matter how you look at it, it doesn''t look like a monkey, even if it''s a guest who came to find out about real adoption. To the extent that I have a premonition that I will never be able to give up my child.

    Is the person here my ex-wife here?

    Except for the director in the director''s office. If you want to adopt, first talk to the director in the director''s office...

    No, you don''t have to. I want

    because it is clear.

    Maybe it''s because the demons resemble the Demon King, or because they have a lot of temperament as a second-class soldier, so they seem to put all their effort into setting the mood.

    There is also an intention to confirm that Serpence is not here, but since he came here, the win rate would be higher if he just shouted out for the win.

    I don''t know if I''m cautious or stupid.

    I came here after hearing that there was a child named ''Zion'' here, and I came to the right place.

    It seems.

    Yes? Me?

    Shion, a boy with no bruises, asked, pointing at himself with a puzzled expression.

    The old man shook his head and pointed at me with his cane.

    It seems that even my portrait is circulating among the demons.

    Had I known this would happen, I would have put a teardrop that said it was effective in inducing facial recognition disorders.

    In real life, it''s not too young, but in the drama, I didn''t even recognize my ex.

    Since this is a fantasy world, I hope that it will have a similar effect.

 CH 287

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 287

    51. Infiltration with the Duke (18)

    I''m sorry, but the guest and my parents are both alive and well. If you want to adopt an adult male, how about the director who is locked up in the director''s office over there?

    No, I like you.

    It''s one of the most creepy words I''ve heard this year.

    the old man really likes me

    I know it''s not what I''m doing, but I can''t help but have chicken meat coming out.

    "I don''t like that, do I?"

    It doesn''t matter.

    Do I care?

    ''''It doesn''t matter either.

    There is no such thing as recklessness It''s not someone you can talk to.

    He said that he would come and adopt me.

    This old man is definitely a devil.

    And treat me like a son

    Far from being, my soul is the sacrifice of the Demon Lord Summon. This body will be used as a vessel for the Demon King.

    Zion Rivelon. I''m here to pick you up.

    The old man Akseungi said with a gloomy smile.

    I knew that Serpens had left me with Edna, so I came to pick up the kidnapper because I wondered what kind of cake this was.

    ''I thought Serpens would jump right out and subdue it, but didn''t it?''

    Don''t be afraid to think that it''s still safe.

    is not going to be

    When I saw you cautioned me to be careful with my words instead of telling you to shut up, I told you to provoke the evil bastard and get information.

    ''No-. I told you not to provoke, right?''

    Anyway, I think he''s going to keep an eye on the situation.

    Let''s grab it first to pass the time.

    My name is Zion Priveron? You got the wrong person.

    You think I''ll be fooled by that kind of pun?!

    Isn''t it too?

    but. I didn''t even think about it.

    What the hell how the hell did you look down on us !

    Suddenly, the old monkey began to squeak and get angry.

    In the first place, the pseudonym Serpens created was to avoid the public''s gaze, not to deceive the evil one.

    I''ve never provoked before, but if I get provoked like this at will, I''m in trouble too.

    At the end of this journey, I will have to create a new camouflage ID. Including Eugenes, of course.

    While making it, Winston and Edna''s are also made... .

    On the subject of not being able to protect one''s own body... . Could it be that he came out like this, trusting Ahae, a bloody wizard?"

    "They are afraid of Serpence, so you confirm that there is no one and reveal your true color?"

    Ugh, huh...! Really, really, really not!

    ,,Oh!!

    It was just a counter-attack, but I misunderstood you and said that you would be vigilant, thank you very much.

    I''m getting old)] Do]] I was worried because I thought I would have accumulated a lot of sesame seeds, but it seems like I was just wasting my age. Haha, that''s why I''m not sober until I''m old enough, and I''m acting like the devil''s minion.

    Mr. Zion, the author is .

    Demon worshipers...that is, demons.

    After hearing my answer, Edna gave the baby to Wendy and took the magic staff out of her sleeve.

    Like the Anima''s, the size adjustment magic was applied, and the staff, who used to be only a span, became longer in an instant like a female baton.

    As she grabbed the staff, the old monkey fixed the staff as well. Deng Chi Akseung also lowered his weight and entered a fighting stance.

    I felt like I had to do something too, so I put my hand in the space pocket and waited.

    If you are driving, you should throw away even holy water.

    "But the original purpose was not to corrupt Mr. Edna, not me.

    me? Why don''t you show up like this?

    No matter what happens, there''s always a priority..., uh huh! There''s blood! If you don''t want to see the whole building collapse, you''d better not move around.

    The old man Akseungi interrupted his speech, pointed his cane at the ceiling, and opened fire on Edna.

    If the building collapses, of course the children will be crushed.

    Edna licks her tongue and picks up a faint young blue light at the tip of the staff.

    took in

    ''Anyway, it''s a top priority .''

    I may have thought that it would get in the way, like Mo-nam took care of things for me, but it seems that there is a separate instruction.

    If the damn demon king catches me, I think he may have said that he would give me a big reward.

    It is said that capturing me is more important than the operation to recruit Anima, who is a companion of the Holy Sword and possesses considerable power.

    You don''t need this kind of attention.

    From what you can see, you seem to care quite a bit about the children here. Okay, I''ll give you a chance. If you gently hand over the author, I promise that I will never touch the children here in the future.

    it''s all bullshit

    If you don''t touch it forward, it''s obvious that you''ll touch the back or send someone other than yourself.

    Or you could break the promise itself.

    If there is anything in this world that you should never believe, the first is the Demon King, the second is the devil, and the third is the demon.

    Edna knows that too, still with a vigilant look".

    I''m getting ripped off.

    cursed

    The old monkey seems to have forgotten for a moment the fact that he was in front of the children because he was talking too much.

    As if Edna had heard the information that she was a prostitute in advance, the demons did not show any reaction.

    If that alone is not enough, yes. Not only will I dispose of the debts owed by the children here, but I will spare no effort to support them so that they can live comfortably for the rest of their lives.

    Even if Serpence is not here, it is a proposal not worth reconsidering.

    If I was kidnapped by a demon here, and Edna and the children are fine, it is natural to have doubts.

    If Edna is to protect her children and herself from Serpens''s hand, she has no choice but to join the demon.

    It seems that Anima and Ednara did not completely give up their 1+1 promotion products.

    ''Even if I try to retaliate for selling me, the devil takes me hostage

    If you limit Pence''s actions... .''

    It''s not going to happen. Let''s stop the ominous imagination.

    Serpens was hiding and protecting me, and Edna didn''t even listen to the old monkey with the back of her ear.

    I refuse.

    Perhaps remembering that the children were together, Edna''s tone became polite again.

    Naturally, only words were polite, and in the blink of an eye, she drew a magic circle in the air. During the conversation, I finish the calculations in advance in my head,

    I extracted the power and realized it at once.

    It''s difficult to complete complex magic, but it''s good for a surprise attack.

    As if the old man Akseung had similar thoughts, he created a magic circle at once.

    The magic circle created by the demon permeated the ground and shook the ground. It seems that the saying that I would destroy the water was not a lie.

    Aww!

    Surprised by the sudden chaos, the children burst into tears.

    However, the floor was a little shaky, and even the frayed cotton stuffed animal on the shelf did not roll over.

    It was because the transparent blue magic was holding the building and crayfish firmly.

    It is said that the fight between wizards is a psychological battle... .''

    This was especially the case with the magic he used for the first time.

    The old monkey tried to take me alive. When the building collapsed, there was also a buzzing noise.

    Wide-range attacks, such as creating flames

    If I use magic, I might die, so the right magic will cause an earthquake.

    The monkey who gave the hint was stupid.

    The old man Akseungi immediately dispelled the magic and cast a new magic. An ominous black magic embroidered in the air.

    On the other hand, Edna kept the magic to protect the building and drew a new magical thread.

    ''Is double casting possible?''

    I wanted to be more surprised, but the situation was urgent. Edna casts a spell, a monstrous bull is angry with me

    rum ran.

    Edna''s magic held the giant demon for a while, while the old demon''s magic was completed.

    The magic circle, which was much larger and more complex than the magic that had just been used by surprise, sprinkled black light and turned into a thick fog.

    It was steamy, and just looking at it gave me a thick and ominous feeling.

    The moment when that black mist rushes like a gust of wind and is about to overtake us.

    Kuh-!

    A man flew from somewhere, the old man evil

    It hit Sungyoon.

    The old monkey made a strange noise and jumped backwards, and the fog magic, which lost control, was scattered and scattered.

    If it had been a simple attack magic, it would have flown as it is.

    Judging by the vanishing vain, it must have been magic with a delicate function.

    Mr. Benevolen, please suppress the authors so that they do not commit suicide.

    Serpence, who suddenly appeared, calmly stopped the giant monkey and said:

    If the director had not become a human missile and had not been launched, I would have almost mistakenly thought that he was there from the beginning.

    Yes, yes?! Oh, yes!

    Surprised by the power of the human missile, Ed Na answered in a hoarse voice, making a gigantic rock fist and smashing the old monkey in the head.

    The old man who was about to get up after pushing the director passed out.

    It is the sorrow of a wizard with poor physical defense.

    Meanwhile, Serpens drew his sword

    Instead, he grabbed the big monkey''s arm with his bare hands, slipped out to his side and broke it.

    Not to the extent that the joint was pulled out, but the bone itself was broken again.

    That rumble once, twice, thrice, yes... .

    Evil! Serpens, what are you doing?!

    I hurriedly hugged the children around me, covered my eyes and shouted at him.

    A person cuts and blood splatters is an upset stomach, limbs are bizarrely broken

    It''s terrifying to see a person who is

    Whether Serpens was aware of that fact, he pulled out a blanket from the subspace and covered the giant monkey.

    Finally, he must have realized the utility of carrying a blanket with him.

    I wasn''t happy in the slightest as it was a use.

    This man is not alive.

    The external fence responded with a sad expression on her face.

    Even if you are alive now, you are no longer alive.

    It''s not meant to be a corpse.

    If you''re not alive...

    Yes. That''s what you know.

    "Well it seemed like it."

    The bones break at random, and they never make a sound of pain. It''s not something people can do.

    Even if Kwan Un-jang, who played Go during the operation to scrape the bones, came, if the bones were broken as much as I did, I would have screamed.

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], it was called the Living Dead to distinguish it from the general Undead.

    However, in fact, either way was too much for ''that''.

    He had no self, no will. It''s just a simple automatic doll made out of a corpse.

    It is a tool that uses the magic stone embedded in the heart as a raw material and the magic circle drawn on the body as a circuit to move it.

    It is more difficult to make than normal undead and costs a lot of materials to come, but thanks to two advantages that can sufficiently cover such shortcomings, it appeared frequently in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    keep the body alive

    The first advantage is that it can be used, and the second advantage is that it can be operated with regular mana stones, not hump stones.

    For that reason, it had several uses, and the most frequently used was bait to corrupt a person who lost a loved one.

    In addition to that, a demon wearing a magic restraint ball to hide black magic was often used as an escort.

    It was supposed to explode when the flow of magic stopped, so we had no choice but to suppress it in this way.

    Living Dead has that feature.

    I was the one who told Serpens about everything.

    The reason he dared to talk about what he knew of course was because of his external image.

    With a bittersweet expression on Serpence, the Living Dead wrapped around the duvet and wrapped around it once more with a divine barrier.

    The incongruity of facial expressions and actions is no joke.

    "There is a way to cut off limbs with a sword, but "

    "Oh, yes well done."

    There would be no need for such useless, ambiguous explanations. I really don''t thank you at all.

    ''Do you know that you only need to take care of your facial expressions?!''

    The desire to pursue is like a chimney.

    But, looking at his divine face and his expression submerged in excellence, it really felt like that would be enough.

 CH 288

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 288

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (1)

    When you feel some kind of resentment while watching Serpence''s performance.

    He came over and put his hand on my head. A warm energy flowed in from the top of the head.

    Yes, for some reason I was just passing by.''

    The black mist cleared right away, but I was worried about the possible impact.

    lira.

    Serpence, who confirmed that there was nothing wrong, withdrew his hand.

    "Are you going to check the kids too?" Zion asked, "Healing wounds and helping children to be healthy..., ah! Just in case you don''t know, is it safe to preserve the divine power right now? Then, just a test..."

    "It''s okay. No children are seriously ill, and minor trauma treatment is not too burdensome."

    Serpens cut me off, and said in a benevolent voice. It means to turn it on when everyone recovers.

    With a friendly smile, the boy reached out to the children.

    ''When I first came, I was so wary... .''

    Was it because he appeared in a moment of crisis? Or is it because of Serpence''s unbelievably good looks?

    Not a single child refused his touch.

    Serpens placed his hands on the children and Edna''s heads one after another, as he did for me, and awakened the divine power.

    The way it emits a silvery luster is very kind and generous,

    It looked generous.

    I wonder if it''s the guy who threw people at people.

    "How are the children?"

    "It seems to be lacking in nutrition, but there is nothing wrong with his health. Also, he was not affected by black magic."

    After completing the trauma treatment for boy Shion, Serpens answered with a smile of relief.

    It was a typical external fence, but thanks to the appearance of the evil monkey, the confused children quickly calmed down.

    At the opening ceremony, there was a child who smiled brightly saying that an angel had appeared.

    The image of him folding the Living Dead seems to have been erased from his mind.

    "Ahhh! Serpence, that person . No, he''s not a person? Anyway, if he''s not alive, can we put it here? Anyway, it is."

    A thought that suddenly came to mind, I raised my subspace pocket and asked Serpens a question.

    very brief moment. In Serpence''s gaze looking at me, the feeling of ''I''ve seen all the crazy crazy guys'' passed by.

    Whoever sees it, the guy quickly corrected his expression and made up a smile that seemed to be confused.

    "I don''t know if it''s possible... or not."

    "Shall we give it a try?"

    "If possible, it could affect other objects in the subspace pocket:"

    I am a serpent who speaks as if analyzing

    I proudly held out my hand.

    He stopped talking and, with an expression of ignorance, placed his hand on my palm.

    If in doubt, don''t do it. There is absolutely no reflection.

    "Not your hands, but the Serpence''s subspace bag. Why don''t you try the experiment by moving the contents together?"

    "Ah ."

    Serpence quickly withdrew his hand with a look of embarrassment.

    The boy Shion has the white jade-like skin of such a guy and the white snow that sparkles under the moonlight.

    Looking at the hair reminiscent of ?" he murmured.

    You must have remembered what I said, ''A cat as white as snow.

    "Anyway, the experiment is the opposite."

    Serpens pretended not to listen to Zion and said to me.

    "No, why again?"

    "Didn''t I say that when the flow of magic stops, it explodes?"

    "So, let''s put it in here. The inside of the subspace pocket is huge, so it''s safe to explode inside, isn''t it?"

    "Then, what do you think of the wreckage?"

    "Are you okay?"

    "Yes."

    A grotesque scene almost popped into my mind. I shook my head quickly before it took concrete form.

    I don''t want to carry the subspace bag that contains the exploded corpse, and I don''t want to put food in it even more.

    Let''s just pretend it never happened.

    "Then you should have told me first, why did you say what my wealthy thing was talking about?"

    "I meant we were going to explode together."

    "Whoa... I didn''t want to say such cruel things in front of children..."

    Not because of the children, but because he didn''t do it because he was acting the external version.

    Serpence made a noise that didn''t make sense to me, and drove me into a villain.

    It was unfair, but it was also my fault for cutting off what he was saying, so I decided to pass it on.

    "Then what about this Living Dead?"

    "I''m going to have to interrogate anyway, so I''m going to wake up the stunned demon worshiper and order it to be quiet."

    "Interrogation?!"

    " Why are you overreacting so much?"

    In the process of Serpens taking over the Dark House.

    And on the day he rescued Eugenes from there, in the process of digging up information from traffickers,

    I can only guess that he did something like that. At the time, Serpens also admitted it.

    ''However .''

    The little bloody chair I saw in the basement of the duke''s warehouse came to mind, and the thought of blocking it unconditionally preceded it.

    The torture he does inflicts pain on others, but also exposes one''s own pain.

    Phil ''When I was like this, it hurts a lot

    and it hurts.''

    "No, but interrogation is is it okay? Can it , no, it''s better not to do it?

    "Yes?"

    At my gibberish words, Serpens tilted his head, creating a characteristic innocent expression.

    It''s like I don''t understand, the bastard who blinked a few times got his eyes wide

    popped out

    "If you''re thinking of torture you''re mistaken. How could I do such a cruel thing?"

    In that case, the subject did not change a single expression and ripped out the bones of the Living Dead, which looked just like humans.

    Serpens made me a cruel person.

    It''s embarrassing, but this isn''t the first time this has happened. Now I just did it.

    "sure?"

    "I was going to ask you about this.

    I did. Rossio''s top, or ''top-priority matters... . I can''t help it if you don''t answer, but isn''t it better than doing nothing?"

    There was no lie in his words.

    I guess it was really nothing to worry about.

    "Shall I wake you up right now?"

    Edna asked, pointing to the monkey tied tightly to a blue string of magical powers.

    "A little bit here I don''t know what a demon worshiper might do, seat.

    I''d like to move it."

    "Then let''s go to the director''s room. It''s the most spacious except for the playroom and the restaurant, and it''s right next to the playroom, so it''ll be easy to deal with when something happens."

    As Serpens glanced at the children, Edna nodded her head as if she understood.

    She drew a magic circle in an instant, lifted the old monkey and the director with magic and moved it to the director''s room.

    The Living Dead was trapped in a round sphere-shaped holy barrier, so I lightly kicked it and rolled it into the lord''s room.

    all.

    "Hey there! The head teacher..."

    As I was about to enter the director''s room, Wendy grabbed the hem of my robe and opened her mouth.

    A look of confusion appeared in the girl''s eyes.

    This guy is also the manager. As I watched him confused because of the memories he had been good at for a while, something in his heart started to hurt.

    "Uh, that''s "

    "I caught someone trying to escape through the window. I threw it away in a panic attack, but I''ll have to wake him up and hear what he''s talking about.

    angle."

    Serpens responded by pushing me into the chief''s room, who was overbearing. It would be a lie to say that he threw it in the middle of a crisis, but it would be true that the manager tried to run away.

    Through the closed door, Wendy''s face, with a strong sense of disappointment, could be seen at first glance.

    Teddy completely erased any expectations I had for the director. It was also the moment when my innocence was broken.

    ''It''s sad... .''

    As soon as the door to the director''s room closed, Edna performed magic.

    It was the same as normal soundproofing magic in that it prevented the sound inside from leaking out, but strangely, all the whispers of the children could be heard.

    "That''s why I told you not to trust the director too much. They don''t even care about things like us."

    Shion''s voice came out clearly.

    This is not just the level of hearing, but the level of amplification.

    As there is no adult to take care of the children, Edna, who was worried, performed a special magic.

    It was easy to guess what he had hit.

    "Black ."

    Whew, Wendy? Why are you crying?"

    "Ugh..."

    Wendy''s snarling and bewildered Zion''s voice were heard just before the cry burst.

    I was thinking about whether I should go out again.

    "Child, sir. I''m sorry. I was wrong. Don''t cry. Huh?"

    with Zion''s voice regularly

    A pounding sound was heard. He is an elder who has had a good social life, and he was very reliable in trying to comfort him.

    It was Zion who poured oil on the burning house in the first place.

    "Shion-san, if you''re so worried, you should go out..."

    Edna, who was watching me put my ear close to the door, uttered a word.

    "The only thing I''m worried about is this one thing... Don''t worry about me, just do what you''re doing."

    "Yes...."

    Edna nodded in reply.

    In my heart, I was hoping that there would be one trusted adult out there, Bodi.

    But that''s too short-sighted.

    Serpens wouldn''t do the same thing as clinging to the door out of shape, but it was obvious that if I was outside, I would be so distracted.

    The dangers of me acting differently in front of an evil monkey and Serpens acting differently are all over the place.

    "By the way, the devil do the demons know that Mr. Zion is the head of the Illuminati?"

    Edna asked me a question with a look that had just popped into my mind instead of trying to wake the old monkey.

    I guess I was more concerned about the devil''s words that captivating me was the top priority.

    Serpens looked at me at her question.

    At the same time as asking when did I say I was the head of the Illuminati, why did Edna become a demon worshiper?

    It''s all about asking if you''ve come to be called a devil.

    "Well , I guess I should have known first."

    I gave Serpens a look that somehow happened, and answered Ed Na.

    "Are you still okay?!"

    "Perhaps? Listen to Serpens for more details. He''s like my assistant."

    "Yes?!''''

    Edna was startled, but with it or not, I focused on the sound outside.

    Wendy, who started the engine as if she was about to burst into tears at any moment, must have regained her composure quickly. Wendy''s voice, threatening to children younger than herself, could be heard slowly and quietly.

    "The reason the Illuminati''s identity is kept a secret is not because of the demon worshipers, but because I and Zion are nobles of the Empire."

    "What does that mean?"

    that ."

    To Edna''s question asking for a detailed explanation, Serpens continued to explain.

    If you are tied to a single country, the discomfort in your activities will come and go, and so on. That''s what I always said.

    In addition, a new hypothesis was added that the reason why the demons are silent is that "it seems to be difficult when the Illuminati officially launches and receives support from the continent."

    During the explanation, the old monkey and the manager woke up, but Serpens immediately stunned them .

    ''I didn''t have to wake up... ?''

    It was absurd, but what about it? As our children spread their creativity

    Maybe it''s because you''re busy.

    It is more important for the monkey and the director to grow or not to grow lumps on the head, or for the creativity of Serpens to grow rapidly.

    If Euges had been in this position, she would have agreed with me as well.

 CH 289

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 289

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (2)

    Before waking up the demon, the bondage magic that tied the demon and the manager was released and tied with a normal rope.

    The manager is just an ordinary person, and the old man, Akseungi, is a warlock, so he doesn''t have the strength to break the rope.

    Currently, there is a limit of two magic that Edna can use at the same time.

    Rather than tying the monkey tighter, eh

    It''s better to have Dana ready to use magic besides soundproofing.

    After checking the knot carefully, Serpens poked the old monkey with his sword to wake him up.

    "Ugh

    "Are you out of your mind?"

    Seeing the face of Serpens, the old monkey swallowed the wind and was terribly surprised. It''s like seeing some kind of ghost.

    Before we talk, wait over that

    Could you give me an order?"

    He said, pointing to the Living Dead struggling within the Holy Barrier.

    Like a corpse that does not feel pain, the Living Dead moved its arms and legs even though its bones were broken, and the duvet wrapped around them was lifted to reveal its face.

    The dazed eyes without focus are creepy.

    "My, why should I do that?"

    The monkey smiled shyly and answered shamelessly.

    Since Serpens came out as a request, it seems that there is nothing to see.

    Did he not hear anything about the serpents of the [Master of the Holy Sword] time period from the Demon King?''

    Sometimes it looks like your mouth is open even if you are drowning in water, and it seems like you are talking about before returning home, but other times your mouth is as heavy as a thousand pounds.

    While there are demons who claim that Serpens killed their parents, the demon of the dark house tells Serpens that they have never killed anyone.

    ''...Were you talking about your parents without certainty?''

    Even considering that, opinions differ too much.

    Maybe the demon king couldn''t understand Serpence''s interpretation, or maybe the devil and the old monkey in front of him were nothing more than scraps and didn''t receive information.

    I never know

    - Slap!

    As he was about to fall into deep thought, a shrill sound echoed through the director''s office.

    Edna slapped the old monkey on the back of the head with her palm. Since he didn''t have much hair left, the friction sounded properly.

    I can''t listen to a bastard like this when he says nice things. So, Mr. Prasidus, don''t be polite to a bastard like this either.

    Edna said, without hesitation, referring to the old man, who looked much older than him, ''bastard''.

    Perhaps because there were no children in front of her, her words became very comfortable.

    But I don''t want to be friendly with someone like that.

    If you think so...

    Thank you for your understanding.

    It is up to the individual to decide what kind of tone to use. There was nothing to understand and sleep, but Serpens responded politely and politely.

    In fact, since he was talking about friendliness right in front of him, I felt a sense of distance.

    By the way, do you use nonsense? According to Anima''s letter, it is also to the owner of the Holy Sword, whom he has been close to since childhood...

    Kuk-!

    The moment Edna put out the question that suddenly came to mind, she suddenly became angry.

    The evil monkey screamed.

    As soon as Humanus was mentioned, Serpens threw a holy power sphere at the demon.

    The man who was silent even when the back of his head was slapped, as the divine power permeated his body, his body twisted to and fro.

    It is the result of the clash of divine power and black magic within.

    Sorry, I''m sorry. I felt the flow of black magic, so I had to stop it in a hurry...

    Serpens said, pretending to be perplexed.

    It was only done reflexively. The reaction was that he was surprised

    all.

    However, seeing the monkey with his mouth wide open and looking at him with an absurd expression, what he said is clearly a lie.

    I''m sure. Serpense''s... .

    ''Oh! You don''t have anything to hang out with today because you''ve distributed all Serpense''s snacks to the children?!''

    I''m very sorry�[] .

    I must not be vigilant.

    Edna, who believed Serpense''s words, hardened her face and glared at the old demon.

    Even though the demon had been subdued, she did not slow down and grabbed the staff tightly.

    Why?

    The old monkey''s expression is somehow familiar. The expression on the female monkey who pretended to be trapped inside a cage on Semita Street was exactly that.

    Come on, come on... Did I say living dead?

    Edna didn''t talk to the demon, but turned around and asked me a question. When talking to Serpence, I can remember the term I said just once, as if passing by.

    did.

    As I drew a circle with my finger, she nodded knowingly.

    Come on, calm that Living Dead.

    You have to use magic to do that...

    At Edna''s coercive words, the devil rolled his eyes and said.

    Edna snorted as she looked down at the monkey.

    X-chan. There wasn''t anything like that when you rushed me earlier.

    choice day.

    The word referring to the part where everyone said hello to Humanus came out of Edna''s mouth.

    If you leave it alone, you will be able to find your nephew''s 18-color crayons in the Siberian plains.

    Eh, Mr. Edna! Hold on! How about using a milder language...?

    "I''ll be gentle, will this bastard listen to me?"

    "I agree with that opinion a hundred times, but it''s not something I would say in front of a child, would it?"

    " Yes? Where is the child?"

    Look at Serpence''s eyes! In front of those innocent eyes twinkling, did I have to say such a swear word?!

    I shouted at Serpens.

    Innocent fence, who had been pointed at, reflexively made an innocent expression and tilted his head, he suddenly came to his senses and dyed his face red.

    Yeah, that''s right. I need to be careful...

    I''m glad she understands.

    I thought I did it, so I took a serpent

    thumbs up towards He averted his gaze as if he was ashamed of me.

    ungrateful

    "So, how do I make it quiet?"

    Serpence, who had become bloated for nothing, asked the old monkey a question.

    Because you have to give orders with real magic! Previously, it was only possible by giving the order to attack if you send a signal before entering!

    Akseungi shouted and expressed his injustice.

    Whenever he avoided his gaze, Serpens looked at me with a gaze asking if that was true.

    The question is whether there was such a scene in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    I don''t think that''s a lie, do you?

    Edna was watching, so I looked around a bit.

    Serpens nodded slightly to signify that he understood, and looked at the old monkey again.

    "Then, if you know the magic, can you control the other Living Dead?"

    "Kuh, it''s impossible to do that because the corresponding magic wavelengths are different."

    Is there any way to completely stop that motion without risking an explosion?

    "Why do I have to tell you that?"

    For some reason, I wanted to give you a gentle answer. The old monkey immediately smirked and pulled away.

    "Did you forget that we are holding the chain of your life right now?"

    Then let me kill you.

    It''s not because we couldn''t kill you...!

    I know. Isn''t it because of the information?

    The old monkey sneered at Edna''s words, sarcastic in a tone full of ridicule.

    As a member of the Eastern Court who knows how to respect adults, I wish I could think like this, but I really want to hit him.

    Before confronting the Heretical Inquisitor, it would be better for them to cooperate now.

    Kick , hee, huh, hahahaha! Are you calling that a threat now? My trust in him is nothing more than torture.

    "Have you ever been tortured?"

    This world, given by Luxmea and the like, is suffering itself, and asking such a foolish question!

    A sense of pity passed through Serpens''s eyes as he looked at the demon.

    But if you see it come out like that even after screaming all the time because of Serpence''s divine power just a few minutes ago,

    There seems to be some point of belief.

    "Mr. Prasidus. Can you do that again?"

    If it were...

    No, no. I was wrong. I''ll just do it.

    There is something unusual about Edna''s words.

    She seemed to be asking Serpens for something, then changed her words abruptly and concentrated her magic on the staff.

    Blue magic began to draw intricate magical characters and geometric patterns in the air.

    all. As a result, the monkey''s face became four colors.

    Oh, okay, okay! Shouldn''t we just calm that down right now!

    I thought I had courage, but I guess I was wrong?

    The monkey stopped Edna with an urgent cry.

    "Even if I make it quiet, doesn''t it explode when my magic power runs out?"

    I will make you stop completely.

    Edna smiled brightly as if she knew it would, and disrupted the magical power in the air. Now that I see it, I''m scared on purpose

    That''s what I was thinking of giving.

    In terms of personality..., Ttt!

    what?!

    Uhhhhhhh!! This is pretty delicate magic... I told you to borrow the staff.

    When Edna asked the question in a sharp voice, the old monkey roared.

    It''s worth looking into.

    Not wanting to waste any more time, Edna took a deep breath and pushed magic into the staff once more.

    Okay, okay! I''ll just do it! Don''t tell me it''s slow instead.

    Okay, so just hurry up!

    Before that, we need to remove the holy barrier surrounding the Living Dead...

    The monkey looked into Edna''s eyes with a frightened expression and said.

    Sending a signal to stop is of no use if the divine barrier interferes with it.

    As soon as Serpence lifted the Holy Barrier, he crushed the writhing Living Dead with his feet and immobilized it.

    Kerume! Then we''ll start.

    It''s amazing how he keeps the old man''s tone throughout his poems when he succumbs to threats.

    Black magic drew a complex pattern in the air.

    Serpens focused his attention on the black magic that embroidered the air, whether he didn''t mind the Living Dead wriggling under his feet.

    ''I''m guessing you''re just trying to make sure that the monkeys are trying to trick you into the magic circle.''

    Edna often glanced at the Living Dead, but her gaze was almost

    He stayed in the magic circle in the air.

    ''I can''t see.''

    Perhaps there was no lie in the demon''s words of a delicate magic circle, the black lines were intricately intertwined and the characters were crushed.

    I turned my gaze away from the magic circle and looked at the demon. The corners of the monkey''s mouth, which had a frightened expression on his face, suddenly curled up.

    Before I even felt the strangeness of that smile... .

    Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!

    The monkey screamed

    all. The reason is that Edna''s Lightning magic and Serpens'' divine power exploded at the same time.

    ''Somehow, he followed me gently... .''

    just as expected. I think I''ve been messing around with the magic circle.

    The reason I said it was complicated must have been a base meal to deceive.

    As the demon lost concentration and the black magic was scattered, Serpens spread divine power to purify it.

    In the process, the demon, who was within the sphere of influence of purification, struggled again with pain and passed out.

    Serpens re-imagined the Living Dead

    After wrapping it in fire and divine barriers, he glanced at me with a worried expression.

    ''I''ve seen more, so maybe you''ll be surprised by something like this.''

    Let''s sell our worries

    I blinked slowly to signify that it was okay.

    Is it possible that Mr. Prasidus also interpreted the magic circle?! It is rare among wizards who can interpret the magic circle drawn in real time...

    Edna marveled at how strange the serpens that used divine power at the same time as himself were.

    Serpens'' gaze, who was looking at me, turned to her.

    "No , um Mr. Benevolen is also great."

    Serpence, who had been habitually denying praise, changed direction and praised Edna.

    It is rewarding to teach

    "Anima] , this is nothing compared to the child''s ability."

    I''ve heard it''s not a good thing to deny compliments. You can be confident, Mr. Benevolen.

    I''m not denying compliments, I''m bragging about our anima as being more amazing.

    Still, it''s good not to deny compliments. I''ll keep that in mind in the future.

    That''s what Zion told me.

    I don''t know what kind of conversation this is.

    Hearing a stunned monkey would be terrifying and stuffy.

    But what our kids are proud of

    So, let''s just leave it alone.

 CH 290

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 290

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (3)

    In [Master of the Holy Sword], Anima instantly created a magic to stop the Living Dead just by seeing the demon giving orders to the Living Dead.

    So, it is understandable that Edna praised Anima''s magic skills.

    ''Even though the system for giving orders is different, the core system related to

    Am I coming from a single stem?''

    As soon as it appeared, the attack was over.

    If so, would the readers who read [Master of the Holy Sword] questioned, ''If that''s the case, why did you create the Living Dead setting?''

    The appearance of the Living Dead is no different from that of a human being, and terrorism using the self-destruct function.

    A villain who wants his dead lover to come back to life, even if he is just a moving corpse.

    If it hadn''t come out again in some other way, it would have been forgotten in my memory as a one-time setting.

    "By the way, what about that Living Dead now?"

    "You can just blow it up while surrounded by a barrier."

    "Then the serpens must bear all that power, right?"

    That''s fine.

    Serpence answered my question indifferently.

    But it''s really simple

    If it wasn''t for the burden, I''d blow it up sooner.

    Defending against an explosion that explodes from the outside is a different matter.

    Also, it is not known at this time how much the old monkey captured the explosion output of that Living Dead.

    ''It''s kind of like looking at the wreckage... .''

    Best of all, you can''t leave Serpens to dispose of bombs every time you face the Living Dead.

    If Akseung finds out about this, he will continue to send the Living Dead for terrorism that has increased its power to an extremely high level.

    If that happens, the burden on Serpens will gradually increase.

    The moment I thought it would be better to sacrifice one subspace pocket.

    "I do you think I can solve it?"

    Edna carefully opened her mouth and said.

    Naturally, the eyes of me and Serpens turned to her.

    "The magic circle and the demonstrator were related to the operation of the Living Dead. At the end, the string was changed by overwriting it, so it almost became a magic that increases the power of explosion "

    Even if I say that, I don''t know.

    Looking at Serpence, he nodded in that sense.

    It was also surprising to hear that the old monkey tried to detonate the Living Dead, knowing that he was going to die too, but it was just an evil victory.

    What''s even more surprising is Edna''s words that he thinks he''ll be able to stop the Living Dead.

    It was.

    It is rare to find someone who interprets other people''s magic on the fly, but it''s not entirely out of the question.

    However, it is almost impossible to peek at the magic circle of an unfinished castle that was deliberately twisted and use the proper magic.

    ''I thought the only person who could do that was anima .''

    If all wizards could do that, there would be no need for a teacher, and if they had developed magic, it would have become a common good for all.

    I couldn''t see her magic in [Master of the Holy Sword], so I just didn''t know. It seems that Edna''s skills are more substantial than I thought.

    Serpens also looked at Ed me with amazement.

    Is this really possible? I don''t doubt Mr. Benevolen''s abilities, but otherwise everyone here will be in danger.

    you I know But I think it''s possible... .

    Edna mumbled, avoiding Serpens''s eyes. I don''t know if I have it or not.

    Serpens'' gaze at her sharpened.

    "What are you hiding?"

    Sue, are you hiding?!

    If you know anything, please tell me.

    I don''t know what you''re talking about.

    Didn''t you learn something from the author''s magic?

    Suddenly mood interrogation, what?

    At first I was bewildered by what Serpence was talking about, but

    Edna''s reaction was strange.

    you], so how to stop that...

    There have been methods of manipulating the mind of a living person for a long time, but there is no magic in the world that makes a dead person look like a living person. It is difficult.

    "You know a lot about magic ?"

    From a young age, I read the literature about demon worshipers to fight against them.

    Look, it was natural.

    As I read the textbook, I heard that it was translated as saying that I was naturally ranked first in the entire school.

    If you didn''t know the growth process of Serpence, you might have thought that it was ostentatious.

    You are amazing.

    Edna admired without a soul with a trembling expression.

    Edna, who lived with the genius Anima next to him, was like that, but if anyone else had heard of it, how unlucky would Serpence feel?

    It''s all good because only I and Edna have ears to hear.

    "Have you ever seen the same magic if not, have you ever seen a similar magic?"

    that is .

    Please, tell me. Demon worshipers are hiding all over the continent. To find them, you have to gather even the smallest clues.

    Well .

    Shion believed that and even told him that he was the head of the Illuminati...

    As if he had been betrayed by a person he trusted, Serpens created an expression that appropriately mixed sadness and shock.

    As if he was holding back the crying that did not come out, he covered his mouth with his hand and lowered his head at 45 .

    Blue light bangs gently flowed down, creating a light shade around Serpens'' eyes. It''s like a mischievous female protagonist who has fallen into disappointment.

    Serpense even does that, but Edna with her mouth shut is amazing too.

    She turned her head and saw Serpens.

    I tried not to look.

    "Is it related to Pruitto?"

    Edna shrugged her shoulders.

    If not, you''d be furious at how you could tie an anima to something like a demon. She had the face of a person who was stabbed in the corner.

    do it If there was any reason for her to ignore what might have been at stake in the existence of the continent, that was the only reason.

    ''But the anima has something to do with that magic"?''

    Such a talk is a no-brainer.

    When the Living Dead first appeared in [Master of the Holy Sword], Anima didn''t say anything.

    "Even if you tell the truth, we will not misunderstand Mr. Fruito."

    Serpens didn''t even saliva on his lips and lied.

    Shut up anything that can be doubted, and the person who doubts and sees it will not do well.

    All misunderstandings result from lack of information, and misunderstandings lead to doubts. If you keep your mouth shut like this,

    Regardless of my will... . You might be suspicious of Mr. Benevolen and Mr. Pruito, D.

    Oh, okay. I''ll tell you.

    Edna took a deep breath and raised the white flag at Serpens''s action, pretending to be sad and pouring out threats.

    As Mr. Prasidus said, I''ve seen magic similar to this before. I''ve used it before.

    With this, the fact that Anima never said anything like that in [Master of the Holy Sword] became irrelevant.

    ''The magic that Edna used

    So they must have pretended to be seeing each other for the first time.''

    Basically, [Master of the Holy Sword] is a novel that proceeds from the author''s point of view.

    Corruption fence secretly plotting behind the scenes, when writing a narration that commits evil deeds, etc.

    Occasionally, it was described based on the corruption fence, but most of it was described with a focus on Humanus.

    ''Is this what you call a limited or selective writer''s point of view?''

    What Humanus Sees. what you feel Thinking.

    To unravel those elements into a novel

    It is the [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''Otherwise, Edna''s name would have appeared in the work.''

    If the Anima was confused by seeing the Living Dead and thinking of Ed Na, it is unlikely that Noon Sanus would have noticed.

    As a result, naturally, the description must have been omitted from [Master of the Holy Sword].

    Ah! Of course, I never did anything that violated the doctrine of the Church. I can swear!

    ''''Yes. I don''t think either of you would have done something like that.

    Serpens smiled softly.

    answered.

    If it hadn''t been for slashing the back of the manager with a scabbard, who came to his senses for a moment, he would have looked really gentle.

    If I was tired, I would have passed out and fell asleep for hours.

    I don''t know why I keep waking up because I slept so well at night after making others suffer.

    "The magic that I used was not to move these corpses, but to move dolls."

    If it''s a ''doll''...

    "It''s literally just a doll.

    An ordinary doll with cotton that can be obtained easily.

    Serpens wondered if the doll had any other meaning, but the answer he returned was that it was just an ordinary doll.

    "I had to manipulate the human body, not the doll, so I had to rip it up here and there but the core system that makes it move is obviously the magic we made for playing with dolls when we were young."

    I can''t imagine how fantastically they made the alternative doll play.

    Ummm... who knows the magic

    Only two minutes?"

    I only thought it was like that... I guess it wasn''t.

    "Where did you mainly use that magic?"

    "At the tower .Is there a devil''s nape in the tower?"

    I can''t make a quick decision, but...

    Serpens muffled his speech.

    Usually, it means ''I can''t make a quick decision, but it seems like that'', but when he says it, it means ''That one is still suspicious.''

    Please put aside the problems that cannot be solved right now, and please stop this operation first.

    Because of the detonation function, I think we should take a closer look at the circuit.

    At Edna''s words, Serpens broke the barrier surrounding the Living Dead.

    Even if he was in doubt, he decided that he had to show his faith right away.

    Is it because I need to take a closer look?

    This time, instead of stepping on Serpence with her feet, Edna tied the Living Dead tightly with her bondage magic.

    Edna sat down on the floor, walked on the blanket, and looked over the Living Dead.

    Serpens looked at her behavior closely, pretending not to be interested.

    After an hour had passed, Edna got up and left.

    "Would you mind holding on for a moment?"

    When Serpens stepped on the living dead''s abdomen, Edna dispelled the bondage spell.

    After bringing the tip of the staff to the heart of the Living Dead, she enchanted the staff with magical powers. staff

    Once passed, the refined magic drew a small magic circle.

    The magic circle seemed to shine, and the wriggling Living Dead became quiet.

    Wow, that evil beast. He said it was an incredibly complicated magic...

    "It must have been because I had lost my understanding of this magic."

    As if I had heard the murmur, Edna answered the staff as she pulled back. It''s a very disrespectful fight.

    He must have been angry that he had corrupted the magic of his memories with the Anima.

    I fully understand her feelings.

    If a monkey poisons the meatball tomato risotto with memories of Serpens, I''d be very angry too.

 CH 291

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 291

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (4)

    "By the way, what about this body?"

    Edna asked, pointing to the body that had just moved.

    After confirming that his movements had completely stopped, Serpence took his feet off the corpse.

    uh... , I wish I could find my family and return them... .

    The guy blurted out his words. Because I know it''s impossible.

    Even in the world I lived in, finding someone related to an unknown is waiting for the stars in the sky. How much worse would it be in this place where communication is underdeveloped?

    As fuel is not black magic, but normal magic, even if you send it to the church, you won''t be able to find out anything.

    "Then should I take it to the tower?"

    The denomination is not a place to study magic.

    Therefore, it must be moved to the

    Edna''s argument was valid. However, Serpens shook his head from side to side.

    It would be better to destroy it here. This kind of magic should not be studied. If the recipe leaks by mistake, it will cause great confusion.

    It''s like that too...

    Edna, one of the original creators of the puppet magic that is the source of the Living Dead, answered with a crawling voice, as if she had no qualms.

    Then I''ll burn it right away.

    She lifted the staff once more and drew a magic circle in the air. The magical energy that became a spark stuck to the corpse, and smoked a foul-smelling smoke.

    Serpens quickly opened the window to ventilate, but tears still sting from his eyes.

    "Collock, Collock! Oh, I''m sorry.

    Shion is weak, so please be careful from now on.

    It was the first time that Edna''s personality was urgent.

    I''ve known you since we met. It is a true proposition.

    However, the words of Serpens that followed him were a spur of the moment. He bruised Edna by referring to my physical condition that I didn''t even know about.

    ''Hey! I came into this body and haven''t caught a cold yet?!''

    I opened my mouth wide and looked at Serpence, but the guy just gave me a pitiful look.

    How the hell do I have to be healthier so he doesn''t have to worry about that? What happens when my muscle mass is comparable to Winston?

    I don''t think it''s possible at all.

    Is that so? Seeing you play with the children, you seem to have a lot of stamina, so I thought you were in good health... I''ll be careful in the future.

    Yes, please.

    While Serpens dazzled Edna''s mind with her nonsense, the magical embers just burned the corpse and disappeared.

    Edna casts ashes out of the window using magic. Maybe the soundproofing magic only stopped, the ashes flew far and wide through the window door.

    all.

    In the place where the corpse was, only dark soot marks and blue magic stone remained.

    When I finished the task I had to deal with right away, I suddenly felt a sense of emptiness.

    Can you dig up information from that bastard? ?

    I said it, but it''s very hopeless.

    The reactions of Edna and Serpens were also skeptical.

    I haven''t been told to calm the downed Living Dead. such a guy

    It is unlikely to give important information about the evil forces.

    Shall we wake him up?

    No. He passed on Mr. Benevolen''s information, and he was only following orders he received through the Jeonseo District. At best, he only knew that Rossio was involved.

    When Edna pointed to the manager and asked a question, Serpens shook his head.

    ??? ?? ??? ?? ?? ? ??? ??.

    Slowly the evening is coming to an end,

    Do you eat anything? If you supply nutrients to your head when you are stuck with thoughts, you may come up with an unexpected breakthrough, right?"

    "Is that time already?"

    At my suggestion, Edna checked the clock in the corner of the director''s office. She looked into Serpence''s eyes and looked towards the door leading to the playroom.

    Even if he doesn''t eat himself, he seems to think that he should take care of the children''s food.

    I think it''s better to do what Zion says. The authors will be under my watch.

    you. Don''t worry, you can go get your meal ready.

    Thank you! Then can I bring Mr. Prasidus'' meal here?

    Thank you for doing that.

    In response to Edna''s words, Serpens smiled softly.

    If I wasn''t an authority on reading Serpense''s facial expressions, it was so natural that I would have mistaken it for a friendly smile.

    Then I''ll help...

    "It would be good for Shion to wait in the playroom with the children."

    I was going to follow Edna out of the director''s room, but suddenly Serpens grabbed my wrist and stopped me.

    Turning to him, he added, worried that the children would be confused.

    ''I''m afraid that Edna and I are alone, and I don''t like it.''

    I don''t know his true intentions. All his words are excuses and excuses.

    He was obviously suspicious of Edna. take Edna away from me, and at the same time keep me by her side

    That''s the guy''s intention.

    ''I don''t think Edna has anything to do with the demonic forces... .''

    Edna saw with both eyes that he was suffering because of the schemes of the evil forces. In [Master of the Holy Sword], he even became a vessel for the devil.

    It is hard to believe that the woman who told the Anima never to yield to malice was tainted by evil spirits.

    Had she been a real demon, she wouldn''t even have spoken of dispelling the Living Dead magic on a corpse.

    all.

    Or it didn''t show that there was a puncture corner.

    Perhaps Serpense also thinks that Edna is innocent.

    As long as there are enough doubts left. He seems to be distrusting her.

    It''s still strange to me how on earth I came to believe in such a suspicious guy.

    Yes, I think that''s good too. Thank you for taking care of the children.

    Not knowing that Serpens was guarding her and trying to separate me, Edna expressed her gratitude.

    The guy naturally accepted her thanks.

    Edna turned off the soundproofing magic, which was no longer needed, and headed to the kitchen.

    Serpens opened the door to the director''s room and leaned against the door frame to watch over the old monkey and the manager while at the same time checking my safety.

    In a way, it is natural for children to be interested in him.

    Hey, who''s daddy?

    The first day I went to the orphanage.

    Emily, a girl with missing front teeth, who ran into Edna, showed curiosity.

    I''m Zion''s co-worker.

    Serpens answered with a friendly smile.

    Strictly speaking, it was the boss or the employer, but it seems cumbersome to explain in detail.

    ''If I take the Illuminati as the standard, not the duke, he''s my aide, but... .

    The Illuminati is a club rather than a workplace.

    You don''t lose a penny by working hard.

    It''s not that I''m making a profit, it''s not that I''m paying him a salary.

    "Then, will you also work here?"

    Really?! Are you staying with us?

    Darren and Lina''s expressions brightened.

    On the other hand, Serpens had a dark expression on his face, as if he was in trouble.

    No. I''m from Zion''s ''real'' workplace.

    I guess I didn''t understand Serpence''s words.

    The children opened their eyes and tilted their heads.

    I don''t know what that means, but it''s like asking if you know. We looked at each other''s faces.

    Sion-sensei... After all, are you leaving...?

    Wendy asked, pulling the hem of my clothes.

    Judging by the fact that the word "should" was added, it seems that I was vaguely aware of the fact that I got a job under the guise of a series of incidents that happened today.

    Shion''s face, who was one year older than the girl, also hardened.

    I knew this moment would come.

    I''ve been drawing it over and over in my mind. But when it came to reality, my heart felt heavy.

    How can I get rid of this little hand holding onto the hem of my robe?

    I''m sorry. Zion is on this continent...,

    And that''s what I need.

    Serpens said as she gently removed Wendy''s hand that was holding onto the hem of my robe.

    I can''t seem to be sorry. At first glance, there was a feeling of guilt on the sad man''s face.

    But my eyes, having been observing him for a long time, showed emotions beyond that.

    ''Are you proud to take me away from the kids? Huh?!''

    Like the first one who regained the attachment doll that had to be forced to yield to his newborn brother. faint from him

    I felt a sense of satisfaction.

    Whatever the reason, I didn''t think that Serpens who brought up these words was mean.

    Rather, I was grateful to him.

    I''m not leaving right now, but I should be leaving soon. It''s something you''ll have to face someday.

    I knew it, so I prepared my mind in advance.

    But the children were not prepared for anything. They also need time to prepare.

    If he hadn''t spoken up first, I would have been procrastinating.

    "Somehow it was strange that people with a lot of money work in a place like this."

    Shion said with a tick-tick.

    Knowing that I had said that on purpose to get away with it, I only had a bitter laugh.

    Still, his name is real... isn''t he? That''s because his grandfather called his teacher ''Shion''...

    Uh, yes... yes... yes.

    conscience is stabbed

    I stuttered, but Zion did not listen to it. I guess I just thought it was because I was sorry.

    Teacher, where are you going ? I can''t see you again.

    Darren looked up at me and said.

    The shape of the mouth, which has been elongated with the Korean-Japanese (һ) character, seems to be ready to burst into tears at any moment.

    To the Holy Lumen Empire... see if I can see you again...

    does not exist?

    After the demon disappears from this continent and defeats the Demon King. I''ll definitely hear it again then.

    The child''s face straightened a little at my answer.

    But another child. Serpens let out a uh, drool briefly. I lightly patted him on the back.

    Are you going to help people? Just like you helped us.

    "uh ~o*

    Okay... Really, thank you...

    It''s the first time I''ve ever felt so sorry while receiving a thank you.

    None of the children cried.

    It''s not because I''m not sad that I''m leaving, but because I know that nothing will change even if I cry and work hard.

    When you are immersed in a gloomy atmosphere. Edna finished preparing the meal and went out to call the children.

    "The atmosphere , why is it like this?"

    Because I said I had to leave.

    Ah .

    Edna came out with a bitter expression and looked around the children.

    "I , Edna, when you bring me a serpent meal, can you bring mine as well?"

    Yes? That''s... Yes, I will.

    He seemed to hesitate, but Edna nodded with an understanding expression. She led the sad children to the restaurant.

    He must have decided that I was doing this to sever ties with the children.

    There''s no reason for that, but it''s actually because of Serpence.

    ''Now I have to return to my duty.''

    I neglected him too much as I was taking care of the children of the fortress orphanage.

    He must have been lonely because he had been secretly eating alone in a corner, but even after he appeared like this, he couldn''t throw it away.

 CH 292

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 292

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (5)

    After Edna handed the meal and went back, Serpens suddenly opened his mouth.

    "Why did you say that?"

    What?

    It''s a promise to come back here.

    Why?

    The guy looked at me with a grumpy expression.

    I guess you don''t like my answer.

    Aren''t you going to give me a vacation?

    Eight! Yes, yes, I was kind! If you want Serpence to come along, you can follow.

    "Sunwoo, don''t be joking and answer seriously."

    In case anyone would listen, I was careful, so even when we were just the two of us, ''Serpens, who used the pronoun of you, has been around for a long time.

    Then he called my name and said.

    It is in contrast to me, who called out his baptismal name because I wanted to at this time.

    "No, well there''s no guarantee that it will return "

    So, did you give up?

    "It''s not If Luxmea has a conscience, won''t you give her some time to say goodbye before sending her back?"

    ha .

    Serpens sighed, rubbing his forehead.

    Anyone who sees it would know that he is living alone with the pain of the whole world.

    "Who wants to sigh at the head of the table?"

    " Is that important?"

    Worrying about something that you can''t solve is a waste of your mental energy and time. If you''re stressed out for nothing, you''re only losing your serpence.

    Looking at you, it seems like I''m the only one who loses.

    By the way. Serpence has been living at a loss for a lot of his life.

    As I nodded my head, Serpens looked at me with an absurd expression.

    Right now, knowing who you are worrying about is making you drowsy, you are asking yourself whether you are saying that.

    You only have one life, but if possible, let''s enjoy life comfortably!

    "Is it okay to say, ''just once ?''

    "The Demon King has returned, and Shion has been reincarnated . Basically, it should be considered once . Ebebe, I don''t know, I don''t know! Don''t make things complicated for nothing.

    yo. This!

    In any case, the point would have been blurred.

    This is all because of Luxmea.

    Still, thanks to this, Serpense has had a chance to be happy. I''ll have to take a look at it with an open mind.

    "Anyway, let''s eat whatever we want to eat and do whatever we want to live. It''s good to prepare for the future, but it doesn''t mean you have to give up happiness in the present, right?"

    " Uh " O

    "If there are no sharp numbers after the repelling of the demons, that''s then.

    It''s something to go and think about. Now, let''s go eat some bread.

    "Why is the conclusion like that?"

    Because there''s leftovers to eat!

    At my answer, the guy burst into laughter.

    Not your usual pleasant laugh. The frown of his brow is closer to a bitter smile.

    Was the meal halfway through?

    As if he had even smelled the food, the old monkey groaned and woke up.

    Hey, you''re incredibly strong, unlike the old man.

    While sticking out his tongue in admiration, Serpens, who was eating next to him, quietly stood up.

    I thought I was going to slap him in the back of the head again, but he unexpectedly opened his mouth and asked a question.

    How did you find out about that ''Living Dead'' magic?

    While Edna was away, it seems that he was intent on finding out information about the magic.

    That''s what I''d rather ask. How do you guys know the name of the magic that he passed on?

    In response to Serpence''s question, he expressed his doubts about becoming a demon.

    After hearing that, I also had a question.

    Did the demon king tell you directly? To the fool who was blinded by the ball, ruined all his plans, and was sent to kidnapped and then subdued?

    "Not personally but the high priest heard his words and followed his teaching No, I didn''t know why I was doing this.

    Do you have to give it to me!

    "What are you going to do when you talk and get angry?"

    He''s really funny

    Whether he is angry or not, a strong Serfence is standing in front of me. I rested and resumed the paused meal.

    It would be good if he eats in moderation and quickly.

    " Wait, come to think of it, where did I go?!

    Akseungi suddenly started looking for something called ''Ttoto''.

    I''m guessing you''re talking about the living dead that burned down under the circumstances. The name that would be given to any dog almost sounded like a saree.

    When Serpens gestured his chin to the magic stone that was rolling on the floor, his expression turned white.

    while he was about to blow up. I don''t have a southern fire.

    "Wow, what are you doing .

    Dispel the magic on the corpse and set it on fire.

    removed? Ge, how many days is it? Time freezes while I pass out.

    Mana is gone?!

    It''s been about two hours.

    Kindly, Serpens responded to the demon''s words.

    Of course, I didn''t do it in good faith, just to observe his reaction.

    "In what way?"

    Didn''t you show me a part of the magic circle? Thanks to that, Mr. Benevolen was able to find out how to do it.

    Serpens said with a soft smile, as if expressing gratitude.

    At the boy''s attitude, the evil monkey went crazy and made an expression that he was going to jump.

    It''s nonsense! The magic circle I drew wasn''t even a static magic! But...how can you make a great magic that he devised himself so easily...!

    "Great ? Mr. Benevolen laughed at saying that it was a very crude and simple magic, but is it really the magic created by the Demon King?"

    He didn''t even saliva on his lips and lied.

    As if in disbelief, I rolled my eyes

    The appearance was so pure, and that made it even more brutal.

    This type of interrogation is not his way.

    I read through [Master of the Holy Sword], and the interrogation I personally experienced on the train going down to the Prasidus Spirit was not like this.

    As if wrapped around a giant snake, a cool sensation that tightens your breath.

    A feeling of pressure as if swallowed in one bite at the moment of being vigilant.

    The way they play with their prey by stimulating their survival instincts is the serpen I know.

    It is the method of interrogation of

    It''s not like I''m scratching the inside with such an innocent face.

    I don''t know where I learned that method.

    "Mr. Benevolen broke the magic in 10 minutes, even though he was not even a fellow of the Holy Sword, but a general wizard. NS.

    With one 500 won coin, you can buy bread and milk and use the remaining change to go to a hot bar.

    It was as vain as the story of buying and eating.

    However, the expression on the guy''s face as if he was seriously analyzing it.

    It sounded like the truth, as it seemed to be genuinely questioning how this could be.

    Instead of accusing him of his fraudulent behavior, I quietly nodded and added credibility to his words.

    Everything my kid said is right!

    "I didn''t know that the Demon Lord would be that much. I have been working hard since I was little to fight such a person.

    you . It''s really disappointing. Now than when I wasn''t chosen as the master of the Holy Sword, I feel more injustice now.

    Ah! Maybe that''s why Luxmea passed the Holy Sword to Hugh Manus? There''s no need to even go to Serpens, what is it? To be honest, Serpens is better at swordsmanship than Humanus, has more divine power, and it''s all about magic. You have a lot of insight! It''s much better in many ways, right?

    Things like that... Um, I''m embarrassed.

    Serpence covered my cheek with her palm, pretending to be shy.

    Even if he dies soon, ''The Crown Prince is the one who deserves to be the master of the holy sword.'' The word did not come out.

    very desirable

    All riddles solved! The truth is always one!

    "What is that one truth ?"

    "Of course, the Demon King is an idiot!"

    Indeed, it is the wisdom of a messenger of the gods.

    Serpens applauded in admiration.

    Even though I knew it was meant to provoke the demon, I felt strange as if somehow he was making fun of me.

    Oh, no...! It''s not true, the Demon Lord... Tenebrio-sama is a great person! Even the magic he created is so famous that criminals cannot understand it!

    "But it turned out like this, didn''t it?"

    "No it took me a while to learn that magic "

    I''m sorry, but I think it''s just that my skills are falling.

    Such a cruel guy.

    His words and deeds were tongue-in-cheek.

    Serpence, don''t be so pitiful. The other demons are working hand in hand with the Prince of the Duchy of Fold to strike the back of the head of the Holy Sword and the party. Seeing this here, you can see that he has been demoted. That child is definitely the Prince. You don''t even know you''re on the side of this evil force?

    "Is there such a plan ?!"

    The old monkey''s eyes fluttered at my thoughtful words.

    If I had responded that I knew it, I would have been sure of it.

    ''Ah, this makes it a bit vague... .''

    It''s a different area, so the information is blocked to maintain security, so the monkey just doesn''t know, or the Principality is innocent.

    It''s hard to say for sure either way.

    ''Did Serpens have a suspected disease?''

    In any case, it is certain that the old ape knows nothing about the affairs of the Principality.

    I licked my lips in disappointment, dipped the bread into the soup and put it in my mouth.

    No, no... I''m under the command of an important operation... to bring Anima Fruito, the party of the Holy Sword, to our side...

    "Is this a lower priority operation than kidnapping me without any armed forces?"

    That , yes! Edna Benevolen! That gore was actually a genius]! That''s how it was able to break the magic of a great man! Uh-ha, uh-huh ! Yeah,

    That''s it!

    That''s an amazing upward leveling.

    A figure smiling haphazardly with eyes out of focus. I seem to have completely lost my mind. You probably don''t even know what you''re talking about right now.

    There was a strange feeling on the face of the vain old man.

    ''I think I''ve seen something like that somewhere... ?One

    Last year, when Serpens went to subjugate the Volta Mountains, the last expression on the monkey''s face was exactly that.

    It seems that the demons can''t keep up their pace if they cut down on the Demon King.

    I was biting my tongue in pity, and black magic flowed out like smoke from the devil... They all immediately dispersed.

    with a ''pop'' sound.

    Needless to say, Serpens stunned him.

    Huh? Can I just stun him? It sounds like something is about to blow?

    You were wrong. Anyone can see that the black magic was on the verge of a runaway.

    Isn''t that because Serpence provoked me? Where did you learn how to turn someone inside out like that?

    Serpent tilted his head with a bewildered expression at the words of his sincere admiration.

    Didn''t I follow you?

    Ayush, our serpens, you''re good at jokes now!

    It''s serious.

    Hey, don''t be kidding.

    Don''t turn away from reality, look me in the eye.

    do you think?"

    Serpent, who threw the stunned monkey away, sat down next to me again and asked.

    His green eyes twinkled with a clear light. There was not a single lie in the two eyes that met.

    I thought it would be quite useful if I kept the line in moderation, so I followed it.

    "But didn''t the devil just cross that line and go crazy?"

    Isn''t that your fault?

    What am I?

    " if you didn''t know."

    Serpence as if nothing had happened. After the soup was elegantly stirred, the meal continued.

    I placed the spoon on the empty bowl at an angle and removed my hand.

    Looking at the monkey''s reaction, as expected, the Demon King told me how to make the Living Dead, right?

    It looks like it to me.

    "The Living Dead magic should have been created after the doll play magic was leaked, but if the Demon King came up with the Living Dead magic, saying he made it himself . No, what do you mean?"

    The ''should''''ve been since the original magic leaked, after you came here.

    Serpens briefly summarized the vague thoughts floating around in my head.

    In other words, it means that it is not the time of the ''now'' that the magic of doll play leaked out.

    ''[Is the master of the holy sword leaking while it was in progress?''

    In the end, all they found out by interrogating the demon was that they could never find out who leaked the magic.

    all.

 CH 293

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 293

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (6)

    It was late at night, and the children who had gone to education returned to the orphanage one by one.

    Just like the boy Shion. I was worried that something might have happened to them as well, but luckily they were all safe.

    When the children returned, they saw the Serpence and expressed their doubts.

    When I went out, I saw that a stranger occupied the director''s office.

    Even if it''s absurd enough.

    The manager was tied up with an old man.

    The stranger who seems to have subdued them must have been someone who coined the phrase ''I am noble.''

    No matter how hard your body is, you can''t help but not pay attention.

    The fact that the evil forces have spread their demonic beasts in the nursery will make them uneasy.

    But Edna chose to explain it to them.

    Everyone must be hungry, so let''s talk about the details after dinner.

    Since tomorrow is the weekend, I didn''t have to go to bed in a hurry.

    After the late meal, the children sat around the playroom and listened to Edna instead of going to the bedroom.

    After her explanation.

    The children were troubled. A shadow was cast on the youthful face.

    Looking at those children, Edna repeated the words she was sorry over and over again.

    Her apology did not stem from the guilt she felt for having the children involved because of her.

    If Edna blames herself for that reason, she is blaming the anima.

    ''The devil did this to Edna in the first place, because it was to attract anima.''

    Anima is not guilty. Only evil is evil.

    She couldn''t blame the anima, so she couldn''t even tell the children to blame herself.

    so that.

    Edna''s apology meant that he was sorry for letting the children know about this.

    To be protected without knowing anything is a kind of right.

    And rights are usually not given to the weak.

    These kids need to know. Yes, you can protect yourself.

    Then you''re saying that everything that Zion got hurt the day before yesterday was the work of demon worshipers?

    Edna quietly nodded at the child''s question.

    "When I got home from work, my teacher asked if I could come out tomorrow, so I refused because I was kind of reluctant "

    Yeah, well done.

    Edna dismissed the children after telling them not to go out tomorrow and to stay at the orphanage.

    ha- .

    Only after the children''s appearance disappeared from their eyes, Edna let out a long sigh with the lament she had been holding back.

    Suddenly, feelings of respect and compassion lifted his head.

    Last Day.

    I felt guilty for taking away Zion''s body and life. I told Xeon that it''s okay to blame me.

    Even in front of Serpens.

    I had no idea how it would look in his eyes.

    I want to relieve my guilt. I want to put my mind at ease. I only thought of myself, and as a result, he blamed himself.

    It''s like saying that I don''t blame myself, so I should blame myself. He was weeping and suffering.

    ''Mr. Edna is older than me... .''

    She was only twenty-nine.

    Nevertheless. At this moment, she felt like a far-fetched adult.

    Perhaps she was also one of those children who grew up too quickly. Like the children in this nursery.

    That''s why I respect her, and at the same time, I feel sorry for her.

    " What are you doing there, Mr. Zion?"

    Edna, who was breathing quietly, suddenly looked at me and asked.

    As I watched the situation in the playroom with my head poked out in the director''s room, I was startled and reflexively slammed the door.

    And then the door opened again.

    "Uh, that''s , I didn''t steal it, I was just a little concerned ? I''m sorry if I offended you."

    I said something everyone knew anyway, is there anything offended? If it was something to be hidden, I would have used soundproofing magic.

    "Ah will you?"

    "We were talking here, so I asked if he was noticing without going back to his room."

    At Edna''s words, I reflexively looked back at Serpens.

    He, the real culprit for not being able to go to my room, was holding the baby and feeding the bottle on my behalf.

    It is truly a peaceful sight. rope

    If only it wasn''t for the old monkey and the director who passed out while tied up with a rope.

    No. It''s not like that, so you don''t have to be sorry. I''m going to spend the night here.

    Yes? Is something wrong?

    "Serpence would be bored if he watched the demons alone, so I''m going to be a friend."

    Although the real reason is that Serpens kept him within his sight.

    He didn''t allow me to say every word up to that point.

    If that''s the case, I''m with you...

    No. Mr. Benevolen, I hope you will do your best to defend the nursery.

    As for when she came, Serpens standing behind me cut off her words and said.

    Until now, in order to hide the fact that we had contact with Edna, we acted to contain the demon worshipers.

    In other words, it was not possible to install a magic circle to defend against enemy attacks.

    But now it is known that I am here, Serppens''s aide, and the old demon who has come to arrest me.

    teeth don''t come back

    You must have intuited that Serpence was here.

    There is a possibility that the old monkey''s companions will abandon him and run away, but if he attacks, he will come fully prepared.

    We have a lot to protect, so we have to be on the defensive.

    Yes, I''ll do that. It''s good that I brought this and that, just like Shion-san said.

    Edna immediately took out a subspace pocket from her arms.

    And then sat down in his seat,

    He took out the materials needed to make a magic circle from the tower and laid it out.

    "But Serpens. How long do we have to watch over that demon?"

    The manager didn''t care if he woke up, but the monkey didn''t.

    It would have been convenient if the magic of this place had to form spells or seals like the magic of other fantasy novels.

    Even if you cover your mouth and tie your hands, you can use magic as long as you can pull out the magical thread, so you have to be on the lookout.

    If not, Serpense would sleep too.

    could have

    uh... . It would be easier to monitor if you cut the ''skein'' so that you can never use magic again... .

    Serpens said so and glanced at me.

    The wizards of this world wrap the magic thread around their heart and put them together like a skein of thread. The ''skein'' he was talking about meant the skein of that magical power.

    He said it as if he had to cut a single strand of thread, but in reality, he had to break it down.

    Split, split, and split the thickly rolled skein.

    to keep it from reconnecting. so as not to create new threads. You have to shatter the inside.

    Naturally, in the process, the wizard feels tremendous pain.

    ''So, when the heretic inquisitors torment the warlocks, they warm up by breaking the magical thread or something... .''

    The higher the magic sensitivity, the better. The more the amount of magic wrapped around the heart, the more.

    The pain increases and gets longer.

    The explanation in [Master of the Holy Sword] is that the pain is more than just torture.

    In other words, he checks to see if I know it or not.

    Isn''t there a Luxmea temple around here?

    Yeah...

    It is, but it''s so small that you won''t be able to afford a demon worshiper.

    I asked Edna a question, how did her words make up a sentence?

    Serpence had answered before.

    Did this child even memorize the location and scale of the temples spread across the continent?

    When dealing with demon worshipers abroad, the only reliable ally is the Luxmea Church. So wherever you go, you should first understand the location and size of the Church.

    Serpens noticed the question that appeared on my face and explained it to me.

    It means that after the destination has been decided, it has been found.

    Even so... no matter how small

    Even if it''s the Silver Church, can''t you keep an eye on a suppressed demon?"

    I''m not talking about the author, I''m talking about a demon worshiper who wants to kill the author to stop the leak.

    If I had said that from the beginning, I would have understood.

    I think I know what kind of maintenance I am.

    Then what about that monkey?

    I''m thinking of handing over to the denomination in the Perol Territory.

    Serpens going to visit?

    It''s hard to imagine a guy with separation anxiety leaving me here and going to the neighboring estate alone.

    It doesn''t look like he''ll entrust the job to Edna, who doesn''t trust him.

    If you take me, it''s just that weird in shape.

    Is Sir Winston coming?

    Apologize to Winston.

    Yes?

    No, nothing. It''s just bullshit, don''t worry about it.

    He just rolls Winston too much

    I felt like I was making a mistake without realizing it.

    Even though he told me not to worry about it, Serpens tilted his head with a puzzled expression.

    Then at some point.

    The boy''s expression hardened.

    Why all of a sudden...

    for a bit.

    After holding the baby in my arms, Serpens opened the window and flew away.

    Serpens? Where are you going?!

    No answer came back. I can''t figure out what the hell this is.

    That time when I blankly stared in the direction he disappeared.

    There was a loud explosion, and white snow fell from beyond. No, in the aftermath of the explosion, the accumulated snow flew away.

    - Bang!

    Before the situation could be understood, another loud noise rang out. The source of the noise is the entrance hall of the nursery.

    I looked at the lid of the chest that was surprised to see it grow up

    Did I say you were surprised too?

    It was insignificant compared to the explosion I had just heard, but I thought my heart was pounding at the sound of something closer.

    Serpens ran out first. He could not have allowed the enemy to approach.

    But the expression on his face before he left made my heart flutter. My heart was beating irregularly with the unknown anxiety.

    Edna, who was drawing a magic circle in the center of the playroom, looked at the front door and lost sight of it.

    swallowed ram

    I pulled my head out of the director''s room and looked at him.

    Winston''s massive body was the first thing that caught my eye. Next to him was a man without a face, and on his back .

    Euges?!

    I''ll explain the situation later. First of all, I need a place to lay Eugene-sama comfortably.

    Not having enough time to wipe the snow off his shoes, Winston strode in, leaving wet footprints.

    His pale, pale face and the red blood flowing down his lips signaled the seriousness of Eugene''s condition.

    I immediately took the bed out of my subspace pocket.

    In the carriage heading to the orphanage, Edna had told him not to pull out the expensive bed, but there was no time to think about it.

    Edna didn''t seem to care either.

    We carefully lowered Eugenes from Winston''s back and laid him on the bed.

    all.

    When I put it down on the bed, the condition was even worse. His clothes were all stained with red blood. Somehow there was no blood on his face.

    That much blood was shed.

    Where the hell did Serpens go with a patient like this?!

    I''ll bring you a hemostat and a bandage!

    Wait!

    Winston stopped me from running out to find Serpens, and Edna from running inside to get some medicine.

    First aid is over. When the master passed by, you healed him.

    Not all wounds can be healed just by infusing them roughly with divine power.

    If it were that easy, Humanus, whose holy power was amplified with the Holy Sword, would have taken care of the healing of the Holy Sword and the party.

    No matter how serpents are, if they use their divine power while passing by for a while, it''s really nothing but first aid.

    And the lord is now dealing with the pursuers.

 CH 294

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 294

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (7)

    Then, shouldn''t we go to help right away?

    "My lord has told me not to follow you, but to keep this place."

    As Edna pulled the staff out and tried to get out, Winston stopped her again.

    ''Serpence, this bastard has done a lot of work in passing by.''

    Winston said ''this is the place'', but Serpens probably meant ''to protect me''.

    But Edna, who did not know this, grabbed the staff tightly with a moved expression.

    After knowing the truth, I''m worried that I might be swearing at Serpens.

    Ah, wouldn''t it be better to bring the monster from the director''s office here too? You never know when you''ll wake up again, and you might try to destroy the murder by taking advantage of the commotion...

    Yes, I''ll bring it!

    Edna, who was full of motivation, ran to the director''s office afterward.

    after a while. She quietly laid down the old monkey and the manager, who had floated up by magic, on one side of the playroom.

    Seeing the manager tied up tightly, the former director''s expression looked complicated.

    But isn''t Eugene''s enemy really strong enough to get hurt like this? Is he really okay by himself?

    I don''t think so. Because of Eugene-sama''s wounds, I was moving cautiously, so there was a chase, but if it wasn''t

    Enough to shake it off.

    Winston shook his head to answer my question.

    Winston escorted the public and arrived here safely with the patient on his back. According to his words, there would be no great danger to Serpence.

    "Then why is Euges so hurt?"

    "Neither do I."

    If Winston doesn''t know who brought him here, who knows?

    I was heading here earlier with Mr. Brandon here.

    During the dungeon, Eugenes, who was injured, was chasing us.

    Mr. Brandon is probably the name of the former director.

    In any case, if that''s the case, I don''t know. I nodded to Winston as a sign of acknowledgment.

    "Then, did the pursuit also end then?"

    About half that.

    The other half means that it was originally worn by Winston.

    I don''t know what expression I had when I heard him, but Winston suddenly coughed.

    Kuh, Hmm! Anyway, I wanted to ask for more details, but Euges-sama passed out immediately, so I didn''t hear anything either.

    It''s a good thing Euges didn''t want to cause trouble and run away alone with the chasers on.

    She must have believed that Winston would be able to avoid the pursuers and come all the way here.

    Anyway, Winston did a good job.

    all.

    Big...

    Could it be that he couldn''t tolerate coming all the way here with a pursuer?

    Winston looked in the direction of the front door with a complicated expression.

    Serpense also said. Put safety first. If only Yujis and the blind man were evacuated and Winston stood alone, wouldn''t that be a reason for a complete pay cut?

    Sometimes, seniors seem to take matters too lightly.

    Apparently, Winston was worried about more than a pay cut.

    Did you think you''d be cut off?

    "More than that, Euges what should I do? Should I just wait for Serpens to come?"

    Thanks to the master, the blood has stopped, but looking at the complexion, the inner wounds seem to be considerable.

    From his words, you could tell how carefully Winston moved when he got here.

    ''You can''t do anything other than roll your feet when you see an injured person... .''

    Even knowing that Serpence is coming soon, his sense of helplessness runs out.

    In other fantasy novels, even wizards can quickly heal wounds.

    I don''t know why in this town only divine power can heal wounds.

    .right mouths O1 O1 ... heh"

    o ~�� 1 e you

    Some children came out rubbing their eyes. I think I woke up because of the commotion.

    A stranger came in the middle of the night with a gigantic sword, with a height of two meters and ragged muscles. Who wouldn''t be surprised to see that?

    The children covered my mouth with their hands, fearing that they might accidentally offend Winston''s nerves.

    Considering the recent series of events, this is an understandable reaction.

    Following the ''2/3 Winstone'' brought by Monam, the Old Monkey brought ,3/4 Winston''. It is nothing new to say that ''1/1 Winston'' appeared after that.

    However, fortunately, this Winston is not our enemy.

    This isn''t a demon, it''s a whole circle.

    You''re the one who brought Mr. Jang here safely.

    I explained, tapping Winston''s chest with the back of my hand) Now, the children were relieved and lowered their hands that were covering their mouths.

    After relaxing, the children who found the former director rushed into his arms.

    01 Why is my unnie so hurt ?!

    Wendy, who had surrendered the former director''s arms to the other children, found Eugenes and asked a question.

    That''s what I want to know too.

    That incredibly pretty oppa? You can use your divine powers!

    I went to punish the bad guys who hurt this sister. They''ll be here soon.

    Even tigers come to me when I tell them to, and Serpens, a feline from the same family, seems to be no different.

    As soon as I finished my words, the front door opened and Serpens entered.

    "Serpens!!"

    His expression is very urgent.

    seemed

    As if he didn''t have time to talk, he passed me by and went straight to Eugenes. And poured divine power into her.

    Serpens frowned and closed her eyes as she watched as she concentrated. We kept quiet.

    The injury was more serious than I thought, and after quite a while, Serpens withdrew his hand.

    For a moment, I was relieved that I can put my mind to rest. the glow disappears

    Eugez''s complexion, which appeared again, was still pale.

    The face of Serpens who looked down at her was also white.

    Serpens. Is something wrong? Your complexion is so bad?!

    There was no way he could have neglected Eugene''s treatment. despite knowing that. Without realizing it, I grabbed his arm and asked a question.

    Serpens gently patted the back of my hand that was holding his arm.

    He also thought that he wanted to hold onto someone and question the current situation.

    peel?

    Serpens made a face that he understood my actions.

    Life is not affected, and the treatment is over.

    "But why Oh, I bled so much?!"

    Ummm... It seems that something has gone wrong with her ''spirit'' rather than her own problem.

    Then what should I do? Have Eugene summon the spirits, so Serpens heals the spirits?

    "It''s a groundbreaking idea, but it''s impossible.

    all.

    Even as he calmed me down, he answered firmly. I mean, it''s really impossible.

    According to the records, it''s usually said that in this case, it gets better with rest... but I guess I''ll have to ask Eugenes himself after waking up.

    Contrary to what he said, he seemed uneasy, Serpens poured his divine power into Eugenes once again.

    Eugene''s expression seemed to have softened a bit.

    "How are the pursuers?"

    I''m fine now.

    Serpence answered my question a beat late.

    That''s a pretty sensible word. Since no one has ever been captured alive, they were either killed or expelled. either one

    Neither of them has any intention of blaming him.

    Euges needs to rest, so it''s better to move him to a quiet room. And...

    Serpens looked at the old monkey crumpled in the corner of the playroom. Those eyes are very ugly

    I must destroy the author''s magic.

    Aren''t you angering yourself?

    Since you don''t know when there will be another attack, I just thought that it would be better to suppress the enemy inside. Also, it consumed a lot of divine power... and it seems difficult to keep monitoring...

    He must have thought that the timing was cunning. Serpence made excuses here and there.

    However, in order to maintain the image of the external fence, we are determined to make an effort even though it is difficult.

    did not postpone justice.

    His face looked very tired.

    Eugenes was injured, and Serpens consumed a lot of divine power. Even Winston didn''t show it, but he must have been very tired.

    Edna still looks fine, but he had to work hard to defend this place.

    Drawing a magic circle requires concentration, so it is difficult to monitor even the demons.

    I understand the situation.

    but .

    Are you okay?

    That level of divine power remained.

    I''m not asking if I have the energy to break the skein of magic, it''s a bit that''s right.

    No. It''s fine. It''s late at night, so go ahead and sleep.

    Serpens said as he pulled my hand away from his arm.

    Ordinarily, it was the acting of an external fence, or it was just to reassure me. I would have made you smile, even if it was hard.

    He doesn''t seem to know what to look like. He had a confused face.

    ''Is this guy really okay?''

    To the question posed by the reason in his head, he answered that it was not the emotion in his heart.

    Lee Sung also agreed with the emotional response.

    It wasn''t even two years ago that he started to value someone.

    Before meeting me, Serpens did not learn the true meaning of the word ''precious.''

    How was he when he treated me, the first person he opened his heart to?

    Will it fly if I blow it, or will it explode if I hold it?

    The only thing that could be said to have been injured is the bruise he suffered from rolling down the floor on Semita Street.

    so that.

    This is the first time for Serpens that someone important has been seriously injured. Moreover, it is an injury that cannot be healed immediately by divine power.

    How hard and painful it must be for a guy who is not good at emotions. for me

    can''t be guessed

    Good job Sir Winston. We''ll hear more about it tomorrow, so it''s best to take a break today.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Unlike what Serpens had told me to grow up, he told Winston to rest and glanced at Eugenes and I.

    It means to protect me and Euges. I don''t know where the care is.

    Serpens. That , look at me after work.

    I''ll see you tomorrow morning.

    No, come right away. I won''t sleep, so I''ll wait.

    . all right.,,

    After answering the question, the guy grabbed the old monkey and ran into the director''s room as if he was running away.

    "Did you say Mr. Brandon? Do you know how to take care of the baby?"

    Oh, I know.

    Please take care of it. And put these children to sleep... I know you''re tired from coming from a long way, but I''d like to ask you a favor.

    I handed over the baby I was holding to the former director.

    While taking care of the baby, there is no spirit to soothe the serpens who will come after torturing others.

    and , Edna ��]. Do you have any vacancies for Eugene and Winston?"

    You can use my room and Austin''s bedroom.

    Edna seems to be planning to spend the night here.

    It is better to leave the bed here so that you can close your eyes even for a moment.

    I made Winston hold Eugenes and then follow him.

    Edna''s room was on the first floor, just like mine, but the director''s room was on the second floor.

    Winston laid Eugenes down on Edna''s bed. Then, instead of going up the stairs, he stopped proudly in the middle of the hallway on the first floor.

    If it''s a Serpence, it''s possible to threaten it by saying, ''I won''t eat,'' I won''t sleep.

    Even if I said that, Winston wouldn''t raise an eyebrow. uh

    No matter how hard I send it to the bedroom, it is clear that if I enter the room, it will sneak out.

    "Why don''t you go to a restaurant and bring a chair and sit down?"

    "If you are comfortable, you will sleep well."

    It means that I am not comfortable just standing there.

    In the end, I couldn''t break Winston''s persistence.

 CH 295

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 295

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (8)

    It had been a long time since Serpens visited my room.

    I don''t feel that time is slowing down because of anxiety, but there is solid evidence.

    The stars that were shining brightly in the sky and showing off their presence were no longer visible. The sky, which used to be black, is a twilight mix of blue and pink

    It had a purple color.

    In the kingdom of Prune, the night was long as it was a cold region. It was almost morning when the work was finished.

    It''s been too long since I''ve just cut the skein of magic.

    He somehow visited through the door rather than the window. Lyra was the one who handed over the neutralized demon to Winston.

    Of course, there is a possibility that he handed it over to Edna.

    But my guess as a Serpence behavior analyst is that he

    would not have gone through

    You must have come out through the window of the director''s office and entered through the hallway window.

    The basis for the guess is the guy''s expression.

    The subject has a face that is so insensitive that it looks expressionless, but only the eyes are moist, so tears are likely to pour out at any moment.

    About what took a long time, I was hesitant because I felt weak while cutting the skein.

    He didn''t seem in the mood to make such an excuse.

    Acting, which was once as familiar as breathing, feels difficult. He was confused.

    Don''t do it there, come here.

    " Uh " O

    I sat down on the bed and motioned for him to come. Serpens, who had been lingering near the door, crawled closer.

    But that''s it.

    Even when he tapped an empty seat to sit next to him, he stood still and stared at his toes.

    "What are you standing still for?"

    O.Uh...

    "Did you get a disease that you can only do umm?"

    It is not.

    Fortunately, there was no problem with language ability.

    He''s just hesitating to come to me. The reason was obvious.

    You define yourself as a cruel person, question whether you can stay by my side, and belittle yourself.

    All right, just sit down.

    I followed the droopy shoulders without strength and pulled the man''s arms that were hanging down like they were flowing down.

    Only then did Serpens sit down next to me, pretending not to win.

    "But why are your sleeves so wet?"

    At my question, Serpens hastily pulled out his arm. Then he hid his hands behind his back.

    Covering your mouth and pretending to be a cat

    No. It looks more suspicious to me.

    I spread out the palm that was holding the guy''s arm, hoping that the stain might be blood. There was some moisture, but it was clean. I put my nose to it and sniffed it, but there was no smell.

    It''s just a beast with no special features.

    " Have you been tortured?"

    He seems to be the general manager of this plan, so I''m going to ask if he knows the reason why Eugene was hurt, but he didn''t wake up well...

    The excuses you give are plausible

    However, the credibility of the conclusion part fell sharply.

    There''s no reason for Serpense''s sleeves to get wet as long as it''s sprayed with water.

    "Is it really ''sprinkled''? ''Isn''t it dipped?"

    "O uh "

    o

    Serpens''s head turned to me, but his eyes turned to the air in the diagonal direction.

    Anyone could see that he was lying.

    ''I soaked it, I soaked it.''

    Swallowing a sigh that was about to come out without realizing it, I took out the soundproofing scroll and tore it.

    You don''t even have to lie to me.

    " Aren''t you disappointed in me?"

    If you think so, it must be because Serpens was disappointed in him.

    I think there has been a situation similar to today''s before? Why, you know. Serpens caught traffickers in the dark..., no. To dig up information from them...

    " I remember."

    It was also the day I first met Eugene.

    Is it because of that? The boy''s face suddenly darkened.

    "What are you going to do if the person who treated you, Serpens, is so anxious?"

    If Eugenes comes to his senses with his mouth, he asks if he does. Does that mean that life is not in danger?

    As if he understood what I was saying, he rubbed his face with the palm of his hand. It''s as if she''s erased her expression.

    It was meant to bring energy, but it seems that something was distorted during the delivery process.

    Anyway. At that time, you promised not to be afraid, and you promised to approach me first. Do you remember this as well?

    " I remember."

    "Why would anyone who remembers that?"

    I''m sorry.

    "Are you going to lie again?"

    Serpens placed his hands, which he had hidden behind his back, on his knees, and shook his head in a polite posture.

    Don''t just do it, answer it properly.

    I will not lie to Sunwoo from now on.

    Right, right. Well done.

    When I raised my hand, he knew it and bowed his head.

    With that one small move, the contradictory behavior he had shown today was all understood.

    when he entered the room.

    The guy didn''t come closer to me and stood at a distance. But when I reached out my hand with one gesture, it came as far as I could reach.

    Even though the seat next to him was empty, he stood still. But when I lightly dragged him, he did not hesitate and sat down.

    Those contradictory behaviors hoped to soften his anxious mind. okay

    I want to hear that it will be okay. I want to be comforted.

    Ultimately, it came from the desire to be understood.

    Are you mad? Eugese is hurt.

    When I asked a question while stroking Serpens''s head, he nodded slightly.

    Tears flowed from his eyes as if the sadness he had endured was pouring out.

    If the tortured monkey saw this scene, it would jump and jump, saying it was abomination.

    That''s not my thing.

    If the demon had not been evil in the first place, Eugenes would not have been hurt. If that had been the case, Serpens wouldn''t have done that.

    I know retaliation is bad.

    However, that doesn''t mean you can''t tell the victim to be patient.

    However, the reason that it violates morality is that the finish is not sweet at all.

    Revenge often brings revenge, and sometimes .

    So, are you relaxed now?

    ...Ugh.

    Serpens shook his head at my question.

    His hair was ruffled and tickled between my fingers that were on his head.

    "Why do you want to do something so difficult for yourself?"

    Huh.

    I know, I know. That''s what I did because I was frustrated.

    Ugh...

    "Uh-huh, did you? Were you scared?"

    Uhhhh...

    If you''ve run out of shit, I''d say it''s refreshing.

    As I expected, he was trembling with fear.

    In the past, I had erased negative emotions with divine power1, so I would have thought it was worth doing.

    But now I know the side effects. Because you promised me you won''t do that anymore.

    For the first time, he felt his emotions intact and caused pain to others.

    While looking at the suffering demon''s appearance, he pulled out his painful past.

    I was terrified of the fact that I had done such terrible things over and over again, and that I am still doing it. I guess I''ve finally finished it.

    ''It''s just my guess, but... .''

    If you see him doing this, you will be convinced.

    Because he''s a timid and simple guy.

    ''Originally, children cry even after they buy and hit them.''

    I was convinced that I wasn''t avoiding him, so his cry gradually grew louder. It wasn''t a sobbing to hold back, it was a cry out loud.

    There have been many occasions when he cried in front of me, but it was the first time he cried so much.

    At this moment, he is a 10-year-old kid who was dragged into the basement.

    To comfort the child whom no one had cared for, she gently embraced him. He patted me on the back.

    He''s like a newborn baby animal digging into its mother''s arms. He crouched down and rested his head on my chest.

    It was an uncomfortable posture as he had a physique, but Serpens was rather looking for stability.

    Looking at it like this, I can''t believe this guy has just been torturing someone.

    ''I know in my head... .''

    I wondered whether I really knew it or not.

    Calm down... . Yoo Seon-woo, mental tea

    I have to go... !''

    Serpens'' mental state is quite unstable.

    I don''t know what to do because I, who should hold the center of such a guy, shake together.

    I was so excited.

    Understand him, but don''t agree with him.

    Serpens.

    Yes .

    At first glance, it sounds like the answer is ''yes'', but it''s not.

    When I called the guy''s name. Although Serpens has answered ''Um'', ''Yes'', ''Tell me'', etc., he never said ''Yes''.

    '' maybe?''

    At least I can''t remember right away, so if there is, it must be a very rare case.

    I mean, it''s just a whining sound.

    Because he is crying, he continues to grow up and ask for comfort.

    I overestimated him. No matter how you look at it, it doesn''t look like she''s ten years old.

    Obviously, I handed the baby over to the former director, but for some reason the baby is still in my arms.

    It''s a mystery. Eloween Nursery School is one of the greatest wonders of the world.

    When you call, you have to answer it properly. You don''t have to communicate like a baby.

    Hmmm.

    " Ah, woman 1. Then weep more until it is resolved."

    The guy who raised his head for a moment and met his eyes got what he wanted and then

    caught the eye of the road.

    I can''t. At this rate, it seems to have become an automatic patting machine dedicated to Serpence.

    Ugh. At the age of six, what is this? The baboon of the Rivelon Spirit wants to be friends!

    As he took off the serpent and muttered as if complaining, he made an expression saying not to say anything strange even while he was crying.

    It seems to have succeeded in diverting attention once.

    Serpens, lie down here.

    The boy groaned and looked at me intently. I guess I''m just going to cry without saying anything.

    I''ll give you a lullaby after a long time, so get some sleep. Are you tired? Don''t you need to rest to recover your stamina? That way, even if enemies come, you can protect me and the injured Eugenes.

    Me? It''s me. You can take a nap later in the day.

    I''ll wake you up as soon as Eugene wakes up, so go to sleep. I''m not sleeping now.

    You know you don''t need a lullaby, so you won''t do it forever, right?

    At my words, Serpens put on an absurd expression with a tear-filled face.

    Do you think you''re going to be mad at something like that, or do you think you''re a real child? The boy opened his mouth with an expression that seemed to say that.

    I''m going to sleep.

    I laid Serpens on the bed and pulled the duvet up to his neck to cover him. He licked his lips and patted his chest.

    There is nothing more grateful than a baby sleeping peacefully without crying at night.

    The squeaking sound gradually subsided, and a hoarse breath could be heard.

    After confirming that Serpence is completely asleep.

    After wiping the boy''s face with a soft handkerchief, he quietly went out into the hallway.

    Winston was still standing in the hallway, and at his feet an old stunned ape rolled around.

    To Winston who is about to say good morning

    I raised my index finger and put it in front of my mouth. He closed his open mouth and nodded.

    The moment I was wiping away my sweat and trying to calm myself down.

    Are you awake? The breakfast is still ready...

    The ambush appeared from behind.

    I quickly shut Edna''s mouth, and in a whispering voice I begged her for forgiveness.

    Shhh...! I was crying and now I just fell asleep.

    Ah, that''s right...

    Like Edna, who ate jjambab sesame seeds at the nursery school, he immediately understood the situation and responded while whispering in the same way.

    I''m sorry, at least... Huh?

    why?

    , I, didn''t you leave the baby to the head teacher?

    I left it to you.

    .??''

    Then a deep sigh was heard from somewhere.

    Turning his head in that direction, he saw Winston with his palms covering his forehead.

    He had his head bowed.

 CH 296

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 296

    52. The Duke''s Interrogation (9)

    Looking at Edna''s Horndley''s eyes, I wanted to miss it belatedly.

    So I decided to give the excuses that Serpens had to make.

    Serpens is so soft-minded that it must have been very difficult for someone to suffer.

    Is that right?"

    That...

    "It was necessary, so I ate hard and started, but when I heard screams, I was hesitant."

    I said, remembering Serpens crying. There was bitterness and regret in his voice.

    Edna''s expression darkened.

    I felt like I was deceiving her, and my heart was clenched, but it was the clear truth that Serpens had a hard time. It''s never a lie.

    My conscience is open today.

    Moreover, a loved one has been seriously injured, so it''s disturbing in many ways.

    Oh, that''s right. For some reason, yesterday''s expression was jovial... o

    It was cheap? I''ve never seen him so angry.

    It seems that it was so important.

    Yes. It''s a very, very close relationship with a strong belief.

    Ah, ah-! That''s right. I understand. That''s why... it''s so hard...

    You must have.

    I guess my excuses worked.

    Edna nodded her head as if she had attained enlightenment.

    But not all problems are solved. Anxiety still remains.

    ''I told Edna that Serpens was crying... !''

    The baby fence filter, which caught my eye, had no choice but to be peeled off.

    He didn''t say that he shed tears while setting the mood, but rather that he fell asleep crying. this is the only excuse

    There is no room.

    If Edna makes a tee, Serpens may be embarrassed and look for a mouse hole.

    Ah, yes, but it''s an absolute secret that I said this.

    You don''t know. I mean... you mean secret love? I''m never going to tell anyone.

    "Yes? Secret love? Who is with whom?"

    Wylydia-nim and Mr. Prasidus.

    It''s a golden door. Serpence''s love story that I don''t even know.

    Did Eugene secretly spread rumors?

    Mr. Prasidus, who kept talking here, will wake you up. We''re going to eat. The children are already waiting in the dining room. Lord Redford...

    I must protect this place.

    If that''s the case, I''ll bring you some food.

    I''d appreciate it if you could do that.

    While I was messing around, Edna, who had spoken with Winston, dragged me to the dining room.

    * * *

    It was almost lunchtime when Eugenes woke up.

    I woke up Serpens as promised. As soon as he got up, he calmed his swollen eyes with divine power, and after changing into clean clothes, he left the room.

    Although his expression looked gloomy, he did not appear to be a sleepy person.

    that he cried like a child

    It''s probably something you don''t want to see.

    ''...You did a good job telling Edna to keep it a secret.''

    Winston doesn''t care.

    In order to tell the story, you must speak to Serpens'' face and say, ''I heard that you fell asleep crying.''

    There''s no way Winston would do something like that.

    "Are you all right?"

    Yes, thanks.

    Your complexion still looks very bad...

    Serpence trembled and grabbed Eugene''s wrist, pushing the divine power again.

    I know it''s not a physical problem, but I''m willing to do anything with my feet.

    As he said, Eugene''s complexion was not very good, but Serpens''s complexion was too pale. Anyone who doesn''t know will know that there are two patients.

    It''s really okay. It seems like you won''t be able to summon the spirits for a while, but there''s nothing wrong with the body itself.

    " Really?"

    It''s not true. It''s just that I was reverse summoned because I was overworked and pulled out my strength, so if you eat well and rest well, you''ll be fine.

    Eugene took Serpence''s hand and pulled it off his wrist, smiling softly as if to be relieved.

    Edna looked at him with a warm expression.

    It seems like you''ve really misunderstood.

    ''What should I do before I get into Serpence''s ears... .''

    Even if I said it was a misunderstanding right now, I don''t think even a seed would work.

    My guess was, ''Okay, okay. Wouldn''t it be secrecy!'' and frowned?

    For now, I can only hope that time will solve it

    I''m sorry, if I heard the information from the Demon Worship earlier...

    In the morning, I was so distracted that I couldn''t ask anything. Seeing him say something like that, I must have heard something while interrogating him.

    It was already happening, so the devil said he was willing to give it to him without hesitation, or was it the result of torture?

    Which one seems to be different depending on what the guy heard and to what extent.

    It must have been a two-way operation anyway. It happened not long after the last reply from Serpence...

    Anyone who hears it would think it was Serpence who sent Jeon Seo-gu. It''s not important, so let''s move on.

    ''More than that, Operation Yangdong... .''

    Before kidnapping me, it must have been a ruse to grab Serpence''s attention.

    That''s where Euges got caught.

    Serpens had an orphanage attached to it, but the demons didn''t notice it.

    Serpense must have come to the same conclusion as me. The boy''s expression became very depressed.

    Why don''t you eat something first? I haven''t eaten anything since lunch yesterday, so I''m very hungry.

    Eugene said as if to appease Serpence.

    Ask me what happened right now

    I wanted to go to bed, but I can''t starve the patient.

    Reluctantly, we agreed to what Euges said.

    While the meal was in progress, Serpens checked Eugene''s condition, and Euges emptied the entire bowl as if reassuring him.

    All the children were entrusted to the former director, and we gathered in the director''s office and sat down.

    Now tell me.

    As Edna''s soundproofing magic unfolded, Serpens hardened her face.

    I opened my mouth.

    Normally, I would have said it was good for Serpence''s weighty appearance. For some reason, the progenitor of the ''new Eugenes faction'' avoided his gaze.

    It was very suspicious to the extent that the words of having dinner first felt like a waste of time.

    There was an explosion at the main altar at the top of Rossio.

    Eugenes carefully opened his mouth.

    As if to continue explaining, Serpens nodded slightly without interrupting her words.

    nodded.

    I know the Rossio Sangha has ties to demon cults, but the staff there are ordinary people.

    "You mean you got hurt while saving those people?"

    That''s it.

    "Ummm I don''t think you could have been hurt this much, Eugenes, just with that alone."

    Saying that, Serpens looked intently at Eugenes''s expression with his analysing eyes.

    Even in the eyes of him, Eugene''s behavior was

    seems to have won

    no matter how it is Interrogating a patient against each other seems like an overkill.

    I was showing up and evacuating people, and then demon worshipers showed up and attacked me.

    "Couldn''t you have noticed sooner?"

    The explosion is due to black magic, and black magic is scattered around...

    "You would have tried to save people even in such a situation."

    Yes.

    and?

    If Serpense''s words seem to be getting shorter and shorter, is it just my imagination?

    Edna was there too. That''s why I wouldn''t blame Euges for saving people.

    However, the act of caring for and worrying about one''s own people is within the right to set the external fence.

    He didn''t hide his anger.

    I rescued and carried a person whose leg was crushed by rubble...

    "Were you a demon worshiper?"

    Yeah, yes, but...

    I won''t listen to excuses that I was ambushed from behind while I was concentrating on the attack of the demon worshiper in front of me. The same goes for excuses that I was careless because I was an ordinary person with no skills.

    Before Euges could make excuses that pretended to explain the circumstances, Serpens quickly poured out his words.

    Eugez, who was suddenly deprived of everything he had to say, kept his mouth shut. Serpens looking at her like that

    The eyes are not serious.

    If Eugenes had not been a patient, he would have been sentenced to death by kneeling and raising his hand.

    Please don''t say that your condition has gotten worse while trying to save people with your wounds.

    "Did you really do that?"

    But how can you turn away from people who are injured in front of you? They would have lost their lives if they had left it alone.

    "Eugeus was also injured.

    I was writing... . Eventually .

    Serpens relaxed his stiff facial muscles and sighed with a lonely expression. That look was very ugly.

    If he suddenly changed his expression, be careful.

    It is not a proof of forgiveness, but a carrot for a whip, to release them by squeezing them out.

    Rescuing others in crisis... Yes, that''s fine. Who''s to blame for that?

    "Then do you understand?"

    One of the things I don''t know is

    More than an injury, mine. It hurts my heart to see Eugenes get hurt. This is me... , is that bad?"

    Serpense''s beautiful arm frowned and drew an eight. The green eyes below them wobbled sadly.

    If someone else makes a face like this, you should be comforted right away, but if it''s a serpent, it''s a different story.

    This is a beautiful trap. If you get stuck here, it''s over.

    Oh no! Everyone does.

    "Everyone is like Ramen, isn''t Eugene too?"

    of course!

    "But why?"

    Ah .

    Eugenes was completely speechless.

    Looking at her like that, Serpens hardened her expression again.

    "Someone who knew so well asked why."

    Sin, I''m sorry.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Because I don''t take care of myself and put others first ?"

    "Are you aware that it is wrong?"

    "Be and not!"

    "But why?"

    Conversation is at the beginning again.

    Eugenes repeatedly said sorry with an expression of embarrassment and not knowing what to do, and Serpens repeatedly asked the question, ''Why, like a six-year-old with a disease?

    The conversation between the two continues

    He filmed it, and every time that happened, Eugene''s mind was blown away.

    ''When and where did I learn something like that... , Ah .''

    Come to think of it, I remember mentioning this kind of conversation to Serpence as if passing by.

    I said it as a joke, but he remembered it, applied it and used it.

    ''Euges, I''m sorry... .''

    Eugenes glanced at me and sent me a glance asking for help, but I tried to turn my back.

    Her courage and good heart to save others should not be condemned.

    However, everyone has the same desire not to lose a loved one.

    I would have done it if Serpens hadn''t said a word to her.

    ''Euges is so kind and has no boundaries.''

    After being hurt once, I felt wary of unfamiliar kindness, but I still refused to be with the weak.

    She has lived among the good elves for hundreds of years. so stay

    It''s just hard to be suspicious.

    People want to help people. The reality that I have to tell you not to do that is sad.

    I trembled at the evil people who abused their good heart who could not turn away from people in danger.

    In the end, Serpence had to get a promise from Eugenes that he would never do it again.

    I firmly nailed the fact that the first and second are for my own safety, and taking care of others is something I do only when I can afford it.

    These are the words of Serpens, who was forced to sacrifice for the sake of the continent. Eugenes accepted it without hesitation.

    "And Sir Winston.,,

    Yes! Knight, Lord Winston Redford is calling!

    Is it because he saw Eugenes being robbed right in front of his eyes?

    Winston raised his standards. I almost would have mistaken him for a private soldier.

    Isn''t it the day before yesterday, not the day before yesterday, that the Lord was out of Perol?

    Yes, it is!

    To Serpence''s question, Winston straightened his back and answered. The voice is hoarse, and the angle is alive in the sitting posture.

    Keep your voice down and explain in detail.

    I came back because I was afraid there might be a lurk in the alley from Perol to Algor. But I was eventually caught and delayed. Sorry.

    No. It was a wise decision. Also, thanks to that, Eugene was able to get here safely, didn''t you?

    Thank you very much.

    Winston''s eyes widened at Serpence''s sincere thanks.

    He couldn''t help but keep his mouth shut in front of Eugene''s who had been slapped before.

    ''How thirsty for the master''s approval? .''

    Eugese looked at Winston with envy with a gloomy expression.

 CH 297

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 297

    53. Duke''s Recruitment Proposal (1)

    Serpense''s gaze turned to Eugene again.

    Thinking that he might be scolded again, Eugene''s neck shrugged.

    "How did the investigation I requested go?"

    Ah! The investigation into the master of the leather workshop and the customer who entrusted the order?

    When asked to report the results of the investigation, Eugene answered with a sweeping heart. I could even feel the joy in her voice.

    The infinite loop of ''But why did you do that?'' must have been scary.

    "First of all, speaking of the workshop owner I was receiving a certain amount of money every month from the top of Rossio.

    Is this the price of not teaching children properly?

    There''s no need to even assume what if

    seems to.

    Before further explanation could be given, Serpence spoke to Eugenes. It took the form of a question, but there was certainty.

    To that, Euges expressed affirmation by saying that he would, and Serpens nodded his head slightly with an expression that he knew it would be so.

    "That''s . It''s absurd! How can you do such a thing with an expensive introduction fee?!"

    Edna suddenly jumped up and shouted.

    If the main altar at the top of Rossio had not been blown up, they would have attacked right away.

    Those masters: No, even those crooks! They blamed the kids on me, and babbled like that in the original apprenticeship system!

    Now it''s a bra because the sleeves are rolled up.

    Since the top has been blown up, it seems they are trying to attack the children''s workplaces with chickens instead of pheasants.

    "It is true that artisans are not willing to teach their skills.

    I, five artisans in different fields, did the same thing ''as if they had reached an agreement'', didn''t they? That''s what I expected.

    r... - -I

    Calm down and sit down.

    Serpens looked at Ed me with calm eyes and said.

    Edna received the gaze and sat down with a grassy expression on her face.

    If I had known sooner...

    "Nothing has changed. I would have asked for more than the money given from the top or kicked them out because they caught a living person.

    It''s obvious.

    Isn''t that still something you could have tried?

    Ummm... I''ll correct it. The demon worshipers wanted Mr. Edna to be frustrated with all his struggles. The more he tried, the worse things would have been.

    Serpens uttered a cruel word. In the meantime, his expression was full of compassion.

    I feel sorry for having to say such a rude thing to you.

    That I can''t make eye contact

    As if, he bowed his head and wiggled his fingers.

    This is the usual external fence.

    ''I''m glad you''re feeling refreshed.''

    A happy smile burst out of me with a sense of relief.

    at that time. Serpens tapped my leg under the table with his foot. It means taking good care of your face.

    I tried hard to put on a serious expression.

    "I understand well that the teacher received orders from Rossio.

    NS. Then what about the mother-in-law?

    Monam...? I don''t know what the abbreviation is.

    But, are you referring to the customer who used to be a hanger at the leather workshop?"

    To get back to the point, Eugene naturally answered my question, which I posed lightly.

    There was a time when, with a cold expression, he said mechanically, ''I didn''t understand what you were saying.''

    It must have been that they became accustomed to each other.

    Unlike me, who has a proud heart,

    Serpens shook her head, and Edna looked at Eugenes with her mouth wide open.

    Winston just sat idly. It''s the attitude that you don''t want to get involved in this kind of conversation.

    He''s the owner of a famous clothing store in the Peroles. Because he only deals in high-end clothing1, he''s famous even among those with a certain amount of money.

    It is said that they came to this place from the neighboring estates to do their best. That''s a great truth.

    My name is Dorian Nathaniel...

    Huh? It''s not Derek? Edna-san called it that way...

    Oh, you came from this orphanage? Originally, the name ''Dorian'' seemed to be the name of the deceased son of his adoptive parents.

    TMI I didn''t really want to know.

    I''m confused, so I''ll just call him Monam.

    Anyway, it has nothing to do with Rossio.

    No?!

    Yes. It''s not a form of delivery to the top, but we sell tailor-made clothes to customers directly. We also have fixed customers for fabrics. Instead, there was a contract with these terms written on it in the store. .

    Eugene took out two sheets of paper from the subspace pocket and handed it to Serpens.

    He held a copy of the contract in his right hand. It''s all about consideration so that I, who sits to my right, can read together.

    Edna got up and I

    We returned to Serpence''s back and looked over the contract over our shoulder.

    If you just take turns reading..., no, no.

    Winston was about to say something, but just kept his mouth shut. As if to say something, with an expressionless expression.

    I also understand that he doesn''t understand us.

    But I was very curious about the content, and Edna was too hasty.

    I looked away from Winston, the contract in Serpens'' hands

    focused again on

    One sheet is a leather coat production order.

    It''s a 23 million ass contract. Placebo Gold and Gold for 50 years. It''s just as Monamy said.

    And another one... .

    Are you talking about banging?

    If Edna comes to the top of Rossio to borrow money, he will provide double the amount.

    It was also written that they would not charge a penalty for the leather coat.

    ''Somehow, I said that money is called a misnomer.

    I clicked my tongue and carefully read what was written underneath.

    There was a notice regarding the termination of the contract.

    If you cannot fulfill the quest, you will be charged a penalty of 10 million ass.

    In this case, you also have to pay a penalty for making a coat, so the penalty alone is 15 million ass in total.

    I only gave Monam a 4 million ass ruby brooch...

    Didn''t it turn out to be a concoction of a demon worshiper? If you come to ask for money, I''m telling you I''m a demon worshiper. There''s no way they''ll come. So don''t worry.

    Suddenly feeling sorry and muttering, Serpens comforted me.

    I hear it''s very plausible.

    "Then Monam earned 4 million ass in one sitting?!

    Isn''t the price of leather 7 million ah? Calm down.

    "In that sense, Monam lost 3 million ass . He signed a contract to harass others to earn money. He was punished!

    Serpense put down the contract copy on the table and burst into laughter.

    Derek, what the hell was that kid thinking...

    Unlike Serpence, who had completely regained his peace of mind, Edna murmured as if he was disturbed.

    She tumbled helplessly back to her seat and floundered down.

    What do you think, what do you think? It''s a bad idea. The victim, Edna ��] doesn''t need to understand it.

    "Yeah I guess."

    Edna replied with a bitter smile.

    That''s all the report is about.

    "Um well done. And be careful in the future."

    Yes, I''ll be careful.

    To Serpense''s warning to be careful, Eugene quickly responded.

    Perhaps he liked the reaction, Serpence nodded with satisfaction.

    "But, was there anything wrong with this place?"

    Yeah, that''s okay. Demon worshipers did come, but...

    He muttered his words and looked into the corner of the director''s office. There, the manager and the demon were tied side by side and rolled on the floor.

    What''s that scorch mark over there?

    Huh? Where did the magic stone that was rolling over there go?

    The demon worshiper brought the ''Living Dead'' as an escort. It is the trace of burning it, and I kept the magic stone just in case.

    Serpence kindly answered my questions today as well.

    "It''s not something related to black magic anyway, so it shouldn''t be evidence, right?"

    If you want something, I''ll give it to you.

    I''m not even a wizard, what can I do with it?

    "You like to sparkle, don''t you?"

    After seeing the Holy Stone, I couldn''t be satisfied with just magic stones. It''s all because of Serpens.,,

    At my words, should Serpens be gloomy or happy? He looked confused.

    I wanted to make fun of him, but I decided to put up with Edna, who was looking at us with a puzzled face.

    "What is the Living Dead?"

    As usual, Eugene raised his hand and asked a question.

    "You can think of it as a corpse that moves with the power of magic."

    "Is it different from the Undead?"

    The biggest difference is that... Undead is a product of black magic, but Living Dead is not.

    You can raise the dead without black magic?!

    "Using a corpse is simply the easiest way to disguise a person''s appearance.

    So it''s just that. To be precise, should I say that it makes ''inanimate objects'' move? Because the magic of the origin is magic... .

    I glanced at Edna with a glance.

    Edna smiled bitterly and explained the magic of playing with dolls to Eugenes, who was confused.

    "Who the hell leaked it?"

    There is currently no way to find it.

    What happen?

    "What do you mean?"

    Serpence would give up right away like this.

    there is no lee At the very least, I should make a suggestion to go to the Magic Tower and make magicians... ? Is there any reason why you can''t find it?

    It looks like it will be cut by Eugene''s sharpness.

    Serpence, who received the suspicious gaze of Eugene, looked at me. There was no need to even talk about the magic of playing with dolls, was it?

    ''It''s my fault, but it''s shameless.''

    Anyway, it''s already been shot.

    it''s spilled water

    Before I say anything to him, I have to fix it first.

    The demon said last night, it''s magic made by the Demon King! It''s probably just a similar magic!

    It is said that the criminal who leaked the magic has already turned into a black magician and left the Magic Tower long ago.

    The excuses of me and Serpens were mixed.

    We looked at each other with the gaze of whether we would call that an excuse now.

    "So Edna-sama and Anima

    The wizard who saw your magic got the idea from there and created a living dead magic similar to that, and he turned into a black wizard and became a demon lord?"

    No, why put them together?!

    ...Actually, it didn''t seem like I was talking about it.

    The Demon King has existed since a very distant past. Eugene''s story is completely impossible.

    I''m right. A demon worshiper confessed that early this morning. He said he would break the skein of magic.

    You did it on your own.

    Serpens let out a small sigh.

    To say that the devil confessed to him is a blatant lie. But what I said earlier is a little different.

    It wasn''t enough to cut off the evil monkey''s skein and inflict pain, it was also immersed in water.

    Whether water really knows the answer, we delved deeply into it.

    I asked him with my eyes if the story was true. Serpens closes his eyes and says no.

    has been sent

    "What are you two talking about with your eyes?"

    Yeah? How do you communicate with your eyes? Euges is also really good, you say things that make sense.

    "Does it sound like it?"

    That''s Eugene''s misunderstanding.

    Eugene had a look of regret.

 CH 298

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 298

    53. Duke''s Recruitment Proposal (2)

    After correcting Eugene''s misunderstanding. I wondered what the intent of Serpens'' ''lying'' was.

    The criminal who stole Edna and Anima''s magic has already left the tower. turned to the evil forces.

    Enemies hiding inside should be sifted out, but enemies outside are just enemies without worrying about it.

    So there''s no need to figure out who it is, and knowing doesn''t change anything.

    That''s the guy''s argument.

    In that sense, why did you give up on your search is an excuse that fits Eugene''s question.

    ''Is that really all? Serpents like no one else?''

    Anima and Edna made their own magic that was not known to others, and the demons used them.

    Of course, they are the first to be suspicious if they are known to the public.

    ''But to frame them. Or because their magic seems useful. What if the existence of the traitor who was stolen by the evil powers becomes firm?''

    They just become victims.

    They can legitimately be angry with the demons who have corrupted their memories.

    I don''t know how he stole the replacement magic, but the basis of the Living Dead magic is the magic created by me and the Anima. There''s no way I can''t recognize the magic formula that I and that child made, right?

    Edna grinded her teeth in anger

    all.

    Seeing her like that, Euges was furious together saying that he could not forgive the actions of the demons.

    Serpence pretended to sympathize and made a sad expression.

    Like he doesn''t doubt that I''m going to make a mistake.

    I have no doubt that Serpens will not remove the doubts placed on others for no reason.

    He obviously has other plans.

    His deep-rooted suspicion.

    And he uses it often. When considering the technique of giving a peek from behind after letting the other person get distracted with an innocent look... .

    ''What to consider, that''s just it!''

    Consolidate the existence of the traitor. Edna and Anima are acquitted.

    Anima free from doubt, or Edna, or both. He was vigilant and waiting for evidence that he was evil.

    ''Wow, really, this bastard... .''

    I felt the need to have an in-depth conversation with him on this subject.

    all.

    I was well aware that Serpens had a deep suspicion, but it was more than I expected.

    The probability that Edna or Anima is a demon converges to 0%.

    If at least one of the two was a demon, what happened in [Master of the Holy Sword] could not exist. Even the assumption is not made.

    If I knew anything, Serpens would know for sure. Still, he doesn''t doubt what the problem is.

    It excludes reasons to believe and focuses on reasons not to believe.

    At this point, I don''t want to believe it, so I''m suspicious.

    Eugene is a mask because he trusts people too much, and Serpens is a mask because he doesn''t trust people too much.

    ''It would be nice to mix the two half and half.''

    It''s a sudden thought, but I think it''s really going to end. especially the face

    Conversations flowed and flowed while my head flowed through Samcheonpo.

    Under Serpence''s initiative, a demonic strategy briefing session was held about what the demon corrupted Edna.

    What I already know. I guess I could do something a little different.

    ''So how far did you go? Did you even combine the beauty of Serpence and Eugenes?''

    When good things are added to good things, synergy is activated, and things that are ten times better are born.

    How bright would it be if you put the two together, which shine just by standing still?

    Perhaps the god Luxmea was also blinded by that beautiful light and ceded the place of the gods.

    Shion, come to your senses.

    So in my head, I''m trying hard to combine the features of Serpens and Eugenes. Serpens said, closing my open mouth.

    Just, the sound of teeth hitting each other woke me up from my thoughts.

    "Are you very bored?"

    No? It''s really exciting, isn''t it?

    I''m bored of talking, so I''m lost in my thoughts

    I thought you were god... . I guess you didn''t listen to the conversation because you were engrossed in other exciting thoughts.

    It wasn''t something he was saying to me anyway...

    Even so, it''s not polite to drool and be dazed while others are talking.

    Serpens pouted his lips and said. It seems he was sad that he thought differently when he said it.

    Hagi-ya, I dance hard on the stage of the curator, but if my parents don''t concentrate because they''re bruised, of course I''ll stand up.

    I can''t help but

    I''m sorry. I''ll be more careful in the future!

    I wiped the saliva with my sleeve and apologized to him. The boy shook his head and let out a small sigh.

    Anyway, for that reason, I will prepare to leave right now.

    What''s the reason?

    After all the stories I knew were over, there must have been other stories.

    let me call you In the future, I''ll have to be really straight-forward.

    The explanation of the ''why'' that Serpens said was replaced by Euges.

    In a nutshell, it is the content that ''somewhere in the blasted top, there may be data that can tell where the funds of the Rossio top went.''

    ''It seems that the demon''s purpose of blowing up the top was not only for attracting attention, but also for the purpose of erasing evidence, or something?''

    In addition, we are the captured old demons.

    This must also be handed over to the Church of the Ferrol Territory.

    While the explanation of ''that reason'' continued.

    Edna rechecked the magic circle before departure, and informed the former director and children of various cautions.

    Serpens looked inside and outside the orphanage before leaving. And Winston went out to hire a horse.

    As soon as Winston pulled the horse, he got up. In fact, having nothing to do, I and Euges are killing time chatting while waiting.

    all.

    Eugenes got up from his seat and put on several layers of his coat, unlike usual.

    It must be because his physical function was weakened to the level of the criminal as he could not draw out the spirit power.

    I understand there. But.

    "Are you going, Eugene too?"

    Putting on clothes is the same as getting ready to go out.

    "The main building has completely collapsed. Even if I draw a drawing, it will be hard to see what was there. I went there myself.

    It would be more helpful if you all went with me."

    "Still you''re not feeling well, are you okay?"

    Even so, Serpens said after my body recovers. At the very least, I''d like to leave tomorrow, but as time goes on, it will be more difficult to find evidence.

    Eugenes said.

    The slender body of an elf was covered in thick winter clothes. Her complexion was still pale, but her expression was firm.

    ''Even if that''s not the case, leaving it here... . You will be anxious.''

    Even if she can''t summon a spirit, she''s still a marksman. However, it is not enough to deal with a demon simply by shooting a good bow.

    As a Serpence, she could only be concerned.

    Even if Eugenes hadn''t agreed to go with him, he would have taken him for various reasons.

    Because wherever he is, if it''s equally dangerous, he thinks it''s best to keep him by his side.

    Above all.

    ''If anything happens here, Eugenes will try to save the children again by force... .''

    As my thoughts went there, I noticed one change.

    Serpence''s overprotection target increased by one more.

    Euges shouldn''t have done that. No, really, what are you going to do now?

    Yes?

    Eugese blinked with a look that he didn''t know what I was talking about.

    it went

    I didn''t explain it to her. After all, if you experience his overprotection yourself, you will realize it.

    It won''t take long.

    I also put on my coat tightly and went out to the front yard of the orphanage.

    Winston was tying his horse to the wagon.

    It was strange that he had rented a horse instead of a carriage while leaving the road with the patient.

    ''The word that said that I would carry a wagon in my pocket... . Were you serious?''

    He pretends to be frugal by himself, but he is a guy who is secretly rich in money.

    As much as the carriage he prepared, the appearance is common, but the inside is probably a studded version.

    My gaze turned to the Serpence, which was pressed down on the hood. The guy slightly rolled up his hood and responded with a look of hope for praise.

    At the same time, Edna went to pick up the demon and the manager.

    I quickly stroked his hair a couple of times.

    It''s done.

    Winston opened his mouth with a complex and subtle expression.

    Soon after, Edna appeared. Behind her, a demon and a manager were floating around.

    Then go.

    Huh? Won''t Winston go?

    Yes. I have been commanded to guard this place.

    Buying a horse and putting it on a wagon was all Winston''s job. But he actually leaves him behind.

    "Someone has to protect this place.

    would you?"

    yes... Long but... .

    Didn''t you make it look like I don''t trust Sir Winston that much in the Darkside?

    Because the kingdom of Prune is so cold, it seems that the whole ''direction'' is frozen to death.

    Serpence is sure to say that kind of nonsense.

    It must have left the impression that he was unimportant to me. Yet, he was never conciliated. In many ways, Sir Winston was relatively unimportant to demon worshipers.

    I have no choice but to lose."

    Ah, yes...

    If someone I don''t know hears it, they''ll think I''ve deceived the evil one on purpose to use Winston as a separate wing.

    So if you aim, it will be on our side.

    Serpens pretended to be sublime and said while holding the weight. It is the expression of a person who deliberately bears the sacrifice.

    "Are there any chances of using Operation Yangdong again?"

    "If we can afford that, we will focus our efforts on our side."

    Somehow, he seems to treat himself like a raid boss.

    In terms of demon standards, that''s the way it actually feels, isn''t it wrong?

    The only ground rice that had been laid earlier was dog noise, but the conclusion was plausible.

    One patient, one civilian, two prisoners. It''s definitely a lot of luggage.

    On the other hand, only Edna and Serpens can fight.

    Defeat the pursuer, heal Eugenes, or break the demon''s magical thread. There was a lot of consumption of Serpence''s divine power.

    It is also mysterious how much his physical strength and divine power have been restored.

    Edna also drew magic circles all night, so it must have been quite exhausting.

    ''It certainly deserves to be considered an excellent opportunity for the devil.''

    Suddenly, I started to worry about the lack of a coachman.

    Convinced that the demons will attack, it may be to lighten the burden by even one.

    But the children here are precious to Edna-san. At least one...

    You left Sir Winston just in case, didn''t you?

    What more can I say about this?

    Winston is guarding it, and the children say it''s dangerous. All I could do was doubt Win Stone''s abilities.

    If you''re really worried, it would be a good idea to hand over Shion''s magic scroll to him.

    Serpens said with a kind expression on his face. The way you care about others

    As if it was good to look at, he made up a satisfied smile.

    Even though he must be doing this because he has a vague idea. It''s strangely disgusting and disgusting. I can''t shake the feeling of being swept away by Serpence''s pace.

    ''Me and Eugene are precious, Winston is not. Isn''t that what you are?''

    I think I''m starting to open up to Winston.

    When I told him to hand my magic scroll over to Winston, I''m sure he

    I think you''re worried... .

    Later, when the two of us were alone, there were more things to ask.

 CH 299

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 299

    53. Duke''s Recruitment Offer (3)

    Leaving my frustration behind, I handed the scrolls to Winston and got into the wagon. Serpence got on the carriage.

    Eugenes, the patient, was already in the wagon, and Edna got on the wagon after loading the director and the monkey like cargo.

    So, not under the seat, but under your feet

    it means put

    ''If it''s not cold outside, I''ll ride next to a serpent... .''

    Someone was stepping on them when they lowered their feet, so Yujis and I took off our shoes and put our feet on the seat.

    Other than that, the inside of the carriage was comfortable.

    The cushions on the hips and back are very soft. There was no cold wind from outside.

    Me and Euges took off the coats we had been wearing at the most.

    "Live and live, the Duke of the Empire

    I didn''t know I''d be riding in the carriage I was driving."

    Edna murmured, as if sorry for not being able to thank you.

    As a professional serpent rider, I wonder what is so special about this kind of thing.

    ''If you live, you can ride a carriage driven by Serpens, or ride a horse driven by him.''

    I''m more concerned about Edna''s natural step on the demon than that.

    Eugene''s gaze also looked at Edna''s feet.

    headed You seem to have the same thoughts as me.

    When our eyes were focused on one place, Edna recognized it and opened her mouth implicitly.

    "Are you concerned?"

    "If anything, of course, I do care."

    As if responding to my answer, Yujisu nodded eagerly next to him.

    "Austin is trying to make me X..."

    "To do it wrong."

    "Oh, I''m sorry. I tried to do it wrong.

    Using children as bait is unforgivable. But apart from that, I also feel sorry for him. It is also my fault that he has the qualifications... . But the interest is different, right?"

    Edna applied my correction request immediately and continued the conversation.

    "You used me to attract anima, and you used children to use me. If you hadn''t come, my home would have been trampled and destroyed.

    "It is."

    "Those who do not see people as people. Those who try to trample the lives of others for their own purposes. There is no reason why I should treat them as people. None."

    So it must mean that you are comfortably stepping on the devil.

    The words were overflowing with persuasiveness, and somehow I got caught up in the feeling that I had to step on it too.

    The moment when you think about whether you should lower your legs and take the correct posture.

    "Ugh! Avoid!!"

    "Kyaaa-!"

    People screamed outside the wagon, followed by a bang.

    Hee-hee, the horses were crying and the carriage swayed to and fro.

    Edna, who was sitting in a stable position, could easily balance by just putting strength on her legs and placing her hands on the carriage ceiling and sides.

    Eugenes quickly changed his posture and sat down with an elf''s innate sense of balance.

    And I .

    Whoops!"

    He slipped from his seat, and unintentionally tapped the manager with his knee and pressed it down. The manager, who had a gag in his mouth, screamed in pain.

    In the midst of this, the carriage continued to run without stopping.

    ''Should a wagon be fitted with a seat belt?''

    I put my hand on the empty front seat

    after getting up. I opened a small window in front of the carriage.

    I''m not trying to force Serpens to drive straight. Just to ask what happened.

    By holding the window frame like a handle, the shaking became more bearable.

    "Are you okay?"

    "Is it okay now and it''s time to go to sleep? What the hell is going on?"

    "It''s an assault."

    As if in response to Serpense''s words, a bang was heard again.

    all.

    It seems that even attack magic flew away. It seems that the identity of the binge I heard earlier was also magic.

    The sudden change of direction had no direct effect except for the wagon to swerve. Serpence must have opened a barrier and blocked it.

    Although a loud noise was heard from a distance, the horses did not run wild. He pounded the ground and kept moving forward.

    It is generally impossible for non-trained jockeys to do that.

    Serpens calmed down with divine power

    it is clear

    "Already?"

    "The demon worshipers were watching us from a distance as we left the nursery. Not enough to say already."

    "to?!"

    "There were magic circles installed by Mr. Benevolen in the nursery, so I thought they would attack when the distance widened a bit."

    Serpens answered in a calm voice.

    The first magic that flew in was a surprise, twice

    Could the magic that flew away be a test of the strength of the barrier? Attack magic no longer flew.

    A brief stillness came, which was enough to calm me down.

    "Why are you saying that now?"

    "Yes? Did I mention that if they attack, they will attack us?"

    The Serpensian interpreter ran quickly.

    The very word that they would attack us, not the nursery, meant that they were watching us set off.

    Knowing that, if you think about what Winston''s importance was talking about... .

    ''It must mean that the conversation was not in the distance.''

    It''s obvious when it was discovered.

    Before leaving, he wandered around to check the inside and outside of the nursery.

    "Then attack right away!"

    "I thought I would, but I thought I was a scout, so I quit."

    I didn''t touch it, but after we left, I left it because I was afraid the nursery would be attacked.

    means

    "Ummm... Still, I was hoping for an attack from a rare place..."

    Serpens mumbled as he drooled.

    I am being pursued by enemies. The guy''s voice is unbelievably calm.

    He has an amazing composure, to the extent that he doubts whether he is the one who cried like a child this morning.

    "Ah, okay, so you keep running like this? How come it doesn''t even attack?"

    "Leaving the village like this, no people

    I''m thinking of stopping at the door. I know it''s an inducement book, but... ."

    "I can''t fight here, so I can''t help it."

    I expected it to be uneven. But I don''t know how long it''s been since we started, what kind of chaos this is.

    Fortunately, the demons didn''t attack the villagers.

    If it had been Humanus rather than Serpens driving the carriage, the indiscriminate massacre would have taken place.

    The demons attack ordinary people at random, and the Holy Swords party kills people.

    They were fighting to protect them. Such a scene appeared in [Master of the Holy Sword].

    ''It''s good at times like this for the Demon King to know Serpence when he was [Master of the Holy Sword].''

    Rather than attacking people for nothing, it seems that it is better to set a trap in front and lure them toward it.

    "Uh, yup! Eup!"

    Inside, I was feeling a feeling that I did not know whether it was relief or complicated.

    If I make a loud noise, I get beaten up

    I knew I was going to pass out, so even when I woke up at the nursery, I kept my eye on it quietly.

    It seems that this stupid bastard knows that there is even an ally to his rescue.

    It''s very easy to make this guy shut up.

    "The demons appear now, and I''m here to kill the demon you and Edna-san are treading on. Can I welcome you like that? It may be that demon, but extenuating circumstances might be possible if you claim that he was taken advantage of. ?Really just give up life?

    If that''s the case, why don''t you just ask Edna to kill you right now? After all, you don''t know anything about it, so you don''t have any information to extract."

    "town ."

    Unable to understand that what I was saying was a lie, the stupid manager kept his mouth shut.

    I don''t know if it''s Monam who fell after eating a brooch. The leader is without excuse, a helper and heresy of the evil forces.

    But like a bastard who can''t admit my faults, take hope from my words

    shut your mouth

    As a digression, the demon, who was trying to pretend to faint, was stunned by Eugeus slapped the back of his neck.

    indeed. Even if he could not use his spirit power, the muscles and skills he had trained did not go anywhere.

    Thanks to the horse''s speed, we were quickly out of town. The carriage stopped.

    "Aww-!"

    A roar of an animal was heard from somewhere.

    At the same time, the back of the head of Serpens that was visible through the small window disappeared.

    He kicked off the coach and threw himself at the beast.

    It is difficult to see the situation through a small window. I shifted my gaze to the large window on the side of the door.

    A divine barrier that boasted a dazzling light surrounded the carriage. When I pulled out my neck slightly to check it, it was protected all the way to the end.

    Serpens was aiming his sword at the giant beasts outside the barrier.

    Between him and the five beasts, the earth was as if a piece of gold had been cut.

    It was hollowed out in a straight line.

    ''Is Serpens holding his sword in check?''

    Each of the black beasts resembling wolves boasted a size of 1.75 winstones. It is not the size you see in nature.

    Not only that.

    "= �� le " - O

    Each time the beast exhaled a tense breath, black smoke flowed out of its mouth instead of white breath.

    That leads to one conclusion.

    ''Monster.''

    If the barriers of the Volta Mountains had been broken and the time had come for the demons there to reach here, there would have been a commotion sooner or later.

    In other words, it is a monster that was raised by artificially injecting black magic into ordinary animals.

    It is impossible to even compare with the monsters of the Volta Mountains, who received the energy of a dense demon core at the time of their birth.

    However, the demons are free to fill the gap.

    Winston has been fighting in the arena

    like it was with people. Or if you burn your life force in the same way that instant wizards were created.

    It will cost a lot of money and time, but it is capable of creating powerful monsters.

    Serpence didn''t even show the slightest movement in front of such monsters. However, I know that he is spreading his senses and looking around.

    The demons crawled and lowered their postures. As if they were running to Serpens at any moment, the muscles in their forelimbs swelled noticeably.

    However, as if the monsters in the shape of a wolf were waiting for a signal. It was just waiting.

    ''That means where is the black magician who controls monsters... .''

    That''s why Serpens can''t attack easily, so they''re looking around. There''s no way the guy who lured me here would have thrown away the monsters.

    Hui-ying, a cold wind blew. A long sense of urgency raged.

    Serpens, who was quietly staring at the monster, looked up at our heads.

    all. His thin sword was swung towards it, and the silvery divine power flew away at high speed.

    "Aaaah-!!"

    One of the monsters rushed in to bite the open side of Serpens while swinging his sword.

    The other four monsters were scattered across the front, back, left, and right of Serpens and launched an offensive.

    It happened so quickly that if I had blinked even once, I would have missed it.

    - Quarreung!

    Belatedly, the divine power sent by Serpens and the magic of the demons collided, creating a huge noise.

    Some kind of magic had been cast, white snowy feet landed on the barrier set by Serpens.

 CH 300

    Duke, Please Repent! chapter 300

    53. Duke''s Recruitment Offer (4)

    Serpens turned his body slightly and took a step back, avoiding the attack of the monster wolf that was aiming for his side.

    Then he immediately rolled his feet and jumped lightly.

    Another monster bit the space where he was standing. There was no Serpence already there, so the monster

    is like swallowing air.

    A monster thrust its claws overflowing with black magic towards Serpence, who floated in the air.

    Serpens raised his sword. A sword imbued with refined divine power collided with wild black magic that ran wildly.

    The power itself was stronger than the serpent''s divine power, but the mass and weight were not.

    The repulsive force generated when the two energy collided flew away Serpens. At the point of arrival, the first

    The great monster had its mouth wide open.

    ''What''s so tight?!''

    While flying, Serpens swung his sword and sent divine power somewhere.

    Only then did he turn his body halfway in the air and cut the monster that had revealed his teeth to him at once.

    Black blood splattered over the gray snow that had been crushed by people and wagons. The body of the huge monster collapsed and was buried in the snow.

    Almost at the same time, Kwaunger overhead

    Lee rang once more.

    It seems that the devil used magic again. The sea I expected when Serpence blew a divine power out of nowhere.

    Magic sometimes flew toward Serpens, who was now dealing with four monsters.

    Ice arrows shot to induce the guy''s movement. The blade of the wind that aims at the neck. A road of fire engulfing your back.

    Sometimes a creeper like a vine grew out of the snow-covered ground and targeted his ankle.

    ''You use it so evenly!''

    It''s not like these are the four major elements

    The demons must apologize to the world.

    Serpence cut through all the obstacles and gradually reduced the number of beasts.

    Perhaps it was because of the violent movement, the hood that had been pressed down has been removed for a long time. Serpence''s blue-silver hair fluttered to and fro.

    I have one question.

    Yes Yes?!

    Suddenly, I was startled by the sound of a voice next to me. It was because he was too engrossed in seeing Serpens fighting.

    When I turned my head in the direction of the sound, I saw Edna holding the staff tightly. For some reason, she had a puzzled expression on her face.

    If you take out the staff, you have to use magic, so why are you just watching?

    Even so, that''s why I asked the question.

    Yes?

    I can''t use magic.

    Yeah?! Maybe the demons have developed a magic that can''t use magic...

    "No, because of the divine barrier that Mr. Prasidus has spread."

    There is no function to block magic in the Holy Barrier.

    Just because of the barrier''s existence, it probably means that you can''t attack enemies beyond it.

    "Mr Prasidus was originally like that.

    Are you fighting?

    "Uh, uh , um , that , over there, what are you talking about "

    this situation. Somewhere familiar

    The figure of Winston standing vainly in the dark street auction house overlapped with Edna.

    "Since I was young, I was forced to take responsibility for myself It''s kind of like a chronic disease."

    Like that... It seems that high-ranking nobles have their own difficulties.

    In the case of Serpence, his starting sword... Ah, the shortening of the starting point.

    I mean. It''s my nickname. Thanks to you, you were able to foresee the crisis of the continent in advance, didn''t you? It could be said that this is the first step to save this continent... . So I''m not swearing at all!

    Even if it''s short, why... Anyway, I got it. Keep talking.

    Was it because there was an example of the monkey and the Monamy?

    Edna had a slightly embarrassed expression on her face, but she just let it go.

    "Anyway, I did it especially because of that. If Serpens had received the Holy Sword, wouldn''t he not have attached it to his colleagues as well?"

    It''s just a guess, though. No matter how many times I think about it, tantrums burst out.

    Perhaps reading the resentment in my chattering tone, Edna had a strange expression on her face.

    "But can the messenger of the gods treat the holy sword that way?"

    I''m a messenger of God. You know, there''s a saying, ''Why, no matter what, I''m a heretic.''

    " I get a rough idea of what it feels like. Although it doesn''t really make a lot of sense."

    Edna said with a trembling expression.

    It''s because she doesn''t know Serpence''s past.

    As proof of that, Euges nodded passionately and shed tears. I put my hands together and took a prayer posture.

    It is the image of a believer who follows the will of God itself.

    You must have been deeply moved by my words.

    By the way... Shion, did you tell Edna that you were a messenger from the gods?

    Eugenes asked me a question as he loosened his finely clasped hands.

    Yeah, there were some circumstances.

    "Did you do anything suspicious?"

    If anyone hears it, they''ll think I''m the kind of person who does strange things every day.

    Why? She smiled softly without saying a word, then turned her head and looked out the window.

    It''s as if you didn''t hear anything.

    Wow, what a shame!''

    It was just to appease Edna''s anxiety.

    Of course, either I skipped too many intermediate explanations, or the words didn''t match. That''s why I added to Edna''s confusion!

    stop asking,

    I followed Eugene and looked out the window.

    Serpens stood alone in the field

    all. The snow on the floor was exposed to various magics, so they disintegrated and melted away.

    Serpens reached out towards the fallen monster. A silvery glow enveloped the monster''s corpse. The act of purifying the black magic remaining in the body of a dead monster.

    I''m sure the monkey is hiding somewhere not far away.

    The demon who blew magic and the demon who controlled demons. At least two or more But the attack no longer flew.

    Thanks to the divine power, Serpence approached us with a sword that had not been stained with a drop of blood in its sheath.

    And then he immediately got on the carriage.

    Aren''t you going to catch a monkey?

    Again, I stuck to the small window in the direction of the wagon and asked him a question.

    Magic came from three directions.

    At first glance, this is an answer that sounds like a peer-reviewed answer.

    However, according to the Serpensian interpreter

    If it were, it meant that if he went to attack one side, he would attack the wagon from the other two directions.

    "Isn''t it okay to have a barrier?"

    This is a barrier maintained entirely by my divine power and mental power. As the distance increases, its power is inevitably weakened or canceled.

    It seems that the monkeys are quite far away.

    The enemies did not hide their location. Using the fact that I can''t leave my seat, I think they''re going to start a war of attrition.

    It was an open declaration that, like just before, I would send a magic beast or use magic to eat away the stamina and divine power of Serpens.

    There''s really nothing to kill.

    "Shall I attack?"

    Our eyes turned to Edna. Serpens also looked at her through the small window.

    The fact that magic has reached this point means that we can also blow magic there.

    I think it would be possible if you just point out the exact location... how about it?

    Hmm... I don''t think it''s a bad idea.

    Serpens, who had completely ignored Edna''s power, nodded.

    "Can you see the mountain about 3km away from here at 4 o''clock?"

    Yes, I see.

    There is a large coniferous tree 25 meters below the summit. Can you see it?

    It is impossible to see it with the eyes of a normal person.

    Edna shouted for a moment and drew a magic circle in the blink of an eye. The magic of the magic circle lingered in Edna''s eyes. It seems to be a magic that corrects the eyesight.

    Now I can see it.

    "It is two meters to the east of the tree."

    "I can''t see it well because it is covered by other trees Can I just blow it away?"

    Yes. If you give me a signal, I''ll put a barrier right away.

    Edna''s magic was entangled here and there, creating a complex magic circle. Into the mouth

    was constantly muttering something, and it was probably calculating the magic formula.

    That''s Okay!

    At the same time as her signal, the divine barrier disappeared like snow. The snow that had piled up on the barrier fell.

    At the same time, a small wind blew.

    It was a soft breeze at the beginning, but as the distance increased, it gradually blew away. As the snow piled up on the ground and trees was harvested, it became a huge blizzard.

    On the mountain peak that Serpens pointed out

    White snow rose like smoke.

    Edna''s magic created a wonderful avalanche.

    how is it?

    There is a wizard among them, so it''s unlikely he''s dead... but it will take a few days to get out.

    "Where are the other two?"

    You can think of the location you just attacked as the command center that gives orders. Other enemies may have moved to their next attack.

    Edna, who had succeeded in the attack and was filled with confidence, heard Serpence''s words

    He had a missing face.

    I''ll go first.

    Edna''s energy goes down or not. Serpens started the carriage.

    The enemies will attack you anyway. So I''ll go the way I should go. what kind of thinking

    In case you don''t know, I''ll go back to a place with as little people as possible.

    "It''s Serpens who hold the reins, so do it yourself."

    It''s windy. If you don''t have anything else to say, you better close the window.

    I closed the window as he said.

    When I left the nursery, I omit the information that the monkey is watching. Now that I''m here, I can tell you something good... I thought.

    * * *

    There were several air raids.

    At first, it was blocked by Serpens'' Holy Barrier, but if we move, the Holy Barrier must also move with it.

    there was

    In other words, it means that the divine power and mental power are consumed relentlessly.

    Even the demons knew it, and as soon as Serpence broke the barrier, he fired magic like a dungeon.

    We had to change our strategy.

    - Kwaang!!

    The magic hit the carriage directly, but the carriage, temporarily strengthened by Edna''s magic, withstood the demon''s magic.

    But the wagon swaying

    The laws of physics made it impossible.

    Serpens skillfully drove the horse, balancing the carriage not to overturn.

    ''It is my best driver!''

    I feel like I want to give you a round of applause.

    It would have been if it had not been for the situation where she was holding the interior decorations to support her body in a swaying wagon.

    Soon the wagon stopped swaying.

    But the rumbling inside of me couldn''t stop. Was it Edna too, she opened the window

    He was constantly nauseous.

    When I left the orphanage, there was only one patient, Eugenes. Right now, Edna and I are in a worse state than Eugenes.

    I can''t do it like this.

    I opened the small window again.

    Serpens.

    Say it.

    Is it far to get there?

    Um, unfortunately... As I said, I''m on my way back, so it''s been quite some time.

    It takes.

    this fucking shit.

    I swear to the demon inside and closed the small window again.

    Does the devil even have a pre-meeting for our changed strategy? The attack stopped for a while.

    Edna, who had finally calmed down, turned her head back into the carriage.

    The human body is a very deceitful thing, and now that the noise has subsided, I feel empty inside.

    I reopened the small window I had closed.

    Serpens.

    Say it.

    It''s possible to ask what''s going on again this time, but Serpence''s answer was still kind.

    "How about our dinner?"

    Are you always carrying food in your pockets? Cakes. Cookies...

    "You gave them all."

    Um... I guess I''ll have to starve.

    Giving the kids snacks, Ser

    There''s no way Pence couldn''t remember.

    I''m sure it''s still there. Had I known it would be like this, I would have left something behind.

    Oh, that''s right! I still have hot chocolate powder and marshmallows left!

    Sion. It''s better than starving, but that doesn''t fill your stomach.

    At my cry, Euges said he was very sorry.

    But I didn''t mean it that way. Belated regret that I would have served Serpense a hot chocolate as well

    it was

    Maybe Serpens had no regrets for saying that there were no sweet potatoes left, and he only served hot chocolate to Shion.

    ''This was really creepy... !''

    I''m sorry, but I can''t even dare to look at the guy''s face.