Chapter 86 (2/2)
«I don't feel even a thread of magical power from him. However, if the information from the Duke's intelligence operatives is true, then he is even more of a master than the first generation Magician's Guild Guildmaster. If I offend him even a little bit, he might turn me into cinders…...»
…… and it is mostly that. Though they have some things right, in general they have been affected by the Duke's att.i.tude and think of me as a fiendish tyrant.
”Great Wizard-sama, please allow me to refill your cup.”
”...... Ahh.”
A waitress wearing an outfit with so much exposure that she's almost half naked is about to pour more wine into my cup.
Troubled with where to look, I turn to my side, at which the Duke genially (pretending to) broaches conversation with me.
”Well then, what shall we talk about first? I also have a mountain of things I want to talk with you about, but…… as courtesy dictates, will you tell me your business first?”
«Fun. So he doesn't care for women. Dark Elf and female magician…… and he's even laid hands on Elizabel. It's a certainty that he likes women. I thought he likes big b.r.e.a.s.t.s, but…… does this mean that he's content with what he already has?»
This ESP Medal that enables me to read the other party's thoughts is without a doubt as useful for negotiations as it is unfair, but…… my heart is also receiving a lot of damage.
”Th-, thank you for your consideration. Very well then, I shall tell you my business. First is a proposal from both Jiiteias Castle and Fablu-dono over there in representation of Senpu Village……”
With Fablu and Irudo providing the occasional supplement, I explain the development project of connecting Lelis, Jiiteias Castle, Senpu Village, and Filsand with a brand new trade route.
Although he should already have a certain amount of information, the Duke still looks surprised.
”Hou. That is a welcome proposal indeed. If goods from Senpu Village and Liuus Alliance reach Filsand, then our ports would flourish that much more.”
«I've read the reports, but to think that he can talk about this as well. He understands not only the power of force, but also the power of money. If I have his power, then I really might be able to gain all of Feldi…...»
At this rate, am I going to be swept up into becoming accomplice to a revolt inside Feldi……?
It's true that I want that trade route, but if it means becoming so deeply involved with his affairs……
”Nn? Oh, sorry. Is this side show not exciting enough for Margils-dono? Oi, send those musicians away! Bring out the prisoners in the underground jail and the monsters that we captured that time, and have them fight to the death!”
Misunderstanding my slight sigh, the Duke says something completely outrageous.
”NO, no, no, no. I do not wish to see such a sight. Rather than that, the music and dancing just now was splendid. I was only sighing in wonder at how good it was.”
”...... Is that so? Then that's good. Oi, continue!”
«Speaking of which, this guy can freely summon and control monsters. Guess he got bored of watching that kind of show. Seriously, his blank expression makes him that much more frightening.»
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I think I somehow get it now.
It's not that the Duke is stupid. No, in fact, he is very perceptive, and has a very extensive information network. It's just that his own beliefs and rationality renders him incapable of imagining someone like me — someone who possesses power but doesn't use it for personal reasons.
There is still much that he and I will have to talk about.
Even while being welcomed with every courtesy possible, I find myself gently pressing on my stomach.
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Chapter 86: Audience With the Duke
(Inner Voice Included)
Volume 4
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