𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟐
(12)
“Leave the matter of Theresa-sama to me.”
“I’m sorry.”
ㅤ
Gangi briefly expressed gratitude. He then extended his hand to Maasa. Resting on his rugged palm was a pendant with a small purple stone embedded in it. It was crafted from a rare stone that can sometimes be extracted from the innards of a demon beast and is considered a talisman of good luck.
Maasa received the pendant with unexpected emotion.
What a change in sentiment.
ㅤ
“If you sell it, it might fetch a little money. Use it to buy something you like.”
ㅤ
Just as she thought, it was typical of Gangi. Calling someone to a barn, even if it’s out of sight, lacks tact. But considering he didn’t part with it even during the Star Guardian’s hardships, it must’ve been cherished. With that in mind, Maasa gratefully accepted it.
ㅤ
“Luo-san is such a good kid.”
“That one is strong.”
“Yes, indeed.”
ㅤ
In front of the inquiry committee, he might have appeared as a timid boy who would likely burst into tears if bullied. However, knowing his background now, Maasa could genuinely agree with Gangi’s words.
It felt like a miracle.
That the boy is here now, maintaining such an unwavering spirit.
ㅤ
“You knew, didn’t you? About his strength.”
ㅤ
Gangi shook his head.
ㅤ
“At first, I thought it was hope.”
ㅤ
Maasa understood what Gangi meant.
The “Star Guardian” had no future. With no new recruits, no generational shifts, they were simply aging. Spending time feeling powerless and resigned. But with Luo’s arrival, the “Star Guardian” seemed as vibrant as when Crozet was born. The elderly members of the transport team seemed to sneak in food under the guise of interviewing Luo, and the old women responsible for dissecting were unusually restless.
Today’s inquiry was definitive.
In a sense, a boy bearing a fate more brutal than theirs, bravely and healthily living despite his misfortune.
It could be described as a beacon of hope.
ㅤ
“It seems we’ll be busy from now on.”
“But, you no longer need to investigate Luo, do you?”
ㅤ
It seems Gangi still misunderstands her frequent visits to the barn lately.
ㅤ
“It’s not like Theresa-sama ordered me to meet you.”
“Huh?”
ㅤ
She chuckled mischievously.
Since Luo’s arrival, Gangi seemed genuinely happy. That piqued her curiosity, so she simply came to chat.
Noticing the noisy footsteps, Maasa smirked.
As expected, a familiar figure appeared.
ㅤ
“What’s wrong, Crozet-san? Weren’t you supposed to go with Luo-san for contract renewal procedures?”
“I’ll go once the conversation is over.”
ㅤ
Crozet isn’t one to easily accept perplexing situations. While catching her breath, she approached her father.
ㅤ
“Weren’t you suspicious of Luo-kun?”
“It turned out the way you wanted, isn’t that enough?”
“But, it’s strange!”
“Alright, that’s enough.”
ㅤ
Maasa clapped her hands.
ㅤ
“Crozet-san, if you have something to ask someone, you mustn’t forget your manners.”
ㅤ
Crozet fell silent.
ㅤ
“Gangi-san, keeping secrets within the family isn’t good.”
ㅤ
Gangi blinked, as if taken by surprise.
If left to their own devices, the two stubborn individuals wouldn’t reach an agreement. Maasa thought it best for herself to intervene.
ㅤ
“From the start, Gangi-san wanted to include Luo-san as a ‘Star Guardian’.”
“Huh? But why?”
ㅤ
It was evident upon a little reflection. The coat and goggles Luo wore were once used by Gangi. He went to the lengths of having them remade just for Luo.
But when Gangi first consulted her, even Maasa was taken aback.
The “Star Guardian” is an exclusive organization. It would have been nearly impossible to invite a wizard with whom they had past connections. Even if someone earnestly asked, it’s likely that Theresa would refuse.
So, Maasa devised a plan.
ㅤ
“While Crozet-san highlighted Luo-san’s abilities, that alone wouldn’t move the organization.”
ㅤ
The decision-making power within “Star Guardian” lies with Theresa. Therefore, the first step is to gain her trust.
Consequently, Maasa advised Gangi.
To align himself with Theresa’s policies.
Of course, that alone wouldn’t suffice. It was necessary for everyone to recognize Luo as a trustworthy individual. To achieve this, Luo himself needed to speak up.
ㅤ
“That’s why we held a hearing.”
ㅤ
The result was beyond expectations.
Nearly all members of the “Star Guardian” sided with Luo, making it difficult for even the assertive Theresa to impose her will. So, she entrusted the decision to the most reliable person in this matter, Gangi.
This was the compromise they sought.
Upon learning of her parents’ scheme, Crozet was astounded.
ㅤ
“Of course, it wasn’t just our effort. Thanks to Crozet-san’s dedication, we achieved this outcome. Actions stemming from a pure and just heart are the only path to the beacon of hope.”
ㅤ
A phrase from a fading doctrine.
ㅤ
“Look, doesn’t Gangi-san have something to say to Crozet-san?”
ㅤ
Gangi gazed down at Crozet. He started to say something but stopped, taking a deep breath.
ㅤ
“I’m sorry for keeping secrets.”
ㅤ
Crozet looked up intently at Gangi.
ㅤ
“Did you trust Luo?”
“Yes.”
“From the beginning?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
ㅤ
As if to end the conversation, Gangi turned away.
ㅤ
“If you work with him, you’ll understand.”
ㅤ
He said, preparing to leave.
But Crozet wouldn’t let him. Like a mischievous little girl, she jumped onto her father’s broad back.
ㅤ
“H, Hey, stop it!”
“Otou-san!”
“I’ve told you not to call me that.”
“Nope, I’ll never stop!”
ㅤ
The intelligent mother watched the playful banter between the stubborn father and daughter with a wry smile.
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