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𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲
“I never imagined you would actually provide the gold coins. . . It’s not that I didn’t believe you, but I didn’t expect this much. What kind of magic did you use?”
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“I received help from my master who saved me and taught me five years ago.”
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Sir Wilfred, looking utterly astonished, listened as Luke explained briefly.
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For now, Luke could not reveal that master was actually the sealed demon, Iris.
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“. . .I see, then I won’t ask further.”
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Sir Wilfred nodded, seemingly understanding something from Luke’s attitude.
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It appeared that Sir Wilfred had decided not to pry further.
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Sir Wilfred leaned forward from the sofa and continued speaking.
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“Then, let me explain the situation. First, I’ve found out who’s behind the rogue adventurers. They seem to be employed by a merchant named Gluton.”
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Gluton is a mid-sized merchant based in St. Arrogas.
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“Gluton was buying at about 20% more than the guild’s offered prices. However, there are some things that don’t add up. . .”
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“It’s a matter of quantity, isn’t it?”
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Sir Wilfred nodded in response to Luke’s words.
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“The amount is just too much. They seemed like they were about to hunt down every demon beast in the dungeon. And it’s not just them; there seem to be countless others hired by the Gluton Chamber of Commerce. The amount of money involved is not something a single Chamber of Commerce can handle.”
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“Does that mean. . . Gluton is just a pawn?”
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“Probably. With an operation this large, it’s more than just poaching. We should assume there’s a nationwide network for illicitly selling magic stones and materials. It’s highly likely that someone involved is at the core of the nation.”
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“Do you have any suspicions?”
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“There are two suspects, and I don’t want to mix personal feelings, but one of them is Avaris. He’s the Minister of Commerce, controlling the flow of goods. It’s impossible that he knows nothing. And then. . .”
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Sir Wilfred looked at Luke with an apologetic expression.
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“It’s hard to say this, but the other is your uncle, Lord Greed.”
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“My uncle? Why would that be?”
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“The magic stones and materials poached by the rogue adventurers can’t be sold on the market as is. As you know, the country strictly regulates dungeon-derived items. To get them to market, noble approval is needed. And it seems Lord Greed was the one granting approval to the rogue adventurers’ loot.”
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Sir Wilfred continued with a bitter tone.
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“Gluton has gained momentum over these past few years, and he is close with Lord Greed. It seems Greed was the one who connected the captured rogue adventurers with Gluton.”
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“I see.”
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“I’m sorry, I was unsure whether to tell you this. . .”
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“No, it’s fine.”
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Luke smiled at Sir Wilfred.
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“It’s not surprising, coming from that uncle.”
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“Although it’s true, there’s still no clear evidence. If we were to confront them, they would likely just feign ignorance.”
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“Still, it seems like a start. Once we return to the capital, I plan to look into it immediately.”
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“. . .Actually, it’s about the capital. . .”
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Sir Wilfred hesitated further before looking at Alma.
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“Alma, you have received an invitation to a party from the capital. But the sender is. . . Prince Gale.”
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“Prince Gale?”
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Alma’s face tensed.
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“I understand how you feel, but don’t be so wary. It seems the party is to celebrate Prince Gale’s recent bust of a major kidnapping ring. That’s why both you and I have been invited.”
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“How dare they send such an invitation!”
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Alma exclaimed.
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“Despite the fact that Luke, Sicily, and I rescued the kidnapped women! I won’t attend such a party!”
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“However, as a Margrave, it’s hard for me to decline. Wouldn’t your absence worsen their impression of you?”
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“Uh, that is. . .”
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Alma said with hesitation.
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Sir Wilfred’s words are quite reasonable.
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Although I have my own point of view, if I conspicuously absent myself, it might be perceived as a provocation.
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In that case, it may not only affect me but also my father, Sir Wilfred.
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“Sir Wilfred, I believe it was customary for each party attendee to have one servant or maid accompanying them, wasn’t it?”
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Suddenly, Luke interjected.
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“Ah, yes, it’s a tradition for each party participant to have one servant or maid accompanying them. Is there something wrong with that?”
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“Then, may I accompany Alma as her attendant?”
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“Luke!”
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Alma’s eyes widened in surprise and joy.
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“I’ve met Prince Gale too. He’s a very intimidating person. It’s just an invitation to a party, but we don’t know what might happen. May I accompany you?”
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“That’s fine, but. . . it won’t be pleasant for you. After all, Lord Greed is also invited.”
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Luke’s eyebrows twitched slightly at Sir Wilfred’s words.
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But that was all.
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With a calm smile, Luke replied.
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“It doesn’t matter. I have no relation to that man anymore. He might not even recognize me.”
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Seeing Luke’s expression, Sir Wilfred nodded deeply.
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“Understood. I’ll leave Alma in your care. It’s reassuring to have you with us. Thank you.”