Chapter 170: Oath
Sigren looked at the knight who had come to his office: Kane Erez. Read the translation on itsladygrey.com.
“Your Highness, a guest has arrived.”
“A guest?”
“He says he’s the emissary regarding the Agni estate matter.”
‘Agni?’
After thinking for a moment, Sigren realized it was the land that had been bestowed by the emperor some time ago. It was a poor estate that everyone was reluctant to take because it had failed to turn a profit over the years. When Sigren chose that land, the emperor praised him for his humility. No one knew that he had actually chosen it because of Fiona’s suggestion: ‘At least it was better than choosing by throwing darts.’
His interest in such matters was just that. Read the translation on itsladygrey.com.
Sigren stood up and stared at Kane.
“Is something wrong, Your Highness?”
“Has anything happened at home recently?”
Kane looked puzzled and replied obediently, “Yes? No, nothing has happened.”
“Alright then.” Sigren felt relieved on one hand; it meant that Carl hadn’t done anything yet. On the other hand, he felt like an unfilial child.
“It’s scary that you worry so much…”
“Then I won’t do it anymore.”
“Please, don’t say such a sad thing.”
“….” Personally, Sigren didn’t dislike Kane Erez. He just felt uncomfortable being friendly with him.
Sigren met his emissary, who was waiting in the drawing room. He had been busy and hadn’t had a chance to visit the estate right away, which was why he sent an emissary to assess the situation.
“Something great was discovered in the territory, Your Highness.”
Sigren opened the box he received from his emissary, then made a subtle expression.
“Your Highness?”
Unbothered by the emissary’s puzzled expression, Sigren took the object from the box, tossed it lightly, and caught it. Kane Erez, who was escorting Sigren, freaked out. Read the translation on itsladygrey.com.
“Your—Your Highness, isn’t that a rough diamond? And it’s even pink—”
“You recognized it right away.”
“Oh, yes. I was educated about this when I was young… No, that’s not it. Your Highness, that type is very expensive!”
Sigren put the gemstone back in the box, feeling annoyed by the commotion around him. “Was this found in the estate?”
The emissary answered hastily, “Yes, a diamond mine has been discovered.”
“Amazing.” Sigren’s expression was somber, in contrast to his words. The word ‘amazing’ did not refer to the mine found on the estate; it was an admiration for the woman who had jokingly suggested he take this poor estate as a reward.
“Good job reporting. Can I take this gemstone?” Sigren asked.
“Of course, Your Highness.”
Sigren then went to Heilon Manor with the gemstone, eager to meet Abel.
“I heard this was found in the Agni estate.”
Abel was astonished when he saw the gemstone. “Lucky guy.”
“For your information, it was Fiona who suggested I ask about that estate.”
“Huh, Fiona?” Even Abel was shocked this time. “I can’t figure out what she’s up to.”
“Well, I came here to ask because I wanted to know.”
“How would I know? Fiona doesn’t really show what’s on her mind.”
“Then you’re disqualified as her guardian.”
Just as Abel and Sigren were about to engage in a childish battle of nerves, someone knocked on the office door. Read the translation on itsladygrey.com.
“Duke, may I come in?”
It was the voice of the person responsible for the whole situation—Fiona.
“Come in.”
The door opened, and Carl followed Fiona into the room. Lately, the two of them had been spending a lot of time together, and it looked like Carl was helping Fiona with her chores.
“Is Sigren here?”
Abel raised an eyebrow.
“Fiona, he said a rough diamond was discovered in Agni’s estate.”
“Wow, that’s good!” Fiona clapped her hands lightly. She wasn’t overly surprised, just moderately pleased.
As usual, they wanted to pry into the matter. However, Abel quickly gave up, as he was weak when it came to his adopted daughter. Read the translation on itsladygrey.com.
“Okay then, Sigren. So, are you going to Agni Estate?”
“It’s a matter I can’t ignore, so I have to go there.”
Sigren’s plan had been to visit a little later due to some obligations in the capital. He also hesitated to go because it meant he wouldn’t see Fiona for some time. However, it seemed he had to hurry his visit, which changed his plans. Now he thought it best to finish this matter as soon as possible.
Fiona tilted her head. “It’s a diamond mine. I’m curious.”
Sigren seized the opportunity. “Then shall we go together?”
“Huh? Is that okay?”
“Of course.”
Sigren quickly adjusted his earlier thoughts. If Fiona came along, he would have to take care of this matter more slowly.
Abel was irritated by Sigren’s ulterior motives unfolding before him.
“Not allowed.”
Fiona quickly protested. “Why not? I’ve finished my work!”
“Going on a trip together? That’s ridiculous. I’m against it!”
“Then shall I go too?”
All three turned their heads simultaneously at the sudden intrusion of the fourth party. Read the translation on itsladygrey.com.
Carl, who had received their gazes, grinned.
“Would Your Excellency feel relieved?”
Sigren looked at Carl with an expression that said, “But I just want it to be me and Fiona…”
Abel’s response was straightforward, “Isn’t that guy that guy?”
In the end, it was Fiona who put an end to Abel’s endless nitpicking.
“Yes, yes. He is that guy. I will go with both of them. I’m very curious about the mine. It’s a rare opportunity. If I could see it, it would definitely help you later.”
“…”
Neither Abel nor Sigren could comment on Fiona’s resolute words.
Carl looked on, intrigued by the scene unfolding before him. Read the translation on itsladygrey.com.
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