Chapter 150

Third Act The Villainess Is Always Assigned the Unpopular Roles Claude opens the door of the conference room appointed for the meeting, and he cocks his head. It’s time for the second conference session, but he assumed Vica would be the only one here again today. He thought they’d relax and enjoy some snacks—in fact, he even brought a book he’d been meaning to recommend to his younger cousin… And yet Vica isn’t here. His other cousin, Vica’s sister, is there instead. She’s sitting in a chair at the very back, all by herself. When he glances over his shoulder at his adviser, the man shakes his head slightly. He hasn’t gotten the time or the place wrong. He hasn’t been informed of any changes, either. His guards are keeping silent, carefully watching the surroundings. “It’s been a long time, Master Claude.” Cattleya’s expression is gentle, and her tone is friendly. “You’re sure that shouldn’t be ‘Nice to meet you’?” “Surely you wouldn’t kick up a fuss claiming that I’m a princess of Kilvas.” Although Kilvas suffered, they aren’t in a situation where they’re allowed to tell their story. The same goes for Ellmeyer. “True, that would be pointless. Where’s Vica?” “There’s something I’d like to talk with you about privately, so I had him go to another conference room. The one where everyone else is. He’s probably being told the same thing we’re about to discuss.” “You’re being very careful with this. What’s the point of splitting up Kilvas and Ellmeyer now?” The only point both sides agree on is choosing the queen by vote. Even if Kilvas and Ellmeyer vote against Cattleya, that’s only two nations. As things stand, she is certain to be Hausel’s queen. Unless Hausel’s residents rebel against the decision, it won’t be overturned, and the majority of Hausel’s residents have been replaced by Valkyries. “It’s only natural that I would be on my guard. You completely turned the tables on us last time, Master Claude.” “You give me too much credit.” Claude might have been the one who stopped Vica when he turned into a demon and threatened to go on a rampage, but his wife, Aileen, was the one who set everything up for him. “Don’t be so modest. I’ve reflected on my mistakes, which is why, this time, I want to keep our negotiations direct and to the point.” “Let’s hear it.” “Have your retainers come in, too, please.” “You’re sure?” “Yes. Your guards are Nameless Priests, aren’t they. I don’t know how they came to be your retainers, but they must be quite skilled. I can’t have people like them returning to the Ellmeyer villa now.” “Walt, Kyle, don’t move.” But Claude’s observant guards are stopped before they can act. The door is already closed. Only Cattleya is in the room, but there must be Valkyries outside. His brilliant guards and adviser might be able to break through them, but it will be pointless if the mansion is attacked. That’s where his daughter is. “There’s no need to worry; we don’t intend to harm anyone. At least, not yet. I don’t wish to fight if we can avoid it.” Cattleya, who’s boldly facing Claude’s group, is a seasoned Valkyrie. The room hasn’t been tampered with, so she must be here alone because she’s confident she can handle herself in a fight. Claude wants to return to the mansion as soon as he possibly can, but teleporting is difficult in Hausel. There are talismans with holy power everywhere, and they can divert him to a completely different location. If he’s not careful, teleportation could end up being the long way back. “My, that rain’s getting harder. I wonder if Lady Aileen will be able to go on the inspection.” Keith breaks the tense mood in a tone that’s no different from normal. Cattleya gives a wry smile. “The inspection will probably be canceled.” “As you prophesied, hmm? Well, well. I’d expect no less from a royal candidate of Hausel.” Aileen is still in the mansion. The message Keith has slipped into the conversation makes Claude shoot him a sidelong glance. Wearing the same smile as always, Keith thumps Claude lightly on the back, then steps forward. “It looks as if this may be a long talk. Would you mind if I made some tea?” “Be my guest. There’s a tea trolley over there with a pot, hot water, and leaves.” “I appreciate how well prepared you are.” “Please have a seat, Master Claude. There’s no need to answer me right away. For now, just listen to what I have to say. Someone should be on their way to fetch Lady Aileen. Even if it is just a formality, I thought you would probably need to talk it over it as a couple.”