The Guide Played Her Role as a Stand-in a Little Too Well - Chapter 103
“…Yes. I’m just going to say hello to Lady Hedonia.”
There was only one way out of the small hut, so pointing the way with his hand seemed unnecessary.
His somewhat anxious demeanor was clearly different from the usual Esban.
What could be the reason? Not wanting to ask Esban directly, I racked my brain.
First of all, since his attitude changed after seeing me talking with Pheon, it must be that he didn’t like it.
‘Why doesn’t he like it?’
…Could it be because of the difference in status?
Although Pheon isn’t originally from a noble family, he is now recognized as an Esper and a noble as the Lord of the Magic Tower, so Esban didn’t like that I was talking with him.
The reason seemed to fit perfectly.
Since there was no need to try to impress Esban, I decided to express my frustration directly.
“…Lord Esban, even if you don’t like me talking to a noble like Lord Pheon, please be understanding. I really had something important to discuss with him.”
I made sure not to forget a slight sarcastic tone while explaining my situation.
Esban blinked in surprise at my words.
…Huh? Was that not it?
His reaction, as if he hadn’t expected my words at all, left me bewildered.
…What is this?
“Oh.”
Esban’s dumbfounded expression was a bonus I hadn’t expected.
He hurriedly continued,
“Th-That’s right. I don’t like it, but I’ll let it pass.”
…Anyone could tell it was a last-minute excuse.
‘He’s really bad at acting….’
Anyway, I decided to play along. There’s no benefit in nitpicking.
I replied in a tone that matched his stiff manner of speaking.
“Yes….”
Of course, I still had a hint of mischief left.
Esban glared at me as if he didn’t like my response but kept his mouth shut.
He must have realized that arguing right now would be pointless.
Hedonia and Pheon also said nothing about Esban.
They seemed completely uninterested.
Hedonia, in particular, just stared at me intently and spoke.
“…Karina, then we’ll see each other tonight.”
Hedonia placed a hand on my shoulder and muttered in a firm voice.
The added emphasis in his voice made it sound like a declaration of war.
‘There’s really no need for that.’
There’s no need to do that to Pheon and Esban.
“Yes, I’ll see you tonight.”
Since I have to give him blood anyway. I answered without much thought, then realized how my words might have sounded when I saw Esban and Pheon’s jaws drop.
“Ah, no, this is―”
But I couldn’t explain about Hedonia’s awakening vial, so I had to close my mouth again.
Pheon, not to be outdone, spoke up.
“Ah, come to think of it, I’m also scheduled to meet Miss Karina today.”
Pheon smiled brightly, even under Hedonia’s fierce gaze.
It almost seemed like he enjoyed Hedonia’s anger.
“I have to visit the Duke of Apharantes’ residence tonight anyway.”
“…You’re coming to the residence?”
Hedonia frowned at those words.
“Yes, I need to receive some guidance. I’ve been feeling quite fatigued lately, and there’s no helping it.”
Pheon responded slyly.
“But it seems the Duke might be busy tonight, so someone else might need to guide me.”
“Oh, don’t worry about that. I’ll make sure the Duke finds time to guide you.”
“It’s so considerate of you to look out for a stand-in.”
“And I’m surprised at how you manage Karina’s public matters as well.”
“Haha, it’s my duty, after all.”
Their exchange was getting intense. At this rate, they looked ready to grab each other by the collars.
Esban, you should stop them! When I turned my head quickly, I saw Esban standing there with his arms crossed, watching.
…Why is no one stopping this?
I knew the male protagonists didn’t get along, but I had no idea it was this bad!
I stepped between them and raised my hands to both sides.
“Come on, everyone. It’s really time to go! We don’t have much time left!”
As I fussed, Pheon and Hedonia regained their composure and cleared their throats.
“…Let’s go.”
At Pheon’s words, Hedonia wordlessly walked towards the hut’s door with heavy steps.
Pheon and Hedonia left immediately, and afterward, I remained with Esban.
“How are we supposed to move?”
“…I’ll carry you.”
“Excuse me?”
There were carriages and other means of transportation, so why would he insist on carrying me?
“You look serious.”
“I’m heavier than you might think.”
I felt like I had revealed too much and quickly made an excuse.
Esban extended his arm.
“That’s not particularly the case.”
