The Guide Played Her Role as a Stand-in a Little Too Well - Chapter 183
Everyone fell silent at my words. An awkward silence ensued. Yet, no one shouted in disagreement with my opinion.
They knew.
There was no way the four Espers hadn’t considered the possibility I just mentioned.
They probably thought the unsuspected individuals were allies.
But the problem remained unresolved.
‘There’s a hole somewhere.’
Someone had to raise the possibility.
The Espers present were already too deeply intertwined with noble society and each other.
That’s why I, who had lived completely cut off from society, might be a suitable candidate.
Because I knew nothing.
Esban sighed heavily and nodded.
“Let’s think about it.”
In truth, there was more I wanted to say to Esban.
To be precise, it was something related to his family.
Cayden Cairoze.
‘He has a deep grudge against the royal family too.’
Previously, Esban hinted that not only Robert but also the royal family was involved in the death of Cayden’s wife, Elisa.
Today again, Esban mentioned that the Cairoze family had suffered greatly because of the Emperor.
Robert was completely ruined under his and Hedonia’s collaboration. He became someone whose existence might as well be forgotten by the world.
But nothing happened to the Emperor.
‘Not yet.’
Maybe the revenge is not over yet.
I had a thought… that it might be related to the corruption of the Esper that occurred in the novel.
However, knowing how much Esban respected Cayden Cairoze, I couldn’t bring myself to suggest that Cayden might be suspicious.
“…I expected this, but it still stings. Not being able to trust anyone.”
Shaelock looked around at the Espers present one by one and said,
“I will investigate everyone here again. No apologies for the background checks.”
“Background checks are my specialty. It’d be great if we find something we can use as leverage.”
Pheon jested. Trusting each other while being unable to trust. The contrast between the tense atmosphere and the playful tone was striking.
Shaelock glanced at the clock and stood up.
“For now, I’ll take my leave. See you later, Rina.”
The look on her face as she waved at me showed signs of deep contemplation.
‘Maybe I should have mentioned it earlier.’
But even if it wasn’t me, those who returned to square one would have had to find a new way.
“I’ll actually stay. I still need to receive guidance.”
Shaelock stuck to the sofa with a smile.
“Is the guidance really necessary?”
Of course, she didn’t flinch at Hedonia’s fierce gaze.
“Absolutely. I’ve been working so hard lately.”
After answering Hedonia, she even waved at me.
Shaelock watched his tense interaction with interest.
“I need it too.”
Esban also stayed. Hedonia’s eyes were blazing. It seemed like a dry stick would catch fire if brought close.
“I prefer one-on-one guidance.”
“No.”
If Hedonia was left in this room, they would continue their fight.
‘There’s only one way.’
I sighed and raised my hand.
“Lord Hedonia.”
“Yes, Karina.”
He quickly turned his head and looked at me with a warm smile.
“Please let me work.”
“……”
Was it because I didn’t side with him? Hedonia’s eyes widened in shock as he stared at me.
“We’ll just hold hands.”
I sent him the most trustworthy look I could muster.
“Please trust me.”
Hedonia sighed and nodded. Though his breath was heavy, he did not protest my words. Instead of arguing, he prepared to leave.
“How could I ever win against you?”
He said, casting a glance at me before stepping outside.
“But I’ll be just outside the door. Call me if anything happens.”
He warned with a stern look. His intimidating face could unnerve anyone, but Pheon and Esban remained unfazed.
Esban even looked directly at Hedonia, as if to signal him to leave already.
Hedonia, ruffling his hair, mumbled something under his breath and exited the room.
The door closed.
“A man who disrupts work.”
Pheon muttered as he plopped down next to me.
“Didn’t you choose the wrong person?”
“…You’re concerned, right? Since I’ve fainted before.”
“It might be a lack of trust.”
…Let’s not talk. Whatever I say in response to Pheon will surely be met with a rebuttal.
Instead, I took his hand.
“Let’s begin the guiding.”
“…It’s not over yet even if you are lovers.”
Pheon muttered softly.
“Pardon?”
