Ang did not notice until now that Yuri was actually an imperial baron.
"I never expected Shopkeeper Yuri to be an imperial noble as well." Ang spoke with a hint of emotion.
Yuri was first stunned, then a trace of barely concealed pride appeared on his face. He subconsciously straightened his back, trying to make himself seem more solemn and imposing.
However, his bulging belly was stretched taut. Rather than making him look noble, the movement made him seem somewhat comical.
"Hahaha," Yuri said with a dry laugh. "Anyone who can move freely through the Segon Plane is either born into nobility or is a noble themselves. I only managed it thanks to my ancestors' blessings."
Ang watched the faint arrogance in his expression and merely smiled inwardly without exposing him.
He simply took an exquisite badge from his robes and slowly pinned it to his chest.
It was an old yet still gleaming viscount's badge.
The family crest on the badge was clearly visible, carrying the weight of accumulated years.
Yuri recognized it at a glance. His whole body stiffened as though struck by lightning, and disbelief filled his eyes.
"Vi... Viscount?" Even his voice trembled.
Ang nodded, his expression calm.
Yuri immediately bent at the waist in salute, his attitude completely different from before. "I was presumptuous just now. Please forgive me, Lord Viscount."
"It's nothing." Ang waved his hand dismissively.
Then he changed the subject and led Yuri toward the carriage not far away.
The heavy carriage was parked at the street corner, pulled by an enormous Board-tailed Beast.
The magical beast was covered in thick scales, with a massive rock-like tail. It looked extraordinarily imposing.
Yet at that moment, it lay quietly on the ground like a docile ox.
"This Board-tailed Beast is no ordinary creature.