"How could that be? I've been very busy lately."
Under the silent gaze of the secretary, who did not dare make a sound, Anvis casually set the classified intelligence report in his hand back onto the tray and smiled at Fiona.
"However, the ripples of fate have brought me a revelation. You may need some help in the coming days."
"I wouldn't dare trouble His Eminence. Fiona can take care of herself."
Unhurriedly placing a government document onto the pile she had already reviewed, Fiona puffed out her cheeks slightly and fixed Anvis with her lake-blue eyes, looking every bit the imposing young duchess.
"All right. I believe you."
Seeing the faint dissatisfaction beneath the girl's polite manner, Anvis found it rather amusing. He flicked his sleeve, signaling all the administrators and maids in the city lord's hall to leave.
As all outsiders withdrew, the towering, carved bronze doors creaked shut. Anvis walked to Fiona's desk, the hem of his black silk robe swirling as he casually leaned against it.
"Still, Miss Fiona, don't you want to return to your own World Line?"
"Return to my World Line?"
Fiona, seated behind the broad desk, froze at his words. Then, a complicated emotion suddenly flashed deep within her eyes.
"That's right. If nothing unexpected happens, you'll be able to return soon. But before that, you still need to do something for me."
Anvis nodded slightly, straightened, and walked over to the girl.
"Then, what do you need me to do... Brother?"
Tilting her head up slightly, Fiona looked into Anvis's black eyes and asked softly.
"...When did you find out?"
Anvis paused. Looking at the girl's unwavering gaze, he fell silent for a long while before smiling, indirectly acknowledging her guess.
"A ninth-rank being can't possibly appear out of nowhere without