Chapter 685

[Editor's note: This chapter has been edited to remove content that breaks our content rules.]

But theirs was not an equal alliance.

Olga Marie was a Lord’s daughter, heir to the Department of Astromancy, and a future member of the Twelve Lords. Reines, by contrast, was merely a daughter of a branch family of Lord El-Melloi’s house.

On the other hand, Reines was four years older than Olga Marie—a considerable age gap for children.

That was why Reines always acted as the one the other could rely on, yet never asked Olga Marie for help herself.

Shirou had noticed even that, and reminded Reines that she ought to be more honest with her friend.

“Next time, let’s invite Olga Marie and have tea together.”

“You’ll be treating us, Lord Shirou.”

“If you come to Japan, it’s my treat. If we’re in London, it’s yours.”

Shirou happily returned to his bread and said no more.

Ever since last night, he’s been leading me around by the nose...

Somewhat disgruntled, Reines steered the conversation toward the village they were staying in.

“Let’s take a look around the graveyard later.”

“Sure.”

One of the gravekeeper’s four rules was, “Do not approach the graveyard alone.”

In other words, going as a pair should be fine.

Reines drained the rest of her tea. Just then, a knock came at the door.

“Um... good morning.”

The door to the hunting lodge slowly opened a crack.

It opened so slowly that Reines wondered whether someone was preparing to perform a magic trick.

Through the gap appeared a small girl whose hood and bangs concealed her eyes.

Though they could not make out her face, her voice suggested she was fourteen or fifteen.

Shirou and Reines exchanged a glance. Neither knew her.

“M-Mr. Bersac sent me.”

The hooded