--Ring-ring.
As Mackie mulled over the information concerning this matter, the telephone on the desk suddenly rang.
He knew who was calling and picked up the receiver.
"Mackie?"
"...Father." Mackie gave a brief reply.
The voice from the other end sounded as though sand had been mixed into it. "Mm, good. It has been a long time since we last spoke on the phone. I hope things have been going reasonably well for you."
"Enough small talk. I received a report at dawn saying that my assistant was shot dead by Platinum yesterday... two extremely precise arrows, both aimed to kill. Clearly, this had been planned in advance."
"Though that man was going to be eliminated anyway. I was deeply dissatisfied with his reporting and handling of the Radiant Shield director's death. An assistant who needlessly made enemies of other corporations had no reason to remain in that position. I will select a new assistant afterward—but that will take time. Among those competitors hostile to him, there are only fools, no capable people who can control the situation."
"Therefore, Rose News Agency needs someone to take charge temporarily and assume more responsibilities. I believe my son is very suited for this position, and I also believe that after the experience of the past few years, you, whom I trained myself, have gained at least a basic grasp of Rose News Agency."
The young heir fell silent for a moment before bringing the receiver back to his mouth. "I understand, Father. But I have one question."
"Ask away. There is no need for such reservations between us."
Mackie opened his mouth. He wanted to ask whether the other man knew that, once he became the person in charge, Platinum might set her sights on him.
Even Darksteel could no longer be