"Ha... ha..."
"Get up, nephew."
Count Gulanat said with a smile, bending down to personally pull Milo, who had been frightened into sitting on the ground, back to his feet.
"If I really broke your legs, knowing your mother's temperament, she'd probably give me the cold shoulder for years."
"So, Milo, stay in the city obediently for a few days. Let your uncle play the host, then I'll send you home safely."
After saying this with a smile, the Count suddenly leaned his face close to Milo's. His smile instantly vanished, and his expression turned stern, even somewhat sinister.
"Don't let your uncle find out that you're planning to sneak away."
"Otherwise, your legs really will be broken."
"Eh?!"
Milo's slightly relieved expression froze at once. Watching Count Gulanat sheath his saber, he had the feeling...
His uncle had not been joking earlier.
As if pleading for help, Milo turned his gaze toward his idol, the Hero, hoping Himmel would lend him a hand.
Faced with his junior's plea, Himmel hesitated for a moment before ultimately stepping forward to speak with Count Gulanat.
After all, he had promised this junior that he would accompany him in exploring the secret realm.
Besides, with himself at Milo's side, Himmel was confident he could keep his junior safe.
After some negotiation, Count Gulanat looked at his nephew in surprise, silently marveling at his good fortune.
"Nephew, continue your journey."
"Since even Hero Himmel has vouched for you, I have no reason to stop you."
"I'll write to your parents and persuade them not to worry."
After saying that, Count Gulanat still seemed somewhat uneasy. He had the guards lead the Hero into the city first, then pulled his nephew Milo aside and gave him a private instruction in his ear.
"Nephew, traveling with