Beatrice's Tsundere Side

"I'm not entirely sure. The day before yesterday, I went to the village outside the manor to buy daily necessities. When I came back, my head felt a little foggy, but I didn't think much of it. I figured I was just tired and would be fine after a night's rest!"

Hane nodded. "Then how did you get the wound on your hand?"

Rem raised her left hand and looked at the recently healed wound and the scar it had left. A flicker of puzzlement crossed her eyes.

"A girl's pet in the village bit me. Is something wrong, sir?"

Rem looked up at Hane, her gaze softening. She had a fair idea who had saved her. Judging by her sister's reaction, it had something to do with this guest!

"That explains it. Someone must have cursed you through the girl's pet. What a vile trick. It looks like that village isn't safe either!"

With that, Hane turned to Roswaal.

"What do you think should be done, Earl? This is your territory, after all!"

Roswaal stared at Hane in astonishment. Bringing the dead back to life was a power reserved for gods, yet this man could do it. Had he truly lost all his power?

Something stirred in Roswaal's eyes.

"I'll send someone to investigate. Ram, take Rem to the village tomorrow. Find out why she was cursed!"

"Yes, Lord Roswaal!"

Rem and Ram answered respectfully.

Hane gave a faint chuckle.

"Earl, if you don't mind, let them take my good-for-nothing disciple along. He's trained long enough. It's time he got some real combat experience!"

"Really? Master, I can go out and fight for real?"

Subaru Natsuki's delighted voice rang out as soon as Hane finished speaking.

Hane nodded calmly.

"You're about ready. At least you can protect yourself. But