As usual, Idelia sat in her office, handling the city's miscellaneous affairs. She was busy, but fulfilled.
The Imperial Delegation had come and gone, but the Voice of Freedom had given the visit extensive coverage. With the Empire's backing, the Gold Depository was booming. Before long, they would have to consider expanding its vaults—and how to spend the money.
Even several renowned mercenary companies could not sit still. They went to the Commercial Street and offered to protect the Gold Depository.
But the Commercial Street did not welcome them the way it had welcomed refugees. Free City could protect the Gold Depository, after all, and anyone who could be bought with money could also be paid to betray it.
Knock, knock, knock—
Near noon, Luoxi knocked on the door and reported suspicious people near the City Lord's Mansion.
"Have you investigated?"
"No. They're girls, and they look wealthy, maybe even noble..."
Idelia looked up and wheeled herself to the window. She quickly spotted two young women standing beneath the eaves, gazing at the City Lord's Mansion.
"Sienna?"
"You know them?"
"They're... friends Annan met in Siltovis."
"Oh~"
Understanding dawned on Luoxi's face. He might as well have said sweethearts aloud.
Idelia sent Luoxi to bring them in and asked Abby to tell Annan.
Annan, who was fertilizing plants in the garden with Irilanze, received the message. He rolled down his sleeves, put on his Mage Robe, and returned to the City Lord's Mansion.
When he reached the Lounge, he saw the beautiful young woman standing there, just as he had expected. He strode over and gave her a huge hug.
Caught off guard, Sienna went blank. Her cheeks quickly flushed as red as if she were drunk.
"Wh-why so suddenly..."
"Sorry. I got a little carried away. It's been so