"Why are you still here?"
Late that night, Olin returned from the Knights' Order Headquarters and found Annan sitting with Old Ancestor by the fireplace.
"Shh..."
Annan closed the book in Old Ancestor's hands, lifted the drowsy Lily, tucked a Blanket around her, and tiptoed over to Olin, whose expression had turned complicated. "Old Ancestor just fell asleep..."
"I'll stay one more day. Tomorrow, I'll buy gifts for my friends and leave."
A new year was almost here. It was time to prepare gifts for his friends again.
"Go rest in the Guest Room." There was a gentleness in Olin's voice that she did not notice herself. "Thank you..."
Old Ancestor could tell, and so could she: Annan had no ulterior motive in caring for Old Ancestor.
"It was nothing. I'm going to bed. Remember to keep your voice down."
Annan slipped back to the Guest Room. A servant came over and sighed. "Young Master Annan pestered Old Ancestor into telling stories all evening. Old Ancestor really does like him..."
Olin suddenly wanted to drag Annan back out of his bedroom.
The night at the Montreal Manor was peaceful and comfortable. Early the next morning, Annan chose a carriage bearing the Montreal family's Divine Emblem from the Stables and headed for the Imperial Capital.
First came gifts for Aunt Susan's family.
Annan had always thought Aunt Susan's Apple Pie tasted even better than the ones sold in shops. Why not help her open an apple pie restaurant? Uncle Holin would have something to do, too, and Martin's gift could be unlimited apple pie at the restaurant.
Then there was Yi... Illymoyas... Nothing could beat a perfect lair!
As for Olmedo, how about making her a Vice Lord?
Annan had even worked out what he would say: "You may have lost