The City Lord's Mansion official thanked Annan, then asked tactfully, "Your Magic Newspaper is a stroke of genius. Would you mind if we... made one of our own?"
Many nobles were undeniably spoiled wastrels. But plenty were clever, too. After just one issue of Voice of Freedom, they had recognized its enormous potential.
"I don't mind at all. Tell the City Lord to send some people he trusts to Free City. Olmedo will arrange for them to learn at the Newspaper Office."
The official could not help praising him. "I'll never forget your generosity. May the friendship between Siltovis and Free City endure."
To Annan's regret, they showed no interest in the Magic Muskets, which had also helped decide the war.
As the official hurried off with the good news, Beludona asked, "Don't you need a Contract?"
"No need."
Their standing and relationship were enough to ensure the agreement went ahead.
"We devils don't trust anyone."
"Your Contracts aren't a bad thing, either. An enforceable agreement is always better than one anyone can tear up."
"You have such a way with words."
Annan did not climb into the carriage. He and Beludona led the horses back to the Academy, pulling a carriage full of succubi.
Dean Breichim fell silent for a moment when he saw them. But he knew Annan was not that kind of man. Annan had his reasons for this... probably.
Back in Free City, Annan had the succubi suppress their alluring aura and slip into the living room. Then he asked Beludona to contact her three incubi and two succubi.
Once they agreed to cooperate, Beludona drew up a three-party Devil Contract between Annan, herself, and the succubi.
Annan had changed his mind. He would let the succubi live freely in Free City, buy property, and even