No matter how considerate old Count Longley was toward the common people, or how reluctant he was to indulge in extravagance, he was still a nobleman of standing, and some things simply could not be avoided.
For instance... the large private estate every noble family had to have...
"President Xu, please come in." Count Longley warmly ushered Xu Yi through the estate's gates, then summoned several servants to receive the Magic Locomotives and Xinfei Merchant Guild employees in the convoy behind them and get them settled. "The accommodations here aren't very good. Please forgive me, President Xu."
Xu Yi shook his head with a smile. "Whatever the case, it's much more convenient than camping outdoors, isn't it?" After a pause, he added pointedly, "Besides, here on this estate, we shouldn't have to worry about running into any danger."
Count Longley stopped in his tracks and glanced at Xu Yi. After hesitating for a moment, he looked around and motioned for Xu Yi to follow him.
The two entered a small room on the side of the estate alone. Once the servants had served them hot tea, Count Longley waved them all out. After a brief silence, he asked gravely, "President Xu, was it really your convoy that was attacked last night?"
Xu Yi smiled faintly. "Why do you say 'really'?"
"Because I've been following your convoy since yesterday, and this morning, I saw some..." Count Longley frowned. "Regrettable sights..."
"Only regrettable?" Xu Yi carefully studied Count Longley's expression, trying to discern what connection he might have to the incident.
Yet although Count Longley's expression was complicated, it mostly showed bitterness and helplessness. What remained was concern for the Xinfei Merchant Guild, which had suffered the attack.
"President Xu, I understand. You might suspect me because of Bateru City's previous stance.