"What I mean, of course, is-
that costs extra!"
Arthur said with a smile.
Malinda immediately flipped Arthur the middle finger.
"Money-grubber!"
"No!"
"This is a fair trade-fairness has always been one of my principles, so... this really is a coincidence."
Arthur drew out his words as he explained.
He was not trying to be mysterious.
Arthur believed a single day was enough for Malinda or the Countess to investigate Haywood thoroughly.
He also believed that, aside from her own curiosity, Malinda's questions earlier had probably been prompted by the Countess.
Still, Arthur did not pry.
Too many questions would hurt their working relationship.
Arthur did not ask, and Malinda did not volunteer anything.
"I got Silent Continuous Steps, one of the Cat Cave's core Mystic Arts, from the Count. What did you get?"
Arthur changed the subject bluntly.
Malinda imitated Arthur and raised a finger.
"Want to know? That costs extra!"
She lifted her head. Her short golden hair shone in the candlelight, even its tips gleaming with a fine sheen, like a crown upon her head that drew the eye involuntarily.
Arthur was no exception.
He looked at her.
She immediately noticed his gaze.
Without the slightest hint of shyness, she leaned a little closer, as though showing off, but Arthur-
"How long has it been since you washed your hair?"
Covering his nose and mouth, Arthur backed away repeatedly.
Malinda froze.
Then she gave a cold snort.
"Childish!"
Ignoring Arthur, she headed straight for the Medium's Hall.
Just before entering, however, she spoke softly.
"Before Wintertide, I'll inherit the title of Baron Kemail."
Without a doubt, this was what Malinda had gained-unlike her previous efforts, when she had made her own arrangements and waited for an answer, this time she had the Countess's promise.
"Congratulations!"
Arthur said