Ⅱ
As a competent medium, he never failed to slip a probing remark into a conversation.
It was a professional instinct, and an instinct for survival.
Just like a moment ago-
This was Arthur's first real meeting with the Marquis of Einhaas.
Arthur had observed this marquis from the sidelines before.
But what was he really like?
Who could know?
People were always more complicated than anyone imagined.
That remained true even if Count Bernaken had already staked everything on this marquis-Count Bernaken was Count Bernaken, and Arthur was Arthur.
They were different people.
Not just in their goals in life, but in where they stood.
They differed in both.
So Arthur had tested him right from the start.
And the result?
Satisfactory!
Extremely satisfactory!
Arthur had spotted the Marquis of Einhaas's inner awkwardness and... his pride!
Nothing was more pleasant than dealing with someone who cared about saving face!
And if there was?
It had to be someone who was not only proud, but awkward about it.
With someone like that, you did not need to say anything, much less do anything. Once he owed you something, he would never sleep soundly until he had repaid you twice over.
Just like that seemingly shameless fat man Arthur had met back home.
After Arthur treated him to a barbecue dinner, the fellow vanished for two weeks, then reappeared and treated Arthur to three barbecue dinners in a row.
"Me, short on cash? You're kidding!
I used to be genuinely loaded!
I'm not bragging-I'd make a whole batch of dumplings just because I wanted some vinegar!"
The fat man was gnawing on a grilled kidney when an old man passing along the roadside suddenly spoke up.
"I've gathered all the bottles in the neighborhood for you. They're by the basement door