Ⅱ
Arthur's voice came from the Communication Stone.
And Hayes?
His eyes lit up.
Just as Arthur had guessed, that question had been an exceedingly subtle test from Hayes-whether Arthur answered yes or no, Hayes would choose to stand by his side.
But he would do so by hiding his own brilliance and going along with the crowd.
After all, Hayes did not believe someone who answered by "following another person's thinking" would make a suitable leader, someone worth following.
As for Jimte and Carral?
Hayes was confident he could convince them that, with his troubles resolved, he had become content to enjoy life.
After all, if Manta became pregnant, everything would make perfect sense.
And Jimte and Carral's approval of Arthur?
What did that have to do with him?
He did not know why Jimte and Carral approved of Arthur.
But unless Arthur passed his test, Hayes would never give him his own approval.
Of course, if he passed...
Hayes would follow him wholeheartedly.
The next moment, Hayes dropped to one knee.
Even though he was facing nothing more than a Communication Stone.
The Count's nephew spoke with the utmost respect-
"My three cousins have all been in secret contact with Greisa to varying degrees. When you arrive in Bette Territory with the reputation you gained in South Los, West Berlin, and Einhaas, they will be terrified even if you do nothing.
"And at that point, Greisa, who has already suffered two defeats, will certainly come forward.
"Greisa is not a man who can easily accept defeat.
"He will spare no effort in Bette Territory.
"He might even...
"Enter the fray himself!
"And that will be our opportunity!"
A cold gleam appeared in Hayes's eyes as he said this.
He would construct an inescapable death trap and wait for