Ⅱ
Barro Hamlet had a terrible reputation in the Inner Bay.
Not only was his appearance unpresentable, but he had also done plenty of foolish things to make his presence felt. Everyone knew that.
Another equally well-known fact was that Barro Hamlet was a father who doted on his child.
Just how much did he spoil Alvis?
When the young Alvis pointed at the night sky and asked for a star, Lord Barro immediately rushed into the Lion Palace and begged his elder brother to pluck one down for his son.
And then?
Naturally, he was thoroughly berated, giving the people of the Inner Bay yet another story to gossip about over their meals.
Yet Lord Barro remained entirely unperturbed.
He still granted his son's every wish.
More importantly, Alvis had not turned out badly despite all that indulgence. Though he had some aristocratic habits, he could still be called a decent young man.
Many people called Alvis Barro's "good fortune."
Barro certainly could be called "fortunate."
After all, everyone considered Barro lucky to have a son like that to inherit everything he owned.
At the very least, he would not have a wastrel who would ruin the entire family estate outright.
But now, Alvis was dead.
The hidden squad had been wiped out along with him.
The scout in the shadows could not even imagine how furious Barro would be.
Thus, when he delivered the news, the scout gritted his teeth, bracing himself for the angry blow Barro was about to deliver.
It might be a punch or a kick.
More likely, it would be something from the desk.
The scout prayed that it would not be the enormous, heavy cigar ashtray with its sharp corners. A blow from that thing would break his bones, and if it hit