Lupin's brow furrowed almost imperceptibly at those words.
Douglas, however, wore an amused smile as he stared at Piero.
"Director Piero, we appreciate your kindness, but this is a private outing, after all. Having more people along would only be inconvenient."
"Besides, Lupin and I are capable of handling most emergencies. I should think I've improved a little since five years ago, wouldn't you? So we won't trouble the Ministry of Magic, especially you personally, Mr. Piero."
Piero's expression darkened.
"Mr. Holmes, this is not a request, but an order from the minister. Ensuring the safety of important guests within Italy is the Ministry's responsibility."
Douglas chuckled and said mercilessly:
"Oh, its responsibility? Then where was the Ministry's 'responsibility' when the Church's Order of Saint Benedict Wolf Hunters laid out Silver Nets and Holy Water in the Apennine Mountains, openly threatening werewolves' lives?
"When the Werewolf Segregation Act effectively became a tool for certain factions to oppress werewolves, where was the Ministry's 'impartiality'?"
His voice was not loud, but every word was clear, leaving Piero momentarily speechless.
Several passing Ministry employees also glanced over and began murmuring among themselves.
Piero sounded somewhat angry.
"Watch your words!"
Douglas spread his hands and said helplessly:
"I'm always careful with my words, Mr. Piero.
"We appreciate the minister's kindness, but we really don't need an escort.
"If the Ministry truly cares, perhaps it should pay more attention to the living conditions of the werewolves in the mountains, or... investigate whether certain religious organizations are overstepping their bounds.
"That might better demonstrate the Ministry's responsibility and impartiality."
With that, Douglas paid no further attention to the livid Piero and headed toward Lorenzo's office with Lupin.
Piero stood where he was, fists clenched tightly, his chest heaving with anger.
He knew that Professor Holmes was