Hello, excuse me. A tiny, feminine voice drew Cain and Joshua out of their conversation.

Young Lady Iceline?

I just Iceline fiddled with her dress as she searched for words. I just wanted to thank you for your help. She ducked her head, cheeks flushed.

Cain grinned and stepped back. He knew her words were meant for someone else.

I didnt do it for you, Joshua grumbled. He had other motivations, despite knowing that Iceline would become a world-famous archmage.

Still Iceline clenched her delicate fists, determined to power through despite Joshuas tepid response. You saved our familys honor, as well. We may have been in a difficult situation, but thanks to you, Young Master, I was able to keep my calm Thank you.

Joshua eyed Iceline curiously. The Iceline he remembered had never shown such a gentle personality. He recalled a beautiful woman standing effortlessly in the freezing cold of the mountain cliffs, a woman with no emotion, no blood, and no tears A woman who could freeze her enemies at a whim. They called her the cold-blooded murderer.

I thought her nickname was frighteningly accurate. Imagine angering the Iceline from the past Just thinking about it made Joshua tremble slightly. Hed heard stories about mercenaries angering Icelinethey didnt end well.

Her magic was entirely unique for her time, earning her the title Ice Mage. The Magic Tower only granted monikers like these to the best in their field.

As I was saying, Iceline continued, oblivious to Joshuas trepidation, if this incident puts the Young Master in jeopardy, we are to blame. So I thought that my family should be the one to take the initiative this time. Perhaps if we take a stand on your side, the Imperial family will listen.

I dont believe that this situation is so serious.

Yes?

Would they truly sit still if Count Rebrecca appears to testify against that idiot son of Marquis Villas? Do you think it will be over just like that?

It still concerns our family.

I dont think so, Young Lady.

Icelines face hardened, drawing a burst of laughter from Joshua.

Its a pointless concern. Have you forgotten who I am?

Ah!

Joshua lifted a finger. If you truly care I hope you will do me a favor, later.

We can do it! Iceline reached out and grabbed Joshuas hand. Joshua was taken aback and then burst into laughter.

Its good youre agreeable.

I cant believe it, honestly. A masked man dropped from the third-floor roof, shaking his head. His surprise was palpable enough to almost make him trip as he landed. Id heard a monster had appeared in the Duchy, but I wouldnt have believed it if I hadnt seen it myself.

The man ducked into a quiet alley and tossed his mask away. It was Jero, the branch manager of the Moon Gate.

Joshua von Agnus The boy had left a deep and lasting impression on Jero, despite only meeting twice.

He was obviously aware that I was just observing him. Jero was observing Verons rampage from the roof; hed done everything he could think of to prevent anyone from feeling his presence. Yet somehow, hed met Joshuas eyes. The smile Joshua gave him sent chills down his spine.

Jero had sharp instincts from his years as an informant; sometimes, they told him good things, sometimes bad. His instincts were buzzing, but Jero opted not to act on them for the time being.

Frankly, Jero had doubted Joshuas ability to find that itemhed assumed that Joshua was just trying to cash in on some scraps of information hed stumbled upon. Jero had accepted the boys request for the sake of getting a better read on him.

The location of the Orbis heirloom that Joshua asked for wasnt particularly valuable information It could be tracked down with only a few facts to work off of. In contrast, Joshua had smashed every expectation. Jero saw the potential for Joshua to become priceless in the not-too-distant future.

Jero clenched his fists. Now I need to adjust my plans.

The informant made his way to the slums on the outskirts of Arcadia and cautiously approached one of the old houses. By all appearances, it was just like any other house in the area: dangling planks, broken glass everywhere, a few missing bricks.

The direct line for reporting was reserved for urgent dispatches. It was only known to executive-level or higher members of the Moon Gate, and the meeting location changed frequently.

I only follow the masters orders All decisions were his.

Jero threw himself towards the pitch-black room.

An hour had passed since theyd finished cleaning up the restaurant and the Rebreccas had departed.

He really came, Young Master Cain was surprised to see an overweight man struggling his way up to the second floor. Baron Accent Provalum

Despite his low rank, he was infamous for overseeing Arcadias black market, the largest on the continent. It was not a job to boast of, but he was proud of it. Provalum, a baron, had influence rivaling that of many counts.

Who- Where is the son of the Fredericks? Provalum glanced around nervously.

This one is I mean, this Young Master here is the son of the Fredericks, Ash pen Frederick.

Provalum was astonished. Hes just a kid? However, he was a master of business and schooled his emotions before anyone noticed his surprise.

The names Accent Provalum, he said with a warm smile. Its such an honor to meet the son of the Fredericks.

Provalum then bowed his head, much to Cains amazement. No matter how low, a baron had no reason to bow to someone like Joshua, and Provalums true power was far beyond any baron. He had no business treating a fallen nobles son like this.

Joshua, on the other hand, remained expressionless. I believe I told that jerk, Veron, to come to me himself He dared send a pawn?

Cain and Provalum reeled with shock.

I, uhh What did you say?

Dont make me repeat myself.

Young Master, if youre not aware of the family that Young Master Veron comes from

Does it make a difference? He mocked my family; now, he owes me his life. Why do I need to know his family?

That Provalum choked down a retort. He knew Ash had the upper hand here. Thats correct, Young Master. You saved his life, so its up to you if you want to know about him or not. You were raised so well. The baron rubbed his hands together with an uneasy smile. That aside What Young Master Ash took from the boy is a priceless Villas treasureit was their signet. Now, why dont you return it to its rightful owner?

Joshua scoffed. Ill say it again: if he wants this back, he has to come here himself. Joshua casually tossed the Villas signet ring in the air like a toy.

Tell him Ill melt it down if he doesnt come here in person, he said, snatching the ring out of the air.

Thats! Provalums life flashed before his eyes. This little scumbag!

Hed love to rip the boy to shreds, but he knew what had transpired. Its unbelievable, but, knowing who it came from, I cant ignore it.

Young Master Veron couldnt come right now because he is still weak, Provalum said, quelling his rage. He needs to rest.

Hes not as strong as I imagined. Sorry, Joshua muttered, much to Provalums chagrin.

Patience, Provalum told himself.

Alright. Joshuas lips curled into a cheeky smile. I thought of something.

Yes?

Just send that knight named Muker that was always next to that bastard.

You mean?

When that knight comes, Ill negotiate with him. Also Joshua eyed Provalums hand. When something goes missing, it has to be replaced, right? Since I did you a favor, Id like you to fulfill one of my requests.

What request?

That ring youre wearing looks quite expensive. Hand it over.

Provalum saw his life crumble before his very eyes.