What a mess

Count Fonan groaned as he wandered restlessly inside his room.

I told you she was a spy sent by the Duke. If only you hadnt ignored Porto replied coldly, casting a dissatisfied look at the restlessly wandering Count Fonan.

Be quiet. The Count, on the other hand, reprimanded him coldly in response.

We cant be sure that Zera is the Dukes spy.

What are you saying?! The documents disappeared alongside her! Furthermore, the inn she gave you has long been deserted! How can you still defend her?!

Thats

Count Fonan desperately wanted to believe Zera. However, he couldnt totally rule out the possibility that she was involved, as Porto suggested. It was embarrassing for him to confess, but Zera had charmed him with her looks and had expertly played him for a fool. The Count clenched his fists.

I wont forgive her

This is not the time for this, Master. What should we do? That girl is unquestionably the Dukes spy. As a result, after getting the documents, the Dukes soldiers will undoubtedly be knocking on our door in a few days.

I know. Theres only one thing left to do.

The Count remarked this while pulling out a letter and handing it to Porto, who was staring back at him.

Send this ASAP.

What is What?! You cant be serious!

Porto exclaimed as he examined the letter. In response, the Count just smiled.

This is the only way we have out of this mess Porto, Im counting on you. Dont mess this up.

But I understand.

Porto said this regretfully, unable to defy his Masters orders. He then turned around and walked out of the room. The Count mumbled once more as he watched him leave.

What a mess

What a mess Merc mumbled, overcome with worry.

Whats wrong? Astard asked her.

I wasnt sure whether the drugs would be enough of a payback so I also went out to town to pick out a bag for Kena.

What? Still, although a bit too much, I see nothing wrong with it. Wheres the problem?

Right here.

Merc said, showing the bag placed right next to her to Astard. When he spotted the bag, Astard glanced at Merc again, puzzled.

Whats wrong with it? It looks like a normal shoulder bag to me.

That may be true for you and me, but what about a little girl? I bought it because I liked it, but now that I look at it, it doesnt appear to be really cute.

The shoulder bag was designed in such a way that it appeared to be more useful than stylish. It was made using ingredients derived from specific plants, making it durable and resistant to tearing and scratches. However, due to their lack of flexibility, these bags were not particularly attractive.

The bag that Merc had chosen for Kena was no exception to that. It definitely wasnt one that screamed cute. Its design was far too insensitive to be worn with the outfits that a normal young girl would wear.

I doubt Kena will mind. You should hurry up and give it to her. Timing is everything with these things.

I know

Astard said, if Merc became overly concerned about this and lost the opportunity to give it, it would all be for naught. Merc was determined to avoid such a situation at all costs.

Kena is in the kitchen, right?

Yes. She went to prepare some food after putting Tetem to sleep.

I see. Ill be right back then.

Merc put the drugs shed prepared inside the bag and proceeded to the kitchen after shed made up her mind. Kena beamed at Merc the moment she spotted her.

Miss Merc, what brings you here? If youve come to help, then theres no need.

Its not that

Its not? Ah! Are you perhaps looking for a snack then? Im afraid I cant give you any. The Great Sage will scold me.

Kena smiled and moved her index finger sideways in a cute manner. Merc, on the other hand, shook her head and presented the shoulder bag to Kena while still hanging onto the strap.

T-This is for doing my makeup and lending me your clothes. Please accept it.

Oh my! You shouldnt have, it wasnt much. Nonetheless, thank you.

Kena showed her gratitude and accepted the gift with grace. Merc was concerned that Kena might refuse it, but happily, this did not occur. She was overjoyed when Kena joyfully accepted the present she had chosen.

What a lovely bag Oh my, its so heavy.

There are some drugs that I made inside. Use them when you see fit Although I guess that drugs are better left unused.

You made them? Thats amazing. I didnt know you could do this!

Y-Yeah. Ive labeled each container with its distinct functions so itll be difficult to mix them up. Make good use of them.

Merc explained quickly, her face flushed from Kenas compliment. Kena nodded and slung the strap over her shoulder.

Does it look good?

It does. If I do say so myself, its rather stylish.

Merc remarked, admiring her own efforts. She acted as if shed forgotten all shed just said to Astard. However, Merc only applauded herself because Kena looked stunning in the shoulder bag.

Thank you, Miss Merc. Ill take good care of it.

Please do.

After gifting the bag to Kena and witnessing how much she appreciated it, Merc was finally able to relax. She was still troubled by the Doctor Glodel situation, but knowing that Count Fonan would be arrested in a few days helped her forget about it.

She also needed to start making plans to leave so she wouldnt disturb Kena and Astard. Shed then go to a Guild and pick up some requests. The next day, however, something unexpected happened before Merc could put her plans into action.

FAST!

The next morning, Kena rushed in unexpectedly when Merc was lounging in the living room after waking up.

Whats wrong, Kena?

I cant find Tem!

! What?!

T-This was in her room!

Kena shouted, shaking as she handed Merc a piece of paper. There was only one passage on the page.

{Do nothing, Great Sage, and well spare her.}

As her gaze moved over that section, Mercs demeanor shifted.