*

　Crono walked around the entrance of the Marquis' mansion in a circle.
　The entrance to the Marquis' mansion, which he had used for his ordination ceremony, was large enough to be called an entrance hall, but it didn't take much time to go around it.

''Crono, how many more laps do you plan on doing?''

　Tilia leaned against the stair railing and said in a disgusted tone.
　She must actually be fed up.

'Because I'm meeting Cecily's father, you know?　I don't deserve to be restless.

　Crono stopped and spoke back to Tilia.
　But Tilia held her temples, as if to say she had trouble understanding.

''You're in a military uniform for that, aren't you?
It's Tilia.

　Crono is in black-based military regalia, and Tilia is in white-based military regalia.
　Since it seems that Viscount Bond-former Hamal doesn't like extravagance, I thought about having him see me in my normal form, but I feel like they both made a mistake in their judgment together.

''........Speaking of which....

　Tilia turned her gaze to Crono.

'I'm not angry, so be honest. What have you done to Cecily?
Yeah, it's...

　Crono clammed up.
　I made him do such a service.
　I made him do such and such a service.
　I made him serve like that, too.
　But if he answered honestly, Tilia was bound to be angry.
　Hmm, Tilia walked over to Crono and gently touched both of his shoulders.

'Crono, be honest. I won't be mad at you, okay?
Yeah, I see.

　Tilia's voice was kind.
　She even smiled.
　But her eyes weren't smiling.
　Depending on the answer, she might get hit for the first time in a long time.

''........Crono.
Yeah, I see.

　Crono repeated the same words.
　The tenderness is already gone from Tyria's hands.
　The pain crawling up from her shoulders is a silent threat.

''Well actually...''
What are you doing?

　When Crono confessed honestly, Tilia was still angry.

'How much effort do you think I put into this meeting?
Yeah, you don't have to worry about that.
In case you're wondering, what's wrong with you?

　Tilia stared at Crono.



　Crono reflexively turned his back.
　Tilia silently thrust her fist out.
　Tsk, Tilia clicked her tongue and swung her fist down as it was.
　It's a blow called a mallet strike.
　Crono flipped over while brushing away Tilia's fist and escaped to the wall, almost falling down.

'Crono, you've raised your arm.
I'm not very well trained for combat.
'I know Crono's working hard. But my pride is a bit bruised, isn't it?

　Tilia approached with a gurgle and a snap of her knuckles.
　It was staged with a white light rising up like smoke.
　It looks like she's handing down the assassin's fist of a single child.

''Let's get a little serious, shall we?''

　Tyria readied her fists and sank down slightly.
　It was like a predator trying to leap at its prey.
　The next moment Tyria moved.

The former Viscount Hammar has arrived!

　Faye opened the door and reported loudly.
　Tilia stepped on the tatara, seemingly completely caught in the void.

'd*mn it, I've been interrupted by an unnecessary interruption.

　Tilia looked frustrated, but Crono patted his chest.
　It was not good to have a host injured to receive a guest.

'Good!　Let's welcome the former Viscount Hamal!
d*mn, you're alive.

　Crono ignored Tilia's swift comment and went outside.
　The sun was in the mid-heaven, but the air outside was cold.
　After a while, a carriage guarded by cavalry entered the yard of the Marquis' mansion.
　It's a fine two-horse box carriage for someone who doesn't like luxury.
　The gentleman is also wearing well-tailored clothes.
　Perhaps the former Viscount Hamal is not of the quality to be extravagant on his own, but he is someone who can invest where necessary.
　The possibility of his wife's intentions cannot be dismissed, but even if that is the case, he doesn't seem to be the type to stick to his own ideas.
　The carriage stops near the front door.
　Cecily's father, Crono swallowed raw.
　He remembered the many acts he had committed against Cecily.
　If exposed, there could be bloodshed.
　It's no use crying over spilt milk.
　Calm down. I'm a bent and active soldier, a knight who retired more than thirty years ago shouldn't have been beaten unilaterally, Crono said to himself, but he couldn't get rid of his fears.
　The image of his adopted father on the southern frontier passed through his mind.
　The door of the boxcarriage opened and Crono backed away.
　However, seeing the former Viscount Hammar coming down from the boxcarriage, the tension eased all at once.
　A good-looking uncle........that was my first impression of the former Viscount Hammar.
　Is he about the same height as Crono?
　He's rather smartly built.
　His hair is mostly gray.
　I'm sure you'll be able to find out more about this in the future.
　The former Viscount Hamal bowed lightly and walked up to Crono.

''Marquis Erakis, thank you for inviting me here,''
....
The Marquis of Erakis?
'....Haha!　No, no, it's my pleasure, thank you for coming!

　Crono lowered his head vigorously.
　The former Viscount Hamal's response was so decent that he stopped thinking.

''Fine with me, Crono.
I see. Then I'll be fine with the bond, too.

　Crono and the former Viscount Hamal Bond shook hands with each other.

'Good to see you, Bond.

　When I turned around, I saw Tilia standing at a slight distance.

''Oh, Princess Tyria.''

　Bond's eyes widened and he knelt in place.

''Well I heard you weren't feeling well.
Yeah?　Oh, it's all right now. I'm sure the water over here is more to your liking.

　The authority of the royal family is so great, Crono thought as he watched the exchange between them.
　Negotiations could be easy, Crono chuckled.



　There was a time in my life when I thought negotiating might be easy, Crono said, leaning back on the sofa in the parlor.
　When I looked out the window, I saw that it was dusk.
　It's a somehow lazy and nostalgic scene.
　Did I handle it wrong?　Crono twisted his head around.
　After that, he had Alyssa take Bond and the other maids show the guards to the guest room.
　For lunch, I served them what they usually ate without being weirdly elaborate.
　According to Alyssa, Bond was happy with the room and the lunch.
　Crono also didn't feel uncomfortable chatting during lunch or showing him around the two workshops, so he must not have made a crucial mistake.
　It was some time after they started negotiating that he felt uncomfortable.
　 deflected.
　Crono repeatedly changed course and talked about the benefits of expanding the market, but he was floundering.
　He finally responded: 'I can't make this decision on my own. I'd like to discuss it with my wife and son.

'You're limping along, too, aren't you?
Did you come here to sass me or something?

　I looked at the direction the voice came from and saw Cecily standing there with a tray.
　On the tray was a teapot and a cup.
　Cecily placed the tray on the table in a dangerous position and poured the contents of the teapot into the cups.
　An inexplicable smell spread through the parlor.

'Poison?
It's an infusion of herbs that helps with fatigue.

　Crono picked up the cup and looked down at the dark liquid.
　When he put the liquid in his mouth with a will, an intense bitterness and astringency spread through his mouth.

'Yuck.'

　Crono gulped down the liquid and put his cup on the table.

'So, what do you want?'
I just came to check on you in a slump.

　Cecily gave a nasty smile.

'You could have told me a little more about your father, couldn't you?
I don't like to hear you say that.

　Cecily said without offense.

'How do you feel about talking to my father?
Hmmm, I wonder?

　Crono tilted his head.
　There was no doubt that Bond had a gentle temperament.
　I got the impression that he was cautious at best and indecisive at worst, but considering Bond's background, I feel like I'm wrong.
　When I hear that you're throwing all your work to your wife and working on your hobbies, I think you're a bad person,' Crono said, poking his cheekbones and realizing something.

'Ahhh, I see.'

　Bond could maintain the territory he inherited from his parents, but he couldn't develop it or come up with new measures.
　So he left the job to his wife, who was more capable and motivated than he was.
　I can understand that when I put myself in my position.
　Even Crono is cautious when he delegates work to his subordinates.
　As long as the work is thrown to him, he can't make unsolicited promises.
　Bond probably thinks that way.
　Should I show him around the territory without incident and refrain from talking about work?　And Crono crossed his arms.
　At that moment, Tyga's voice echoed from the communication magic item in his pocket.

'Master Crono!　Incident, that is!
I'll be right there. Cecily, take my sword and cloak.

　With that, Crono stood up.



　Crono runs towards the castle gates.
　Even though it was evening, there were not many people on the streets.
　With Crono's lousy riding skills, people could die.
　The Marking Technique can't be used because of the time limit.
　So, you must run.
　I see it!　Crono narrowed his eyes.
　The box wagon remained near the castle gate.
　His men surrounded the box carriage, fighting with six men and women.
　They consisted of one woman and five men.
　All of them are holding a stabbing weapon called a stiletto.
　The enemy seems to be reasonably formidable, but it doesn't appear to be enough to overcome the difference in numbers.
　Nonetheless, it seems that his men are still on the offensive.
　Taiga is on the front lines, slicing and dicing with the enemy, but he lacks his usual boldness.

''Taiga!''
"Master Crono, no more! (GASP!)

　Crono was about to run up to him, but the black panther beastman blocked his way.

''Why?''
Poison.

　The black panther beastman glanced to the side.
　There, he saw his subordinates slumped against the wall of a private house.

''Message!　You two over there, go get Mr. Zion and the priest!

　Crono ordered a nearby beastman.
　The two of them looked at each other and immediately ran out.

''.........Crono-sama, the detoxification through the Divine Majesty Technique is......'' (Kuhn)
I'll make the donation. My men's lives are more important than money.

　The black panther beastman's eyes widened.

''Each of you!　We'll attack in peace, that we will! (Gulp, gulp!)

　He must have heard Crono's words.
　Tyga took a big step forward and swung his great sword down.
　The man ducked the great sword to the side and thrust out a stiletto.

''Flame, that is!'' (GASP!)

　Flames erupted from the great sword.
　The man turned himself around to avoid being caught in the flames.
　Then one of the soldiers who were surrounding the enemy thrust out a spear.
　The man twisted his body and escaped the spear.
　But in the next moment, he collapsed from his knees as if a thread had broken.
　Suddenly, a flying arrow pierced his neck.
　When I looked up, I saw Layla standing on the roof of a house.
　It wasn't just Layla, the other archers were with her.

''Crono-sama!''
I was working on a case, but that's not a problem.

　When Crono turned around, Theon and the priestess were approaching at breakneck speed.
　They must be using the Divine Authority Technique to improve their physical abilities to the bottom.

''Both of you, detoxify!
I understand!
I know!

　Sion and the priestess knelt before their poisoned men.

''O Mother Goddess of 'Ochre and Fertility,' the miracle of detoxification!
Detoxification and activity at the same time!

　A warm light was released from Sion's hand, and a droll darkness rose from Priestess's body.
　The subordinate who had been detoxified by Priestess quickly regained consciousness and looked around as if to confirm his situation.

''You can rest.''

　Crono controlled his men as they tried to stand up with his hands.
　The victory or defeat was decided.
　If only the poison could be neutralized, the enemy was only a handful in their own right.
　The enemy must have understood that.
　The enemy the two men rushed into one of the enclosures.
　The two men are pierced by the spear, but they were very strong-willed, or perhaps they are using medicine, and they try to make a breakthrough without regard to the spear biting deep into them.
　A slight gap is created.
　That's when the woman moved.
　The woman took out a leather bag the size of a clenched fist and threw it right above her.

''Death!''

　The leather bag exploded.
　A large amount of smoke enveloped the area.
　Crono inhaled the smoke and coughed violently.
　His throat, his nose, and his eyes burned with pain.
　His men's symptoms were more serious than Crono's.
　Some of them were even blowing bubbles and twitching repeatedly.
　Poisonous gas?　No, tear gas?　And Crono covers his mouth with his cloak and activates the 'Mark'.
　The jet-black light colors Crono's body like a barbarian's war veneer.
　Even the smoke from the herbs could be avoided, Crono forms a 'field' and expels only smoke.
　When I looked at the carriage, there was no enemy in sight.
　We have to do something about this smoke, Crono looked around.

''Hayate Mai!
"Kasumimai!

　Aridid and Deneb's voices echoed, and the fog swept in.
　The fog passed in an instant, and the tear gas was gone.
　Crono exhaled and turned off the 'imprint'.

''Master Crono!''
Yeah, no worries.

　Leila ran over to Crono and let out a small breath as if in relief.

'Crono-sama, like you want me to praise our tact first!
Like it's polite to ask for an explanation about magic!

　Alideed and Deneb interrupted him.
　Leila's expression was harder than usual, as if she wasn't amused at being interrupted.
　Crono looked around again.
　Taiga should have been tear-gassed at close range, but he was already standing up and giving instructions.

''Taiga!　Anyone with severe symptoms should be seen by Mr. Zion and the priest!
"All right, that I understand.

　Crono turned to Aridid and Deneb.

'Well, let me explain.'
''Hayate Mai creates sideways gusts of wind, like a lower form of wind magic!
''Kasumimai is a mist-generating, watery submagic!

　Aridid and Deneb proudly puffed out their chests.

'After all this time, lower magic,'
You don't have to tell me how subtle it is to be powerful, I know!
But I think it would be more convenient to have it!

　For some reason, Aridid and Deneb were desperate.

''It's a subordinate magic whose power is subtle, but the combination of the two has endless possibilities!
All of my experiments are in writing!
You guys are weirdly blistering in places.

　Crono was impressed.

*

　The soldier-packing area near the castle gates was a deadly place.
　There were no deaths, but that was a blessing in disguise.
　If it wasn't for Sion and the priestess, if the poison was a quick-acting one, it wouldn't be surprising if there were deaths.
　In addition, we're missing the enemy.
　If this was the case, the people of the territory might be killed.
　That thought is what makes my subordinates want to kill.

''That is why, that is........''
I see.

　Crono let out a sigh after hearing the end result from Taiga.
　
　Because of the heavy comings and goings of people and things in and out of Hachel, it was not practical to check every load that passed through the gates of the castle.
　That's why he made a beastman with an excellent sense of smell to guard the gates.
　I'm sorry if I'm treating you like a dog, but this is also the right person for the job.
　When Tyga ordered his men to check the cargo, they offered him a bribe.
　Naturally, Tyga didn't take the bribe.
　After a heated argument, one of the men drew his weapon and entered the fight.

'So, what's the situation?'
"The enemy seems to know how to evade the beastmen's pursuit, that it does.

　Tyga snorted in frustration.

'Is manpower tactics the only way to go?'

　Crono poked him in the cheek.

'More guards, questioning suspicious people about their duties, and then I guess I'll have to talk to the territorial population?
It is already in place, that it is.
You're a quick study.

　As he said this, Crono was inwardly surprised.
　It was because he had assumed that Taiga was not good at security.
　It was even possible that Crono might have put a communication into the danger zone to show that he valued the lives of his men more than money.

''The purpose, well, I suppose it's an assassination.

　Crono let out a sigh.

''Crono-sama, I'll be careful, that I will be careful.'' (Gau)
I mean, it seems like the target is Mr. Bond's timing.
"I think it's no wonder that Crono-sama was targeted, that I am.
Ugh, I wish you hadn't.

　Crono put his head in his hands.
　Tyga was right, Crono was involved in events both inside and outside the Empire.
　He had more reason to fear for his life than Bond, who had been immersed in horse breeding since the civil war ended.

'But if he's after me, isn't that too tricky?
"There's no harm in being careful, that it is.
Yeah, I know, but...

　Crono crossed his arms and wondered why he hadn't done a good job.
　He could think of several possibilities, but none of them were beyond his imagination.
　If this is the case, it would be better to prepare for an assassin's attack.

Then I'll go back to the mansion. I'll leave the magic item for communication with the night shift maid, and if you need anything urgent, you can always call me.
I'd like to have your help, that I do.

　The black panther beastman led me outside, and Leila, Arididid and Deneb were waiting outside.

''Did all three of you wait for me?''
We were planning on leaving soon, though.
Like Leila's company.
"...Aridid, Deneb.

　As Arididid and Deneb made light remarks, Layla chided them with a voice that seemed lower than usual.
　With the black panther beastman in front, Leila on the right, Arididid on the left, and Deneb guarding the front, they returned to the Marquis' mansion.

''Crono-sama, how are you feeling?''
They hooked me up with a detoxifier. I'm fine.

　I don't think they would use poison in that situation, but it was a precautionary measure.
　The possibility that the enemy has developed a resistance to certain poisons is undeniable.
　Even if you don't know what kind of poison they're using, you can still detoxify them, so the divine power technique is too cheat, Crono thinks that way.
　The conversation was cut off there.
　Fortunately, I should say, there was no assassin's attack, and Crono reached the Marquis' mansion safely.

*

　When Crono returned to the Marquis' mansion, Alyssa was waiting for him at the door.

''Sir, welcome home.''
Where is Mr. Bond?

　Crono asked Alyssa as he took off his cloak.

'Master Bond has had dinner with Princess Tyria and is currently in the parlor enjoying old friendships with Lady Arthur.
With Dr. Weissman?

　Crono couldn't help but pause.

'Yes, Master Arthur told me that we fought together during the civil war.
''........I see. Well, but the military system itself is different now than it was during the civil war, so isn't that surprising?
Sir, the cape.
Hmm?　Oh, the cape.

　Crono took off his cloak and handed it to Alyssa.

'Do you guys want to eat?'
I'm sorry, Mr. Crono. I still have some work to do.
Boo-boo, it's just a little better!
Buh-bye, like it's okay to have a few perks!

　When Layla refused, Aridid and Deneb booed.

''........I'll go back to work.''

　A cold breeze puffed through Aridid and Deneb, it felt like.

'Shh, like work is important?
I mean, you're not setting a good example for your people if you don't do your job.

　Both of them were surprisingly quick to change.
　This was shallow on my part, Crono reflected.
　The black panther beastman was there to escort me as a job.
　Crono looked at Leila.

'Master Crono?'
It's nothing.

　Crono smiled.
　If Leila had refused after considering the black panther beastman, it was a change he should be happy about as a boss.

''Well, then, I'm asking.''

　Ha!　And the four of them saluted Crono and walked out.

*

　The next day, Crono dressed himself properly and headed to the dining room.
　Normally, he would either get out of bed and head straight to the dining room, or take a hot bath before heading to the dining room, but he couldn't show his self-depravity while Bond was there.
　That was my intention, but when I entered the dining room, Bond was seated.

'Good morning, Mister Crono,'
Oh, excuse me. Sorry to keep you waiting.

　Huh?　I was supposed to arrive first, Crono wondered, bowing his head lightly.

You're keeping me waiting too long, Crono.
....

　Crono stared at Tilia in silence.

'I see,'
What do you have to convince yourself of?
No, no, no.

　Tilia looked quizzical, but Crono took his seat.
　Judging by the way he looked yesterday, Bond has some sort of respect or loyalty to the royal family.
　No wonder he acted to keep Tilia waiting.

''You seemed busy yesterday, what happened?''
...Oh, that's, uh, well, you know.

　Crono wasn't sure if he should be honest or not.
　They say that even a lie can be true a hundred times, but I don't have the patience to keep telling a lie a hundred times.

''Actually, we got into a battle with a group of people who tried to bring in poisonous substances at the castle gate.
Poison?

　Bond's eyes widened in surprise and he almost sat up.

'The damage?'
''There were no deaths over here since the divine majesty art user was close by.
That was a blessing in disguise, wasn't it? When I was a young man, I had a number of my men re-injured by assassins. A lot of them were young soldiers in particular.

　Bond straightened up.

'How could it be?'
'Yes, I was reminded that the enemy is not just on the battlefield. For example, the wooden cup...

　Bond looked at Tilia for a moment and cleared his throat awkwardly.
　Apparently, it was difficult to talk about in front of the woman.

'What about the assassin?'
'My men are in pursuit. I wanted to show you the stall area and the commercial district today...
A change of schedule is inevitable.
I'm glad to hear that.

　Crono bowed deeply.

*

　Crono drank the warmed incense tea and let out a deep sigh.
　In front of him, Bond and Dr. Weissman were chatting about the old days.
　It was a good day and I watched the sunset.
　I gave them a tour of the school today, but it was a mess, forgetting what I was going to explain, missing Bond's questions, and tripping over rocks.
　Alyssa even suggested a tea party with Dr. Weissman, so it must have been worse than Crono was aware of.
　I know why I'm distracted.
　It's because the killer hasn't been caught.
　Either way, it's a headache, whether they know how to escape the pursuit of the beasties or there's an organization in Hershel that's covering for the criminals.
　But, nah, it's just so unbalanced. Why is that?　And just when I was about to bury myself in my own thoughts

Mr. Crono.
Oh, yes!

　I looked up when Dr. Weissman called my name.

'I know how you feel, but don't be in a hurry.
Yes, I'm sorry.

　Crono lowered his head.
　Bond is looking at Crono with eyes that seem to be smiling at him.
　Perhaps he was overlaying Crono with his past self.
　Bond opened his mouth quietly.

''Crono-dono, I observed the classroom scene today, but with what intentions are you educating your soldiers?''
I ...

　Crono couldn't read Bond's intentions and kept his mouth shut.
　He thought that if he could raise his subordinate's academic skills to the bottom, his understanding of orders would increase and give him more scope for tactics, and he thought he would raise them himself because he lacked civilian officers, neither of which was a lie....

I want my men to be happy.
'Don't you think that giving useless knowledge will increase your despair?'
Certainly, with the knowledge you gain, you may despair of the situation you find yourself in.

　The Empire's treatment of sub-humans is more tolerant than that of the surrounding states, but it's only relative.
　Bond is right.
　Surely, his men who have gained knowledge will be reminded of the gap between people and subhumans.
　I suddenly remembered the events of two years ago.
　The memory of Leila's second request for companionship and his refusal.
　That night, I thought it was love to consider Leila's future.
　That was skinny....no, he was afraid to take on all of Layla.
　Still, Crono thinks.
　Now Leila had become an indispensable part of the battalion.
　Even though Crono's power is in the background, she still manages to negotiate with the Pix Chamber of Commerce admirably and contributes to the management of the battalion.
　It doesn't matter if it's an outpouring of cowardice, hypocrisy, or consequence.
　That choice was the right one.
　So I can say it proudly.

'But at the same time, you should be able to think of a way out.
'If I gain knowledge, I may leave Lord Crono's service. Then what is the point of giving them an education?
'No, it's the other way around. It is only when you leave me that you will need the knowledge.

　Crono will die.
　On the battlefield, by disease, by accident, by life expectancy, he will surely die one day.
　The same goes for my men some of them will choose to live other than as soldiers.

'Besides it will only be to my benefit if they remain free from poverty after they leave me.
''I see, Lord Crono is thinking of enriching his territory around technology, trade and education. Oh, and let's not forget about public works as well.

　Bond said, as if impressed.

'About education, what prospects do you have for it?'
We'd like to send teachers to rural areas during the off season.

　Crono added in his mind, "If only they would prioritize education over expanding the farmland.
　I just heard from the rural village chiefs that they were able to expand their farmland thanks to the thousand tooth handlers.

'I don't think it's efficient to hire teachers just to send them out during the off-farm season, do you?
I'm putting you in charge of the office as well.

　They want more clerks, and I add this in my mind, too.

'Master Crono, like there's a case!

　A voice rang out from the communication magic item in his pocket.
　Crono almost stood up, but he took a deep breath to calm himself down.

'This is Crono. What's going on?
"Like a member of the peddlers' union who tried to bribe his way into the line.

　Hmmm, Crono let out a sigh.

'So, what are you going to do?'
"A light lecture for the sake of an example.
All right. I'll protest to the Peddlers' Guild.

　Crono sat back in his chair and continued his story.

*

I'm tired.

　He put in a protest to the Peddlers' Union via Kane, and had dinner with Bond... Crono collapsed into bed as he returned to his room.

'I'm tired, I'm tired,'
That's a shame, sir!

　I looked up and saw Faye with a big smile on her face.

'What's the shame?'
It's a pity I couldn't serve as a nurse!

　Faye still has a big smile on her face.
　She doesn't look disappointed at all.

''Suu, a little rest........''
No, sir!　Master Crono's life is in danger!　This Fay Murifine I am willing to risk my life to protect Master Crono!

　Faye said, clenching her fists.

'It's not like I've decided I'm the target of an attempt on my life.
Wishful thinking leads to death!

　Faye assured him. 'Do you really hate nightlife so much?

'Do you hate nightclubs so much?'
Do you wish to die naked, Master Crono?

　Faye asked back with a straight face.

'No, it's just,'
In that case, there will be no fairy tale for today!

　Yes, Crono nodded and crawled into bed.



　The next day, Crono was facing Bond in the doorway of the mansion.

''I'm sorry for everything,''
No, no, I'm the one who got you something.

　Saying that, Bond touched the scarf.
　It is a scarf made from wool obtained through trade with the sacred Argo Kingdom.
　

''I will tell my wife and son as it is.
Nice to meet you.

　Crono hung his head deeply.
　When he looked up, he saw White and Hiilo about to enter the Marquis' mansion.
　They have two children with them.
　One of them would be a boy and the other would be a girl.
　Suddenly, the girl ran towards us.
　White and Hiilo didn't move.
　At least they must have been disarmed.

''Oh, you...''
Tina!　I'm Tina Sheratan!

　I wonder if he knows Bond.
　

'I've come to ask a favor of Master Bond today!

　Tina spoke earnestly of her plight.
　

''I made you a promise then!　You have my back!
Yeah, that's a tough one.
'So!　By all means!
I'll get back to you after discussing it with my wife.

　Is this what it means to have no islands to cling to?
　Bond ignored the freezing girl and climbed into the boxcarriage.

'You can't handle it like that!

　Tina broke down crying on the spot.

'Crono, do you know him?'
I heard you knew Mr. Bond.

　I answer Tilia, who was standing behind me before I knew it.

'Crono!'

　Tina looked up.
　Her eyes were gleaming.
　What can I say, her eyes were full of desire to use Crono.



　What's up with the whole house upheaval thing?　And Crono was in the corner of the sofa in the parlor, listening to the exchange between Tilia and Tina.
　According to his subordinate's report, Tina Sheratan had been attacked on the outer edges of the city.
　The three men and women who attacked Tina seem to be the perpetrators of the incident that occurred the day before yesterday.
　Once again, I missed it, but I knew the culprit's goal was Tina.
　The main target is Reed, Tina's uncle, and the counterpart is Sebas, the butler, and the big hole is the complicity of Reed and Sebas.
　If Mr. Bond can't make it, it's me.
　Well, I can say that your attitude of trying to accomplish your goals without regard to your appearance is admirable.
　It's not that I don't intend to end up being used, Crono said, as he pondered the ways in which Tina could be used.
　At that moment when he came up with several ways to use Tina.

You can at least solve your own problems in your own territory, that's all.

　Tilia pushed Tina away from her as hard as she could.

''...Tilia, Tilia, isn't that too much to ask?''

　Crono rushed to follow up.
　I was thinking that we could use it in case Bond didn't respond to our request, but it's ruined.

''........Crono-sama.

　Tina was looking at Crono with moist eyes.

''Crono, the lord solves the problems that arise in his domain by himself, so he doesn't have to be interfered with by the state.
'Sure, it's too much of a bugger to ask me to just help out and not interfere. So what if I can't solve the problem myself?

　I know what it's like," he said, gulping down the words and asking Tilia.

It's not a matter of degree. If it's in the best interest of the empire, I'll help you, and in the name of helping you, I can reduce your authority little by little and take over your territory.
'Oh, I'm rather serious about that. But since a girl like this came all the way to ask for help, I don't think we should turn her away, do we?

　Tilia narrowed her eyes as if she was trying to see through Crono's true intentions.
　No, I should think that they can see through me.

''No, we're next door neighbors, that is, we're neighbors, and for me, I want to take care of my neighbors,''
....

　Oh, did I dig a grave?　Crono had a hunch.

'I don't think it's right for people to abandon those who seek help.
Did you mean it?
I mean it.
Her eyes are swimming.

　Tsk, Crono almost clicked his tongue.

'Crono, if you don't have a dark spot behind you, make eye contact.
No, no, no, not in the dark, okay?

　Crono subtly turned his gaze away from Tilia.

''....I surrender. That's right, I have an ulterior motive.

　Crono raised his hands and spoke of the advantages of partnering with him as he wound up.
　Mix a little bit of venom into it.
　He wanted it to be Crono and Tina's personal promise to eliminate the tolls on Viscount Hamal and Viscount Sheratan's territory.

''Yes, that's about it.''

　It took, and the moment Crono lifted the corner of his mouth, Tina looked at Cole, and oh!　I raised my voice.
　Apparently, he noticed our intentions.
　No, it was Cole who noticed.
　I guess I underestimated him as a fledgling peddler too much.
　But if they're willing to eliminate the toll tax and introduce a system of stalls in exchange for backing me up, it's not a bad deal.
　Crono put Faye on escort and sent them off.



　A few days later--

That's why...
Heh.

　Crono was lying in bed, listening to Faye's story.
　It was surprising that a shady assassination group was involved, but other than that, it was within expectations.
　It's because they had Faye as a guard to deal with whoever was responsible.
　By the way, I figured that Faye would be chased off once or twice, but she wouldn't come back until she had completed her mission.

'Faye, how is tonight?　You know, in a bath like this.
I'll get you a bathing suit, sir.

　What?　And Crono stood up.

'Swimsuits should be useful at times like this!　Well, I'm going to go get my swimsuit!

　No, no, no, Faye, Crono reached out his hand, but he couldn't stop Faye.