For the evaluation of Viscount Bunarn and his family, Ryu and Sebastian were dispatched.
Ryu still possessed the basic skill “Appraisal”.
Though he only knew the names of items and couldn’t judge their value, he could easily spot fakes.
Ryu would provide the names, and Sebastian would assess items based on his vast knowledge.
With this arrangement, they shouldn’t be deceived.
Of course, wherever Ryu went, Leanne followed.
Originally, they planned for Leanne to stay behind and return via the “Dimension Corridor”, but it seemed impossible.
After a day’s stay, Viscount Bunarn and his family began their journey back.
Ryu and the others accompanied them in a carriage.
During the journey, Viscount Bunarn and Viscountess Mamire showed a strong interest in the Landmark family’s specially made carriage.
Especially Viscount Bunarn, upon hearing the price of this custom carriage.
“…Really interesting!”
He enthusiastically began negotiating with Sebastian at an inn along the way, asking if he could buy it, if there were any discounts available, and if the design could be altered.
It seemed he still didn’t regard Ryu as the responsible party, but Sebastian firmly stated.
“I have no discretion.”
He refused.
Disappointed, Viscount Bunarn was captivated by the beauty of the elf girl accompanying them and paid no attention to Ryu.
Even though he was from the influential Landmark family, being the third son of a baron usually meant having very little influence.
Once the third son came of age, they were typically expelled from the family to fend for themselves, so they usually had no power.
Especially since Ryu was still a child, even if he weren’t Viscount Bunarn, he wouldn’t bother dealing with him.
However, the butler of the Landmark family insisted that Ryu, this child, had discretion.
It seemed to be true.
As a viscount, having to negotiate with a baron, even a third son, or worrying about borrowing money, was humiliating, but the other party was a child.
Both negotiating the price of the carriage and borrowing money seemed to be advantageous negotiations for him.
Viscount Bunarn completely underestimated Ryu.
Indeed, as negotiations for the carriage progressed favorably, he began to believe that dealing with a child was easy.
From Ryu’s perspective, the price negotiation was within the expected range, and the fact that he could prioritize the purchase was just a show.
Ryu only aimed to satisfy the customer; he only made Viscount Bunarn pleased, but the man misunderstood.
Unbeknownst to Ryu, a preliminary battle was underway as the journey continued.
It would be a five-day journey, one way, to the city of Sugoella, similar to their trip to the city before, but this time, they were accompanied by the annoying duo of Viscount Bunarn and Viscountess Mamire, who had come to offer a loan.
Similarly, Leanne was annoyed as well; during their stay at the inn, she received unpleasant glances from Viscount Bunarn and Viscountess Mamire, who were constantly with Ryu, but thankfully, most of the day was spent traveling, and the carriage was separate, which was a relief.
“Those two have become increasingly obnoxious towards Ryu. They’re not holding back their disdain towards me either.”
Leanne complained inside the carriage.
“They’re probably desperate to borrow money, but Viscount Bunarn really is fixated on you, Leanne.”
Ryu said, amazed by Viscount Bunarn’s behavior, sympathizing with Leanne.
“Would you really lend money to someone like that?”
“Well, it’s your father’s decision, and I think such opportunities will increase in the future, so let’s carefully assess and leave results that will lead to the future!”
“””Oh!”””
Ryu, Leanne, and Sebastian unanimously agreed inside the carriage.
The group first arrived at the territory of Viscountess Mamire before reaching Viscount Bunarn’s territory.
Viscount Bunarn informed Ryu that he would return to his domain first to prepare for their arrival.
As Viscount Bunarn left, Viscountess Mamire suddenly became visibly anxious, wiping sweat frequently during the guidance to her mansion.
Although naturally plump, it was apparent she was nervous.
Upon arrival, the mansion was old but grand, though it was evident that some parts needed repairs.
While observing the area, Ryu was led to Viscountess Mamire’s study to confirm her assets, which, as expected, were riddled with debts owed to merchants within her territory and even other nobles.
“…Well, let’s first look around for anything that could serve as collateral.”
With Ryu’s suggestion, Viscountess Mamire, wiping sweat off her brow, began to guide them around the mansion.
