Viscount Bunarn’s office was located deep within the mansion, and as they ventured further in, they encountered walls and floors that were noticeably neglected, contrasting sharply with the areas frequented by guests—clearly, they were cutting corners except where visitors would tread.
It was the epitome of noble behavior.
Nobles put on airs.
Even if they lacked money, they would borrow and maintain appearances to avoid tarnishing their family name.
The older the lineage, the stronger this tendency.
Viscountess Mamire, pushed to the limits in her life circumstances, couldn’t even keep up appearances anymore. In contrast, Viscount Bunarn seemed to have some leeway in this regard.
His office, in particular, became suddenly extravagant behind closed doors.
One could tell from the decorated interior that money had been spent.
He claimed, “One can’t work without lifting one’s spirits, after all! Hahaha!”
Ah, so that’s why he hesitated—he didn’t want them to see these artworks.
Ryu used his ‘Appraisal’ skill to examine the artworks, finding a few genuine pieces among them.
Perhaps the fakes were bought under false pretenses; it was best to keep quiet about the forgeries.
As they sat down, Ryu and his companions asked several questions about estate management and were handed documents.
Viscount Bunarn hesitated but eventually submitted them, stating he’d do so if it meant borrowing money.
Knock knock.
The maids entered the room carrying art pieces and precious metals, placing them in front of Ryu.
“These are items we’ve prepared as collateral for this occasion.”
Viscount Bunarn had them brought to the guest room but was redirected to the office by Ryu’s group.
Using his ‘Appraisal’ skill, Ryu examined the items brought in, finding them all to be counterfeits, replicas, and imitation with no value.
It seemed they underestimated Ryu’s group, presenting flashy but worthless junk.
In contrast, the office contained many genuine articles.
Although their value was unknown, Sebastian would likely know.
“These are all treasured items from our household, usually kept in our vaults and rarely displayed. This painting, for instance, is by the renowned artist Borelwaat…”
“A forgery, isn’t it?”
Ryu interrupted Viscount Bunarn’s explanation.
“Eh?”
“Everything piled in front of me is nothing but fakes, replicas, and imitations, with zero value.”
“N-No, this book is by the legendary artist Mentawyl…”
Viscount Bunnaan tried to continue his explanation with impatience, but.
“Also a blatant forgery, right?”
He interrupted.
“W-What are you saying! These are all valuable items I’ve collected through my connections!”
“Surprisingly, everything here has no value, Viscount Bunarn. I forgot to mention: it’s not wise to deceive me, your prospective lender. Trust isn’t built through such dishonesty.”
Ryu smiled, but his words left Viscount Bunarn pale.
“If you have no intention of lending us money, then we shall take our leave. Sebastian, prepare to depart.”
“Very well.”
“W-Wait, please!”
Ryu stood, Leanne and Sebastian behind him, waiting as Viscount Bunarn called out.
“I didn’t think everything was fake! I thought there were some genuine pieces!”
“Which means you knew there were fakes.”
“Ah…”
Viscount Bunarn was struck silent, realizing he had revealed his intentions.
“Viscount Bunarn, I have the ‘Appraisal’ skill. I advise against further lies.”
With those words, Ryu made Viscount Bunarn realize that his every scheme had been exposed.
