CH 177.2

Chapter 177.2. Rumors At The New Year’s Party

-Masatoshi’s POV-

The original work starts with a tragic world setting in the background.

However, this background isn’t explained within the main story. The main story only touches upon a battle related to a ritual in a single dungeon, and it isn’t revealed that Duke Kanna was involved or that Solomon was conducting these rituals across Japan.

It gets mentioned in the setting notes. Solomon began their activities around this time, about 5 years before the original story started.

“They infiltrate various dungeons in Japan and conduct experiments controlling large numbers of demons…”

“Is that so?”

“Yes, well, it’s just hearsay at this point. But if Solomon were doing such things, it would have a tremendous impact. Which is causing concern.”

“In that case, let’s investigate their whereabouts.”

Naturally, Solomon is an organization from a foreign country. One would think about investigating their whereabouts. But it’s futile.

“They seem to be hiding very skillfully, and the information I managed to obtain is at the level of rumors.”

Duke Kanna had discreet methods of transportation at his disposal. By utilizing various connections, he could carry out his machinations in secrecy. Thus, many of Duke Kanna’s misdeeds, which weren’t revealed in the original work, are extensive.

“I see… The information network of Aguni Dukedom is excellent. I don’t think my father is aware of this either.”

“Uh, yes, that’s right. If possible, please keep it a secret from my father.”

With a serious expression, Sena-san rests her fingers against her chin, lost in thought. Sena-san lost in thought is also adorable.

However, it would be troublesome if her father confirmed it. I can’t foresee the future like that. I probably have an information network, but there’s no way I could have obtained this information.

Duke Kanna moves with terrifying caution. Even if he orchestrated a plot that resulted in the deaths of many nameless individuals, he skillfully blamed other organizations.

That’s why Shin, despite getting expelled, could become the Emperor without being held accountable for his father’s crimes. It only appeared to be a struggle for power among nobles. If all his father’s misdeeds got exposed, even if he saved the world, Shin would not have been able to become Emperor.

“I see… So, for my sake, Masatoshi-san went against your family’s policy and told me.”

Sena-san’s hand holds mine, enveloping it. I feel her hand’s warmth and touch, and it moves me.

“Of course, for Sena-san, I will do my best, even if I have to face fire, water, or spear showers.”

Uhyooo! The Sena Route is finally complete! Inwardly, I jump for joy, but outwardly, I maintain a cool expression with my nose in the air, my cheeks turning red, and my lips trembling. It’s such an intense expression that it feels like my face is about to fall, as I gaze at Sena-san with a dignified expression.

Of course, considering a cool and dignified expression from my perspective as Victory goes without saying.

“In that case… we need to gather more information.”

“Uh, y-yes, that’s right.”

Locking eyes with each other, Masatoshi, who had already concluded nothing was left but a kiss, nodded in disappointment as Sena-san remained unfazed. Well, she’s still only 11 years old. I’ll continue to raise her favorability.

Ignoring Masatoshi’s thoughts about the pleasant ring of childhood friends, Sena-san clapped her hands, and her face lit up with an idea.

“I know an excellent information broker! Shall we go incognito next time?”

“Of course! I’ll follow you anywhere.”

It was an invitation for a date. Yes!

“She’s a female detective… I think you’ll know about this kind of thing.”

“Huh? A… female detective?”

“Yes, if we handle it well, we should be able to gather information! I remember where the apartment building where the female detective lives is, so let’s go there secretly!”

“Ah, I see… a female detective?”

Could it be Loki? Well, they did have some connection in the original story. Sena-san had met Loki several times when he came begging for a meal while drunk. On those occasions, Loki would whimsically provide important information, playing the role of a mysterious woman.

So it’s not strange… they probably met after the start of the original story? Or was I mistaken?

“The monster tamers of Solomon are powerful. It’s better to have as many allies as possible. What happened with the friends you were asking for, Masatoshi-san?”

“Oh, those orphans… I don’t recommend it…”

Masatoshi answered with a reluctant expression. He had underestimated the magician orphans who were a source of wealth. Their living conditions. How should he put it?

“Is that so? I’m planning to have a party at the orphanage to show our support to the public. Is there a problem?”

“Ah… I’ll somehow handle it by then.”

Sena-san tilted her head in confusion at Masatoshi’s evasive answer, but he brushed it off. He had to resolve it before the party.

“Understood. Let’s focus on gathering information first. I’ll secretly inform Father and onii-sama as well. Of course, I’ll keep the source of information a secret.”

Sena-san whispered into his ear, causing Masatoshi’s face to turn bright red. He was grateful to have been reincarnated in this world.

“Oh, you seem to be in a good mood, Sena-san.”

“Is that so? Yes, something nice happened on New Year’s Eve.”

“What happened?”

Since she mentioned New Year’s Eve, Victorious wondered if she had won the lottery, but Sena-san smiled delicately.

Her silver hair softly swirls as she turns her body. She looks at Masatoshi mischievously with her shining, beautiful face, gently placing her index finger to her mouth.

“It’s a secret.”

I see, it’s a secret. Masatoshi couldn’t help but melt at her cuteness, completely forgetting the previous question.

By the way, during their conversation. The girl with gray hair had left the scene. She had plunged her head into the chocolate fondue.