Chapter 246 - A Preemptive Mana Strike
I thought the intimidation was finally working, but then the Magic Item Guild’s Branch Manager butted in unexpectedly. I had assumed the Branch Manager was just a figurehead, but it seems he’s not someone to be underestimated. After all, even Rosmerta couldn’t see through the mastermind behind the curtain.
Or perhaps, considering the misdeeds of the department heads, it’s more accurate to say the Branch Manager simply turned a blind eye. As the top, he overlooked the misdeeds and helped cover them up, taking his cut in the process. He kept his hands clean and stayed out of the spotlight, reaping the benefits quietly. It’s a clever strategy if you want to avoid drawing attention, and if things went south, he could always cut his losses easily.
However, losing the cut from his minions might have been the problem. That’s probably why he finally decided to engage Rosmerta directly. He doesn’t seem like someone who shies away from bold moves, and if Rosmerta is struggling, it means he’s a tough opponent.
Dealing with a noble from the powerful nation of Berliza was an unexpected twist, and the negotiations are bound to be difficult.
"When’s the negotiation? Should I attend as well?"
It might be better to leave it to her, but violence can be a decisive factor in negotiations. My presence alone, with its oppressive aura, should have some effect on anyone.
"The negotiation is tonight. They don’t seem to be giving us much time to prepare. I’ll have Yukarinowe join us, and I intend to bring Flannel too. Would it be alright if I ask Valeria to handle the security around us and the surroundings?"
"If you’re that wary, who knows what kind of traps they have set up. I trust Valeria to handle perimeter security and response."
The Magic Item Guild would likely use magical items if things turn violent. But with our heightened mana perception, spotting hidden items and predicting their activation is easy. Even if they set up forces around the area, we can detect them before they move. Valeria’s skills alone are worth a hundred men.
"I’m counting on you."
"I’ll ensure your safety at the very least. With Flannel’s team, we’ll be well-prepared. So, where’s the venue?"
"A room in a hotel in the city center. They claim it’s a neutral location, but I suspect they have some tricks up their sleeve."
"They chose the venue? Impressive that you agreed."
"This is part of the negotiation. By taking the first step, we’re giving them a favor."
No matter what traps they set, if we can break through them, it will put them at a disadvantage. Trust in Flannel and me, and we’ll handle it.
With little time to spare, I’ll have a final talk with Rosmerta. All I need to convey are the Kikyo Society’s demands. How she handles the negotiations is up to her.
We’re dealing with a noble from a powerful nation and the branch manager of a major guild. Things might not go as planned, so we shouldn’t expect too much.
When evening came, we set out for the negotiations. The venue was a high-end hotel near the city center. We couldn’t bring a large, armed group inside, so most would wait outside. The other side would likely do the same, but showing our readiness is crucial.
Bringing a large force into the city would draw attention, but with a legitimate reason, it shouldn’t be a problem. A meeting between the Duchess and the Branch Manager isn’t unusual, and having a sizable guard is within reason.
We would arrive with a considerable group, but only a few would meet the other side. Rosmerta and her secretary, along with Flannel and me, would handle the negotiation. The rest, including Valeria and Flannel’s subordinates, would wait outside, ready to act if needed.
Flannel’s vehicle arrived slightly late at the hotel, and we immediately got to work.
"That truck over there looks suspicious. There are four people inside, and another four over there."
Flannel confirmed and directed her subordinates to act. Even if the truck isn’t related to the Magic Item Guild, we can’t take risks. Protecting the Duchess is our priority.
"Take them out. Remind them they’re in the Royal Capital of Brenark."
"Understood!"
Even though the provisional knight order hasn’t officially formed, they have reliable leaders. They quickly began their operation.
This is the Royal Capital of Brenark, and Rosmerta, the Duchess Oversta, runs it. No one can defy her will. A bit of chaos in the hotel parking lot won’t draw any complaints.
In fact, showing our strength serves as a message to other onlookers.
"Valeria, detect and destroy any offensive magical items. Distinguishing them from the hotel’s security items might be tricky, but I trust you."
"Yes, Onee-sama. No problem."
The enemy’s forces are likely outside the hotel. Setting up extensive magical items or a large force inside would be difficult.
If found, they will be destroyed. The negotiation has probably already started.
"Hehe, you’re reliable. Let’s go."
Rosmerta smiled and led the way inside the hotel, with her secretary in front. The hotel staff, aware of the VIP visit, greeted us without confusion.
"Welcome, the Lady. The other party is waiting, so I’ll guide you immediately."
"Thank you. Could you tell me the room number? There might be some commotion, and I want the manager to be prepared."
"Of course."
The manager, though likely hoping for a smooth visit, kept a professional demeanor. High-end hotels have high standards.
The elevator took us to the top-floor Royal Suite, a ridiculously luxurious room with multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and a spacious living area.
I performed a mana scan and reported the results.
"Rosmerta, they’re well-prepared."
"Are they setting traps?"
"There are two weak individuals, likely the Branch Manager and his secretary. Two more are stronger and will face us directly. Eight more are hiding in nearby rooms, fully armed."
"What about magical items?"
Flannel might know the number of enemies, but detecting and identifying magical items is tricky.
"Yes. There are many small, everyday magical items and the guards’ equipment, but one suspicious item is near the door. It won’t attack immediately, but its effects are unknown."
"Got it. I’ll go in first."
We entered, with Flannel leading, followed by the secretary, Rosmerta, and me. Each of us was prepared with defensive items and magical gear to ensure the Duchess’s safety.
We pressed the doorbell, and the door opened quietly without a word.
"Welcome, Rosmerta Juliana Oversta."
The other side’s secretary greeted us with a polite but slightly barbed tone.
"Sorry to keep you waiting."
We arrived a bit late on purpose. Rosmerta’s light-hearted apology masked a deeper intention.
She also exerted a subtle pressure, urging us to move inside.
The secretary couldn’t complain, so we were led further in. The tension was palpable, and I was glad to be in a more relaxed position.
As we entered, a magical item activated, likely a detection device. It might have identified disguises or detected explosives.
I destroyed it by throwing an iron spike at the ceiling when the secretary turned away. The suspicious noise was covered by a cough.
I confirmed with Flannel that all was well and continued inside. The hidden forces in nearby rooms remained still. Whether they were just waiting or planning to act, we’d deal with them if they moved.
"This is an honor, the Lady. I apologize for troubling you."
"Not at all, Lord Andar. Thank you for making time despite your busy schedule. I apologize for being late."
They were probably exchanging barbs, disguised as polite conversation. The branch manager’s “Don’t be late” was met with Rosmerta’s “You’re just busy with petty schemes; a little lateness isn’t a big deal.”
"Ha ha ha, such a charming lady. Please, sit down. I have a rare bottle to offer. Would you like a drink before we start?"
"Sure, I’d love one."
This was getting tedious. I wanted to get the negotiation over with.
The top brass sat down, while the secretaries and guards stood. The other side’s secretary was quiet, and one of the guards was increasing his Physical Enhancement Magic, likely to intimidate us.
I ignored the noble’s snide remarks and focused on the guard. Flannel remained calm, concentrating on protecting Rosmerta, ready to act at any moment.
I wore my usual black combat gear, with teardrop sunglasses and straight hair, looking intimidating but with my Physical Enhancement Magic contained.
Time to start the job. I gradually released my power, subtly challenging the guard. As I matched his strength, he pushed harder.
I increased my power to match and slightly exceed his. He tried to outdo me, but I pushed him to his limit and beyond.
He gasped and sweated, clearly overwhelmed. The other guard wasn’t much better.
I decided to put them in their place. I gradually revealed my hidden Physical Enhancement Magic, overwhelming their limits.
The guard’s breathing grew heavy, and sweat dripped down his face. We heard a faint crash from the adjacent room, likely one of the hidden men suffering from my pressure.
The Branch Manager noticed the abnormality.
"Is something wrong? Surely not a health issue."
Two guards simultaneously showing signs of distress was unusual. He glanced at Flannel and me, but we acted innocent.
Flannel remained calm, and I simply looked back through my sunglasses, having done nothing more than exert a bit of pressure. They had started the provocation, after all.
"Ex-excuse me, you, you—"
No more nonsense. I unleashed a burst of mana at the guard, and he immediately fainted.
"Let’s tone it down. I apologize for the rudeness. Lord Andar, I’ll have him removed."
The Branch Manager watched the guard being carried away, his gaze hardening as he looked at Rosmerta.
"Lady, could you explain this? I thought this was a negotiation."
"I agree, but I’m as confused as you are."
"Are you playing dumb?"
"Not at all. Flannel, can you explain?"
Rosmerta hadn’t noticed the subtle power struggle, so Flannel stepped in.
"Yes, the Lady. One of their guards was showing off his strength, and Yukarinowe responded in kind. That’s all."
"I see. They were intimidated by the difference in power."
"Exactly."
This was the plan. We acknowledged the power disparity openly. The real negotiation begins now.
We had laid the groundwork for Rosmerta. The rest is up to her.