But the Kingdom seems unable to see this, and its rule over these mountain people has become increasingly harsh.
Count Jandener simply listened to this guest recount their difficulties, always maintaining a smile without expressing any opinion. To someone of his age, a smile made him appear like a kind old man, but the guest sitting below would never dare to think so—those who did often met with unpleasant ends.
As the mountain people's envoy reached the endpoint of his account and was about to present his request, the bell to Count Jandener's left began to ring at just the right moment.
The Count's expression slightly changed; for the first time that afternoon, he couldn't maintain his smile.
He couldn't remember the last time he had received urgent intelligence.
The old man frowned slightly, stood up. However, he didn't appear rude at all, instead politely nodding apologetically to the guest and saying, "Apologies, please wait a moment while I step out."
