Volume 1 Chapter 23
Poachers often act alone. Unicorns have no combat capabilities, so bypassing the elven guardians is all it takes to obtain a unicorn horn. After Oberon VII reduced protections for unicorns, poaching has increased. However, only once has there been a direct attack on Midgård to plunder unicorns since its founding.
It was an unforgivable insult to all the elves of Midgård.
“However! Buying a unicorn horn is also an unforgivable atrocity. It is due to human greed that these sacred beasts face extinction!”
“Fair point. But isn’t that all based on Midgård’s laws?” Enrique calmly replies.
“In Mikael Kingdom, there is no law prohibiting the hunting of unicorns. You can’t use the laws of the Elf Kingdom to judge the merchants of a human kingdom, can you?”
“The Abran faith you follow states that sacred beasts are God’s creation and no one should harm them for personal gain!”
“Funny, the Abran doctrine also says to show no mercy to heretics. Since you don’t follow the Abran faith in Midgård but want to hold us to its rules, we’re in a tough spot.”
“…We will not abandon the faith passed down through generations of elves.”
“In that case, I have nothing more to say,” Enrique shrugs. “You’re free to file a complaint with the king or the church, but without solid evidence, I have the right to arrest you for defamation. Reputation loss is a big deal for us merchants.”
Enrique claps his hands, “Show her out.”
“Wait—you…!”
Enrique turns and walks back into the house. The sound of clashing metal comes from the courtyard for about half a minute.
That elven girl probably heard rumors about the crystal shoes I gifted to Anna and acted impulsively. It’s been a while since I’ve encountered such a hothead. A beauty turned out to be an airhead.
Soon, a fully-armed knight rushes into Enrique’s study.
“I’m sorry, sir, we…”
“It’s fine,” Enrique waves his hand. “She got away, didn’t she?”
Seeing the knight hang his head in shame, Enrique pats his shoulder, “Don’t misunderstand. I’m not blaming you. She’s a typical Moon Elf. They’re known for blending into the night, and their [Stealth] skills are exceptionally effective at night. If they want to escape under the cover of darkness, nobody can stop them.”
“I see…”
“So don’t take it to heart. They’re the funny race whose parents can’t even find where their children are sleeping at night.”
The knight almost laughs, but his training keeps him composed. Thanks to Enrique’s humorous explanation, the knight’s tension eases.
“Still, it’s best to heighten security for a while.”
“Understood!”
“As for another matter, a spy reports that Anastasia has returned to the Rothschild residence.”
“Just as I expected. She has no other place to live, an excellent opportunity.”
Enrique’s lips curl into a subtle smile.
To win over Anastasia, a different approach is needed.
What’s the best way to increase her affection?
Flattery? No… pandering will leave you with nothing. Instead, make Anastasia rely on the Water City Commerce Guild.
Rothschild, perfect.
Near Rothschild, there’s a noble player who owes Enrique a favor. It’s time to call it in.
Anastasia’s residence is currently in a gray area—abandoned by the original owner and too expensive for most players.
If someone buys it, Anastasia will be homeless.
People in desperate situations will be grateful to those who extend a helping hand.
Of course, the act of buying out Anastasia’s residence cannot be performed by the Water City Commerce Guild or its affiliates.
“Keep watching, and report any changes immediately.”
“Yes!”
Offering a home to the homeless Anastasia would surely improve her affection towards me, wouldn’t it?
Anastasia is the [Daughter of the Witch], a status worth all this elaborate planning for Enrique.