Just A "Casual" Night

A couple of hours had passed since Odium hastily retreated from our encounter.

Perplexed by the abrupt departure, I opted to leave the matter unresolved and decided to venture out. Summoning the same carriage driver from the previous day, I was soon en route to the bustling city.

Upon arriving, I stepped out of the carriage, stretching my arms wide and inhaling the city air.

"Mmm... Ahh~!"

My exhalation echoed my satisfaction as I took in the urban atmosphere. I cast an indifferent gaze over the lively crowd, my attention casually drifting toward the diverse array of shops lining the streets. Vendors offered an assortment of delectable treats – skewers, bread, and various other culinary delights. The aroma wafting from a nearby bakery beckoned, adding to the sensory symphony that enveloped the city.

"It's quite lively than expected, huh..."

Embarking on my exploration, I strolled through the busy marketplace, allowing the rhythm of city life to surround me. The lively chatter of vendors, the rustling of shoppers, and the distant sounds of cityscape formed a harmonious backdrop.

It was the same back when I got here... It was peaceful.

As I traversed the lively streets, my gaze was drawn to a peculiar antique shop nestled among the more contemporary storefronts. Intrigued, I decided to investigate further, the doorbell chiming softly as I entered.

The shop, bathed in a warm golden glow, housed an eclectic collection of artifacts. Vintage clocks ticked rhythmically, their mechanical sounds resonating through the air. Antique furniture and peculiar trinkets adorned the shelves.

"...What do we have here?"

Engrossed in my thoughts, my fingers grazed the surfaces of aged books, and I examined ornate jewelry encased in glass displays. The shopkeeper, an elderly man with a twinkle in his eye, approached with a knowing smile.

"Good day, young traveler. Are you seeking something in particular?" He asked softly.

"Perhaps? Is there any sort of books related to summoning," I replied, allowing a hint of mystery to lace my words.

The shopkeeper chuckled, gesturing toward a dusty tome on an antique stand. "Maybe this thing can help you. Would you care to explore its pages?"

Intrigued, I nodded, accepting the book and flipped through its fragile pages. The text written were slowly disappearing due to how old it was. Upon reading closer, I noticed something that caught my eyes.

"I'll take it," I said, placing the pouch full of silver to the table.

As I exited the antique shop, the sun was beginning its descent, casting a warm glow over the city. Eager to continue my exploration, I made my way to a quaint café tucked away in a narrow alley. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped the air as I entered, and the gentle hum of conversation provided a soothing ambiance.

Opting for a corner seat near a window, I allowed my thoughts to wander as I sipped the rich, aromatic coffee.

"...Now that I thought of it, I should have brought Reina with me."

Lost in contemplation, I glimpsed a group of street performers setting up nearby. The melodious strumming of a guitar and the rhythmic beat of a drum resonated through the air as they began their performance. Passersby gathered, drawn by the magnetic allure of the impromptu spectacle.

"Well, too bad... I'll just buy her some sweets on my way back."

In the midst of the vibrant scene, my mind shifted back to the earlier encounter with Odium. Her sudden departure lingered, prompting a curiosity to understand the unspoken complexities in my mind.

"..Why did she suddenly pointed a gun at me anyway?"

...Is she trying to scare me? Too bad for her, I've gotten used to being pointed by those plaything in the face.

Leaving the café, I decided to wander through the city's cultural district. Art galleries and theaters adorned the streets, showcasing the creativity and expressions of the city's inhabitants.

"Why don't you come with us, lady?"

-.....

Just then, my attention shifted to the man in luxurious attire, extending an invitation to a woman he had encountered at the bar.

"I'll buy you whatever you want~"

-...Ah.

Ah... That's it!

Thanks to the unfolding scene, a bright idea sparked within me.

Instead of tirelessly searching for a conventional business to establish in the city...

Why not find a sugar mommy?

...

..

.

A month ago.

In the midst of the lively party, Maximus engaged Saber in conversation. Holding a glass of wine, he fixed Saber with a forced smile.

"You're still alive, huh..." Maximus remarked with a hint of disdain.

Saber didn't respond immediately. Instead, he met Maximus's gaze with an arrogant smirk, taunting, "In the flesh. I had to crawl up from hell just to see your disappointed face.... I guess it was worth it."

A barely perceptible twitch at the corner of Maximus's lips betrayed his irritation. Slowly approaching Saber, he leaned in to whisper.

"I'm gonna mess with all of your former party."

Psh! This guy... Does he think I care? Saber mused.

"Heh... I'm gonna f**k your sister, alright? Brother-in-law?"

Splurt-!

***

As the night descended, the city transformed into a tapestry of lights. Neon signs illuminated the streets, and the cityscape glittered like a constellation of dreams.

Seeking solace in the beauty of the night, I found myself on a rooftop overlooking the city, a silent observer of its nocturnal vibrancy.

"...Haa~"

Recalling the exchange with Maximus, I couldn't help but draw in a breath with a satisfied expression.

Though uncertain about Maximus's current state, I intended to follow through with my promise.

Chances are, he's likely executed his threats against the others.

...Not that their fates concern me.

The primary reason for selecting this city as our destination wasn't merely due to its convenience for establishing a base.

No...

If the novel unfolded as expected, they should have arrived by now.

Abruptly, a carriage carrying slaves passed beneath my view.

As the door creaked open, familiar figures emerged, adorned with chains around their necks.

"This should be entertaining~"

=====

[A/N : Y'all already know what happens next~!]