I Like Villains, so I Reincarnated as One
When Angela fixed her sharp gaze on me, I became flustered. However, I soon realized that her gaze wasn’t directed at me, but rather at White.
“That thing… isn’t it a divine beast?! I heard from Rosalia that you found the Spirit Spring, but to think you’ve received the protection of a divine beast…”
“Yeah, I just happened to help this little one when it was injured… and after some events, it ended up recognizing me.”
“Kyuu kyuu!!”
“Waa, so cute!!”
Noticing all the attention, White cutely chirped and wagged its tail. The children screamed in delight, but for some reason, Angela remained stern-faced. Could it be… that White’s cuteness wasn’t getting through to her?
Still wearing that severe expression, Angela spoke to the children.
“You kids go play outside for a bit. I need to have an important talk with these people.”
“Okay! But who’s this big brother?”
“They’re on a secret date—looks like spring has finally come for Sister Angela!”
“Hurry up and go already!! Don’t go learning such weird words!!”
Watching the children leave while laughing happily, it was clear that Rosalia was right—Angela was indeed a kind person. It was obvious that the children truly adored her, and despite being an orphan herself, she didn’t seem lonely at all. Well, admittedly, she did have quite the sharp tongue…
Then, we were led by her into a small room. It seemed to be a place used for discussions. A simple room with a modest wooden table, chairs, and a bookshelf.
I sat across from Angela at the table. Rosalia seemed to visit often, as she skillfully prepared tea before leaving at Angela’s request to check on the children.
She deliberately left us alone together… something must be up…
“So… what brings Lord Hamilton to a place like this? You’re not here to pray, are you?”
“Yeah, it seems you already know that I discovered the Spirit Spring.”
“Yes, Rosalia came to tell me excitedly. She said Lord Weiss is amazing… So, are you asking me to take over managing it?”
Thanks to Rosalia having already laid the groundwork, Angela seemed to understand the purpose of my visit, and the conversation progressed quickly. I nodded and continued.
“Yeah, the Spirit Spring is precious. If left unmanaged, people from the Zeus Church in the capital will likely come here. If they act in the best interest of the Hamilton territory, that’d be fine, but we can’t guarantee that.”
“Yeah… those guys definitely prioritize the interests of the Zeus Church.”
Generally speaking, the Zeus Church and the nobility are considered equal entities. That’s why even as the lord of this territory, it’s difficult for me to make unreasonable requests to them, and sometimes they won’t comply. Moreover, if someone from the capital comes, they’re more likely to prioritize the interests of the Zeus Church over the Hamilton territory. It’s similar to how, in my past life, when someone from headquarters came to a branch office, they’d do whatever they wanted without considering the local circumstances, focusing solely on the benefit of the main office.
That’s why I’m thinking of asking her to manage it—someone who might have a bit of attachment to the Hamilton territory.
“Didn’t you consider that I might prioritize the interests of the Zeus Church?”
“No, I don’t think so. Rosalia trusts you, and the children seem happy. That shows you aren’t giving donations to the Zeus Church beyond what’s required—you’re actually using them for the children. That’s why I believe I can trust you.”
At my words, she widened her eyes slightly and opened her mouth, seemingly surprised.
“Hmm… I was worried since I hadn’t heard good things about you, but it seems you actually see things clearly. It’s not just because Rosalia recommended you—you seem capable of assessing the situation and making your own judgments.”
“Don’t say that… I’ve been trying hard until now. Things just weren’t going right.”
Though I had braced myself somewhat, it still stung a little to hear negative things about Weiss. Seeing that, Angela sincerely apologized. She probably didn’t mean any harm.
“Ah, sorry, sorry. I didn’t mean to speak badly… As for me, I want those kids to be happy. It would be convenient for me if the Hamilton territory prospers, so I’ll lend my support. But there’s one favor I need to ask of you—something only someone recognized by a divine beast can do.”
“Does this involve him?”
“Kyu kyu?”
As I petted White, it licked my neck, tickling me. Since it involves the divine beast, does this have something to do with divine powers? What impossible task was she about to impose on me?
“I have a girl like a younger sister… I want you to save her. Someone like you, recognized by a divine beast, should be able to do it. Please… save her! Save Astesia!”
“Astesia…?”
Hearing that unexpected name, I let out a voice of astonishment.
