The Water Magician

It was called the "Study."

A library intended solely for the master of this building... In general terms, that recognition would be the closest to the truth.

In this vast space, an enormous number of books were assembled.

The "master" was once again engrossed in reading one of them.

As the master caught a certain scent, they raised their head.

There, placed before them, was that drink, black as a demon, hot as hell, pure as an angel, and sweet as love...

"Ah, thank you."

Saying this, the master reached out for the freshly brewed coffee and enjoyed its aroma.

"Master, it seems Lord Doras wishes to report."

The butler, who had brewed the coffee, informed the master that the reporter was waiting in the reception room.

"I see. Let him in."

Nodding once, the master granted permission for the reporter to enter.

"There are two points in the report. First, the asylum of the Duke of Inberri has been announced by the Debuhi Empire. Second, regarding the disappearance of Count Haskir, the individuals involved have been identified."

"Let's hear the second point."

"Yes. It has been confirmed that Count Haskir Kalinikos disappeared in the Southern region of the Naitorei Kingdom, in lands directly governed by the royal family. At the time of his disappearance, those present included the Guild Master of the Run Adventurers' Guild, Hugh McGrath, and four members of a d-rank party. Additionally, Hero Roman and his party were also there."

Upon receiving this report, the master tilted their head slightly in question.

"Not only Master McGrath, but Hero Roman as well? That’s quite a luxurious lineup. I find it hard to believe it was just a coincidence."

"Yes. At that time, the Hero Party was staying in the City of Run and had appeared in Kona Village alongside Master McGrath."

"I see. So it was near Kona Village."

Saying this, the master gazed lovingly at the coffee in their hands.

What they were drinking was Kona Coffee.

Blue Mountain is good, but Kona is good too.

"If the Hero's Holy Sword Astalt was involved, it could indeed have the power to eliminate Kalinikos. Moreover, Master McGrath’s sword is the Holy Sword Galahat, which is said to seal regeneration abilities... Either way, it was not a normal opponent. Perhaps Kalinikos was overmatched alone."

The master muttered to themselves without any particular expression.

"Yes. However, the priest of the Hero Party..."

At that point, the reporter hesitated for the first time.

"Hmm? Now that you mention it, there is always a priest in the Hero Party. Who is it now?"

"At present, it is Archbishop Graham."

Upon saying this, the reporter clenched their teeth in frustration.

"Archbishop Graham? I see, the inquisitor general... That’s quite extravagant."

With just that, the master smiled slightly.

However, that smile contained a hint of sorrow.

It was not the anger that Count Haskir Kalinikos harbored toward Graham, nor the frustration felt by the reporter biting their teeth; it was simply sadness.

"Graham... that unfortunate fellow..."

The master's words went unheard by anyone and vanished into the air.

A brief interlude before the next chapter.