Chapter 77:
Chapter 77:
Now, Ill release your hand.
As Philip removed his hand covering the maids mouth, she took a deep breath. Her face wasnt exceptionally pretty, but her wide-open eyes and youthful appearance made her quite charming.
Who are you?
I am an investigator sent by Marquis Veronche to inquire about Deluan Joseph.
Philip intentionally spoke comfortingly to reassure the maid. In response, she nodded as if she had expected such an explanation.
I knew something like this would happen eventually. I dont know what the mistress has done to him, but still, its just one more person involved.
Philip was taken aback by the maids words. Even if she didnt know what mistakes Deluan had made, she had already said that. What kind of behavior did she usually do to get such an evaluation even from her maid, who was her servant?
Does she often torment you?
Yes.
The maid lifted her skirt silently. Philip, who had reflexively turned his gaze away, furrowed his brow as he realized her legs and thighs were covered in bruises.
She usually administers the punishments herself. She doesnt overlook even minor transgressions. No matter how much you cry, she wont forgive you.
The maid testified that due to her fathers heavy debt to Joseph Association, she couldnt escape.
No, how could they beat a little child like this? She cant even be half their age.
Neria was even more furious.
Ill help with anything to witness the mistresss downfall.
The maid agreed to cooperate with Philips investigation, and they began searching Deluans office together.
After a few minutes of searching, they found nothing of particular interest.
Perhaps what youre looking for is in the basement. The mistress often goes down there alone. Only the mistress and the bodyguard, Jo-Rum, have access from this area to the basement.
The basement, you say?
Philip raised an eyebrow. He had experienced the route where Deluan Joseph became the master of Association while playing the original game.
She was cruel and selfish, but he remembered that she wasnt a woman with some grand secret.
You should head down this path and go to Lords Castle. If you mention that Philip Oswald sent you, theyll look after you there. You dont need to worry about your fathers debts.
Touched by the unexpected hand of salvation, the maid wiped away tears in excitement. After reassuring her, Philip led her to the office.
Where can I find the security guard named Jo-Rum?
At this time, hes probably taunting the maids near the kitchen. Those maids, like me, are forced to work due to their familys debts
If that was the case, there was no need for a gentlemanly solution. After comforting the maid and sending her away, Philip walked on, no longer caring about the stares of others.
Human psychology was indeed quite strange.
Even though he had never seen this person before, no one questioned who he was or why he was there as he walked naturally without hesitation.
The merchants affiliated with the association gave Philip a suspicious look, but when their gazes met his serene eyes, they averted their eyes.
If thats the case, there was no need to climb the wall.
Maybe.
Thinking he had done something unnecessary, Philip headed towards the kitchen mentioned by the maid. Before lunch, the kitchen was bustling, yet an odd bald man was shamelessly harassing the maids preparing the meal.
How long do you think you can ignore me? Huh? Oh, should I stir the soup even harder? If its bland, Ill give you a good scolding.
A maid who appeared to be around twenty was stirring a pot of soup. The bald man clung to her back and molested her, and she trembled with shame and anger.
Please, Jo-Rum, stop. Im about to get married. You know that too, right?
Rather than that incapable sucker, wouldnt I be much better? How about changing your mind right now? Honestly, just because youre getting married doesnt mean Ill leave you alone.
Watching this scene, Philip briefly recalled if he remembered a security guard named Jo-Rum, only to realize he didnt.
The episode about Joseph Association usually happened in the third year, so the story of someone dying before that wasnt relevant.
Approaching slowly, Philip spoke calmly.
Are you Jo-Rum?
The security guard Jo-Rum turned around to look at Philip.
Huh? Who are you and why are you calling me?
After a small sigh, Philip replied, Im the one who came to get rid of your job. Im someone who could end your life depending on what you decide.
What are you saying?
With a look that seemed to say he was ready to face a crazy person, Jo-Rum chuckled and raised his fist. Before he could do anything, Phillip immediately punched him in the left side of his ribs.
Ugh!
Jo-Rum doubled over in shock and pain. Phillip kicked his thighs a few times before grabbing his collar and pulling him.
The kitchen fell into silence, with only the sound of soup boiling. Phillip looked around before speaking, You can stop preparing the meal. Lunch is canceled for today.
Oh ugh Who are you? Who are you?
Jo-Rum asked about Phillips identity with a pained expression. Phillip didnt answer and pulled his collar tighter.
In a secluded corner, Phillip delivered a strong blow to Jo-Rums throat. With a pain akin to his ligaments tearing, Jo-Rums large body collapsed.
Aaah! What the hell! What do you want? Cant you just say what you want?
As Jo-Rum yelled in a voice filled with agony, Phillip bent down and met his gaze.
Id like to take a look at the basement.
Why the basement? Whats down there?
Because I want to. Will you answer?
Seeing no immediate intent to kill, Phillip didnt plan on ending Jo-Rums life. He had some use for him for a few months.
If I bring outsiders down there, Deluan Joseph will kill me. Of course, shell do the same to you. Youre not unfamiliar with the Joseph Association, right?
Jo-Rum attempted to threaten Phillip, but Phillip only chuckled.
So, you dont like that? Then Ill have to kill you first and find a way to get in.
Phillip drew his sword. Jo-Rum also had a sword at his waist and was skilled enough to handle a weapon, having been part of Josephs personal guards. However, he sensed a formidable barrier surrounding Phillip. As a former mercenary, he had an eye for recognizing strength.
I dont know what this guy is up to, but if I provoke him recklessly, Ill end up dead.
Alright, hold on. Its not that I dislike it. I was going to say that I hope you understand that whatever you find there has nothing to do with me.
Well, youll understand when you see it. Lets proceed with the guidance.
* * *
Following Jo-Rums guidance, Phillip headed towards the basement. Several sturdy locks guarded a heavy iron door, but they were easily dealt with using a set of keys hanging from Jo-Rums belt.
Um, truly, whatevers here has absolutely nothing to do with me. Will you believe me?
Jo-Rum nervously watched Phillips expression as beads of sweat formed around his forehead.
Enough with the talk. Just lead the way with the torch.
Yes
Descending a few meters down the staircase, the space transformed from a simple basement storage to an elaborately designed area resembling an underground dungeon. Because of its limited size, a corridor led to a dead-end alleyway and a door.
Open it.
Following Phillips command, Jo-Rum opened the door, and a foul stench assaulted Phillips nose.
Upon inspecting the interior, Phillip was shocked and his mouth dropped open.
What is this?
Gyahhh! Master, what are all these?
Around ten or so men and women, not even dressed in rags, stood haphazardly with expressions of despair. Among them, a chained woman stared at Phillip with crimson eyes.
The naked men and women were slender with elongated ears, possessing a beauty surpassing that of humans, but their bones seemed to protrude through their skin due to malnutrition. Their cheeks were sunken, as if they hadnt eaten or rested properly for days.
Elves, arent they, Master? Am I right?
As Neria had said, they were indeed elves. However, the chained woman stood out.
Horns akin to those of a ram protruded from her head, and wings resembling those of a bat hung from her shoulders. Her skin was closer to gray, and Phillip recognized her as a creature with all these distinctive features.
Thats a Mormaro.
Phillip turned to Jo-Rum. He was so focused on not looking at the chained Mormaro that he didnt notice Phillips gaze.
Hey, Jo-Rum. You might find yourself in trouble if you dont explain immediately why there is Mormaro beneath the Joseph Associations building. Id assume you wouldnt want to end up burning after experiencing most of the tortures the world has to offer.
Surprised by the calmness in Phillips voice, Jo-Rum looked up.
W-Why are you still fine?
Physiologically, things like poison or mental attacks dont affect me much. But isnt it more important to explain than ask about that?
Four years ago, I dont know where the branch head brought these from, and why theyre here. Im just responsible for capturing elven slaves and putting them in here.
His words seemed truthful. Phillip approached the chained mormaro slowly.
Mm Isnt it a handsome brother instead of that wicked witch who came? Older brother. Want to have some fun with me? If you unlock these chains, I can grant you all your dreams, older brother.
The Mormaro tried to tempt Phillip. He responded with composure.
Yesterday, a chained Mormaro dreamt of biting her tongue and dying, cursing herself for being born a demon. Can you fulfill that dream too?
An offended expression flashed across the Mormaros face as she glared at Phillip.
My Demonic Eye doesnt have any effect on Oppa?
I know well. Stop being coy and tell me what youre doing here.
Since Mormaro didnt have any combat-related abilities, her life was in Phillips hands. Even if she were to seriously fight an adult man, ordinary Mormaro would be beaten like a dog.
She would only flee before things got that bad, given that she had wings.
What will you do with me after I confess?
As long as you cooperate, I wont kill you. Its best to confess obediently.
Seems like Privia would like it if I give Mormaro to her.
It seemed like a great toy for Privia, who led a dull life as a dragon.
Philip cast the Moonlight Sword after a long time. When the pale moonlight-like aura bloomed from Neria, Mormaro turned pale.
W-Youre not going to touch my beautiful body with that horrible thing, right? Please say no. No Please, Ill do anything. Please! Woof! Woof!
Seeing Mormaro barking like a dog before even being commanded, Philip furrowed his brow.
Sorry for the late updates. My university exams have started, so please expect less updates for the next weeks. Thanks for the understanding.