Chapter 2

Bar closed the wooden door of his house and locked it, then sighed and said,

"Can't you stop hiding and waiting inside the house, Mina?"

As he spoke, a human-shaped shadow suddenly appeared in the empty space and then took the form of a young woman.

The woman called Mina had golden hair, emerald-like eyes, and long ears, marking her as an elf.

Her outstanding beauty had the power to make even the unassuming outfit of a navy jacket and pants look charming.

"I thought it would be for your benefit, Mr. Bartholomew."

"Please stop calling me that, Wilhelmina."

Although she addressed him politely, Bar gave her a troubled look.

Bartholomew was indeed his real name, but he did not particularly like it.

In return, he mentioned her real name, and she bowed her head.

"I apologize."

Bar thought it was enough and changed the subject.

"What brings you here today? Surely it's not just to see my face?"

"No, that's exactly it."

Mina's immediate and serious response left him speechless.

He had thought she would not come without a reason, but perhaps it was just his assumption.

"Besides, you're not good at cooking, so I thought I'd bring something homemade, but it seems I'm too late."

Her emerald eyes caught the paper bag he was holding.

"Oh, it's quite delicious, this."

"Considering your status, you could live like royalty, yet you lead a very modest life."

There was no hint of contempt in Mina's tone.

This was one of the reasons their relationship was good.

"Would you like to join me, Mina?"

"I'll have some. I brought something too, so it should be perfect."

Mina pulled a white bag from her pants pocket, which contained fresh vegetables and fruits.

It was clearly more than could fit in a pants pocket, but Bar did not question it.

There was a magic spell that could alter mass, and Mina was a master of magic.

"Lamb skewers with onions, fried potatoes, and the vegetables and fruits you brought. Quite a feast, isn't it?"

"You should pay more attention to the balance of your diet."

Mina gave him a gentle reminder, to which Bar looked a bit troubled.

"There aren't many stores around here that sell vegetables and fruits, you know."

"There are in the first-class area. Have you considered moving?"

Mina answered nonchalantly.

She knew his true financial power, but he shook his head.

"I like living here. I don't want to move if I can help it."

"...I think you could still live a more common life even in the first-class area..."

Mina muttered, but did not push further.

Her reluctance to overstep boundaries made Bar feel at ease.

After the meal, Mina made herbal tea for him.

"The herb scent is nice. It's unique, but I'm getting used to it."

"I'm glad you like it."

After a leisurely time, Bar asked the elf in front of him,

"You can't really be here just to see my face, can you?"

"Yes, you seem to have forgotten, but there's a regular meeting tomorrow."

Mina's words made him realize.

"Damn."

Seeing his exclamation, she chuckled.

"Got it, I'll go."

"I'll come by again tomorrow morning."

"Sure, thanks."

Bar thanked her.

If he wanted to avoid drawing attention, it was safer to rely on Mina's abilities.

"It's hard for me to move around without drawing suspicion."

"It's a matter of suitability. You're the best in battle, though."

Mina comforted him matter-of-factly, despite his disappointed tone.