Chapter 41: A Cunning Trap

Two weeks had passed since Banaji sent his letter to Fine.

No news of new gold veins had come, and Banaji’s frustration grew.

‘It’s fine.

With Fine’s personality, she won’t refuse me.’

With her ability to hear the earth’s voice, she could surely resolve this crisis.

‘She was so scared of being abandoned, she never complained no matter what I did.

She’ll be thrilled to reply to my letter.’

He even considered making her his mistress as a reward.

Fine wasn’t exciting, but her stunning beauty made her perfect for the role.

A loud bang interrupted as the study door flew open.

“Master!

A letter from the Rosaider Margravate!”

“Give it here!”

Banaji snatched the letter from the servant and tore it open.

—

Your Grace, Duke Diner,

I received your letter with gratitude.

It’s been a while, and I’m delighted to hear from you.

I can only imagine the weight of your daily duties and responsibilities.

To think of me and reach out amidst such burdens is an honor.

If I can be of even slight help, as I once was, it would bring me joy.

For your request, I have no hesitation.

Within my capabilities, I’m happy to assist.

Please provide more details, and I await your reply.

Fine Rosaider

—

Banaji smirked as he finished reading.

‘As expected, Fine can’t refuse me.’

He immediately wrote back, asking her to use her Divine Blessing to determine the best spot for a new gold vein.

Her reply arrived in about two weeks.

“Naruto Mountain in the west?”

Fine’s letter suggested test-digging at Naruto Mountain in the Diner Dukedom’s west.

It also stated the Rosaider Margravate would cover initial investment costs, with the condition that 10% of the mined output go to Rosaider.

‘Ten percent of the output?

Ridiculous.’

He’d assumed her help would be free, so this irritated him.

But he reconsidered.

‘If Rosaider covers the initial costs, a failed dig won’t hurt us.

If it succeeds, we keep 90%.

Worth a try…’

He rang the bell on his desk.

The new Lilit gold mine manager, Liberte, appeared.

“What is it, my lord?”

“Start test-digging at the base of Naruto Mountain.

Now!”

“Naruto Mountain?

But we’ve just begun digging in Lilit’s western area—”

“How many times will you disappoint me?

Just do it!”

Banaji shouted, and Liberte shrugged, saying, “Understood,” before leaving.

Watching him go, Banaji leaned back heavily in his chair.

“Naruto Mountain, huh?

Never considered it.”

They’d only focused on digging around the Lilit gold mine in the north.

Naruto Mountain, in the west, had been completely overlooked.

‘If Fine’s Divine Blessing is truly at play, we’ll find a gold vein.’

Banaji reread the letter.

The elegant handwriting was unchanged from their engagement days.

‘If her blessing is involved, the results will show soon.’

If Fine’s blessing was the key… he’d have to take her back immediately.