IS IT WRONG TO TRY TO PICK UP GIRLS IN A DUNGEON? FAMILIA CHRONICLE

”I-I-I-Im sorry! ”

The elf stared at him for a while as tears welled up in his eyes, before she finally sighed. She should not have been so bothered that he had gone head over heels for Syr, but for some reason she couldn let it go.

Why can I overlook it?

Pondering if it was due to the elf value of propriety, she eventually decided the reason was that his gaze had been too lascivious when he looked at Syr.

”Anyway, Mr. Adventurer, why are you all here? Ive heard this is the biggest casino in Orario, but… ”

”Ho-ho-ho…Thats a good question, miss. ”

Feigning curiosity, Syr turned to Mords group. The three men who had been groaning rose to their feet unsteadily and started to smile.

”Because we have this here Gold Card! Its a pass only given out to guys who drop a ton of money in the Casino Strip, and its good for entry at every establishment here! ”

With excessive pride, Mord held up a garishly sparkling gold-colored metal card.

”Unlike the other places on the strip, El Dorado Resort is the Grand Casino. And today we were finally able to get in! ”

”From Bronze to Silver…and finally Gold. It was a long road to get here.

Do you know how much money we had to spend in order to be acknowledged here? ”

”We
e probably the only third-tier adventurers to have this baby! ”

The three friends became teary-eyed as they spoke. Standing between Scott and Guile, Mord appeared especially proud.

In other words, the casino had ”recognized ” them. As Lyu had explained to Syr earlier, they were considered valuable customers because the trio had burned through so much of their own money. They had been granted the privilege to freely use the casino, and so management had issued them a special pass. Bell had been able to enter on the introduction of the Gold Card holder Mord, though it would have been out of the question for a stray adventurer like Lyu, who was on the black list.

Or perhaps it was more likely that Mord and his friends paid their way in as promising new adventurers after the results of the War Game the other day.

”Its a special privilege available to Orario adventurers—not only the upper-class adventurers! If you spend enough money, you can gain recognition and special services. As long as we mind our manners, even guys like us can get into the Grand Casino. ”

Certainly, an upper-class adventurer who could bring back valuable magic stones and drop items from beyond the middle levels was more dependable than a rich person with no skills. Even more so if they were a member of a powerful familia. However, the adventurers and factions that could afford to mindlessly flaun6 that kind of money would normally be limited to those in the first- and second-tier adventurers categories. If a third-tier adventurer like Mord was here, he must have spent an unimaginable amount of money, using up everything he recovered from the Dungeon day after day.

”…I am beginning to understand why you all are still only third-tier. ” ” ” ”Sh-shut up! ” ” ”

Their passion withered a bit under Lyus stare. However, this is convenient. Looking toward the oak door, she whispered to Mord.

”I want to know about the VIP room beyond that door. Know anything? ”

”Huh? You want to get in there? Thats hopeless… ” Mord shrugged as Lyu tried to probe his experiences at the casino for information.

”Look at the two guys standing in front of the door—they ain Ganesha Familia. Same goes inside there, too. Even Ganesha Familia can go near the VIP room, let alone get in. Thats controlled by casino management.

Thats where youll find the real extralegal territory. ”

”So anyone who can be trusted to keep quiet about what goes on inside won be allowed in? ”

”Yeah. According to one drunken VIP I ran into, the rumors that they enjoy themselves with high-stakes games are true…and that after, the owners mistresses come out. The guys a pervert who surrounds himself with crazy-hot women. Likes to flaunt them in front of the VIPs. Tch, always going on about adventurers, ” Mord spat back.

Lyus confidence increased as she listened to his explanation. If she was going to meet the owner who had purchased Anna, as well as Anna herself, it would be behind that door.

”Also…there are stories that new members going back there get aptized, you know? They say he eats them alive. Its only whispers, but… well, like I said, the owner is a giant pervert…You know what I mean, right…? ”

I don know why you came here, but its better to not stick your neck out —Mord was trying to warn her.

”…I see. ” Lyus reply came in a low voice, ending the conversation.

”Uh…umm…I guess I should leave now…? ”

”Since you already came to the casino, why not play some, Bell? ”

”B-but, if I just play by myself, that wouldn be fair to the goddess and the others… ”

While Lyu was talking to Mord, Syr was beside them inviting Bell to gamble, though his face betrayed his guilty conscience.

”If its only a little, then I know your goddess, Lilly, and the others won be mad. And you might not get another chance like this. ”

”Exactly, Little Rookie, give it a shot. You
e a full-fledged, upper-class adventurer now; therell come a time when youll regret not enjoying the

nightlife. If nothing else, do it for the experience. ”

Bell struggled to find some reason to run away as Syr and Mords friends were all urging him to play.

”Um, I don have any money, though… ”

”Ill lend you some. You can pay me back if you win, and if you lose, I don mind. ”

”But, um, I don know how to play cards… ”

”How about roulette, then? Thats famous enough that even I know it. All you do is put the chips down on the table, so its nice and simple, you know? ”

”…Okay, I get it. Then just a little… ”

In the end, his resistance was worn down. Rubbing his cheek, Bell resigned himself as he took enough gold coins from Syr to exchange for ten chips.

”Perfect, theres no one at that table in the middle there. Lets go! ”

As his conversation with Lyu wrapped up, Mord broke in to lead the group over toward a table. A human dressed as a bunny girl was standing in front of the game table. The beautiful dealer greeted them with a smile. A vibrant black-and-red roulette wheel sat in a silver cradle at the tables edge.

As Syr had mentioned, roulette was very well known, often called the queen of the casino. Once the bowl-like wheel started spinning, the dealer would add a ball, and the player would try to predict which pocket on the wheel the ball would land in. The pockets alternated red and black with different numbers on each one. The player placed chips on a grid of cloth to signify where they thought the ball would land, and if they were correct, they won.

”So I just put the money on top of this sheet? ”

”Yes. And there is a difference in payout depending on how you bet. If you bet red or black, then you win two times what you bet, all the way up to thirty-six times if you bet on a specific number. ”

”Th-thirty-six times… ”

”Of course, its because the odds of guessing a specific number correctly are so low. ”

Lyu straightforwardly explained the games rules as everyone watched the first-time gambler step up to the table.

”Evens, odds; you can even bet on a column of numbers. Theres no limit on each bet, and you can make multiple bets on a single roll. Well, its less about learning and more about getting used to it. First, just give it a shot. ”

At Mords prodding, Bell timidly exchanged the money Syr had lent him for chips from the dealer. He blushed self-consciously as the cute woman smiled at him before he became nervous again. He studied the table carefully, figuring out where to bet. Once he had finished his painstaking consideration, he chose red, meaning half the possible pockets the ball could land in—a bet with the lowest payoff.

”Whats that? After all that, you just chose a color! ”

”Its fine, isn it, since its his first time. Hee-hee, if you win, Bell, you should give me the winnings. ”

”Just the color? ” Hemmed in by Mord and Syrs back-and-forth, Bell let out a strained laugh.

After confirming the three chips placed on the cloth, the dealer spun the roulette wheel with a practiced hand and tossed the ball in. After making sure there were no new bets or adjustments from Bell or the spectators, the dealer announced the end of the betting window. It was just Bell versus the house.

Seemingly fashioned from an ore mined in the Dungeon, the polished red sphere emitted an inexplicable light as it danced across the fast-spinning wheel. The entire group held their collective breath as they watched the ball slide into the 1 pocket with a thunk—a red pocket. ”You did it, Bell! ”

”I—I won? ”

”Yes, good job. ”

Syr smiled broadly while Lyu praised him without a change in her expression. Bells shoulders had stiffened up while the wheel was spinning, but he finally broke into a smile when the dealer pushed his doubled stack of chips back to him. He now had thirteen chips, including what Syr initially loaned him.

”Great, Little Rookie! Lets keep it rolling! ”

”Eh, what?! But I already won once… ”

”Dumbass! What are you saying you already won once? Didn you hear little missy here say to pay her back with the winnings? ”

”Don play something small like red or black, go for a bigger payout!

Lets grow that stack of chips. ”

”O-okay, one column this time, then… ”

With the encouragement of Mord and friends, Bell nervously put five chips on the table. Lyu sighed as she watched. The dealer tossed the ball into the wheel once, and Bell managed to win again. The payout was triple the original bet.

”You got it right another time, Bell! Thats amazing! ”

”Ha-ha…Its just coincidence… ”

”Alllllll right! Lets ride the momentum, Little Rookie! Go for a bigger bet this time! ”

Bell forced a smile for Syr as he bet again: eight chips on a double street bet, covering six numbers for a payout of six to one.

Hit.

”Ah-ha-ha, its a fluke, a fluke. ”

Ten chips, a corner bet on four numbers, payout nine to one.

Hit.

”Huh, another fluke… ”

Thirty chips, a street bet on three numbers, payout twelve to one.

Hit.

”A f-fluke…? ”

One hundred chips, a split bet on two numbers, payout eighteen to one. Hit.

”… ”

Three hundred higher value chips, straight up on a single number, payout thirty-six to one. —Hit.

”Whoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! ”

Mord and his friends screamed as the mountain of chips Bell had built sparkled under the halls lights.

As they leaned over the side of the table, Syr and Lyu both looked on in a daze, unable to believe what they had just witnessed. Bell himself was standing with his mouth agape, more shocked than anyone else.

”What? What did you say?! ”

”Look at that! The roulette table! ”

”Look at that mountain of chips…! ”

”Who won that?! ”

”Wow, it was that white-haired guy, no mistake. The Little Rookie who was the talk of Orario yesterday! ”

”The champion of the war game! ”

”Little Bell! Isn that my adorable little Bell?! ”

”How much luck can you have? ”

”Its the lucky rabbit! ”

It was such a shocking win that attention started pouring in from guests all around. Even deities turned to watch as they heard the clamor from Mords group and the surrounding crowd. Following Mords suggestion to bet an enormous stack of chips on a single number—and winning—was a big event.

By this point, even the dealer was smiling as she congratulated the novice gambler on his victory. His face twitching in excitement every bit as much as Mords, Bell unconsciously patted his back, thinking of a certain slot in his Status.

”…! ”

Syr and Lyu were not about to let this opportunity go to waste. Before people started to gather, they had Bell pay them back the winnings from the mountain of chips he had earned.

”Thank you very much, Bell! ”

”Ill return the favor, Mr. Cranell. You can be sure of it. ”

Carrying an armful of high-value chips, they left the table.

”Can you do it again, Little Rookie? Well put up the money, so lets do it! ” ”No way! Im definitely going to guess wrong!! ”

As they started their own game, they heard Mord and his friends greedily shouting at Bell in the background.

Their original concern about funds having been resolved, it was now time to make a killing. With the chips that Bell had unexpectedly won, Lyu tore up table after table.

”Straight flush. ”

Mostly, she avoided games where the casino had the advantage—where the player faced off directly against the dealer—and instead played poker where she could challenge other guests. Thanks to a naturally high level of concentration, her poker face, and the training she had received from an old friend in the familia, she racked up wins and amassed even more money.

”Raise. ”

Thanks to Bell, she had plenty of funds for her war. Occasionally, she would lose one hand badly on purpose. Then, like a disinterested elite without any care for money, she would bet even more chips, as if to declare the loss had meant nothing.

Because she was betting so much, the other guests at her table were miserable and started to be overly cautious of her hands, shrinking back from showdowns and folding hands that they could have won. Her eye patch did its job, too, making her look mysterious and intimidating.

”Split. ”

When she did play against the dealer, she always chose the game with the best odds for the player and took advantage of the dynamic vision of an upper-class adventurer. While reading the movement of the cards, she secretly used card-counting techniques her old friend had drilled into her to make as much money as possible, betting at only the best times. Once she had grasped the flow, she created a positive feedback loop.

”Ahhhh! You
e amazing, dear! ”

And Syr perfectly played the role of a rural counts wife, her eyes sparkling, clapping her hands in front of her voluminous chest, and from time to time hugging Lyu in excitement. Syr, you
e overdoing it… Hee-hee, is that so?

Lyu wanted to sigh when she warned her partner with a glance and received a childlike smile in return. By then, Syr nonchalantly ordered a high-class drink with a smile, tactfully displaying her dignity.

”Excuse me, sirs, could you gods spare a moment? ”

”Oh, Syr! Why are you here? ”

”Please keep my real name a secret. Also, I have a little favor Id like to ask, if you don mind listening? Ill be sure to give you a lot of freebies the next time you come to the restaurant. ”

”Go ahead, go ahead, ask anything you want! ”

While not compromising her disguise as the countess to anyone watching, Syr also made use of her true identity. Using her wealth of connections as the restaurants poster girl, she asked favors from the gods of debauchery who were at the casino to play. Those deities, hooked by her cute smile and the lure of freebies, took her up on her request and spread out across the hall.

”Do you know who that man in that striking eye patch from earlier was? ”

”I heard he was the Count of Felnas! ”

”Isn Felnas that small country…? ”

”Yes, they were supposed to be having some economic difficulties, I thought… ”

”It seems they found a mountain of seiros in a forest within their territory. ”

”What? Im so jealous! ”

”I heard he completed several projects after that, so hes living it up now! ”

”Oh, no wonder! ”

”He certainly cuts a splendid figure! ”

”Look at that, I think hes winning again! ”

”I didn know someone of his caliber existed in that country. ”

”Yes, hes so young and dignified. How dreamy. ”

”And the wife next to him is gorgeous, almost like a white lily next to him… ”

”And I heard that his wife is a distant relative of the imperial house! ”

”Thats amazing! ”

The gods who had wandered among the crowds were spreading false information as they pleased and fully enjoying it. What started as plausible lies became more and more embellished as the rumors spread through the casino. All according to plan, the entire hall started watching as Lyu won game after game with towering stacks of chips on the line.

”Excuse me, sir. ”

Just as she was about to bet even more money, an older human wearing a well-tailored black suit appeared in front of her.

”The owner, Mr. Cervantes, would very much like to meet you. ”

Its begun, Lyu thought as Syr smiled at her side. She was confident they had taken the bait. Without letting her expression shift, she responded.

”Its an honor for the owner himself to say that about a fledgling like me.

Where should we go? ”

”Please, this way. ”

Apparently a manager, the middle-aged human, led them with a courteous manner toward a stout dwarf who was circling the floor, greeting guests.

”Oh! You
e Lord Maximilian, aren you? ”

Noticing them, he approached with both arms raised. He matched the typical dwarf body shape; the top of his head didn even reach Lyus eyes. His beard was in perfect condition, and his brown hair was slicked back. His high-quality black suit bulged slightly from his thick arms, legs, and broad chest. As expected of a person who engaged in a less than wholesome trade, a bodyguard was visible nearby.

”I am Terry Cervantes, the owner of this casino. Thank you very much for coming tonight from so far away. ”

”Likewise, thank you very much for inviting us. I am…Ariud Maximilian. And this is my wife, Sirène. ”

”Thank you for giving my husband and me a chance to have so much fun, Mr. Cervantes. ”

Once Lyu had finished the introductions using their fake identities, Syr politely thanked him, as befitting a woman of her status. The man who came to greet them was not lacking for charm. At first glance, he had a hard face, but he was adept at encouraging people to let their guard down, speaking without breaking his smile.

However, Lyu had dealt with countless people who wore a similar ”mask, ” so inducing her to lower her guard was impossible. Putting up her own facade, she continued to play the part of an aristocrat.

”I wanted to meet you earlier, but there were so many guests tonight… Allow me to welcome you once again, and please enjoy yourselves. ”

As the manager who had led them here started to leave his seat, Terry stuck out his right hand. Lyu looked down at his thick hand before refusing. ”Im incredibly sorry, Ive sworn my love to my wife. Im not permitted to touch anyone aside from her. I hope you can forgive me. ”

”Its fine, its fine. Its understandable since you are a pure elf. Your husband certainly loves you, madam. ”

”Hee-hee, thank you very much. ”

Lyu alertly sensed a stiffness hidden behind his words.

He must be a dwarf who doesn get along well with elves. Hes not an inexperienced newcomer to Orario anymore, so I don think hell make a scene of it yet.

She also did not overlook the flash of lechery in Terrys gaze as he smiled at Syr.

That expression. As I expected…

Lyus uncovered right eye narrowed, recognizing that her guess had been correct.

”By the way, Lord Maximilian, Ive heard that youve had considerable luck today. With that in mind, do you think youd like to come to the VIP room over there? ”

Terrys smile switched from an amiable owners to that of a salesman. He glanced toward the very doors in the back of the hall that Lyu had set her sights on.

”VIP room, you say…? ”

”Ah, don worry, its simply a place where guests like you can enjoy even greater stakes. Youll find people of similar wealth there, along with the highest-class service and games that can only be played in that room. Plus, plenty of conversations and connections that can only be had with your peers.

May I interest you in something like that? ”

As expected, he was naturally inclined to invite a prosperous guest with a large number of chips to spend to the VIP room. Pretending to think about it for a moment, Lyu shifted her gaze to Syr, who matched hers with a smile.

”Dear, Id really like to give it a try. ”

”If even my wife says so, then if you don mind… ”

”Ga-ha-ha, its decided, then! ”

With Terry leading them, they moved out, heading to the back of the hall while cutting through the crowds of guests.

”By the way, that impressive eye patch…If you don mind my asking… did something happen? ”

”I don mind. The truth is, once my wife was attacked by monsters…I managed to save her, and the wound was healed with magic…but the eye the beasts claws took did not return. ” Lyu shared the story they had rehearsed beforehand.

”I see, a badge of honor, then. You truly are a man among men. ”

Terry praised Lyu casually while examining her face from the side, as if searching for something.

”…Yes? ”

”Ive had this nagging feeling that Ive met you before somewhere…but I suppose it is merely my mistake. Im sorry, please don mind me. ”

A hint of uneasiness floated across Terrys face, but he immediately wiped it away with a smile as they arrived at the oaken doors that were flanked by stout gatekeepers.

”Please, this way. ”

The tightly shut doors swung open. Following Terry, Lyu and Syr stepped into the enemys lair.

4

The clamor of the hall faded to silence as the doors closed. A shadowy room lit by magic-stone lamps greeted them. The room appeared as large as the main hall, but there were drastically fewer tables and people around, creating a uniquely grand atmosphere.

Waiters in black suits and gorgeous women wrapped in magnificent gowns poured alcohol for the customers.

”I thought it would be a bit more lively. ”

”Yes, its just like a salon. ”

Lyu and Syr exchanged whispers as they followed Terry.

The VIP room of the Grand Casino of El Dorado Resort.

Escorted in by the owner, Terry Cervantes, Lyu and Syr examined the wide room.

As expected, none of the noise from the hall made it past the oaken doors.

Faint conversations echoed in the spacious chamber. The tables were clearly high-class mahogany, broad and solidly constructed. The guests surrounding them were also a clear cut above the rich and well-to-do outside in both make and manner. Many of them were playing cards with large stacks of chips in front of them. In addition to the guests, there were also handsome waiters moving with absolute precision as well as gorgeous young women in eye-catching dresses. A great many of the latter.

Lyus eyes narrowed when she caught sight of them.

”Over here, this table. ”

Terry led them to a table where several guests were engaged in a card game.

Four people. The demi-humans in the seats are seemingly old acquaintances of Terrys since they started speaking up without reservation.

”Tonights been fun, as always. Thanks, owner. ”

”Speaking of, who are these two? ”

”Allow me to introduce them. Patronizing our establishment for the first time tonight, Lord Ariud Maximilian. And beside him is his wife, the Lady

Sirène. ”

”A pleasure to meet you, everyone. ”

”Thanks to the owners kindness, we were able to come here. Please take care of us. ”

Greeted by smiles, Lyu and Syr finished their introductions, as a waiter neatly pulled a chair out at the table for Terry. As he sat down, an elf girl appeared, carefully setting a cocktail in front of him. Suppressing her feelings at watching a fellow elf treated like a pretty doll, Lyu turned to Terry and asked,

”Mr. Cervantes, these beautiful people weve been seeing are… ”

”The girls are…well, it probably doesn make the best impression, but they are my mistresses. If I say so myself, I courted them quite passionately, and they did me the honor of responding in earnest. ”

Even if she had not heard it, Lyu had already been sure of the answer. Terry responded without hiding his pride as he settled into his seat.

”Since so many maidens responded to my love, the Goddess of Beauty would surely scold me for keeping it all to myself. It might be a bit presumptuous, but in order to share the wealth, I have them help out with serving drinks. ”

He said it in a roundabout way, but these girls were in the same situation as Anna Kreiz. Terry took a liking to them after a glance, and then he did everything in his power to control them.

”The owners a pervert who surrounds himself with crazy-hot women. Likes to flaunt them in front of the VIPs. ” In other words, the information Mord heard about the VIP room is correct. These people are a part of Terrys collection.

Each and every one of the girls was beautiful in their bold and erotic dresses—and incredibly doll-like. Against their will, they were here for various absurd reasons. Like Anna, all of them had been brought in through illicit channels, whether from inside or outside the city. Various colors of chokers adorned their necks, as if to show that the girls belonged to him.

This room was a part of Orario that was actually beyond the law. Even things like this went unchecked. If there were no one to challenge the arrogant owner, then the guests would also enjoy, praise, or partake of the sweet nectar of his collection.

She must also be here…

Tamping down her righteous indignation after seeing the owners arrogant preening while the guests leered at the beauties around them, Lyu spoke up again.

”Now that you mention it…on the way here, I happened to hear you recently got your hands on a siren-like beauty. ”

She merely put it out there, but the others at the table quickly chimed in with excitement.

”Ohhh, I had also heard that! Something or another about marrying a woman from some faraway country. ”

”Do you think you could let us see her?! ”

The elites chorused. It was another vomit-inducing picture. Enjoying the attention, Terry grinned.

”Ga-ha-ha! Everyones ears sure are quick! As you said, Ive welcomed a new lover to my fold. Lets have the long-awaited introduction! Hey! ”

Whether it was because he felt gratified by their interest, or perhaps he had intended to show her off from the start, the dwarf quickly waved over one young waiter. He bowed respectfully and went through a door at the back of the VIP room to return with a human girl in a pure white dress.

”Pleased to…meet you…My name is Anna. ”

Lifting the hem of her skirt politely, the girl introduced herself. She could not entirely suppress the fear seeping into her trembling voice. Without a doubt, this girl was the Kreiz daughter.

I see…she is beautiful…

Karens words hadn just been maternal pride. Anna was attractive enough that the men of great wealth and particular taste were nodding in appreciation. She had honest blue eyes, white skin, a slender jaw and neck, and a modest bust. From an objective view, hovering on the boundary between a girl and a woman, she was more beautiful than the elf Lyu and was even a rival for goddesses. She had the same choker around her neck as all the other girls.

Her flaxen hair that her mother had boasted about was tied back behind a gaudy hair band, lightly shaking in a way that seemed to reflect her true feelings. She triggered peoples protective impulses as her long eyelashes shaded her eyes when she looked downward. The starstruck elites sighed in admiration, lasciviously staring at her bare shoulders.

”This ones also…grade A. ”

”Yes, splendid. As if a goddess blessed the earth with beauty. Well done finding her. ”

”The truth is, I stumbled across her while wandering around foreign lands. It must have been divine guidance. With such beauty and charm, she entranced even me. ”

As Terry spun his lies, Lyu stared at Anna. Perhaps sensing something different about this gaze among all the inquisitive ones, or possibly perplexed, Anna lifted her head in wonder and locked eyes with Lyu. It was then Terry noticed where her attention was.

”Lord Maximilian, is there something on her face? ”

”No…its only that I know a woman who resembles her. ”

The air around Lyu changed, as she stepped uncomfortably close to Terry.

”According to my acquaintances story, he was lured into a gamble by some crooks and dirtied his hands…After having everything stolen, his beloved daughter was taken away from him. ”

”! ”

Both Terrys and Annas eyes flickered in recognition.

”The girls father who took the bet was assuredly a fool…However, if you look closely, it appears that the events happened at a certain persons instigation. ”

”… ”

”That person set those criminals on the man in order to seize the lovely daughter, and after it was all over, he quietly made the girl his own, it seems…Quite the sad story for those who know her situation. ”

She had intended to stop herself, but she failed. Lyu realized she was more furious than she had thought. Her words carried a sharp undertone as she turned her gaze toward Terry.

”Even now, I am searching for that girl…chasing down her whereabouts. ”

Without making it explicit, she made it clear that she knew the entire story and all of the details regarding Annas situation. The amiable dwarf let his mask slip and glared dangerously at Lyu. A mobster would not have a glare more brutal than his. Only someone who had trod this cruel path could wear such an expression.

Sensing the change in atmosphere, the wealthy guests around the table became flustered, though the more clever ones realized what was happening. The center of the conversation, Anna, was totally dumbfounded. Syr was a noticeable anomaly, visibly unshaken as she maintained her placid smile while watching the proceedings.

Lyu had effectively declared that she had come to take Anna back.

”Thats a very interesting story, Lord Maximilian. Incidentally, its a bit sudden, but I heard that you were the Count of Felnas… ”

”Yes, no more than a rural aristocrat. An inflexible, hardheaded elf…one who can overlook someone on the wrong path. ”

She met Terrys searching gaze head-on. The guests at the other tables, the waiters, and the mistresses all noticed something strange was happening and shifted their attention toward Lyu and the owner. Silence settled over the VIP room.

”Im not sure who or where the misunderstanding happened, Lord Maximilian…but it seems youve set aside your wife and become quite passionate about my Anna. ”

Still staring daggers, Terry finally spoke up, a smile forming above his beard.

”Well then, shall we play a game? ”

”Game…? ”

”Yes. The person who loses has to fulfill one request made by the winner. It has to be something accessible to the loser, naturally. Also, well play the game with the highest-value chips. ”

He snapped his finger and a waiter emerged pushing a cart holding a tremendous pile of the chips. The mountain of platinum-colored pieces sparkled. The value of all the chips Lyu had collected in the main room could not begin to compare to what was on that cart.

”Well play with this on loan. It won be much of a game with any less. ”

Which means the loser doesn simply owe a favor, they also take on a large debt, Lyu thought, already caught up in the extortion…Even so, I have no reason to let him go.

Other than the man pushing the cart, several more men surrounded the table where Syr and Lyu were seated. Like their colleagues guarding the entrance, they were all muscular.

One…no, two experts are in this group.

Lyu recognized the human and catperson behind Terry in particular as a cut above the rest.

She had not heard anything about a powerful familia being sent out by Santorio Vega. They were probably unaffiliated bodyguards employed directly by Terry—strays who had no familia. They were no match for Ganesha Familias main branch, but in the VIP room, the owners henchmen were more than enough to handle any fights that might happen to break out.

”For people like us, who have already achieved wealth, status, and prestige, what we really want…is the thrill of gambling with our lives on the line. Am I wrong? ”

As the black-suited bodyguards exerted pressure with their presence, Terry laid out his challenge.

Is he trying to taunt me while setting up a human shield, or is he trying to obfuscate Annas situation with this game? Well, his proposal is simple.

All you have to do is win. That was all there was to it.

I guess Ill play along for now.

Lyu did not have a special plan that called for letting loose now. Anna was too close to Terry and his bodyguards. And she would be helpless if he called Ganesha Familia in from the hall.

Syr is here, too. I should wait and see for now…

Glancing at the girl sitting next to her, Syr gently nodded back toward her. ”…Of course. Lets have that game. ”

The corners of Terrys mouth turned up in a smile when Lyu accepted his proposition. He looked at the people gathered around the table.

”How about all of you, ladies and gentlemen? This is the Grand Casino! Theres no flavor if it is just a one-on-one match between Lord Maximilian and myself! So lets all play with the same conditions: Ill fulfill any request of the winner! Oops, Ill have to decline any dangerous requests like I want your life, though, of course. Ga-ha-ha! ”

The flustered guests all looked at each other while Terry spread his arms and made his proposal. Smiles started to spread in the crowd as the owner played up his prestige while mixing in jokes, and in the end a few more guests agreed to the terms. It was practically proof they were hungering for the thrill of standing on the edge between glory and destruction, The preparations were adjusted to include the new players.

”Do you have any preferences for the game? If not, I think we should go with poker. ”

”I don mind. ”

”All right, then the match will be decided by knockout…when all the chips in front of someone are gone, that person has lost. ”

The dwarf owners eyes sparkled with amusement as the elf accepted the terms, her sky-blue right eye shining with contained rage. In a flash, the prepared chips were spread across the tabletop. The waiters looked on with frozen expressions, while the mistresses watched with resignation and unease. Annas gaze wavered as the game began.

”Well then, shall we start with a twenty-chip bet? ”

”Ill double that. ”

The game was flop poker. In addition to the cards in a players hand, there were communal cards placed faceup in the center of the table that everyone could use. Those shared cards were used to complete the hand. Even with a weak hand, sometimes it was possible to easily win a round by bluffing.

For now, there are no irregularities.

Lyu was obviously watching Terry, but she also focused on the man dealing the cards for signs of cheating. As a former adventurer tempered in the Dungeon, she would not overlook even the smallest abnormality among the other guests. Likewise, the bodyguards were carefully watching her for any sign of trickery—especially the human and catperson at Terrys side.

Other than Terry and Lyu, four other players joined: two humans, one affluent prum, and an elderly gentleman animal person. Without any exclamations, concern, or scene-making, the sound of cards flipping and chips clacking resounded.

Each mound of chips repeatedly grew and shrank. At first glance it seemed like a close contest—

”Oh-ho, this senile old man won, eh? ”

”… ”

The elderly animal person had won the hand and swept away the chips Lyu had bet.

Even with an upper-class adventurers tactics of avoiding unnecessary confrontation, the chips she had at hand were running out. She had already lost about half of her starting pile. And it was only Lyu. Only she had been unable to win a game. She could not get a read on her opponents. Her strategy wouldn come together.

Terry sat across from her with the lead in chips, a bold smile creeping across his face. Syr was quietly watching the table next to her as Lyu reflected on what happened.

I was careless…

She shifted her gaze to her surroundings, to the guests. The animal person was sipping high-quality liquor while the affluent prum played with some chips in his hand, a scornful sneer scrawled across his face.

Its not just the dealer. I should have expected the owner and the guests to work together, too.

Their relationship was not merely that of a casino owner and his clients. They were accomplices.

She watched them closely and was sure there had been absolutely no tricks. That meant they were using a method that Lyu could not detect to signal the contents of their hands.

Hand signs, exchanging looks, some indication in how they spoke, or perhaps all of the above. They were passing messages in a way only they understood to share information about their cards. Then, when Lyu joined a hand, the person with the strongest hand beat her without fail.

She had to minimize losses and only try when she had a chance to win.

Everyone at this table is against me…

Her opponent was not just Terry; it was all five present in the game.

More than just making a hand using the shared cards, they were effectively sharing their hole cards, too. That was why she could not read into her opponents thoughts. They had no intention in the least of using any strategy or bluffing. Like a mob of monsters attacking an adventurer, they were trying to break her with the brute strength of numbers.

I didn notice it, but my anger clouded my vision…

Lyu was forced to admit she rushed in blindly due to her rage. If she were in her normal frame of mind, she would have noticed much faster. However, seeing the terrible treatment Anna was subjected to, on top of the arrogant way Terry and the others objectified the other girls, she had lost her cool and insight.

No, even if I had recognized it when I accepted the bet, its still likely I would have lost.

She cursed herself for making such an elementary mistake.

”It looks like youve lost quite a lot of your chips. Are you all right over there, Lord Maximilian? ”

”… ”

She belatedly started to watch her opponents movements for signals, but that would not be enough to make a connection. As Lyu maintained her silence, Terry spoke up, enjoying himself.

Anna staggered as he pulled her close with his meaty hand. She did not understand the game, but was on the verge of tears after recognizing that the person who had been so mad on her behalf was in a bad spot. Or perhaps it was because she thought Lyus involvement in the current situation was her fault.

”Now that I think about it, I haven said what I wanted when I win, have

I? ”

Snaking his arm around Annas waist and stomach, the dwarf spoke up.

”In the event I win, I think Ill ask you to let me borrow your partner over there—that lovely wife of yours—for a little while. ”

Lyu, who had kept a calm composure, finally snapped as he fanned the flames of her rage.

”Im jealous you were blessed with such a lovely young bride. Its not fair. I want to enjoy a taste, too, I think. A date with drinks over dinner…just the two of us, you know? ”

Terry leered at Syr. As she silently glanced back at him, he gave her a vulgar grin.

I see. This is the baptism.

New members brought back to the VIP room, particularly ones who did not conform or tried to oppose Terry, were soon blackmailed into this game. Using the debt they just incurred, they were forced to accept his demands. Even if their intimate partner was what he requested.

New members were eaten alive. What Mord had said earlier finally became clear. With that understanding, an incontrollable fury was born.

”Impertinent people, those blinded by greed…and those moved by a sense of justice like you…I chew them all up and spit everything out. ” —Should I start now?

Even if she had been railroaded into it, it went against her pride to abandon a game—a match—halfway through. But that paled in comparison to the irrepressible hatred welling up now.

She could not forgive this man motivated by carnal desire, and his accomplices angling for the chance to share in his profits disgusted her. In response to the elf bristling with deadly resolve, the fence of bodyguards readied themselves. Ignoring her concerns and the risks, Lyu was about to start a brawl.

”Dear. ”

However, the one next to her reached out her hand and placed it on Lyus shoulder. Exhaling, she stopped and looked to her side. Syr smiled, as if she had read what Lyu was planning. She took her time shifting her gaze to Terry and the guests.

”Everyone, it seems my husband is a bit tired. That being the case, do you think you could let me play in his stead? ”

Even Lyu was shocked at that proposal.

”Syr— ”

”Dear, please. I want to decide my fate with my own hand…I don want to have it be your fault that I have to commit to something. Mr. Cervantes, in the event I lose, then Ill obey your request. So please don do anything to my husband. ”

”Bwa-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha…a husband and wifes love is a truly beautiful thing, isn it? Yes, I promise, madam. ”

Lyu was unconsciously leaning forward, only held back by Syrs pleading gaze and words. How did this exchange look to everyone else? An admirable young brides devotion, or perhaps sacrificing herself in order to protect her husband?

However, she knew it was neither. Syrs exaggerated performance as the countess brought Lyu back to her senses. Constructing a delicate smile with perfect technique that she used to subdue her colleagues at the tavern, the girl stood up.

”Mr. Cervantes, do you think you could listen to one more request? ”

”Whats that? ”

”Id like to see the person to whom I owe my life. If you could call him into the room? ”

A look of disbelief crossed Lyus face. She can mean…

”The truth is, the person who saved my husband and myself from danger was a certain adventurer who happens to be here tonight… ”

”… ”

”My husband and I had planned to have dinner together, then grant him a reward tonight. However, in the event I am having drinks with you, I won be able to do that. So…I wanted to properly say good-bye. ”

As Syr spun a web of nonsense, Lyu contained her urge to look at her in shock, determined to keep quiet and leave this to her. Terrys eyes narrowed in suspicion as the count and countess put up a brave front—or at least pretending to.

”Its fine, of course. Ill grant special permission for him to enter the VIP room. ”

”Thank you very much. ”

After hearing a description of the adventurer, one of the guards left the room.

A short while passed before the white-haired boy was brought in, a look of utter confusion on his face.

”That white hair…without a doubt, its the Little Rookie. ” ”Bell Cranell? The one from the War Game the other day? ” As expected, Lyu thought as the other guests whispered.

Confused by the atmosphere of the VIP room, Bell swung his head back and forth without rest, as if he had wandered into a foreign world. Why had he been called out? What was Syr thinking? Lyu had no clue.

However, she trusted Syr.

After all, she was so cunning that her colleagues in the bar called her a witch, and she was able to see two moves ahead of a former adventurer like Lyu; she was even acknowledged by deities. Her true essence was determination.

”Im very sorry, Mr. Cranell. Unfortunately, I have an appointment after this. Please allow me to cancel the meal we had planned. ”

”Eh…uh…ummm? ”

Bell became increasingly confused. He had been brought to the table without a clue of what was happening, and once he finally reached Syr, she greeted him with a reference to a conversation he did not remember having.

Bell looked around the shadowy VIP room: Terry and the other guests laughing derisively, the imposing bodyguards, Lyu surrounded by them at the table, and countless beautiful women in gowns.

His jaw stiffened, and his gaze returned to Syr, who stood in front of him.

”S-Syr? ”

”Please call me Sirène here, Mr. Cranell. ”

As she whispered and shifted a little closer, a playful smirk flashed across her face for a split second.

”M-Miss Sirène…are you…busy with something? ”

In response to his question, she smiled and put her finger in front of her lips.

”A no-good game. ”

”… ”

”Is that okay with you, Mr. Cranell? This VIP room is a place that even members of Ganesha Familia may not enter…so no one can come in. Even if something happens, no one can come in here, not even someone as gallant as you. ”

Bells eyes went wide as Syr seemingly whispered a warning to him. Everyone in the saloon leaned in to hear their conversation, while Lyu intently observed the state of affairs.

Finally, Syr earnestly said, ”I was really glad to be able to see you…Lets meet again if chance allows. ”

”Miss Sir…ène… ”

”Finally, would it be okay to shake your hand? ”

At her teary-eyed entreaty, he timidly clasped his hand around hers. As if to accept his warmth, Syr grasped his hand tightly. ”Thank you…and farewell. ”

Rubbing her eyes, she turned away. Bell was led out of the room with bodyguards on either side of him.

”Whats this? Your wife is a woman of affairs, isn she, Lord Maximilian? ”

”… ”

Lyu did not respond to Terry, who had watched the sorrowful performance from start to finish with a smirk. It was natural her behavior would look like love, since she had indeed given her heart to the boy, though Lyu could not say that.

”Have you finished with your good-byes? ”

”Yes. ”

Returning to the table, Syr nodded in response to Terry as she sat down. Seeing a resolute look on her face after she wiped her eyes, Terry asked, ”Then, I think we should start…Incidentally, do you know the rules of poker, madam? ”

”Yes, at the shop…I was invited on occasion by some mischievous maids, and I enjoyed myself without telling the master. ”

As Syr promptly corrected herself, Lyu donned a complicated expression. When she mentioned ”people from the shop, ” she most likely meant Ahnya and Chloe. If they were here, there was no doubt that the pair would object to being turned into maids in her story and loudly complain.

And the master she mentioned was not Lyu, but Mia. It was the tavern staff that had been secretly playing behind the owners back, and they had invited Syr to join.

”Its a little embarrassing, but Im not very familiar with the more exotic kinds of poker…Would draw poker be okay with you? ”

Draw poker was a game where each player was dealt five cards with which to make a hand, and they were allowed to exchange cards once. Among all the different kinds of poker games, it was the most fundamental. The rules of the original bet and each persons stack of chips would not change, so Syr inherited the shrunken stack that Lyu had left. With no sign of any objections, her request was accepted.

”Also, one more thing. ”

Clasping her hands together in front of her chest, Syr added one more request.

”Anyone who folds must pay twice the ante. How does that sound? ”

Syr smiled, implying it was a rule she learned from the maids with whom she often played. It could be thought of as a forced bet…However, Terry and the other players were confused at the complete reversal from her previous meek behavior.

”Well…thats fine. ”

Puzzled, they glanced at each other, accepting the request in the end.

Things got a little bit weird, but that didn matter.

Glancing aside as the dealer dealt the cards, Terry fixed his gaze directly in front of him, across the table.

The player was Syr, while Lyu was standing behind her. Staying constantly vigilant against anyone who might try to peek at the girls cards, she moved closer like a protective man-at-arms. The mysterious elf with the eye patch glanced at Terry.

You haughty elf bastard…I knew at first sight that I couldn stomach you. Trying to act the honorable knight, sacrificing himself to save some princess…

Terry shifted his gaze from Lyu to Syr, his sadistic streak instantly rearing its head.

Ill steal your partner and ruin that cute little face of hers.

The countess is a beauty in a different way than Anna. She may have an unsophisticated face and light makeup, but those breasts are surprisingly ripe, plus her arms and legs look luscious. I haven had a chance to play with Anna yet, so itll be fun to sample them together.

As rumored, he had performed this baptism in the VIP room countless times. Those foolish enough to oppose him were forced into servitude by the weight of crushing debt while he stole the countless women and items that he had coerced players into wagering as collateral in the game.

Naturally arrogant and disrespectful toward people of wealth and prestige, it would only be natural for Terry to be surrounded by enemies. But instead, he used the carrot and stick to control the people around him. He had no mercy for those who opposed him, while those who pledged allegiance received excellent treatment.

The guests who joined the baptism also profited. They reached out a hand of kindness to the new member grieving in defeat. Having someone powerful enough to be invited to the VIP room owe them a favor was valuable, and having experienced it themselves, they could more convincingly win over the new recruit. This web of profitable relationships increased the lackeys he could call on, solidifying Terrys position as the unassailable absolute authority in the Grand Casino.

Terry believed without a doubt that he was the king of this gambling paradise—perhaps even all of Orario.

The Guild can interfere with us. And even if someone tries to come at me with force, I have Faust and the others to take care of it.

The human and catman bodyguards were positioned behind him. He had paid a large sum of money to hire men who were strong, and these two had made a name for themselves with their abilities. These warriors would make even upper-class adventurers shudder. When people would not bend no matter how much he threatened and blackmailed, those two would bury them quietly.

More importantly, they would instantly see through any tricks Lyu or Syr might try in this game. With all the other guests working as accomplices, Terrys victory was assured.

Bastard, Ill have you groveling at my feet!

Finally, the dealer finished his task and gathered the ante put in by all the players.

As Terry and his four co-conspirators secretly grinned in anticipation, the game began.

—Immediately after that.

”Wow! Look at this, dear! ”

Syr called excitedly as her blue-gray updo bounced.

”Look, four of the same card! Thats four of a kind! ”

Terry, the guests, and the on looking bodyguards, waiters, and even Anna and the other mistresses were all stunned as the countess held up her cards, admiring them while she celebrated.

Lyu was stunned, too.

Standing stock-still as she gazed in wonder, she looked down at the cards Syr was holding up.

”…So it is. ”

Not at all clear of what was going on, Lyu immediately readjusted her expression and gave a curt reply.

”Hooray! ” Syr was still celebrating like an innocent child.

She had very clearly said the phrase ”four of a kind. ” She had grandly told the table her hand. Terry and the other players were frozen for a few moments before starting to laugh.

It was clearly a bluff.

Total childs play. Pretending to be an aristocrat who doesn know the ways of the world…a novice who doesn know the rules of the game.

For the most part, it was clear she would try this kind of bluff. Trying to add pressure with a rule like ”anyone who folds must pay twice the ante ” was just shallow thinking. In the first place, getting four of a kind without changing any cards was obviously not going to happen.

You think Ill fall for that? Terry mocked her in his heart as he secretly signaled with his gaze. Catching the guests eyes, they exchanged glances. After that, the elderly gentleman animal person waited a second before calling over a waitress.

”Ah, you there. A thirty-year-old Altena wine, please. ”

Altena wine, thirty years—meaning his hand was a full house with a high-value three of a kind. This round was the old mans win for sure. Using the signals they had decided on, Terry and the other guest pretended to fall for Syrs bluff. The remaining people were just Syr and the animal person.

”It seems its become a one-on-one fight with this wizened man…what shall we do, madam? ”

”Well then, Ill raise. ”

”Ho-ho-ho! You seem awfully confident there. ” The old gentlemans lips curved up. He hesitated for a moment, as if thinking about whether to fold

before his eyes narrowed. ”Very well, then, I shall raise also. ”

”Raise. ” Without waiting to exchange cards, Syr pushed out more chips.

”…?! ”

She raised again, no trace of uncertainty in her smile. The smiling animal person, Terry, and the other guests stopped moving.

Could it possibly be…? The thought clearly showed in the old mans face before he convinced himself again that it was merely a bluff. His pride wouldn let him be run in circles by a little girls strategy.

”Ha, ha-ha-ha…Very well, then lets have the cards decide. ”

Anger seeping into his smile, the old animal person matched the number of chips Syr had wagered. Lyu stood by, watching quietly as the hands were shown. The old gentleman had a full house.

Against that, Syr had—

”Four of a kind. ”

Just as she had claimed, she laid down four queens.

”?! ”

Her opponents were dumbstruck, seeing a hand that beat the animal persons full house.

”This…T-touché… ”

The chips in the pot were pushed over to Syr. The old gentleman gave a smile for appearances while he felt his face burn in humiliation. However, the anger was soon replaced by another emotion.

”This is amazing, dear! Look, they
e all the same suit this time! ”

”…! ”

Again?!

As Syr started talking about her next hand, the guests faces changed color.

They were enraged, thinking, As if that could happen a second time! But also doubtful: Just maybe…They were stuck between a rock and a hard place. Pushed into silence, Terry adopted a wait-and-see approach, folding while he watched the other players exchange signs so that the strongest hand would face off against her.

”Ah, its my win again. ”

”…!! ”

However, it went exactly as she said, and Syrs flush collected all the chips. At that point, the guests hearts lurched. This girls luck was strong. They were starting to consider maybe they were being cheated.

”Straight. ”

Syr stopped putting on a performance. There was no need to hide her true nature anymore. Wearing a beautiful and bold smile, she announced her next hand.

”…F-fold… ”

”M-me, too… ”

Without testing her claims, all of the guests tried to escape. It did not end there.

”Three of a kind. ”

She laid her cards down, revealing her hands.

”Flush. ”

Quietly, solemnly, audaciously.

”Full house. ”

Syr ran up consecutive wins, and the platinum-colored chips piled up in front of her. In shock, Terry initially suspected Syr was cheating somehow, or Lyu standing behind her was. He swung his head around. The dealer gasped and furiously shook his head, indicating no. The human bodyguard silently shook his head as well.

Strange…shes too good. The thought echoed in the minds of Terry and his cohorts. Immediately after, as if she had seen through them— ”Ah, thats no good! ”

”! ”

After winning due to everyone else folding, Syr pushed her cards back facedown to the dealer. This time they slipped out of her hand and ended faceup, only a high card. Watching in shock, the guests faces turned bright red.

You idiots, shes baiting you!

Terrys flustered internal scream could not reach his accomplices, though.

The furious guests ignored Syrs announcement and challenged her next hand. Immediately after, they all lost. Their mouths gaping wide, the guests could not even speak as looks of utter shock marred their faces. They were in a state of complete confusion.

Shortly after that, the first person dropped out.

”Th-thats… ”

The one who retreated was the gentlemanly old animal person who had turned pale from shock. After losing such a massive amount of money, he seemed like a shell of a man. While Terry and the other guests were still stunned, Syr abruptly spoke up as she calmly continued the game.

”Everyone, Im sure you know, right? Among all the gods and goddesses, there is one goddess who can see the true nature of peoples hearts. ”

”Syr and Lyu are still at the casino, meow? Are they okay, meow? ”

At the same time their gamble was happening, in The Benevolent Mistress…

While washing all the plates that had built up in the corner of the kitchen, Ahnya spoke up.

”Worrying is just pointless, meow. ”

”Yeah, yeah, it would be a bit of a problem if they got mixed up with Ganeshas guys, though. But thats where Lyu will take care of things. ”

Chloe and Runoa were brushing the concerns off as needless anxiety. The three of them were lined up washing plates as Chloe dejectedly continued,

”Syrs probably already racking up the winnings with an evil smile on that innocent, harmless-looking face, meow… ”

She spoke from firsthand experience with Syrs skill at poker, while the other two nodded in agreement.

”How many times have I lost and had to take her place washing dishes, meow? ”

”Well, you
e hopelessly bad at gambling…but weve never had a chance to win against her. ”

”Its more than cheap poker faces and bluffs, meow. ”

Chloe stared at the ceiling as bubbles stuck to her cheek. It was always like that. She would always crush them with a bright smile.

Yeah, it was as if she had read everything in their hands.

”Its as if we were playing against a god who could see through our lies… ”

With regard to casinos, it was very frowned upon for gods to play poker because they could see through the lies of their ”children. ” Trying to bluff your way through was a lost cause from start to finish—it was that hopeless.

Syrs oddly good instinct was practically at the same level. The catgirls who loved to gamble the most out of all the staff shivered as they recalled it, then sighed.

”Syr is definitely a witch. ”

”Ive heard her eyes can see the smallest of tremors in a heart, laying it entirely bare. ”

In the shadowy room lit by magic-stone lamps, her slender fingers traced the outline of the cards she had been dealt.

Syr cast her eyes down as she spoke. Her voice almost seemed to have a magical effect, drawing in the people listening.

”Of course, I don have that goddesss eyes… ”

Attracting the guests eyes single-handedly, Syr stopped and smiled.

”I enjoy it, though. Watching people, that is. There are so many varieties and tons of things to find out…enough to make your eyes sparkle. ”

Those words resembled something a certain young man had told her.

”Sorry, thats a bad habit of mine, ” she said without looking the least bit shy. Her eyes, the same silver-blue as her hair, squinted in a bright smile.

”Its something like people watching, I guess? If you keep doing it long enough…somehow or other you can get to the point where you sort of understand, This person is thinking about that. ”

Listening to her explanation, it not only applied to the guests she was playing against, but everyone in the VIP room who doubted what they heard.

”Truth or lies, fury or sorrow, shame or suffering…light or darkness. ”

Was this a bluff, or possibly true? The whirlpool of doubt had already changed into inescapable quicksand. One after the other, the players expressions shifted. They were sweating as though something had cornered them on the precipice of a sheer cliff. The rich prum went totally pale, unable to keep his hands from trembling.

”Eyes can convey many things. ”

Standing behind her, Lyu could barely contain the shock she felt. If what she said was true, then Syr was effectively saying she could to read her opponents thoughts by just looking at their expressions, through the eyes. Announcing her hand, she could see if her opponents wavered just by looking. She raised if they did and drew cards or simply folded when they didn .

In other words, it was equivalent to knowing her opponents cards. This was far removed from the experience and strategy Lyu had built up as an adventurer—it was one-sided clairvoyance.

On the one hand it seemed unbelievable, but she also remembered times that Syrs eyes had apparently seen right through to her heart. Without even asking about what was going on, she sometimes came bearing a smile and a solution while Lyu was still struggling to figure out what to do.

”Th-thats…?! ”

Terrys cheeks spasmed as he finally lost his cool. She was toying with the one who called himself the king of the gambling paradise and the wealthy elite who had amassed vast riches. A single girl had overwhelmed them.

Terry met Syrs gaze. Looking into her eyes, his throat quivered.

What are those metallic-blue eyes seeing?

Why are they twinkling?

What the hell is she hiding behind those eyes?

Hah—what, Countess? What young newlywed? You
e a damn witch!!

Terry clenched his right hand, coming to the same conclusion as a certain pair of catgirls. Other than Terry, the guests were running low on chips. At this point, the added rule of ”anyone who folds must pay twice the ante ” was cutting into their lifespans. It had created a situation where they could not wait for a good hand to bring them back from the brink, forcing them to sometimes bluff with weak hands. And Syr always pushed with perfect timing—as if she had foreknowledge that her hands were superior—mercilessly collecting their chips with a cheerful smile.

The first two hands. Those had badly wounded them. That loss had left a decisive mark on them. From the very beginning, they had lost their opportunity to win. One after the other, the guests dropped out, dumbfounded. The games pace sped up as it entered the final phase. The bodyguards and girls held their breath as the watched.

It was all a strategy.

It was all unfolding in the palm of this girls hand.

At this rate, Im going to lose…!

Terry himself had won some of his victories by mere chance, but it was fair to say those times were minimal. But now his own stack of chips had been halved. Countless times, he had been unable to control himself and crushed the cards with his dwarf strength, forcing the dealer to take out a new deck of cards for the next hand.

”! ”

At that time, Terrys eyes opened in shock. The first card dealt to him was a chalice symbolizing divine blessing. The next four were four kings. Four of a kind.

The goddess of victory is smiling for me in the end!

Terry rejoiced. With a hand to get his revenge for the first round, it was as if heaven was telling him to win.

Whether you can really see my hand or not doesn matter now!

All in. He intended to change the flow of the match in one blow here. He glared at Syr with bloodshot eyes. Entrusting himself to the flow of the gamble, he waited for his opponent to step up to the guillotine.

”…Card, please. ”

In front of the mans glaring, for the first time Syr stopped smiling. She quietly asked to exchange a card. There was a soft rustle as a card was dealt from the deck. Anna gasped even as Terry sneered, tightening the grip on his chips. Eyes from every corner of the VIP room focused on the girl sitting in front of Lyu as she picked up the card.

She placed it into her hand, and the next moment…

”Ha…ha-ha-ha-ahh-ha-ha… ”

Seemingly without thinking, she laughed.

”Even though all I did…was think about how nice it would be to borrow some luck. ” Some heat entered Syrs voice as she closed her eyes, looking like a young girl in love.

Fixing her smile, she opened her eyes and looked at Terry across from her.

Her gaze instantly overpowered him. He heard himself saying, ”Its just a bluff—. ” Believing in his own hand, he pushed everything into the pot. Both players put in a huge amount of chips.

”It seems that I was blessed by a lucky rabbit today, ” Syr said, just as they were on the verge of showing their cards. And then she revealed her hand.

”Royal flush. ”

Bam! The old animal person stumbled out of his chair and collapsed to the floor. At the impact, Terrys stack of chips collapsed in a cascade. As the platinum chips clinked against each other, the girls covered their mouth with both hands, sweat broke out on the brow of the VIPs, and Anna stood completely still. Everyone in the room stared in shock.

With the inclusion of the wild card, it was the strongest hand of the night.

Terry was so stunned it seemed as though his eyes might leap out of his head as he swung wildly to turn around.

”Faust?! ”

In response to the dwarfs roar, the human bodyguard plaintively shook his head.

With his guard telling him that there was no trick, he gritted his teeth as hard as he possibly could.

”Hee-hee, thank you Mr. Rabbit. ”

Syr picked up the wild card from her hand, a joker riding a rabbit. The girl lovingly looked into the rabbits round eyes and, as if remembering the warmth before her separation from the boy, Syr put her hand to her cheek.

”…?! ”

The games winner sat with a mountain of chips in front of her and an elf guard at her back. Having lost all his chips, Terry froze. He had misjudged them. He had no choice but to accept that. At first, he had assumed that the count was a knight who had come to save Anna by himself. But he was wrong. That knight had a guaranteed trump card up his sleeve.

The girl in front of him was that trump card—the knights queen.

”Hey, Lyu? This means… ”

”Yes, Syr— ”

The girl spread her vibrant purple fan clumsily, using both hands.

”—this is your victory. ”

As Lyus proclamation echoed, Syr held the fan in front of her mouth, smiling with her blue-silver eyes in front of the shocked wealthy patrons.