However, the Kingdom seemed blind to this, and its rule over the mountain people became increasingly oppressive.
Count Rangdenier just listened carefully to the guest's account of their difficulties, always wearing a smile without expressing his opinion. For someone of his age, a smile seemed to make him look like a kind old man, but the guest sitting below dared not think so—most of those who did ended up with a bad fate.
The mountain people's envoy was about to make his request when the bell to Count Rangdenier's left hand rang.
The count's expression shifted slightly; this was the first time he couldn't keep the smile on his face all afternoon.
He recalled how long it had been since he received urgent information.
The old man frowned slightly and stood up, but he didn't appear rude at all. He nodded politely to the guest and said, "Apologies, please wait a moment, excuse me."
