The moment Zora spoke, Serestia visibly relaxed, yet her face darkened almost immediately. At least the sword hadn't fallen into her hands, but watching Zora step in so effortlessly made her teeth itch with hatred.
Nigel stared at Zora in shock. "Miss Zora… I only brought seventy thousand."
Zora smiled faintly. "Serestia did this because of me. You were dragged into it because of me. This Execution Blade is mine to compensate you with."
If it weren't for her, Nigel would have obtained the sword smoothly. She would not let her friend suffer a loss over her affairs.
"How can that be?" Nigel immediately refused. "This weapon is for me. How can I let you pay for it?"
"It's fine," Zora said lightly. "We're friends. Giving a gift like this is nothing."
"No." Nigel shook his head firmly. "Lend me two thousand gold coins. I'll return it to you after I go back."
