I Became a Dark Fantasy Villain

The warmth in the air vanished in an instant. A cold tension settled over the space as every gaze from behind fixed on them.

"To speak such unnecessary words… Apologize at once, Rinel." The count snapped, turning sharply, his brow twitching.

Rinel bowed without hesitation. "My apologies, Agent of the Saint."

However, he didn’t stop there.

After drawing a breath, Rinel spoke again. "Unlike my father, however, I do not believe that is something to be hidden in shame, only something to atone for. I assumed the Agent of the Saint might feel the same."

A vein pulsed at the count’s temple as he glared. "You insolent—"

"It’s fine." Ian cut in calmly.

The count faltered. "It doesn’t seem like he said it out of malice toward me. Though it does sound like he was trying to take a jab at you."

"…Yes." Letting out a long breath through his nose, the count turned forward again.