The way I was treated by Sub-Baron Ravioli was classic office politics.

    It’s no different than a senior executive in a company trying to block a rising talent from advancing too quickly.

    “What could I have done to deserve this?”

    Chloe, walking beside me, echoed my sentiment with an earnest nod.

    “You’ve done nothing wrong, sir. That sub-baron is being unreasonable.”

    Her gaze was filled with concern.

    “You even look after the other servants. You’re nothing like those other nobles.”

    It’s not that I’m particularly virtuous. I simply haven’t had any reason to do otherwise.

    In office politics, being disliked often doesn’t require a reason.

    The point is to eliminate someone as a threat before they rise any higher.

    “In this world, people don’t need a reason to cause trouble for others.”

    At this, Chloe bowed her head slightly, clenching her jaw.

    “Don’t worry too much. This fight is already won.”

    The members of the Tears of the Spider had gathered more information than I anticipated.

    The Sub-Baron wouldn’t get away unscathed.

    “If he’s hit me once, he’d better be ready to bleed for it.”

    Chloe’s voice was subdued, with a hint of sadness.

    “I just wish I could be of more help.”

    “Just by being with me, you’re already helping.”

    “That’s not enough.”

    Truth be told, Chloe’s presence has made this ordeal easier.

    It might sound odd, but having her around is like owning an affectionate pet—like a cat with the loyalty of a dog.

    Just patting her head somehow dissipates any lingering anger I feel.@@@@

    But before I could say anything more, the coachman spoke.

    “And? Is there a noble in this empire who’s clean?”

    If there ever was, they’re long dead. I agree with him on that.

    Even in Joseon, Admiral Yi Sun-sin refused to partake in corruption, yet survived and became a legend.

    Here, though, staying clean without the backing of exceptional talent is next to impossible.

    “Do you think that’s all I know?”

    I spread several documents in front of him, each one more incriminating than the last.

    “The Pachi Guild has officially switched allegiance to the Sforza faction. You must have thought they were still aligned with the Visconti Duke.”

    Sub-Baron Ravioli’s eyes widened as he skimmed the documents.

    “This... This can’t be. It’s impossible!”

    And yet, it was the truth.

    “David Pachi, the guild master, is preparing his heir for knighthood and has aligned with the Sforzas. So every favor you did for him? Now it’s treason.”

    I could tell he felt trapped. As far as he knew, he was playing the game like a proper noble.

    But his political maneuvering turned out to be aiding a rival faction, which would label him a traitor.

    He sank to his knees before me.

    “Please, spare my family. I’ll do whatever you say. You know I’d never willingly betray the Duke.”

    Desperation painted his face. He knew the consequences: disgrace, and the end of his lineage.

    “You think begging for mercy will save you? What could I possibly gain from that?”

    The longer I succeed, the closer I’ll get to securing a barony for myself.

    I have no need for a ruined sub-baron clinging to me.

    “I’ll show a shred of mercy.”

    I didn’t want to waste time trying to publicly ruin him. I’m no hero, and I don’t care for a messy scandal.

    I have no intention of becoming a whistleblower and facing the likely dire consequences.

    The Visconti Duke will hear of this in a few days. He’ll probably send you a final letter.

    Consider it your last chance to exit gracefully—before you’re forced to drink poison.

    “Make the wise choice.”