12 O’Clock Marionette

Bwek!

The first thing to greet me as I stepped out of the carriage was—once again—the Winter Lynx.@@novelbin@@

It’s still here?

The feline leapt into my arms, and I caught it reflexively, blinking in surprise.

Moments later, I spotted a familiar face.

"I had a feeling it was you when the little one ran off like that. It’s been a while, Sister Siora."

"Good to see you again, High Priestess Friga."

After exchanging a few polite greetings, I got straight to the point.

Not that I was in a hurry, but… for some reason, my heart was racing.

"I’m here to make a donation."

At my signal, the knights accompanying me unloaded three large chests from the carriage.

When the lids were opened, a dazzling golden light flooded our surroundings.

"It’s just a small contribution."

"Oh, my…."

The priestess’s eyes widened, nearly the size of the gold coins themselves.

I struggled to maintain a calm expression, but I couldn’t stop my shoulders from rising.

I wanted to scream—Look at me! Look how amazing I am!

It wasn’t even my money, which made it even more enjoyable.

This was all from Cruello.

"I can tell this came from me. What if this ruins my reputation, darling?"

"Don’t worry. People will just think you’re even crazier than before."

"Please make sure to add ‘for his fiancée’ when you say that."