The Genius and Calamity of the Villainous Noble: A Brilliant Prodigy Unaware of Their Reincarnation as the Game's Antagonist Defies the Scenario and Dominates with Talent and Hard Work - Chapter 1.17

In the southern region of the Magocracy of Typhon lies the territory governed by one of the Three Ducal Houses, the Belcorni family.

Because their lands border the Dragon Peaks, a dangerous region inhabited by powerful dragons, every member of the Belcorni family is trained to be a formidable warrior.

“Ark-sama, shouldn’t we pay our respects to the Belcorni family?”

“Nope. I don’t see the need, since we don’t have any official business with them.”

The Belcorni family occupies the empire’s frontline, and their fortress city, Slayer, was built to reflect their resolve. At the heart of the city stands the imposing Belcorni Ducal Estate.

Currently, I was staying in one corner of Slayer, within a building owned by the Bailey Trading Company.

“Even without official business, I think it’s customary to greet them…”

A young girl stood near me and Marina as we rested in one of the rooms after our long journey.

Her name was Ricane Bailey, the second daughter of the head of the Bailey Trading Company.

“Ah, well, I get it. The Reinhardt family’s status is a big deal, and, sure, it might be proper to greet them. But I’m just the third son, and my position isn’t all that important. There’s no real reason for me to go out of my way to meet them.”

“I would think that defeating the Chaos Dragon is reason enough,” Ricane argued.

“I’m just going to fight the dragon and win. There’s no need for anything else, right?”

“Y-yes, that’s true, but…”

Exactly.

Even if I stayed in the Belcorni family’s territory and defeated the Chaos Dragon without formally introducing myself, it wouldn’t cause any real issues. It might seem rude, but that’s about it.

“Surely, a simple greeting wouldn’t hurt, though?”

“No, I don’t like them. They’re way too intense for me, so I’m not interested.”

My reason for avoiding the Belcorni family was simple: I didn’t like them.

That’s all there was to it.

“…That’s your reason…?” Ricane said, looking exasperated.

“Are they really that intense?” Marina asked.

“Last time I visited this city, their lady kept following me around and challenging me to fight.”

“I see. It’s probably best to avoid them, then… That definitely sounds like a hassle,” Marina agreed with a nod.

“Exactly. So, let’s just avoid unnecessary contact. We don’t need their involvement.”

“Still, isn’t it improper to—”

“Ah, sorry, I must have been unclear. That wasn’t a suggestion; it was an order. You’re not allowed to refuse,” I said firmly.

“I-I understand,” Ricane stammered, nodding reluctantly.

“Good. That settles it.”

“Excuse me, then,” she said, bowing as she left the room.

I smiled, watching as Ricane walked out, leaving Marina and me to enjoy our rest.