Jane, the illegitimate daughter of Edith Rock, the person whom Oliver was looking for, and a member of the Sisterhood.
The last encounter Oliver had with Jane was when he was responsible for her safety at the Subreptor Museum.
"It's been quite some time since I heard that name."
"Yes, it has been a while. Both you and she have been occupied…"
That statement held true.
Following the resolution of Jane's situation, a series of events unfolded rapidly. This included recovering auctioned items, engaging in a battle with the Human-meat Chef's disciples, reconciling the Fighter Crew and Crime Firm, signing contracts, and training.
Throughout the process, Oliver found himself shuttling between the Tower and District X on a daily basis.
Nevertheless, he didn't mind as he found it enjoyable.
"But why would Miss Jane suddenly… Can she assist me in meeting Mr. Edith because she's his daughter?"
Oliver asked suspiciously.
His suspicions were justified, given that Oliver had witnessed the deterioration of Jane and Edith's relationship.
After surviving Duncan's betrayal, Edith summoned Jane to his location, mocked her, and insulted her mother by calling her a prostitute.
Oliver had considered the possibility of a reconciliation, but he shook his head.
It seemed unlikely.
During that encounter, Edith inflicted a severe wound upon Jane.
Although it wasn't Oliver's area of expertise, he could tell that it wasn't a wound that could be easily healed.
"She can be of assistance, but don't misunderstand, it's not solely because she's his daughter. I am aware that their father-daughter relationship has been torn apart as well."
"Huh? Then…?"
"Quite literally. Jane can provide assistance, but not solely because she's Edith's daughter."
Oliver tilted his head in confusion at Forrest's enigmatic words. It was difficult to grasp their meaning.
"I apologize, Mr. Forrest. I'm having some trouble understanding what you're trying to convey."
"Well, I suppose I need to provide some context… You and I were both occupied, weren't we?"
"Yes."
"But we weren't the only ones. Everyone in Landa has been quite busy, including Jane."
"In what way was she busy?"
"While you were working on reconciling the Crime Firm and the Fighter Crew, Jane joined the investor group of the Sisterhood."
Now he remembered. That was Jane's intention when she inherited Edith's fortune and became wealthy.
"It seems things went well for her… She did attend the auction for that purpose."
"One could say she was fortunate. The auction faced some disruption on the first day, but Jane managed to acquire a valuable item… Miranda seemed to have taken notice of her because of that."
"Miranda?"
"She's a rare influential figure in Landa. You might not be familiar with her… She's a wealthy investor, a seasoned professional, and a socialite with extensive connections."
‘Hmm… Miranda, where have I heard that name before? Or have I seen the name?’
"Is she the leader of the group?"
"To be honest, she's more like the owner."
"Pardon?"
"Although the investor group of the Sisterhood came together, they all revolve around Miranda. In practice, the members are in a position to follow Miranda's directives."
"I understand."
"She's an extraordinary woman. There are rumors that she even has influence within the capital's social circles. It's not confirmed, but it's possible."
"That's impressive… But how does this relate to Miss Jane helping me meet with Mr. Edith?"
"The point is, Jane is no longer just an illegitimate daughter who inherited an estate. With Miranda's assistance, she has emerged as an investor who has made her mark in Landa's social circles."
"An investor?"
"Yes, an investor. The group Jane is a part of focuses on investments, so they are quite active in external investment activities. Jane may be following the path set by Miranda, but… in any case, she has become a woman of influence in Landa. That's how she can assist you."
Oliver comprehended Forrest's explanation and sincerely admired Jane's accomplishments. She had indeed attained what she had been striving for, and it was truly impressive.
However, this realization also raised a concern.
"But doesn't that mean it might not be favorable for me?"
"What do you mean?"
"Wouldn't it be more challenging for me to meet Miss Jane if she's achieved such success?"
"Why would you think that?"
"Because there's a difference in our social status."
"Hmm… I don't believe so."
"Why not?"
"Because you have been equally successful, if not more so, than Jane."
⏩ ⏩ ⏩ ⏩ ⏩ ⏩
Oliver struggled to comprehend Forrest's explanation, but Forrest soon clarified the reason, which was utterly perplexing.
It was a reason that Oliver found completely incomprehensible.
Puzzled, Oliver raised questions, but Forrest advised him to consider that it was merely a rumor and might not reflect the actual truth.
Taking heed of Forrest's advice, Oliver rose from his seat, preparing to leave the restaurant.
The unexpected conversation had left him mentally drained, and he had tasks awaiting his attention.
Forrest appeared regretful, yet he made no effort to dissuade Oliver from departing.
"Well, perhaps it's for the best. I would have liked to treat you to a meal here, but the presence of other customers could potentially cause disruptions… Let's dine together another time. And don't fret too much about your meeting with Jane. I'll arrange it as soon as I can."
Grateful for Forrest's words, Oliver made a brief stop at the black market on his way home.
Despite feeling officially exhausted due to the startling news, Oliver wasted no time and immediately immersed himself in the creation and experimentation of Corpse dolls.
Since his visit to Mountain Pace, Oliver had been quite busy, but he understood that work could easily pile up unexpectedly. So, he believed it was best to tackle it in advance.
First, Oliver skillfully detached the heads of the female warlocks, removing any messy incisions. He then secured iron caps over the severed necks, which acted as catalysts to facilitate easy control over the black magic of manipulation, effectively transforming them into Corpse dolls.
Given the high-quality materials at his disposal, Oliver focused on harnessing their inherent abilities rather than incorporating complex contraptions.
‘Now, for the experiment… I hope it goes according to plan.’
After completing the work on the female warlocks, Oliver practiced inserting tubes into the blood vessels of a Grade C corpse for further practice.
He soon realized that blood vessels were more delicate and intricate than he initially anticipated, and it became apparent that he would require ample practice to master the technique.
‘Hmm, I think I'm getting the hang of it…’
Muttering to himself, Oliver once again inserted a tube into the corpse while consulting a medical textbook.
The process demanded more concentration and strength than he had initially assumed, and sweat gathered not only on his forehead but also on the tip of his nose.
Just as he was about to wipe away the perspiration, he heard a familiar signal.
Beep- Beep- Beep-
Forrest's personal communication device buzzed, interrupting Oliver's work. He swiftly removed his gloves and promptly answered the call.
"Yes, Mr. Forrest. I'm here… You've arranged the appointment? Thank you… I see. A request? What is it about?… Ah, yes, I understand. Could you please provide me with the address?"
As Forrest conveyed the address, Oliver quickly jotted it down, then ended the call. He held the paper with the address in his hand, contemplating quietly.
"I wonder what Miss Jane wishes to discuss with me?"
⏩ ⏩ ⏩ ⏩ ⏩ ⏩
Oliver took the initiative to prepare himself for the outing, regardless of his uncertainty about Jane's intentions. He made a conscious decision not to worry excessively, but rather to listen attentively and offer assistance if possible, declining otherwise.
Halting his work, Oliver took a refreshing shower and donned a neatly pressed suit from his closet. He meticulously tied his tie, slipped on his polished shoes, and fastened a watch to his wrist. It was his way of showing respect, considering Jane's arduous journey towards success.
After a spritz of cologne, Oliver hailed a taxi to District R, Jane's place of residence.
"We have arrived, sir," the driver informed him while holding a silver hip flask.
Oliver paid the taxi fare, including a generous tip, expressing his gratitude to the driver.
"Ah, thank you."
"No, thank you."
Having bid farewell to the driver, Oliver exited the taxi and strolled down the street, following the address provided by Forrest.
"Is this the place?"
He gazed at a distinctive house that stood out from the neighboring residences in District R. Unlike the cramped and bustling houses around it, Jane's abode exuded an aura of spaciousness, security, and prosperity.
‘Perhaps it's the fence and the garden?… But how do I enter?’
Feeling slightly lost as he had never visited such a grand estate alone before, Oliver was uncertain of his next move. However, just as he pondered his options, a man emerged from within the fence.
"Who are you?"
An elderly man with a bearded face emerged, his pocket displaying the embroidered words ‘Safety Guard' in yellow thread. It became evident that he was a member of the Safety Guard, a highly reputable mercenary group in Landa.
"Could it be that you've come for an appointment?" he asked politely, swiftly assessing Oliver's features and attire. The old man possessed sharp observational skills.
"Yes, my name is Dave. I have an appointment to see Miss Jane," Oliver responded, introducing himself.
Upon hearing Oliver's identification, the old man promptly opened the iron gate.
"Please come in. She's waiting inside."
Following the old man's instructions, Oliver passed through the gate and made his way towards the mansion. Inside, a woman with vibrant pink hair greeted him.
"It's been a while, Dave. This is our first meeting since the auction, isn't it?" she remarked.
"Yes, indeed. Miss… you seem to have undergone some changes," Oliver observed, noticing Jane's tousled hair casually swept to one side, her heavily adorned ear, and the suit she wore that artfully blended both feminine curves and a touch of masculinity. She responded with a shy smile.
"I wasn't sure if Dave would recognize me… Thank you. Please, come inside."
Following Jane's lead, Oliver entered the reception room of the mansion.
The interior of the mansion seemed to have undergone a transformation, mirroring Jane's new appearance. One might describe it as modern, exuding a trendy atmosphere.
"Would you like something to drink? Coffee, tea, or perhaps a drink?" Jane enthusiastically inquired as she headed towards a bar set up in one corner of the room.
The bar was stocked with a wide array of beverages, ranging from magic wines to coffee, tea, and an assortment of cigarettes.
"I think I'll have some coffee… Is there anything I can assist you with?" Oliver asked.
"No, if you want to help, just relax. I wouldn't want my guest to be burdened with tasks," Jane replied, incorporating a hint of humor, as she prepared the coffee.
Perhaps due to her attire—a departure from her usual style, with a suit replacing her customary attire—Jane's movements seemed swifter and more at ease.
"Here you go," she swiftly served the coffee, maintaining its quality despite the speed.
Oliver took a sip, relishing the flavor. Jane inquired with a smile, "How does it taste?"
"It's good."
"I'm glad to hear that. It would have hurt my feelings if you had said it was terrible."
"Truly, it's delicious… Have you been practicing?"
"At the Sisterhood. I had to pick up a few skills," Jane replied.
Oliver nodded, understanding that if Jane hadn't inherited Edith's legacy, she would have had to work for the Sisterhood for the rest of her life.
After both of them had finished their coffee, Jane spoke up.
"Well, do you have any questions?"
Caught off guard by the sudden inquiry, Oliver pondered for a moment before nodding.
"Is it common to have a bar in the reception room?"
Jane, taken aback by the unexpected question, initially expressed disbelief but then burst into laughter.
"Well… not typically. However, it has become a trend among newly wealthy individuals, particularly the younger ones, to install a bar in the reception room. Apparently, personally serving guests is seen as sophisticated."
Oliver appeared taken aback by Jane's response.
"Did you install the bar for the same reason?" he asked, seeking clarification.
"No, I installed it to mimic the nouveau riche. It's akin to this," Jane explained, gesturing towards her ear adorned with numerous black piercings.
Though Oliver couldn't fully grasp the concept, he had a vague notion.
"Is this related to your involvement in Landa's social circle?" he inquired.
"Ding dong. You're becoming more perceptive, aren't you?" Jane responded playfully.
"In fact, I heard about it in advance from Mr. Forrest. He informed me of your successful entry into the Sisterhood's group of asset owners… Truly impressive. Congratulations," Oliver remarked.
The corners of Jane's mouth curled into a smile.
"You're making me blush with those words. Dave, you've also achieved success, haven't you? I've heard the rumors," Jane said.
"Ah, those rumors are false. Absolutely untrue," Oliver quickly refuted, as he had already been informed by Forrest about what Jane had heard.
Yet, he couldn't comprehend how such a ludicrous rumor had spread across Landa during his visit to Mountain Pace.
The rumor circulating about Oliver was nothing short of absurd. It alleged that he had ruthlessly murdered the captain of the Fighter Crew, forcibly subdued its members, declared himself as the new captain, and formed an alliance with the Crime Firm.
"It's not true?" Jane asked, seeking clarification.
"No… I don't know how that rumor started, but I'm not the captain of the Fighter Crew. I'm not even a member," Oliver explained.
"Really? I can't believe it… Then, you weren't the one who improved relations between the Fighter Crew and the Crime Firm and secured a contract?" Jane questioned further.
"No, that part is true. I was involved in that," Oliver confirmed.
"What?… Then, you didn't actually kill the captain of the Fighter Crew?" Jane inquired, puzzled.
"No, I did kill him," Oliver confessed.
"…??? Then, who coerced the members of the Fighter Crew into submission?" Jane pressed, her expression clouded with suspicion and disdain.
"That's not true. I didn't force anyone to submit. I convinced them willingly," Oliver explained sincerely.
However, Jane's expression remained unpleased. She regarded Oliver with a mixture of suspicion and disdain, as if she had just been deceived.
"Huh… I've heard that the Fighter Crew has seen a remarkable improvement in their skills recently. Is that unrelated to you, Dave?"
"Well, I did train them, but I'm not sure if it's directly related," Oliver replied cautiously.
"Finally, I have to ask… How can you boldly claim that you're not the captain, despite killing the leader of the Fighter Crew, persuading its members, and forming an alliance with the Crime Firm?" Jane inquired, her tone challenging.
"I simply helped them out temporarily," Oliver replied with unwavering confidence.
To anyone else, the situation would seem utterly nonsensical, and even to Jane, who had a relatively good understanding of Oliver, it still appeared illogical.
Resting her chin on her hand, Jane leaned forward slightly, gazing up at Oliver.
"I want to believe you, Dave, but your explanation isn't convincing at all."
"It's unfair. I only made a promise to assist them… I didn't accept any payment as proof."
"The logic remains the same as if you walked into a bank with a gun, blew up the vault, and regardless of whether you took the money or not, you'd still be considered a bank robber."
"…I don't walk into banks with guns."
"It's just an analogy!" Jane flared up in frustration.
"Ha… Regardless, it seems quite challenging to clear up this misunderstanding. In fact, it may not be a misunderstanding at all."
"That's a serious problem."
Oliver remarked, concerned. He had never intended to assume the role of a captain, yet rumors had spread suggesting otherwise.
He wondered if there was any way to rectify this misunderstanding. Perhaps it was a sign that it was time for him to move on.
Lost in his thoughts, Oliver was interrupted as Jane called out to him.
"Dave?"
"Yes, Miss?"
"Regardless of everything, I'm glad to have met you. It's rather absurd, but it brought me much laughter."
"I didn't intend to amuse you, but if it brought you joy, then I'm glad too."
Jane's lips briefly curved into a smile before she composed herself, assuming the demeanor of a businesswoman, much like Forrest.
Indeed, it seemed she operated as an investor within Landa's social circles.
"However, our purpose for meeting today extends beyond casual conversation… Shall we proceed to the main topic, if you don't mind? I also have a favor to ask."
Oliver felt a peculiar sense of satisfaction at Jane's sharp and composed manner, and he nodded in agreement.
"Ah, yes… If it's alright with you, may I go first?"
"Of course. What do you need from me?"
"Could you, perhaps, assist me in meeting Mr. Edith?"
(To be Continued)
OR
$5/month6 chap ahead + 5 chap/week$15/month12 chap ahead + 5 chap/week$30/month19 chap ahead + 5 chap/week$45/monthAll advance chap + 6 chap/week
