[Ding~ Rem's favorability decreased by 20. Current favorability: -80.]
[Ding~ Ram's favorability decreased by 90. Current favorability: -90.]
Shendu's probing had indeed been effective. The twin sisters, Rem and Ram, saw their favorability plummet almost straight to the bottom.
When she turned her head, she found unmistakable hostility in their eyes—so sharp it was nearly tangible, like drawn blades.
If looks could kill, Shendu would have died dozens of times over.
Sensing a trace of killing intent, Felt shrank behind Shendu, too frightened to even look at them.
She had never expected Big Sister to be so bold. Felt's heart pounded wildly in her chest, afraid that the owner of the manor might dispose of them on the spot.
Emilia, seeing the situation, inwardly cried out in alarm. Roswaal might not appear angry, but the two maids were another matter entirely.
Sure enough, just as Emilia feared, the twin maids spoke.
"Guest, please do not be disrespectful to Lord Roswaal."
"If there is a next time, we will personally correct your mistake."
Rem and Ram stared at Shendu, enunciating every word. Their eyes burned with fury.
"I'm sorry. Sister Shendu is a traveler and may not understand the customs here. Ram, please don't blame her."
Although Emilia felt it was not her place to interfere, she still spoke up. She could not allow Sister Shendu to fall into a disadvantageous position.
Hearing Emilia defend her, Shendu felt a warmth in her heart. This silver-haired half-elf was truly too kind.
She had clearly been testing them just now. The second remark had even been outright provocation.
Yet Emilia was willing to risk offending Roswaal to speak on her behalf. That alone proved her sincerity.
"Enough, Ram. There's no need to fuss over such trivial matters."
"Besides, it's rare for someone to evaluate me in such a different way. I find it rather novel."
When Emilia mentioned that Shendu was a traveler, a glimmer flashed through Roswaal's mismatched eyes. He waved his hand, signaling Ram to drop the matter.
"Yes, Lord Roswaal."
The twin maids lowered their heads in obedience.
"Now then, is the banquet for our guest prepared? See that it is done as perfectly as possible. Do not neglect our guest. Such is the hospitality of the Mathers family."
Roswaal gave the order softly, making a light gesture with his hand. The two maids withdrew to prepare lunch.
That man truly is unfathomable.
After only a few minutes of interaction, Shendu realized she could not see through him at all. He handled everything flawlessly.
With that thought, she decided not to probe any further. For now, staying quietly was enough.
"Miss Shendu, as a traveler, you likely haven't tasted the local cuisine. Please don't stand on ceremony. Treat this place as your own home."
Roswaal appeared exceedingly warm toward her.
Halfway through, he seemed to recall something. "I heard you have a servant as well. Should we call him to join us for the meal?"
"No need. Just treat him as invisible. He can get something to eat whenever he wakes up."
Shendu answered calmly, as if she did not care much about Natsuki Subaru.
Upon hearing her reply, Roswaal said nothing further. Instead, he casually chatted with her, inquiring about the distant place she supposedly came from.
Unfortunately for him, after asking for quite some time, he gained no meaningful information. Shendu fabricated a random location, and yet Roswaal's smile only deepened.
...
A few minutes later, Rem and Ram returned, pushing dining carts laden with various meats. The plating was exquisite. There were vegetable salads, local fruits, and even several cakes.
Three entire carts were arranged before them. As soon as they were wheeled in, a rich aroma spread through the room. Once everything was neatly placed on the table, the twins bowed to Roswaal and reported.
"All twenty dishes have been served. Please enjoy at your leisure."
"Black tea, desserts, and fruit have also been prepared. Please dine without concern."
After speaking, the two maids shot Shendu one final hostile glance before reluctantly withdrawing.
It seemed she had indeed gone a bit too far this time. But it did not matter. The game had only just begun.
"Now then, please enjoy today's dinner. I hope it suits your tastes."
Roswaal smiled as he spoke. His gaze lingered on Shendu's silver hair with particular satisfaction, reminding him of his former teacher—the Witch of Wisdom.
With that, he picked up his knife and fork and began cutting into his steak. Shendu followed suit, eating at an unhurried pace.
The beef was remarkably tender and flavorful—better even than what she had eaten in Western restaurants in her previous life. It was not only natural but carried a faint aroma of fresh grass.
Creak!
Just as host and guests were enjoying the meal, a golden-haired girl who appeared to be around eleven or twelve years old pushed open the door and walked in.
Upon noticing Shendu and Felt, her eyes flickered with surprise.
Especially Shendu's smooth silver hair—it seemed to capture the blonde girl's attention.
However, after a few glances, the girl calmly returned to her seat, picked up her portion of steak, and began eating at a leisurely pace.
"Good afternoon, Lady Beatrice."
The twin maids immediately bowed respectfully upon seeing the blonde girl.
Shendu gave her a brief look. The girl's twin drills of hair spiraled like augers, and there was eyeshadow around her pupils. It gave her a rather distinctive charm.
After eating for a while, Roswaal set down his utensils. He glanced at Felt, who was enthusiastically devouring her meat, then turned to Shendu, who had already paused her meal.
"Miss Shendu, is this young lady your younger sister? Though, you two do not seem very alike."
Roswaal asked curiously, having taken some interest in the low-profile Felt.
"Yes. Picked her up along the road. She's adorable, isn't she?"
Shendu lifted her teacup gracefully and took a sip. Her crimson eyes met Roswaal's as she smiled, causing the girl beside her to blush.
"Oh? I see."
With that, Roswaal rose to his feet and said softly, "I have matters to attend to and shall take my leave. I hope our guests find their stay here enjoyable."