The atmosphere, which had been pleasant moments earlier, turned tense in an instant.

The vassals of the Branford Marquisate openly displayed their displeasure.

‘How arrogant! Just because he’s making some money, he thinks he can dismiss such a proposal?’

‘Why would the marquis even take him under his wing?’

However, unlike his vassals, Marquis Branford didn’t appear irritated. Instead, he seemed curious as he questioned Ghislain.

“I don’t understand. It wasn’t a bad offer for you either, was it? You could gain my trust, and it would be a good match for your family.”

Ghislain shook his head.

During his …