Otome Game Mob Villain

Chapter 655

Upon arriving in the Foxkin territory, what awaited me was an even busier schedule than in Valdia.

The tribal chiefs' meeting held in Bestia, the royal capital of Zveera.

While it was good to establish connections with each tribal chief, the result of schedule adjustments meant the entire month was packed with traveling to each tribe's territory and holding individual meetings.

That said, leisurely touring each territory would leave no time for final training before the Beast King Battle.

It was a last resort—choosing the lesser of two evils.

Of course, even while traveling between territories, I had to squeeze in training for the Beast King Battle.

The group visiting each tribal territory included Valdia family associates like myself, the new Grandark family members led by Amon, and a contingent from the Christi Trading Company.

In this formation, we would visit the Foxkin territory first, then proceed west to the Tanukikin (Raccoon Dogkin), Oxkin, Bearkin, Ratkin, Catkin, Wolfkin, Monkeykin, Rabbitkin, Birdkin, and Horsekin territories in that order.

The first stop, the Tanukikin territory, was a lush, verdant land with dense forests and clear rivers flowing from the mountains—a nature-rich domain.

Looking at the townscape, simple wooden single-story houses and stalls lined the streets, while the main thoroughfare bustled with merchants, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

It was impressive—no wonder this was the most commercially prosperous territory in Zveera.

The clothing of the Tanukikin people walking through the town was also eye-catching and intriguing.

Strangely enough, like Renarute, their style had a Japanese aesthetic, but it felt even more ancient in terms of era.

Common attire for civilian women was something called *kosode*, while men typically wore *tsutsusode*, *kukuri-hakama*, and *hitatare*.

As for children, they ran around the streets in outfits resembling *warawa suikan*.

On the other hand, adult Tanukikin nobles, both men and women, wore something closer to *suits* (Western-style suits).

It was quite a striking sight.

Perhaps this reflected the preferences of *Tokirera*'s creators.

Or maybe there had been cultural exchanges with Renarute in the past—something I’d like to investigate someday.

**"Amon. And Lord Lidd and Lady Christi. Welcome to the Tanukikin territory after your long journey. We’re honored to have you."**

Upon arriving at the tribal chief’s residence, Gyobu Yatanuki, the Tanukikin tribal chief, greeted us warmly.

**"The honor is ours, Chief Gyobu. We deeply appreciate your gracious welcome."**

After brief greetings, I quickly introduced Chris to Gyobu.

We were about to proceed straight to discussions, but Gyobu interjected, *"Before we begin, may I ask something?"*

**"Lord Lidd. Since you’ve come all the way to our territory, I’d like you to experience our culture firsthand to deepen our friendship. I’ve prepared a gift for you in the guest room. Please accept it and wear it."**

**"……? I don’t mind accepting, but… wear it?"**

Maybe it was a handmade Tanukikin accessory like a pendant or a ring.

But why now?

If it was a gift, it could’ve been given when we left.

As I tilted my head in confusion, Gyobu leaned in and whispered:

**"I’ve witnessed your achievements from the Battle of Hazama Fortress to the tribal chiefs’ meeting, but other nobles and citizens haven’t. Some are unnecessarily wary of you. I’d like you to show them your generosity and demonstrate your friendly intentions."**

**"I see. Understood. If that’s the case, I’ll cooperate."**

Tribes, nobles, nations, aristocrats—no organization is ever completely united.

Gyobu was friendly toward us, but among the Tanukikin nobles, there were likely those who felt threatened or resentful about the Foxkin and the Valdia family rising in influence.

Just like the Santas family, which had caused trouble in the Foxkin territory.

Moreover, a foreign child teaming up with a young new tribal chief to start a revolution wouldn’t sit well with most people.

**"As expected, Lord Lidd understands well. Then, let me guide you. Amon, you’re welcome to join as well."**

**"Got it. If Lidd’s doing it, I’ll help too."**

And so, Amon and I followed Gyobu to the guest room.

The "gift" prepared there was something entirely unexpected, leaving both of us wide-eyed.

But since I’d agreed to cooperate, I had no choice but to put it on.

With the help of the Tanukikin attendants, Amon and I reluctantly changed into it.

**"Ohhh, you two! It suits you perfectly!"**

The moment he saw us, Gyobu exaggeratedly cheered.

He was definitely enjoying this at least half for his own amusement.

Letting out a small sigh, I shot him a dubious glare.

**"…I seriously doubt this outfit alone will prove our friendliness."**

The outfit I had changed into was the *warawa suikan*—the same one I’d seen Tanukikin children wearing in the streets.

However, judging by the intricate embroidery and craftsmanship, it was undoubtedly a top-tier piece.

The color scheme was primarily white and pale blue, with accents of vibrant red.

**"I agree with Lidd. Besides, he could’ve done this alone."**

Amon shrugged exasperatedly and shook his head.

He, too, was wearing a *warawa suikan*, but his was primarily yellow.

**"Haha, don’t be like that. Look at everyone’s faces."**

**"Their faces?"**

Following Gyobu’s suggestion, I glanced around and noticed the people nearby had strangely sparkling eyes.

…No, they were probably just fascinated seeing someone like me, from the Empire, wearing their traditional clothing.

Suddenly making eye contact with Chris, I stepped closer and looked up at her. *"So… how do I look?"*

But she didn’t answer.

Chris was trembling, her head lowered.

See?

It’s just novel to them. It probably doesn’t suit me.

Just as I felt a pang of loneliness, Chris muttered, *"…cute."*

**"Huh? Sorry, I didn’t catch that."**

Tilting my head, she suddenly crouched down, grabbed my shoulders, and looked up at me with intense energy.

**"You’re cute. Too cute, Lord Lidd!"**

**"Eh…?"**

Cute? What does that mean?

As I blinked in confusion, Tink excitedly chimed in, *"Lady Chris is absolutely right!"*

**"While Imperial and Foxkin-style clothing made you look dignified, the *warawa suikan* brings out your youthful charm in a completely different way! We must call an artist to capture this moment! Lady Nanari and Lord Liner would surely be delighted!"**

**"Eh? An artist?!"**

Staggered by the unexpected suggestion, Emma, who had been standing behind Chris, raised her hand.

But her eyes were those of a merchant.

**"As Tink said, we should have portraits made of Lord Lidd and Lord Amon. And then—we’ll sell them across the entire Empire! No, the entire continent!"**

**"WHAAAT?!"**

Amon and I both let out equally undignified shrieks.